The Pit And The Pendulum Blu-ray Review

• 16th May 2014

‘The Pit and the Pendulum’, one of Edgar Allen Poe’s most celebrated short stories, makes it onto Blu-Ray for a May 19th release in a beautiful package that will delight horror fans. However you feel about Vincent Price and his unique, slightly camp acting style, there is no denying that this is one of his finest, most tortured performances, perfectly cast in the role of the terrifying and sinister Nicholas Medina. Ably supported by the often underestimated John Kerr, and the fantastic Barbara Steele as his doomed wife, Price and Director Corman bring alive this shocking tale with real guts and glorious colour. Collaborators previously on the wonderful adaptation of ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’, their partnership has produced something really special here, and a film that would go on to influence many filmmakers in years to come both in style and its notable opening and closing sequences.

Extras include two interesting audio commentaries by Roger Corman and critic Tim Lucas and a decent length documentary ‘Behind the swinging blade’ about the making of the film which includes interviews with Roger Corman, Barbara Steele and daughter Victoria Price. It was well thought out and satisfyingly detailed, a pleasure to watch. The highlight for me though has to be the little gem of ‘An Evening of Edgar Allen Poe’, an original TV release where Price reads to a live studio audience Poe’s tales ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’, ‘The Sphinx’, The Cask of Amontillado’ and ‘The Pit and the Pendulum’. Wow. I wasn’t even aware this existed, so was practically squealing with delight from start to finish. Price’s delivery is spot on, and his ability to create atmosphere is finely honed. Fans of the gothic genre in books and movies would be hard pressed to find anything more satisfying and darkly delightful than this.

Also included is a short TV sequence from 1968 to pad out movie for TV release and featuring original cast member Luana Anders. Whilst interesting, I felt it was rather pointlessly included here, and the short sequence is such obvious padding for the TV release it hardly seemed worth it! For serious fans of the film though, it would be an interesting watch. A lovely collectors booklet with original archive stills and posters comes with this release and I would definitely be tempted with the steel book version.

‘The Pit and the Pendulum’ is a 1960’s gothic masterpiece, a hugely influential and thrilling film which rightly deserves its exalted place in the horror cannon. Worth revisiting for the beautiful print and wonderful story telling turn by Price. Loved it!!

Claire Hyypiä