Vampyr

For decades, Carl Theodor Dreyer's Vampyr (1932) was almost unwatchable—available only in shabby, incomplete prints, or (more recently) a substandard DVD release that left much to be desired. Restored to near-complete condition in 1998, this version is the centerpiece of Criterion's definitive DVD release of Dreyer's early-sound horror classic (based on Sheridan Le Fanu's novella Carmilla), which unfolds like a hypnotic, abstract nightmare, focusing on the bizarre events at a country inn, where traveler Allan Grey (Julian West) arrives just as a murder has occurred. Strange and shifting shadows—among other disturbing occurrences—suggest a supernatural influence as Allan wanders trance-like through a series of visions on the border of consciousness, as the existence of an ancient vampiress is gradually revealed. Vampyr casts a subtle yet unsettling spell with its striking imagery, including a now-classic sequence in which a still-conscious Allan is sealed in a coffin and carried to the grave. The Criterion Collection's two-disc boxed set offers a pair of viewing options on disc one—watching the film with new English title cards or with the original German intertitles—as well as detailed audio commentary by film scholar Tony Rayns. DVD extras on the second disc include a feature-length 1966 Danish documentary on Dreyer's career; a visual essay about Vampyr by Casper Tyberg; and a clip of a 1958 radio show in which Dreyer explains his theoretical approach to directing. In addition, the set includes a 214-page book (featuring Carmilla and Dreyer's original film script) and an accompanying booklet (with critical essays and a 1964 interview with actor/producer West). Highly recommended. (J. Shannon)[Blu-ray Review—Oct. 3, 2017—Criterion, 73 min., not rated, Blu-ray: $39.95—Making its Blu-ray debut, 1932's Vampyr features a great transfer and an uncompressed monaural soundtrack. Extras include an alternate version with English text, a 2008 audio commentary by film scholar Tony Rayns, a 2008 video essay by scholar Casper Tybjerg (36 min.), the 1966 documentary “Carl Th. Dreyer” on the director (30 min.), a 1958 radio broadcast featuring Dreyer (24 min.), and a booklet featuring essays by critics Mark Le Fanu and Kim Newman, a segment on the restoration, and a 1964 interview with star Nicolas de Gunzburg. Also included is a book with Dreyer and Christen Jul's screenplay, as well as Sheridan Le Fanu's 1872 source story “Carmilla.” Bottom line: Dreyer's haunting classic sparkles on Blu-ray.]