Blu-ray Review: House on Haunted Hill: [Limited Edition] (1959)

Synopsis: A millionaire offers ten thousand dollars to five people if they agree to stay overnight in a large, spooky, rented house. When you consider that the millionaire is Vincent Price, and the film is directed by Schlock master William Castle, you can bet the five guests are in for a long, bumpy night. This super shocker of the century was a smash hit upon its 1959 release.

Main Feature: Like many old school horror movies, House on haunted Hill is one that I first enjoyed seeing while watching Svengoolie every Saturday night. A classic and constant repeat showing on the show, the William Castle schlock never tires. This Film Masters Archive release is one that is slightly disappointing. The presentation, while nicer than the TV broadcasts that I am used to, lacks some of the depth and true top-tier HD remastering. The film has seen many home entertainment releases in the past on VHS up to Blu-ray (including not one but two 3D Blu-rays in 2023). Considering the legacy the film, it's lead Vincent price and the filmmaker Castle have on the genre, this film deserves a proper restoration. Don't get me wrong--this is a step up from what you may have been used to, but also a step behind what we'd like to see.

Bonus Features: Lacking, but a new audio commentary makes a nice companion to the film. A mini booklet of liner notes covering the film and Castle's legacy is also included. Plus, the disc is region-free.

Final Call: The Film Masters limited edition of the classic House on haunted Hill is one of limited outcome, with an HD presentation that wrinkles the potential for a full on remastering but still good fun to haunt you.

Grade: C+