Plot: What’s it about?
After a woman’s naked corpse is pulled from the Hudson River, three more similar crimes occur in a row, with the link between being the use of handcuffs. While the police search for clues and information about the crimes, a young artist has been drawing the crimes in vivid detail, even though she wasn’t present at the killings. After she discovers her drawings mimic the actual murder scenes, she goes to the police, and shows them the sketches. The young artist (Elizabeth Kemp) intrigues the police, but in particular she draws the attention of detective Larry Weeks (Norman Parker) and television reporter hungry to climb the ladder of success (Perry King). While both seem to be interested in using her talents to gain insight into the murders, both are willing to take things into the bedroom with her, just for kicks. As the story unfolds, we start to see the signs of who the killer really is, and arrows point to one of these three folks…but which one?
While this may seem like a horror flick, as the director explains on the commentary, this is more of a suspense movie than a horror movie. It uses pacing to help build the tension and suspense, so those who have little or no attention span need to look elsewhere for thrills. If you have an actual attention span, I think you’ll like the deliberate pace used here, which relies on dialogue and character, not cheap scares, to move along the suspense. As I said, this movie does have some horror elements, including some very well crafted death sequences, but don’t expect a slasher flick out of this movie. The swimming pool scene in particular is quite good, and the gasping is wonderful for effect. This is a stylish suspense flick, with well written dialogue and skillful camera use, more than just a thriller or scary movie. While the whole “which one of these people is the killer” angle has been done before, this movie offers a fresh take on it, with an ending that is excellent. I recommend the movie itself to those who enjoy the suspense genre and skillful pacing, and anyone who likes character driven movies. The disc itself is amazing, another wonderful treatment of a cult status movie by Anchor Bay. Whether you choose to rent or purchase this title, your money will be well spent.
While his resume reads mostly television projects, director Armand Mastroianni has a couple excellent motion pictures under his belt. This movie, also known as The Clairvoyant, as well as He Knows You’re Alone and The Supernaturals are all worth looking up. The lead in this movie is played by the beautiful Elizabeth Kemp (Sticky Fingers) who does a solid turn as the visionary artist. While she is called on for some depth here, I don’t think Kemp would have done so well without her solid supporting actors. Norman Parker (Up Close & Personal, Bulworth) and Perry King (The Lords Of Flatbush, Mandingo) provide the other featured roles, and they do a fine job of bringing their characters to life. The supporting cast for The Killing Hour includes Kenneth McMillan (Dune, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three), Jon Polito (The Big Lebowski, Stuart Little), Antone Pagan (Stripes, Dirty Dancing), Barbara Quinn (Squirm, Blue Sunshine), and Joe Morton (Speed, Crossroads).
Video: How does it look?
The Killing Hour is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. This is easily the finest this movie has ever looked, and then some. The print used is immaculate, free from grain and damage, and no compression errors emerge. The colors appear natural, but strong with no bleeding or oversaturation present. The flesh tones look natural and free of distortion, except for the dead folks, but their skin is supposed to be that shade. The black levels are well replicated also, with well defined shadows and no loss of detail at all. This is another knock out transfer from Anchor Bay.
Audio: How does it sound?
This release contains a Dolby Digital 5.1 track, which provides the best sounding version of the film to date. While this movie’s audio approach is not dynamic, the audio sets the tone, so it still has a presence. The music sounds amazing in this mix, and really fills the room. The dialogue comes across well too, no volume or separation issues to speak of. The disc also contains a 2.0 track for those without extensive audio components, which sounds better than a 5.1 downmix.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc is not listed as a special edition, but there is an excellent assortment of bonus features, even more than many “special editions” feature. While not a true special feature, this release contains the uncensored director’s cut of the film, which I feel is a bonus in and of itself. Then you can listen to an audio commentary with director Armand Mastroianni, which is a wonderful addition for fans of the film and director. Mastroianni is joined at times by fellow horror director Bill Lustig, who helmed Maniac Cop and Uncle Sam among other films. This track is well worth the time, as it features behind the scenes anecdotes as well as other memories the director has of the production. The disc also includes five deleted scenes, the theatrical trailer, and some information on the director.
