Plot: What’s it about?
In this era of home entertainment decadence, the concept of a “rare” movie is uncommon. Even the most obscure genre films usually show up on DVD, often in lavish treatments. The movies that used to be rare and obscure can now usually be bought in Wal-Mart or Best Buy, of all places. But in the not too distant past, if you wanted to see certain movies, you had very limited options. One of the ways to find low profile, out of the norm movies was to track down midnight screenings. The movies that weren’t expected to perform well were often shown at that hour, but in some cases, those movies performed well and then some. In Midnight Movies, we’re taken on a tour of six such films, low budget wonders that bucked the trends and became not just cult hits, but helped move genre films into the mainstream.
As a fan of eclectic cinema, this was a release that piqued my interest. I recommend you view all six films featured here before you watch, but aside from that, Midnight Movies is an informative, fun documentary. In addition to capsule looks at the six films, we’re treated to interviews with the filmmakers involved, film critics, exhibitors, distributors, and even fans. In other words, this isn’t just a brisk piece, there is good depth and a variety of perspectives on these productions. And of course, clips from the movies themselves are present, but they’re well handled and don’t crowd the rest of the feature. While I did enjoy Midnight Movies, it doesn’t offer as much depth as times as I would like. So don’t expect a cinematic history lesson here, more of a well crafted Cliff’s Notes, but Midnight Movies is still good fun. If you’re a fan of off the beaten path cinema, Midnight Movies is a worthwhile rental, to get a look at how six films helped change the landscape of cinema.
Video: How does it look?
Midnight Movies is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. This is mostly interviews and archival materials, so the visuals don’t offer much flash. But what is here looks clean and bright, so no complaints. The film clips used have seen better days, but in the context of the documentary, there is no need for pristine elements. So while rather basic, the transfer is still good and presents the movie in fine fashion.
Audio: How does it sound?
The audio here is simple and basic, just as it should be. The film clips sound fine, but unremarkable, while the archival and interview footage is also solid. The interviews provide clear vocals, which is all we can ask, while the music in between sounds good too, no real issues to contend with here. So there isn’t a whole lot to report on in this section, but the soundtrack provided is adequate and gives us no cause for concern.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes no bonus materials.
