In the world of film, the antihero has been a popular character type for many decades running. Initially popularized by literature in the 19th century, when it comes to modern cinema, the list of antiheros is quite long; this includes Indiana Jones and Rambo, just to name a couple. In the terms of the comic book superhero types, some examples would include Batman, Wolverine, but also one going by the name of Darkman.
Darkman, the lead character in the 1990 film of the same title, originally was a brilliant scientist by the name of Dr. Peyton Westlake (played in the film by the award winning Liam Neeson) who was the father of development for synthetic skin. While unstable, the invention is no less astounding, however, Westlake’s is tragically disfigured beyond recognition when a group of criminals led by Robert G. Durant (portrayed as the perfect villain by Larry Drake) pummels him and destroys his lab. Presumed dead, Westlake secretly goes to work in the shadows in an attempt to perfect his invention in order to get back to the love of his life Julie Hastings (played by Frances McDormand). At first seeking to stabilize the synthetic skin in an attempt to restore his appearance, when it proves to be futile, he turns his genius into a plot of revenge on those who harmed him. Thus, Darkman is born.
A very interesting comic book-like themed story, the idea arose from Horror filmmaking icon Sam Raimi. Having previously blazed a path with 1981’s The Evil Dead and 1987’s Evil Dead II, Darkman was the natural next step for Rami’s bridge into other genres. Ironically, following Darkman, Rami would go on to direct massive Superhero box office films like 2002’s Spider-Man, and more recently, 2022’s Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. What could be seen as the launching point for more success for Rami, in the heart of some, Darkman still stands among his best work in the field… because the character and story idea was all his own. That in mind, Darkman succeeds as an entertaining, clever comic book-vibed film with elements of several different genres all in one; those being Action, Comedy, and yes, even Horror.
In all, Darkman proved to make an impact with two sequels to follow, a number of comic book issues put out through Marvel, and other merchandising. While perhaps not a massive box office success in 1990, 34 years later, it still strikes curiosity among many. Building viewership as times have moved forward, first many picked it up on VHS, then in 1998 it arrived on DVD, and Shout! Factory brought it to Blu-ray first in 2010, before doing so again in 2014. Now with a decade passing since Darkman was released domestic to any format, Scream Factory (an imprint of Shout! Factory) have picked it up for the first ever 4K edition.
Released to 4K as either a Collector’s Edition 4K UHD and Blu-ray or Limited Edition Steelbook on February, 20, 2024, the new transfer is certainly something to talk about. First of all, if you have seen Darkman you are aware of the rather stellar special effects utilized and consistent fast-paced filming style. Well, these attributes are stunningly even more intense with this new 4K transfer. Restored from the original camera negative (with approval from both Sam Raimi and Director of Photography Bill Pope), it honestly is the best your ears or eyes have ever experienced Darkman since its original theatrical run.
Beyond this, you also get new audio commentaries, as well as a ton of extra interviews held over from the 2014 Blu-ray release. So, if you are someone who appreciates Darkman and want to see it as clarified as possible, this deserves your attention. if you are someone who may have missed it or put it in the back of your mind, this 4K edition is the perfect way to reacquaint yourself with the film. That is why Cryptic Rock gives the 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Collector’s Edition of Darkman 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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