A Funhouse Mirror Reflection of Genre Potential

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MOVIE REVIEW
Ghoulies II (2-Disc Collector's Edition) [4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray]
/ –

Genre: Comedy, Horror
Year Released: 1987, 2024 MVD Rewind Collection 4K
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Albert Band
Writer(s): Charlie Dolan, Dennis Paoli, Luca Bercovici
Cast: Damon Martin, Royal Dano, Phil Fondacaro, J. Downing, Kerry Remsen, Sasha Jenson
Where To Watch: available July 9, 2024; pre-order here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In the exciting and shockingly superior sequel, our favorite diminutive demons are back, wreaking havoc in a carnival setting—a stark contrast to the eerie encounters of their origin story. In another gorgeous restoration, this film has never looked better, and you get every slimy, scaly detail in stunning 4K. The film bursts with energy as the carnival's haunted house, "Satan's Den," becomes the new playground for these mischievous critters. This lively setting revitalizes the narrative and sets the stage for a spectacle filled with horror and humor. The practical special effects are particularly striking, blending scares and laughs to create an unforgettable experience.

The storyline introduces a hard-nosed mogul whose only concern is the bottom line. This antagonist underestimates the appeal of the supernatural as the Ghoulies transform the floundering attraction into a bustling hotspot. This twist in the tale highlights a bizarre economic paradox: the haunted house might seem like a financial flop, yet it's drawing crowds like never before, cultivating a robust cult following.

The film smartly turns the spotlight onto the Ghoulies themselves, allowing them more screen time to engage in their chaotic antics, which do not disappoint. A film highlight is the climax, where a colossal Ghoulie adds an absurd twist that adds to the film's eccentric charm.

Central to the chaos are Larry and his Uncle Ned, who find themselves overwhelmed trying to manage the disorder spawned by their eerie "attractions." A darkly humorous subplot involving a priest and devil worshippers weaves additional layers into the narrative, enriching the plot with its macabre wit.

Phil Fondacaro's portrayal of Sir Nigel Penneyweight stands out amid the unrest. His character, who never misses a chance to drop a perfectly timed quote, brings a touch of theatricality to the ensemble, enhancing the film’s dynamic range. His compelling performance and the work of others familiar from the horror sequel scene provide a solid foundation amidst the narrative whirlwind.

On a visual and thematic level, the sequel surpasses its predecessor by fully embracing its creature feature ethos. The enhanced use of puppetry and stop-motion animation allows the Ghoulies to play a more significant role in the story, making their presence on screen much more impactful.

While it might not climb to the top of the creature feature hierarchy, this sequel effectively carves out its niche. It mixes humor and horror in a carnival atmosphere that promises more than just cheap thrills. This blend ensures the film entertains and captivates, promising further eerie escapades that draw fans and new viewers into its bizarre world of fright and fun. Fingers crossed that MVD finds a way to restore GHOULIES III: GHOULIES GO TO COLLEGE next!!!

4K SPECIAL FEATURES:
2024 4K (2160p) Restoration (16-bit Scan of the Original Camera Negative) of the film presented in its original 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio in Dolby Vision / HDR
This includes both the 90-minute Theatrical PG-13 cut and the restored 91-minute R-rated director's cut of the film.
Optional English Subtitles
LPCM 2.0 Stereo Audio
Introduction by Screenwriter Dennis Paoli (1:15)
Original Theatrical Trailer (1:23)
Collectible "4K LaserVision" Mini-Poster
Reversible Artwork

BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES:
High Definition (1080p) presentation of the main feature in 1:85.1 aspect ratio (2K scan of the Interpositive overseen by MGM)
LPCM 2.0 Stereo Audio
Optional English, French, and Spanish Subtitles
Introduction by Screenwriter Dennis Paoli (HD, 1:15)
More Toilets, More Terror: The Making of Ghoulies 2 (HD, 16:50)
Under A Magic Moon: Interview with Dennis Paoli (HD, 33:36)
Deleted Scenes (HD, 2:43)
Photo Gallery
Theatrical Trailer (HD, 1:23)

Bonus Materials
Deleted Scenes (HD, 2:43) (Blu-ray Only)
Under A Magic Moon: Interview with Dennis Paoli (HD, 33:36) (Blu-ray Only)
More Toilets, More Terror: The Making of Ghoulies 2 (HD, 16:50) (Blu-ray Only)
Introduction by Screenwriter Dennis Paoli (HD, 1:15) (4K UHD Disc & Blu-ray)
Optional English Subtitles (4K) / Optional English, French and Spanish Subtitles (Blu-ray)
LPCM 2.0 Stereo Audio (4K UHD Disc & Blu-ray)
4K UHD Disc: 2024 4K (2160p) Restoration (16-Bit Scan of the Original Camera Negative) of both the PG-13 + R-rated versions of the film presented in its original 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio in Dolby Vision / HDR
Photo Gallery (Blu-ray Only)
Theatrical Trailer (HD, 1:23) (4K UHD Disc & Blu-ray)
Reversible Artwork
Collectible '4K LaserVision' Mini-Poster
Limited Edition Slipcover (*FIRST PRESSING ONLY)

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