Actors: Dan Stevens, Maika Monroe, Brendan Meyer, Sheila Kelley, Leland Orser
Directors: Adam Wingard
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Universal Studios
Release Date: January 6, 2015
Run Time: 101 minutes
Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
“The Guest” was on my watch list because it is from director Adam Wingard and writer Simon Barrett, who are the dudes behind last year’s kick-ass horror/thriller “You’re Next”. These guys taking over Hollywood and this film is just proof of how much these guys rule! The film stars Dan Stevens (“Downton Abbey”), who is absolutely awesome in this role. The film is violent, funny and thrilling. Too bad this film didn’t get a bigger release, it deserved it. 2015 is not even here yet and we already have our first see Blu-ray!
Official Premise: Recently discharged from the military, David Collins (Dan Stevens) unexpectedly shows up at the Peterson family’s doorstep, claiming to be their late son’s Army buddy. Welcomed into their home, the well-mannered stranger becomes part of the family until a shocking wave of violence raises daughter Anna’s (Maika Monroe) suspicions that the mysterious ex-soldier is not quite what he seems.
Universal is releasing this as a combo pack including a Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD with UltraViolet copy. The 1080p transfer works well with the action and the scale of the film, which really feels so much bigger than it is. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is also quite amazing, like the video makes the film have a this huge scale. The special features are good as well including a solid audio commentary with director Adam Wingard and writer Simon Barrett, these guys are great and this track is a detailed and a lot of fun. There is also a Q&A with star Dan Stevens and some deleted scenes included.