On a remote island in the South Pacific, Dr. Moreau uses the key of science to unlock the gates of Hell. Val Kilmer (Heat), David Thewlis (the Harry Potter films), Fairuza Balk (The Craft), and two-time Academy Award®-winner* Marlon Brando star in this fantastic sci-fi thriller based on the best-selling novel by H.G. Wells. Stan Winston’s Creature Workshop (Jurassic Park) brought the frighteningly real special effects to life.

Dr. Moreau is a brilliant geneticist on the brink of superseding evolution. When a U.N. diplomat visits Moreau’s island laboratory, he uncovers fantastic but brutal experiments that turn animal life forms into human-like beasts. As Moreau and his assistant race toward their barbaric goal of creating the perfect life form, the beasts revolt, threatening not only the island but ultimately all of mankind!

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Video Quality

The Island of Dr. Moreau comes to Blu-Ray via Scream Factory with a 1080p transfer that is derived from a new 2K scan of the Interpositive for the Director’s Cut of the film. This film was first released on Blu-Ray in 2012 courtesy of Warner Bros. Unfortunately, we don’t have that disc, making comparisons impossible at this time. From what we have read, that release was strong for the time, but we have over a decade of technological advancements to aid this latest refinement. This new transfer is a confident representation of the feature with a naturally filmic appearance that resolves without issue. Some may bemoan the lack of a 4K UHD Blu-Ray release with this revisit, but this exhibition is a good one regardless.

Our favorite part of the movie is the use of practical effects that shine through with a tactile nature. The transfer reveals intricate details in the costumes, makeup effects, and other elements of the craft. The color palette is natural with a vibrant depth when it comes to vegetation, explosions, and certain special effects. Any previous print damage has been eradicated for a clean and consistent viewing experience. Black levels provide an admirable amount of depth and detail. Highlights never succumb to blooming even in the brightest instances. The transfer does not struggle with any density fluctuation or other unwanted anomalies. This new Blu-Ray release is a great release that fans should appreciate.

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray disc comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 and 2.0 Master Audio track that brings the appropriate grandiosity to this disturbing adventure. The previous Warner Bros. Blu-Ray sported the same track, so any enhancements are likely minimal at most. A standout of this experience is the score from Gary Chang that fills the room without any signs of damage or distortion. Dialogue comes through clearly even in the most kinetic moments. Environmental noises from the animals are key to making this world feel three-dimensional. The low end provides excellent texture that expands the world for an explosive experience. Scream Factory has provided a stellar audio experience that handles this one well. English SDH subtitles are provided for those who want them.

Special Features

Right or Wrong – Shane Mahan Looks Back at The Island of Dr. Moreau: A new 20-minute conversation with the creature makeup effects supervisor who reflects on the production of the film, the numerous obstacles faced, the change in directors, the challenges of the lighting, his memorable first meeting with Marlon Brando, the casting of certain performers, and more.

Theatrical Cut (1:35:48): This cut of the movie has not been given the new restoration, but it is available on physical media for the first time since LaserDisc. This is presented in HD with DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio sound.

The Making of The Island of Dr. Moreau: A nearly six-minute promotional piece in which Val Kilmer discusses mainly taking the role to work with Marlon Brando, among other insights.

Image Gallery (2:47)

Trailers: Two trailers totaling three minutes are provided here.

Final Thoughts

The Island of Dr. Moreau is an oddly fascinating movie for all of the wrong reasons. The legend around the troubled production is arguably more interesting than the movie itself, but the film is worth a watch to see what made it to the screen. It is not a total loss thanks to the cool creature effects created through practical means, but the narrative and performances do not adequately support it. Every performer feels like they are in a different movie, adding to the chaos of the story. We love the ambition, but it does not stick the landing. Scream Factory has provided the film with a new Blu-Ray release that delivers a strong A/V presentation, two cuts of the film, and a few welcome special features. If you like the film, this is the best way to own it.

The Island of Dr. Moreau (Collector’s Edition) is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Scream Factory 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.