Review of Interview with the Vampire

Video

Interview with the Vampire is presented in both the anamorphic 1.85:1 format, and the 4:3 pan and scan version, divided into 34 chapters.

The film is generally quite dark to match its subject content, and this is reflected on the DVD video. This may not be to everyone`s taste, but suited me. The film`s gothic nature is very atmospheric, and envelops the viewer. Allowing for the darkness of the film, the clarity of the video is good, but this film will benefit from a 16:9 TV or projector.

Audio

The soundtrack is equally moody with long classical pieces from composers Haydn, Handel and Beethoven. Music plays a vital part in this film, and the 5.1 soundtrack brings the vampires to life.

Features

The menus appear to be standard static Warner Bros affairs - not even a screenshot from the film! The menu design could be used as a standard on any of their DVDs. Maybe this will be improved on a later release.

You get the cast listings with film biographies, and a `film flash` which to my mind is just blatant advertising for other Warner titles.

Conclusion

This is a dark, gothic, gruesome film. Blood flows like, well blood really, and necks are bitten on a regular basis. It is a recent attempt at the familiar vampire theme, and it`s portrayal of LeStat (Cruise) taking young Louis (Pitt) under his wing as his journey to full vampire status is undertaken, is a novel twist.

The music is very atmospheric and adds greatly to the overall film. There would be a case to suggest that the extras could have included a music only soundtrack.

The DVD is anamorphic, and you get both versions. A few more extras would have been nice, but on the whole Interview with the Vampire is one of the better horror films available on this format presently.