Studio Canal has released a new edition of the Hammer horror film Scars of Dracula on 4K UHD and Blu-ray set.
Made in 1970, Scars of Dracula is one of the goriest in the Hammer series, and you have Christopher Lee returning in the main role, but sadly no Peter Cushing, who is sadly missed.
When Paul (Christopher Matthews) goes missing, his brother Simon (Dennis Waterman) and Simon’s girlfriend (Jenny Hanley) set off in search of him, inevitably leading them to the Prince of Darkness’ castle…
It is definitely one of the lesser films in the series, but it still has a lot to enjoy. The budget and sets are not as sumptuous, but it has enough creepy atmosphere and moves at a brisk pace.
Dennis Waterman, later well known for his TV work in The Sweeney and Minder, does well in the lead. Jenny Hanley certainly looks the part as a damsel in distress, but has little to do for much of the running time.
Although the film is a bit of a disappointment, there’s no denying the presence of Christopher Lee as Dracula. He does get a bit more dialogue this time around and makes the most of his screen time.
Also great to see Patrick Troughton as the Count’s henchman Klove, who is more than he seems after his first encounter with the visitors at the castle.
The special effects are poor in general, especially the large bat that attacks the visitors and also helps resurrect Dracula. Plenty of blood on show compared to earlier entries, and James Bernard’s score is superb throughout.
A mixed bag for Hammer fans, but this really has a superb remaster. Colours are bold, image is crisp and clear with clarity, especially on the costumes and close-ups. Audio has the remastered mono soundtrack and sounds great.
Extras are interesting and include –
Brand new artwork by Johnny Dombrowski
64-page perfect-bound booklet with new essays and original press kit
2 posters
On-disc extras:
NEW “Fangs Out: Dracula, Desire & Disruption”: Clarisse Loughrey and Isaura Barbé-Brown in conversation
NEW Legacy of the Vampire – An interview with Dacre Stoker
Hammer’s Bite: Chris Matthews on Scars of Dracula
Audio Commentary with Christopher Lee and director Roy Ward Baker
Blood Rites: Inside Scars of Dracula
Stills Gallery and trailer.
A great remaster for Hammer fans with a nice overall package.
FILM – 6 PICTURE -9 AUDIO – 8 EXTRAS – 7
