Plot: What’s it about?
Some farmers in a rural area have been using an experimental pesticide, which could have side effects, but still has to be used. It seems a wave of ants has invaded the area and damage could be severe, but this new pesticide causes them to attack each other, which of course, means their numbers shrink more than a little. But of course, it has some interesting side effects, one of which is bringing the dead back to life. And as is the case with zombies, they want to eat up all the humans they can find and in this case, these undead beasts strike in organized, lethal fashion. The local police are baffled by the cannibalistic murders, but since the zombies know when to remain unseen, no one suspects them. At the same time, a couple of hippies happen to pass into town, George Simon (Ray Lovelock) and his squeeze Edna (Christine Galbo). The sheriff even suspects the outsiders of being behind the murders, but no evidence is found, so he just hassles them a lot. But sooner or later, the truth is bound to be revealed, as the three sides soon meet in a showdown at the Manchester Morgue, which is sure to be a real eye-opening experience.
This is a powerful, moving drama about the dangers of drug addiction, eating disorders, and the walking undead. Ok, so this is a horror movie, but it does have a heroin addict, cannibalism, and of course, the walking undead, so there was some truth to that claim. This zombie fest has been known under countless names, but Anchor Bay has issued the uncut version under one of the better titles, Let Sleeping Corpses Lie. I like this picture a lot and while many clones were spun in the wake of Night of the Living Dead’s success, this is not just a cheap imitation. It shares some themes of course, but Let Sleeping Corpses Lie stands on its own as a cool movie, at least I think so. I do think the zombies look a little too normal, but it fits in with the film’s theme, so I won’t complain too much, I suppose. The premise is a cool one as far as horror movies go, with some nice twists and of course, lots of chances for blood and gore. Yes, this flick packs some great gore moments, including a couple scenes, but I’ll let you discover them on your own. This is a very fun zombie movie and since Anchor Bay has issued a solid disc, I more than recommend this release.
In the interview included on this disc, director Jorge Grau admits this film was made to cash in on the success on George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead. But this is one reason to praise Grau’s work here, as instead of simply ripping off another movie like so many others did, he chose to use similar elements, but make a much different product. Grau uses intelligent zombies and while I prefer the slower, less intelligent kind, it works well and seems appropriate within the storyline of the picture. Grau also uses tons of atmosphere here, via using the widescreen format to perfection, filling each frame with important visual touches. The visuals here are excellent and even when the shot is just of a landscape, you can tell a lot of planning went into each one. Other films directed by Grau include Violent Blood Bath, The Bloody Countess, Code of Hunt, and Summer Night. The cast includes Ray Lovelock (Slashdance, Autopsy), Christine Galbo (The Finishing School, What They Have Done to Solange?), and Arthur Kennedy (Fantastic Voyage, Lawrence of Arabia).
Video: How does it look?
Let Sleeping Corpses Lie is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. If you’ve been suffering through miserable visual presentations of this film, as I have, then you’ll be very pleased with the treatment found here. Some grain is still present, but the print looks cleaned up a lot, I was very impressed, to say the least. The colors look more than solid, with much fading than expected, while contrast is smooth and provides a terrific level of detail. The image here is on the soft side, but it still looks excellent and compared to previous editions, this offers massive improvements, so fans should be thrilled.
Audio: How does it sound?
I didn’t expect much from the included Dolby Digital 5.1 track, but it is pretty good and offers some nice touches. The surrounds aren’t used in constant fashion here, but you’ll know they’re there, thanks to some cool, very eerie subtle effects. I was pleased to hear some zombie moans and groans in the surrounds, as it made it seem like you were surrounded at times, or perhaps one was sneaking up on you. This adds a lot to the experience, as it keeps you on edge, but never to the extent where you’re not focused on the picture itself. No issues in terms of dialogue either, all the vocals are clean and well presented at all times. This disc also includes a 2.0 surround option, in case that better suits your home theater needs.
Supplements: What are the extras?
The main bonus here is a twenty minute interview with director Jorge Grau, who shares some cool information about the flick. He talks about his love for Romero’s Night of the Living Dead, how this film came be to made, and also recounts some experiences from the production. This disc also includes a selection of still photos & promotional materials, two radio advertisements, and a television spot for the film.
