By MICHAEL GINGOLD
Three years before Peter Jackson broke out with BAD TASTE, New Zealand director David Blyth created a film that Alejandro Jodorwsky described as “an apocalypse of slaughter.” Now it’s headed for special-edition Blu-ray in the U.S.
Severin Films releases 1985’s DEATH WARMED UP on Blu-ray April 30, featuring a widescreen transfer remastered by Blyth himself from the only existing elements and plenty of extras, plus reversible cover art. This mad-science tale (briefly released to Stateside theaters as DEATH WARMED OVER) stars Michael Hurst (TV’s HERCULES and XENA), Margaret Umbers, William Upjohn, Norelle Scott, David Letch and Kiwi veterans Bruno Lawrence (THE QUIET EARTH) and Ian Watkin (DEAD ALIVE). The special features are:
- Audio commentary by director David Blyth and scriptwriter Michael Heath
- “I’ll Get You All”: Interview with actor David Letch
- Deleted scenes with optional audio commentary by director David Blyth and scriptwriter Michael Heath
- Original New Zealand 4×3 VHS cut
- Interview featurette with David Blyth and Michael Heath
- Theatrical trailer
- VHS trailers
- TV spot
The Blu-ray can be pre-ordered at the Severin webstore, which is also offering bundles with exclusive merch like a limited-edition slipcover, art print, sticker, T-shirt and a squeezable brain-shaped stress ball!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YO5kby4UZ4
