Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars
“Legend” has always been one of my favorite films growing up. Tim Curry plays the role of Darkness is probably one of the best performance (and make-up jobs ever). This new Blu-ray from Arrow Video is packed with two different versions of the film: the U.S. Theatrical Cut originally released in North America in 1986, and the Director’s Cut first released on DVD in 2002. Both cuts are included with their original 2.35:1 aspect ratio with 5.1 surround sound tracks.
It is cool to know that Arrow Films exclusively restored the U.S. Theatrical Cut has been for this release. The original 35mm camera negative were scanned in 4K resolution and restored in 2K. The Director’s Cut is presented in the 2011 HD master approved by director Ridley Scott. It is hard for me to choose which cut is my favorite. Obviously, I grew up with the theatrical cut and only within last 20 years has the director’s cut surfaced.
Official Premise: In an idyllic, sun-dappled forest, the pure-hearted Jack (Tom Cruise) takes his true love Princess Lili (Mia Sara) to see a pair of unicorns frolicking at the forest’s edge. Little do they know, however, that the Lord of Darkness (Tim Curry, in a remarkable make-up designed by The Thing’s Rob Bottin) has dispatched his minions to capture the unicorns and sever their horns so that he may plunge the world into everlasting night. After Lili and the unicorns are taken prisoner, Jack must team with a group of forest creatures and descend into Darkness’ subterranean lair to face off against the devilish creature before it is too late.
Arrow Video like always packs this release with amazing special features that make hardcore fans drool. This release also includes an illustrated book, a large fold-out double sided poster, six double sided postcard sized lobby card reproductions, and limited edition packaging with reversible sleeve. There is commentary tracks on both cuts and there is also isolated music tracks on the theatrical cut. There are a bunch of in depth featurettes with archive footage from the production. As well as storyboards, trailers and so much more. If you are a fan of this film or have never seen it and looking to explore this release is definitely the one to start with!