A Trio of Classic Sci-Fi Horrors Revived!

Read Time:4 Minute, 38 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Sci-Fi Chillers Collection (BLU-RAY)
The Unknown Terror –
The Colossus of New York –
Destination Inner Space –

Genre: Sci-Fi, Horror
Year Released: 1957-1966, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 3h 50m
Director(s): Charles Marquis Warren, Eugène Lourié, Francis D. Lyon
Writer(s): Kenneth Higgins, Thelma Schnee, Willis Goldbeck, Arthur C. Pierce
Cast: Mala Powers, Otto Kruger, Charles Herbert, Roy Engel, Gerald Milton, May Wynn, Wende Wagner, Paul Richards, Ross Martin, Robert Hutton, John Howard, Gary Merrill, John Baragrey, Sheree North, Scott Brady
Where To Watch: available now, order here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Kino Lorber’s SCI-FI CHILLERS COLLECTION plunges viewers into the depths of sci-fi and horror, blending both genres to unearth profound philosophical questions and dark explorations of human curiosity. This trio of films—THE UNKNOWN TERROR, THE COLOSSUS OF NEW YORK, and DESTINATION INNER SPACE—offers a reflective look at the ethical boundaries pushed by scientific endeavors captured in the earlier days of film.

The journey into this chilling anthology starts with THE UNKNOWN TERROR, where the foreboding backdrop parallels the film's story. Directed by Charles Marquis Warren in 1957, this film is less about the shock value of horror and more an exploration of the psychological depths of human fear and ambition. Set in a mysterious jungle, the narrative weaves through the dangerous Cave of the Dead, where scientific curiosity meets supernatural phenomena. The vintage aesthetics do not detract but rather enhance the psychological intrigue, making it a compelling piece for those who appreciate the slow burn of atmospheric tension.

Transitioning from the wild jungles to the cold mechanics of futuristic despair, THE COLOSSUS OF NEW YORK takes the screen next. This 1958 film dives deep into the essence of humanity as it tells the story of a brilliant scientist whose consciousness endures within a robotic body. Directed by Eugène Lourié, the film's stark black-and-white cinematography underscores a mind's isolation and existential dread from its human form. This piece stands out for its audacious narrative that probes the implications of scientific advancements on personal identity.

The anthology’s tone shifts dramatically with the vibrant and adventurous DESTINATION INNER SPACE. Directed by Francis D. Lyon in 1966, this colorful venture under the sea contrasts sharply with its predecessors, injecting a more adventurous spirit into the collection. The film explores an enigmatic alien encounter at the bottom of the ocean, wrapped in the aesthetics of the '60s sci-fi genre. Despite some narrative pacing issues and a feeling of déjà vu from other sci-fi ventures, it remains an engaging exploration of extraterrestrial life, adding visual exuberance to the philosophical depth of the collection.

The SCI-FI CHILLERS COLLECTION from Kino Lorber does more than just entertain; it provokes thought about the era it encapsulates and the timeless nature of the questions it raises. These films are interconnected through their exploration of unchecked scientific exploration and its repercussions, presenting a compelling narrative thread that examines both the dangers and the wonders of human curiosity.

While this collection may not be the go-to for those craving high-octane thrills or cutting-edge special effects, its actual value lies in its ability to foster reflection on the ethical dimensions of technological advances and the human condition. It serves as both an educational tool and a source of entertainment, offering viewers a chance to engage with the foundational narratives of the sci-fi and horror genres. This anthology is a gateway to nostalgia and the enduring inquiries these genres bestow upon their audience, making it a unique addition to the libraries of seasoned cinema enthusiasts and casual film lovers looking for substance and style in their viewing choices.

Product Extras:
HD Masters by Paramount Pictures – From 4K Scans
NEW Audio Commentary for THE UNKNOWN TERROR by Film Historian Stephen Bissette
NEW Audio Commentary for THE COLOSSUS OF NEW YORK by Film Historians Tom Weaver, Larry Blamire, and Ron Adams
NEW Audio Commentary for DESTINATION INNER SPACE by Film Historians David Del Valle and Stan Shaffer
Sidebar on THE COLOSSUS OF NEW YORK: On-Camera with Tim Lucas and Steven Bissette
Sidebar on DESTINATION INNER SPACE: On-Camera with Tim Lucas and Steven Bissette
THE COLOSSUS OF NEW YORK – Theatrical Trailer
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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