MOVIE REVIEW
Blood and Lace (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Horror, Drama, Thriller
Year Released: 1971, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Philip Gilbert
Writer(s): Gil Lasky
Cast: Gloria Grahame, Melody Patterson, Milton Selzer, Len Lesser, Vic Tayback, Terri Messina
Where To Watch: available now, order here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: The 1970s horror scene was unlike any other era in the genre. BLOOD AND LACE combined psychological thriller elements with sinister plot twists that transcend conventional slasher norms. This film pioneered genre-defining elements and created a unique eerie tension that grips and terrifies its audience. As it journeys through chilling atmospheres and twisted corridors, BLOOD AND LACE ensures its place as a cult classic, leaving a lasting impression of disturbance.

BLOOD AND LACE begins with an ominous event that shakes the foundation of a seemingly tranquil existence and catapults young Ellie (Melody Patterson) into a chilling ordeal. Thrust into a remote orphanage overseen by the formidable Mrs. Deere (Gloria Grahame,) Ellie’s new home extends beyond the typical haunted house tropes. Under Mrs. Deere's rule, the orphanage becomes a vision cloaked in secrecy and looming threats.

Amidst decay and secrets, the narrative intensifies as Ellie uncovers the true nature of her new “home”—a place not of refuge but of peril. The depth explored through the interactions between Ellie and the others in the orphanage amplifies the suspense, drawing viewers into a web of intrigue and dread.

The ensemble cast enhances the film’s shadowy ambiance. Vic Tayback and Len Lesser embody their roles with a disturbing blend of malevolence, contrasting sharply with Patterson’s portrayal of Ellie. Her mix of resilience and vulnerability adds intrigue to the story, making her struggle not just a fight for survival but an emotional journey.

BLOOD AND LACE constructs fear through atmospheric tension rather than overt horror. The film's true terror lies in its exploration of human depravity and manipulation, which leaves a more profound and insidious impact than the few scenes of violence could convey. Each twist and revelation drives the story forward, locking the audience in a horrifying suspense.

The film’s modest production elements do not detract from its ambitious storytelling and performances, particularly from Grahame, whose portrayal of Mrs. Deere is formidable and nuanced. The film cleverly uses its narrative and thematic depth to overcome budgetary limitations.

The climax of BLOOD AND LACE offers a startling twist that compels a reevaluation of all that preceded it, showcasing the film’s flair for subverting expectations and engaging its audience in a thoughtful rethinking of the story. This hallmark of storytelling underscores its status as a cult horror film, memorable not only for its chilling scenes but for its deep dive into the complexities of its characters and the dark corners of human nature.

While not without flaws, BLOOD AND LACE stands out as an audacious piece of cinema that challenges and captivates. Its legacy as a pioneering work in the horror genre is secure, marked by its innovative approach and the memorable dread it evokes. For those who appreciate a film that combines genuine scares with thoughtful storytelling, BLOOD AND LACE is a compelling and enduring journey into the dark, reminding us why we love to be scared in the first place.

Product Extras:
Commentary by film historian Richard Harland Smith
Alternate opening titles
Theatrical Trailer

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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