4K Ultra HD Evaluation - Zombie Flesh Eaters (1979)

      Zombie Flesh Eaters, 1979.

      Directed by Lucio Fulci.

      Featuring Tisa Farrow, Ian McCulloch, Richard Johnson, Al Cliver, Auretta Gay, and Olga Karlatos.

      SYNOPSIS:

      Strangers in search of a young woman’s missing father arrive on a tropical island where a doctor is frantically trying to find the cause and cure for a recent outbreak of the undead.

      Contemporary horror films such as Terrifier 3 challenge the limits of what is acceptable, showcasing intense gore and violence. However, few horror movies exemplify the term “video nasty” better than Lucio Fulci’s Zombie Flesh Eaters – an exuberant and gruesome piece of Italian exploitation that continues to elicit reactions more than forty years later.

      Debuting in Italy in 1979 as Zombi 2 to capitalize on the success of Romero’s Dawn of the Dead (which was retitled Zombi there), Fulci’s unofficial sequel focuses less on satire and more on delivering unabashed, gory chaos. In its unique, twisted manner, it represents a true work of art, and Arrow’s lavish 4K restoration provides this gritty classic with a well-deserved upgrade.

      The story begins in New York when a derelict boat arrives in the harbor, containing only a swollen, ravenous corpse. Enter Anne (Tisa Farrow), the daughter of a scientist, who collaborates with journalist Peter (Ian McCulloch) to find her father's whereabouts on the Caribbean island of Matul. The duo quickly partners with a carefree couple, Brian (Al Cliver) and Susan (Auretta Gay), and journeys to the island. There, they encounter Dr. Menard (Richard Johnson) as he struggles against a wave of voodoo-induced reanimation, where the dead rise and take over the tropical paradise. This leads to scenes of decaying bodies, slow-motion rising from the dirt, and the now-iconic moment where a zombie clashes with a tiger shark underwater – one of cinema’s unforgettable “did they actually film that?” instances.

      Fulci’s brilliance is in blending the tranquil with the grotesque. The pacing is dreamlike, almost drug-like, as cinematographer Sergio Salvati envelops the island in hazy sunlight during the day and ominous shadows at night. Fabio Frizzi’s score is similarly enchanting, transitioning from gentle tropical tunes to throbbing synths that amplify a sense of impending dread. When the horror emerges, it does so with a gruesome delight. The notorious splinter-in-the-eye scene remains one of the most sadistically prolonged sequences in horror history.

      In contrast to Romero’s socially aware zombies, Fulci’s monsters are sheer nightmares. They are decaying, worm-infested horrors, bringing a vividly tangible sense of decay. This is zombie cinema distilled to its core – devoid of science or allegorical meaning, just the dead, the living, and a pervasive feeling of doom.

      Arrow’s 4K presentation is outstanding. The image, derived from the original camera negative, maintains the film's gritty quality while providing unparalleled clarity. Colors are more vibrant, skin tones appear more realistic, and the lush greens of Matul are striking. Fine details such as the grimy makeup and glistening blood are remarkably, and at times discomfortingly, sharp. The black levels are exceptional, enhancing the depth and detail in shadowy scenes.

      The extras included are comprehensive, featuring new commentaries, interviews, and archival content. A captivating documentary detailing the rise and fall of the Italian zombie film is a delightful bonus. This edition is a treasure for Fulci enthusiasts, and the new purple-themed artwork is stunning (the double-sided poster is a must-have).

      As indicated by its title, Zombie Flesh Eaters is far from subtle. It’s a potent mix of pulp horror, tropical ambiance, and stomach-turning practical effects. Arrow’s 4K release finally grants Fulci’s maggot-infested masterpiece the recognition it merits. For gore aficionados and collectors, this is a must-see, and a film I would willingly revisit time and again.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Tom Atkinson – Follow me on Instagram