The Film(s)
BEAST FROM HAUNTED CAVE
"Beast from Haunted Cave" is a true relic of the B-movie horror genre, offering an entertaining and campy experience that fans of classic, low-budget horror will likely appreciate. This 1959 film, directed by Monte Hellman and produced by Roger Corman, has all the hallmarks of a quintessential '50s creature feature.
Set against the backdrop of the snow-covered South Dakota mountains, the movie follows a group of criminals led by the charismatic Alex (Michael Forest) who plan a heist and use an impending avalanche as a cover for their crime. As if the heist wasn't complicated enough, they encounter a mysterious, spider-like creature that adds a supernatural element to their already perilous situation.
One of the strengths of "Beast from Haunted Cave" is its charmingly outdated special effects and creature design. The titular beast is a bizarre mix of a spider and a lobster, created with a limited budget and resources available at the time. While modern audiences might find it more humorous than frightening, there's a certain nostalgic appeal in the practical effects of this era.
The film's pacing is swift, with a runtime just under an hour, making it an easy watch. It doesn't waste time on unnecessary exposition, and the plot moves forward briskly. However, character development takes a back seat to the action, leaving viewers with relatively shallow protagonists.
The film's low budget is evident in its production values, including the limited sets and occasional lapses in continuity. Still, this inherent campiness adds to the charm and appeal of "Beast from Haunted Cave" for fans of cult cinema.
The performances by the cast are serviceable, with Michael Forest providing a memorable turn as the suave and scheming Alex. The supporting characters fulfill their roles adequately, even if they lack significant depth.
"Beast from Haunted Cave" is best appreciated as a product of its time, a nostalgic piece of '50s horror cinema that embodies the era's fascination with science fiction and creature features. While it may not be a masterpiece, it's an enjoyable watch for those who relish the quirks and quirks of low-budget horror movies from yesteryears.
This is a fun and kitschy piece of cinematic history that offers an entertaining glimpse into the world of 1950s creature features. Its simplicity, campy charm, and nostalgic appeal make it a worthwhile watch for aficionados of classic B-movie horror. Just be prepared for the delightful absurdity that defines this genre.
SKI TROOP ATTACK
"Ski Troop Attack," a 1960 war film directed by Roger Corman, offers an intriguing and unique take on the war genre by combining winter sports with combat action. While not a masterpiece by any means, this low-budget production has its own charm and merits that make it worth a watch for fans of unconventional war movies.
The film's plot centers around a group of American soldiers, including Sgt. Potter (Michael Forest) and his men, who are tasked with infiltrating enemy lines during World War II. What sets this mission apart is the use of skis and snowmobiles, which adds a distinctive and visually appealing dimension to the action sequences.
One of the notable aspects of "Ski Troop Attack" is its effective use of the snowy mountainous backdrop. The cinematography captures the stark beauty of the wintery landscapes, providing a compelling contrast to the intense combat scenes that unfold. The decision to film on location in the Sierra Nevada Mountains lends authenticity to the setting and enhances the film's overall atmosphere.
While the action sequences are relatively low-budget and simplistic compared to modern war films, they manage to create a sense of tension and excitement. The ski chases and skirmishes with the enemy are the film's highlights and showcase the resourcefulness of the American troops as they navigate treacherous terrain.
The characters in "Ski Troop Attack" are fairly one-dimensional, with limited development and depth. However, the actors, including Michael Forest as Sgt. Potter, deliver serviceable performances that suit the film's straightforward narrative.
The film's brevity, running at just over an hour, keeps the story concise and focused on the action, minimizing unnecessary exposition. This makes "Ski Troop Attack" a quick and engaging watch, even if it sacrifices character development in the process.
As with many of Roger Corman's films, "Ski Troop Attack" operates on a modest budget, resulting in certain limitations in production values. While some viewers might find the special effects and set designs somewhat dated, others may appreciate the film's nostalgic charm and creativity in making the most of its resources.
"Ski Troop Attack" may not be a cinematic masterpiece, but it's a unique and enjoyable entry in the war film genre. Its blend of winter sports and combat action, combined with the picturesque snowy landscapes, sets it apart from more conventional war movies. If you're a fan of vintage war cinema or curious about Roger Corman's contributions to filmmaking, "Ski Troop Attack" is worth checking out for its novelty and historical value.
The Blu-ray
The Blu-ray release of "Beast from Haunted Cave," is an absolute delight for classic horror movie enthusiasts like myself. This release has breathed new life into a cult classic that has been long overdue for a high-definition upgrade.
First and foremost, the restoration work done on this film is nothing short of remarkable. The visual quality on this Blu-ray is stunning, with crisp, clear images that bring out the eerie atmosphere and the charm of the original black-and-white cinematography. It's like seeing the movie for the first time, only better.
But it's not just the visuals that shine in this release. The sound quality has been impeccably remastered, allowing the haunting score and suspenseful moments to shine through with greater clarity. It adds a new layer of immersion to the viewing experience and truly enhances the overall enjoyment of the film.
One of the standout features of this Blu-ray release is the abundance of special features included. The behind-the-scenes documentaries, interviews with cast and crew, and the insightful commentary tracks provide a fascinating glimpse into the making of "Beast from Haunted Cave" and its place in cinematic history. It's a treasure trove for fans who want to delve deeper into the film's production.
As a fan of vintage horror films, I appreciate the effort put into preserving and celebrating these hidden gems from the past. "Beast from Haunted Cave" may not have been a blockbuster in its time, but it's a beloved piece of cinema history for aficionados. This Blu-ray release does justice to the film's legacy, and I applaud the restoration team for their dedication to bringing this classic to a new generation.
The Blu-ray release of "Beast from Haunted Cave" is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the magic of vintage horror movies. The impeccable restoration, enhanced audio, and wealth of special features make it a true collector's item. I'm grateful to have this piece of cinematic history in my collection, and I highly recommend it to fellow film enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to experience this timeless classic in all its restored glory!
SPECIAL FEATURES:
- Hollywood Intruders: The Filmgroup Story: Part One, a Ballyhoo Motion Pictures documentary
- Full-color booklet with essays by authors C. Courtney Joyner and Tom Weaver with the man behind the beast
- Chris Robinson; commentary for Beast From Haunted Cave by author and film historian Tom Weaver and filmmaker Larry Blamire
- Commentary for Ski Troop Attack by author C. Courtney Joyner and filmmaker Howard S. Berger
- Gallery of rare stills from camera negatives taken during the filming of Beast From Haunted Cave, courtesy of Tom Weaver
- Original, 35mm-restored theatrical trailer for Beast From Haunted Cave and new, recut trailers from restored both films using restored film elements.
- Easter Egg alert! Hidden on the disc is a special interview with the original beast (if you scroll to the right on the menu page and click on the beast himself … you’ll find the hidden Easter Egg)
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