Blending elements of Gothic horror with the more contemporary ingredients of steampunk, The Asphyx has emerged from obscurity to become a cult favorite of the sci-fi/fantasy genre. Utilizing an experimental photographic device, a scientist (Robert Stephens, The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes) captures what appears to be the image of the Asphyx—the ancient Greek spirit of the dead. With the help of his adopted son (Robert Powell, The Italian Job), he conducts further experiments and conceives of a way to harness the Asphyx and thereby gain immortality. But, as every visionary scientist should know, defying the laws of the natural and spiritual world unleashes dreadful consequences. Sumptuously shot by director Peter Newbrook and cinematographer Freddie Young (Lawrence of Arabia), The Asphyx unfolds into one of the most unusual and haunting supernatural chillers of British cinema. This special edition also includes the extended 99-minute cut of film.
For thoughts on The Asphyx, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
Video Quality
This new Blu-Ray from Kino Classics gives The Asphyx an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.35:1 that looks really terrific. The film was released on Blu-Ray over a decade ago by Redemption Films in collaboration with Kino, and without the indication of a new master we would posit that this is likely derived from the same source. This disc includes the shorter UK cut and the extended US version on the same disc. According to the back cover and the title card before the US version, the extended cut blends HD footage mastered from the 35mm negative with SD footage mastered from a U.S. release print of inferior quality. As a result, significant shifts in image quality do occur.
The feature has a pretty nice grain structure that preserves the filmic look of the picture, showcasing distinct details in the various interiors and on the clothing. The color timing seems natural to the intention of the filmmaker with a very natural appearance. Colors show up on the screen nicely, especially in the bright hues of certain costumes and elements of the production design. Black levels hold up pretty well with some admirable depth to the image. The special effects shots hold up well and blend with the overall picture admirably. There is no overwhelming damage to be found in this presentation with only the most minute instances of dirt and specks in the image for the UK cut. When looking at the U.S. extended version, the SD footage does stand out, but being able to see it at all is a treat since there are many important plot elements that should never have been cut. Overall, Kino Classics has done quite a fantastic job with this title.
Audio Quality
The Blu-Ray comes with a rock solid DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio track that delivers a favorable listening experience. This track shows virtually no signs of age related wear and tear. The track can sound the slightest bit thin when it comes to its musical heights, but even this is stretching to find an issue. The music does not overwhelm the dialogue or other important information. Dialogue and background noises are balanced well with all competing elements so that everything has a chance to shine. Kino Classics has delivered their typically excellent work. There are optional English (SDH) subtitles included for the feature film.
Special Features
- Standard Cut (1:26:46) and Extended Cut (1:38:52)
- Audio Commentary: Novelist/Critic Kim Newman and Writer/Editor Stephen Jones provide a solid commentary track in which they discuss the release and legacy of the film, the scenes that were cut for the standard cut, the background of the performers, this film as the lone directorial effort of Peter Newbrook, how this compares to Hammer Films and more that gives insight into the picture.
- Trailers: The two-minute trailer for The Asphyx is provided here. There are trailers for The Blood Beast Terror, Murder By Decree, The Crimson Cult, Burke & Hare and The Private Life Of Sherlock Holmes.
Final Thoughts
The Asphyx is one of the more effective Gothic chillers from the 1970s. The film does not rely strictly on a ghoulish outside force to cause mayhem, but rather it shows the darkness that resides in man when hubris and grief are thrown into the mix. This is more unsettling than any monster that you could throw at the audience. The performances in this one are terrific, and the atmosphere established is unimpeachable. Kino Classics has delivered a Blu-Ray release that shows off a great A/V presentation and a dazzling collection of special features including an extended version of the film. If you are a fan of Gothic horror, be sure to snag this one. Recommended
The Asphyx is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray and DVD.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Kino Classics has 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.