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Don Coscarelli's "Phantasm" is a very original and startling horror film from the late 70's. A lot of horror classics were produced in the 70's, but this one in particular stands out because it is the only one that does not hearken back in some way to earlier established archetypes. All the details are more or less original, so you are not looking at a retread of the conventional Frankenstein/Dracula/Zombie stories. The main baddie is an exceptionally tall undertaker from another planet, for starters. His dwarf slaves are essentially zombies (reanimated dead people he has crushed "down to half size") but in their behavior and appearance do not really resemble zombies from other myths. This is a movie trying to be as different as possible. Large amounts of surrealism and humor are mixed in, and the film displays a willingness to throw in very off-the-wall ideas and quirky moments. After just a few minutes have elapsed, "Phantasm" is already a tapestry of weirdness, and it generally gets stranger, scarier and funnier as it goes along. Not surprising that it was a big theatrical hit when it came out originally--audiences could see clearly that this low-budget oddity was bending over backwards to deliver rollercoaster-style entertainment. This has been available for some years now in stereo/surround format, which sounds great and takes advantage of the very atmospheric musical score by Fred Myrow and Malcolm Seagrave. In addition to stereo manipulation of the sound effects, director Coscarelli also beefed up the sound effects for the famous "flying silver sphere" scene, adding stereo "whoosh" effects. I think the new additional sound effects are layered on fairly tastefully and you still get to hear the sphere's signature humming whine. There is a "original mono" audio option available on a couple of versions of this film. The mono soundtrack option available on the 1999 dvd release features the sphere scene without the jazzy sound effects augmentations but some sound elements are a LITTLE bit different--one of the music cues plays longer and louder, and another cue seems to start a touch sooner than it did originally. You'll have to go back to the older (pre-1994) VHS or laserdisc versions of the film to hear the theatrical mono mix as it really was originally.Read full review
This is a true Cult horror flick... The film is very unique. I remember when I first saw this I know how unique it was. Now I have it on DVD. Phantasm offers great special effects. Mystery and suspense. Edge of your seats thrills. When you see it you'll never forget it. Beware of The tall Man and his silver flying silver Spears A true cult horror classic!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
This movie is never shown on TV. So glad to have found this copy. Brand new, still sealed. Even has a booklet with info about the making of it. Fun movie to watch.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
PHANTASM DVD one of the best horror movies of all times. This is a great video! I really liked all of the extra scenes at the end, and all of the pictures of all of the promotional ads from around the world. The interviews with Don Coscarelli and Reggie Bannister were very interesting and gave some great insight on how the film was made, and what it took to bring the film to the big screen. I would highly recommend this video to everyone who likes horror films, this is a MUST SEE FILM!
Had to buy this movie and add to my library. It's one of my favorite movies growing up. Glad I was able to get it. Would buy from seller again.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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