Plot: What’s it about?
Henry (Michael Rooker) is a man who drifts from town, sometimes entering lives then leaving just as quickly. But when Henry enters someone’s life, he doesn’t just meet and get to know them, he brutally murders them with no remorse. He doesn’t kill to survive, to protect himself, or even as a profession, Henry kills because he has fun doing it. His sickness goes deep into his past, all the way back to his childhood, when he was abused and ended up killing his own mother. Of course his behavior has landed him in a lot of trouble with the law, and he has done some time in prison. While he was imprisoned he befriended Otis (Tom Towles), which quickly led to Henry becoming the controlling force in Otis’ life. Once the two men were free, Henry began his murderous patterns again, this time with Otis by his side. Henry and Otis would choose their victims at random and use different methods with each person, it was like a game to them. When Otis’ sister Becky (Tracy Arnold) returns to her brother’s home for a visit, the pressure within Henry grows even stronger, as Becky and Henry are drawn to one other.
If you’re a fan of serial killer movies, then this movie is a must have for your collection. While other serial killer movies might have more glitz and dazzle, this film seems almost like a documentary, and Rooker is almost too believable as our main character. I am pleased that MPI Home Video has issued this film on our beloved format, and they’ve even included the unrated and uncensored director’s cut, which is bound to pleased all fans of the film. This movie was given an “X” rating upon it’s screening, because of the disturbing nature of the film. I can see how this would disturb some folks, it’s done in a very realistic manner and does have some very haunting moment. Plus, Michael Rooker is downright scary in this role, he becomes Henry in this film, and it’s eerie how powerful his performance is. The violence is very brutal and realistic at times, but I don’t think the violence is any worse than most movies in the serial killer genre. In case you couldn’t tell by now, this movie is not for kiddies, so keep the little ones away when you’re watching this one. If you’re a fan of the serial killer genre, then this is one title you’ve got to own.
This film was directed and cowritten by John McNaughton, who despite a very low budget managed to create a powerful and memorable film. This is of course just a movie, but McNaughton’s style makes it seem like a documentary at times, like we’re right there watching these things happen. This was McNaughton’s feature film debut, but you’d never be able to tell, since the film is so gripping and haunting. McNaughton took some serious chances in making this movie and I think they paid off, since the film has become a cult classic over the years. If you want more McNaughton, check out Wild Things, Mad Dog and Glory, Speaking of Sex, and Condo Painting. The lead in this film is played by Michael Rooker, who turns in a performance that is almost too good. While Rooker (Mallrats, Days of Thunder) usually plays in supporting roles, he has the talent to carry a film and it shows here. This is one of the most disturbing and realistic turns I’ve seen, and I hope Rooker can soon take more leading roles. The cast of this film also included Tracy Arnold (The Shot), Tom Towles (Fortress, The Rock), Anne Bartoletti.
Video: How does it look?
Henry: Portrait Of A Serial Killer is presented in a 1.33:1 or full frame transfer. I am unsure of the original aspect ratio, but I assume this is an open matte, since I couldn’t find any evidence of image loss. The framing seems correct as well, but again I cannot confirm the original aspect ratio, so I might be wrong. This was a low budget movie, so the image shows some grain at times, but this isn’t a bad thing, it adds to the tone and atmosphere of the film. The colors are based in a darker, more natural spectrum, but they show no signs of errors and flesh tones look normal also. The contrast is solid, but not as sharp as more recent and polished films.
Audio: How does it sound?
I was worried about this area, since some had reported synch problems with the dialogue. I was pleased to find no such errors on this review copy, so I am not sure if the title has been repressed or what. Aside from dialogue and minimal sound effects, there isn’t much here in terms of audio. As such, the front channels handle it all without issues, and volume is always loud and distinct.
Supplements: What are the extras?
You’ll find trailers for this film as well as the sequel, talent files, production notes, and a thirty minute interview with the director. This interview is loaded with information, so fans will not want to miss this piece.
