Plot: What’s it about?
In the race to uncover new genetic advances, sometimes leaps in progress can lead to disastrous results. In 1989, a research lab on Kuttyhunk Island made some incredible discoveries. An experiment involving parasitic development and human test subjects showed remarkable changes. The subjects were stronger, faster, and even smarter, all thanks to the parasites injected into their systems. Before the lab could make their findings known to the public, an outbreak of parasites attacking the hosts unfolded, leaving most of the island’s staff and subjects dead. Two decades later, one of the survivors (Mircea Monroe) returns to the island to sell her childhood home. As she and her friends arrive on the island, they have no idea what lurks in wait. Can anyone survive the onslaught of the parasites, or will the island claim even more victims?
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Growth, but the movie opens with a dynamic, effective plot establishment that really draws you in from the start. Sadly, Growth is unable to maintain the momentum that opening builds, but it is still a solid effort. I was quite impressed with the visual effects, especially when you consider the resources the production was given. These kind of direct-to-video horror movies are infamous for awful visual effects, but Growth bucks that trend. The main issue here is the pace, which is overly slow at times and inconsistent at best. When the movie works, it offers memorable moments of horror, but then grinds to a halt and can even be dull at times. But if you stick with it, the good is worth enduring the bad. The cast is passable, but no one stands out as either great or terrible. While inconsistent, Growth is better than most of the direct-to-video horror movies out there, so those interested should check it out.
Video: How does it look?
Growth is presented in 2.35:1 widescreen. This movie has a slick, polished look and the visuals really shine in this high definition treatment. The image shows impressive depth, with great detail even outside of close-up shots. I wouldn’t call it razor sharp perhaps, but this is a crisp, refined transfer. No concerns in terms of color or contrast either, as colors look great and black levels are stark throughout. This is one terrific visual presentation.
Audio: How does it sound?
The audio here is also quite good, with a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 soundtrack included. This mix has plenty of surround presence, both in powerful moments and subtler ways, to enhance the tension and mood. This extra atmosphere really helps the movie, as it makes those eerie scenes much more effective. As I said, there is also some power to be heard, but dialogue is never impacted. So the vocals come through well, the music sounds good, and the presence is excellent. Not much else we could ask for.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes no bonus materials.
