New box set from Arrow Video compiles three of George A. Romero’s most interesting films and packs them with extras
This writer is still reeling from the loss of the great George A. Romero, a filmmaker that altered the course of the contemporary horror film but who also fully embodied the independent cinema spirit. And on top of that, he was a sweet, kind, funny, intelligent and humble human being whose company I will forever miss.
RELATED: George A. Romero’s Dead Films Ranked
But in the context of his filmography, there are a slew of fine films George made in the 1970s post-Night of the Living Dead that are flawed, fascinating and essential pieces of his cinematic journey. There’s Always Vanilla, Season of the Witch, and The Crazies, made between Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead, showcase the extraordinary versatility and dynamism of this irreplaceable American auteur. Three films from the late, legendary director that prove that although he might have defined zombie cinema, it didn’t define him. And now, Arrow Video has compiled these three pictures in a stunning 6-disc, limited edition set, due out October 24th.
There’s Always Vanilla (1971): Young drifter Chris and beautiful model Lynn embark upon a tumultuous relationship which seems doomed from the outset.
Season of the Witch (aka Jack’s Wife, 1972) : Joan Mitchell is a bored housewife whose dissatisfaction with her humdrum life leads to an unhealthy interest in the occult.
The Crazies (aka Code Name: Trixie, 1973): A small rural town finds itself in the grip of an infection which sends its hosts into a violent, homicidal frenzy.
Special Features Include:
– High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard DVD presentations
– English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
– Reversible sleeves for each film featuring original and newly-commissioned artwork by Gilles Vranckx
– Limited Edition 60-page booklet featuring new writing on the films
There’s Always Vanilla:
– Brand new 2K restoration from the original negative
– Brand new audio commentary by Travis Crawford
– Brand new interviews with actors Judith Ridley and Richard Ricci, producer Russ Streiner and – sound recordist Gary Streiner
– Digging Up the Dead – The Lost Films of George A. Romero – archive interview with Romero looking at his early films There’s Always Vanilla and Season of the Witch Trailer
– Trailer
Season of the Witch:
– Brand new 4K restoration from original film elements
– Alternate extended cut
– Brand new audio commentary by Travis Crawford
– When Romero met Del Toro – celebrated filmmaker Guillermo Del Toro sits down with George Romero for this candid career-spanning conversation
– The Secret Life of Jack’s Wife – archive interview with actress Jan White
– Alternate Opening Titles
– Trailers
The Crazies:
– Brand new 4K restoration from original film elements
– Brand new audio commentary by Travis Crawford
– Romero Was Here – featurette revisiting The Crazies filming locations in Evans City, PA
– Never Before Seen BTS footage
– 2016 Q&A with Lynn Lowry from Abertoir Film Festival
– Alternate Opening Titles
– Trailers
Pre-order this amazing set HERE.
