I like good horror movies. The only problem is, my idea of a 'good horror movie' isn't what is most often cranked out by the Hollywood schlockmeisters. I can't abide 'slasher' pictures and films that are so obvious in their attempts to 'get you' soon become boring. This is why I am so fond of 'Fright Night'. Here is a film whose only goal is to entertain. And the entertainment comes from a good story with likeable, believable characters and above all, humor. Sure 'Fright Night' has special effects. Really good ones, in fact, thanks to Richard Edlund. But special effects are not what this movie is about and never do they get in the way of the story. Scripted and directed by Tom Holland, 'Fright Night' stars Chris Sarandon, William Ragsdale, Amanda Bearse and Roddy McDowell. When vampire Sarandon moves into the neighborhood, it's young Charlie Brewster (Ragsdale) who discovers his identity. When no one will believe Charlie when he tries to tell them who is committing a series of grisly murders, he attempts to enlist the aid of late night TV host and former horror star Peter Vincent, played with great style by Roddy McDowell. 'Fright Night' never takes itself too seriously and in the end is just good fun. My kind of horror movie.
Columbia/Tristar Video has reissued 'Fright Night' on laser disc with a terrific letterboxed transfer. Though many may not realize it, 'Fright Night' was shot in anamorphic Panavision and the ratio on this transfer is just about dead-on 2.35:1. Colors are solid and accurate with only a trace of chroma noise here and there. The image is consistantly sharp and clear with good detail, even in shadow. Brightness and contrast are very good. Those who have only seen this film panned and scanned with the old dark and grainy transfer are in for a treat.
The audio is also quite good, though the Dolby Stereo mix is a bit more restrained than many newer films. None the less, Dialog is clear and natural and the score has good depth and range.
The film runs 105 minutes and contains 54 (!) chapters. No trailer or other extras, unfortunately. The side break is at a scene change but still seems a bit abrupt. List price is $34.95. Fans of this film should be very pleased with this disc.
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