Scream and Scream Again (Special Edition) [Blu-ray]

**** Kino-Lorber's Blu-Ray release of "Scream and Scream Again," a 1970 horror film from Amicus Productions, captures the quirks and narrative complexities of this cult classic that features iconic horror actors Vincent Price, Peter Cushing, and Christopher Lee. Set against a backdrop of cinematic evolution post the MPAA ratings system, the film stands out not just for its horror elements but for its unusual triptych narrative. This narrative intertwines the tales of a serial killer, a political coup, and a gruesome hospital Conspiracy, making it a unique entry in the genre where blood, violence, and suggestive themes could flourish. While the picture quality on the Blu-Ray is decent, it's notable that the transfer doesn't quite meet the expected prowess associated with modern restorations. Some sequences suffer from graininess and lack clarity, reflecting the historical context of the original footage. However, the U.S. version presented here is markedly superior to its U.K. counterpart, showcasing just enough visual fidelity to engage viewers familiar with the film's legacy. One of the highlights of this release is the inclusion of valuable extras, such as audio commentary from film historian Tim Lucas, providing insight into the film's odd structure and its production history. The added feature of trailers and alternate poster art adds a thoughtful touch for collectors. Overall, "Scream and Scream Again" may not be hailed as a hallmark of cinematic excellence, but it reverberates through the horror community as a bizarre and earnest experimental attempt. Fans of the genre and followers of the featured iCons will find something to appreciate, even if the film's execution occasionally falters. **