Double Creature Feature Delight

Read Time:4 Minute, 59 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
Ghoulies 1 & 2

GHOULIES –
GHOULIES II –

Genre: Comedy, Horror, Fantasy
Year Released: 1984, 1987, 2023 MVD 4k/Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 21m/1h 29m
Director(s): Luca Bercovici/Albert Band
Writer(s): Luca Bercovici, Jefery Levy/Charlie Dolan, Dennis Paoli, Luca Bercovici
Cast: Peter Liapis, Lisa Pelikan, Michael Des Barres, Jack Nance, Peter Risch/Sasha Jenson, Kerry Remsen, J. Downing, Phil Fondacaro, Royal Dano
Where To Watch: Available September 12, 2023;
Pre-order part 1 here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com
Pre-order part 2 here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Embarking on the cinematic journey that GHOULIES and GHOULIES II offer is like hopping aboard a train ride — one moment, you're wandering the echoing halls of haunted mansions, and the next, you're swaying to the rhythmic chaos of a theme park filled with mischievous creatures.

In GHOULIES, our guide through this shadow-laden world is Jonathan Graves (Peter Liapis.) As he enters a mysterious estate he inherited, audiences are treated to more than creaky floorboards and dusty chandeliers. This ancient manor, brimming with dark arts, provides fertile ground for the eponymous creatures to emerge. Yet, while one might expect the tale to center around these mischievous beings, it surprisingly dives into the deep end of occult realms, which may not sit well with everyone. Jonathan, our primary focus in this universe, is portrayed in layers of complexity, making him an intriguing yet challenging character to root for.

But not all is murky in this tale. The scent of nostalgia that GHOULIES emanates takes viewers back to the golden era of VHS horror tales. Moreover, Charles Band’s artistry in puppetry becomes a highlight, serving as a unique lens that could either fascinate or puzzle its audience. It’s been over 30 years since I watched either film, and the overload of flashbacks and nostalgia was a welcome addition to my weekend!

Picking up the pace, GHOULIES II is where the real fun begins. Swapping the somber mood of ancient estates for the buzzing fervor of a theme park, the Ghoulies are given a grander stage – commandeering a ghost train. Their playful and sometimes wild escapades are contagious, ensuring viewers are strapped in for a memorable ride.

Seemingly having taken notes from its precursor, GHOULIES II amplifies the mischief. The Ghoulies, now in the limelight, pay homage to well-loved creature features, elevating the film's allure. The seamless blend of puppetry with stop-motion adds depth to the visual palette, and with a new director behind the lens, the film radiates a unique charm. Complementing this is a cast that brings warmth and depth to a fantastical plotline.

In reflection, this back-to-back cinematic expedition through GHOULIES and GHOULIES II is undeniably a treat. While the former might occasionally feel like a puzzle with its deep-rooted occult themes, the latter breezes to inject life and fun into the saga. Combined, they create a symphony of suspense and hilarity, shaping a delightful canvas for those keen on indulging in a unique creature-feature experience. I can’t wait for parts three and four!

GHOULIES 4K SPECIAL FEATURES:
2023 4K 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
Optional English Subtitles
2.0 Mono DTS-HD Audio
Archival 2015 Audio commentary with director Luca Bercovici
Archival 2016 Audio commentary by director Luca Bercovici moderated by Jason Andreasen of Terror Transmission
Collectible "4K LaserVision" Mini-Poster

BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES:
2023 HD Restoration of the film presented in its original 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio
Optional English Subtitles
2.0 Mono DTS-HD Audio
Archival 2015 Audio commentary with director Luca Bercovici
Archival 2016 Audio commentary by director Luca Bercovici moderated by Jason Andreasen of Terror Transmission
Video Introduction by Luca Bercovici (HD)
Editing an Empire: Interview with Ted Nicolau (HD, 27:30)
The Mind Is A Terrible Thing to Waste: Interview with Scott Thomson (HD, 22:02)
"Just For The Chick Man" interview with Luca Bercovici (HD, 33:46)
"From Toilets to Terror:" The Making of Ghoulies (HD, 29:49)
Photo Gallery
Theatrical Trailer (HD, 1:55)
4 TV Spots (SD)

GHOULIES II BONUS MATERIALS
High Definition (1080p) presentation of the main feature in 1:85.1 aspect ratio (2K scan of 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)
2-Sided Artwork
Collectible Mini-Poster
Limited Edition Slipcover (*FIRST PRESSING ONLY)

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[photo courtesy of MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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