Set during a smallpox epidemic in the village of Gimli, Manitoba near the turn of the century, TALES FROM THE GIMLI HOSPITAL (1988) is a dreamlike, elliptical film which explores the jealousy and madness instilled in two men who share a hospital room “in a Gimli we no longer know.” Zeitgeist Films and Films We Like in Canada present a brand new 4K remastering of TALES FROM THE GIMLI HOSPITAL REDUX by Guy Maddin, which had its world premiere at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The new 4K digital remaster was supervised by Guy Maddin using original printing elements provided by the TIFF Cinematheque Library and includes the replacement of a long-lost scene. Maddin’s highly acclaimed first feature, released in 1988, is now regarded as one of the true cult hits on the midnight movie circuit.
For thoughts on Tales From The Gimli Hospital Redux, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
[youtube https://youtu.be/l1PXBES-HHw?t=4050]
Video Quality
Tales From The Gimli Hospital Redux makes its Blu-Ray debut thanks to Zeitgeist Films and Kino Lorber with a great transfer from a 4K remaster supervised by director Guy Maddin. The film takes on the aesthetic of being a grimy throwback effort, but in reality it is only a little over 30 years old which allows the elements to be in better shape than something from the 1920s or 30s. Maddin captures the intended aesthetic admirably, and this restoration allows this film to look the best it ever has while still maintaining its intended aesthetic.
The black-and-white photography looks good in high definition with natural grain intact. There is a favorable amount of detail present with nice textures on the clothing and within the setting. The contrast is well defined, and the transfer experiences little in the way of flicker or specks of damage to the print. The transfer showcases a fine amount of depth and enhanced detail within the film’s composition. Black levels present with some decent depth with no obvious occurrence of black crush or compression artifacts. The film is not supposed to have a pristine veneer, but Zeitgeist Films has allowed this one to look like the best version of itself.
Audio Quality
This Blu-Ray presents the film with a DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio track that executes what is asked of it. The film is graced with a score that is haunting and sets an appropriate tone with strong fidelity. There is not much in the way of dialogue throughout this story, but it holds up well when it is spoken. Every sonic element sounds robust with no clipping or age related wear and tear. Audiences should be more than pleased with the sound quality of the track. There are English SDH subtitles provided.
Special Features
- Audio Commentary: Director Guy Maddin provides an enlightening commentary track as he tries to recall the production from over three decades ago as he fills in information about the cast, the shooting locations, the inspirations for various shots and more that allows you to gain more from the feature.
- The Heart Of The World (2000, Guy Maddin): A seven-minute newly restored film from Maddin which is very frantic and deals with love, survival and the end of the world.
- Re-Release Trailer: The minute-long trailer is provided here.
Final Thoughts
Tales From The Gimli Hospital Redux is a classic example of an experimental, unsettling midnight movie that is meant to make audiences uncomfortable. The narrative is more than a bit opaque, leaving this one better suited for those comfortable with the avant garde. Zeitgeist Films and Kino Lorber have released a Blu-Ray featuring a great A/V presentation and a couple of cool special features. If you are a fan of director Guy Maddin, you will be excited that his work is being treated so well. Recommended
Tales From The Gimli Hospital Redux is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray and Digital.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Zeitgeist Films and Kino Lorber have supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
