Back in the early 2000s the Horror movie landscape was pretty barren. Marred with weak, modernized remakes and watered-down PG-13 rated releases, in some eyes, it was the lowest point in Horror cinema history. Then in 2003, Rob Zombie emerged with his directorial debut film, House of 1000 Corpses. Now, before we look at how this movie came about, we really need to look at the creator behind it. Zombie, a native to New England, grew up loving the macabre and absorbing a ton of classic Horror films.
Clearly a heavy influence on the musician, he would eventually go on to form a Rock band called White Zombie, and while this band would go on to find success, prior to such he actually worked as a production assistant on Pee-wee’s Playhouse. From here White Zombie would find big success in the ’90s, before Zombie would go out on his own, forming the even larger than life band Rob Zombie.
This history laid out is important because it shows how Zombie was not only a fan of Horror, but he was also living it. Furthermore, his interesting experiences prior to becoming a film director inform why he would not be making some mainstream Horror film that would fit neatly in a box next to other modern entries. So, when House of 1000 Corpses hit theaters back on April 11th of 2003, let us just say the reaction was less than positive, if not uneven. However, critics are often so full of themselves, they would not be able to understand anything unless it fit their preconceived notion of what was good. In truth, House of 1000 Corpses perhaps is a little chaotic at times, but the direction, filming style, and overall feel is really quite good. Additionally, it should be recognized once more that Zombie was not going to make a mainstream Horror movie, as that is not where his interest lied… so what exactly were some people expecting?
Anyway, 20 years later, House of 1000 Corpses has stood the test of time, silencing any negative backlash. Historically, it found a cult-like following, spawned two sequels (2005’s The Devil’s Rejects & 2019’s 3 from Hell), plus it even resulted in seasonal haunted house attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood. All impressive accomplishments, to celebrate the films 20th anniversary Lions Gate released a special Blu-ray Premium Box Set and Best Buy Blu-ray Exclusive Steelbook.
Released on April 11, 2023, twenty years to the date of the theatrical debut, these two new sets are probably the most complete version of House of 1000 Corpses released to date. Initially released on DVD back in August of 2003, then in 2007 it received a Blu-ray release, before 2011’s combo-pack release with The Devil’s Rejects. Format wise comparable to the 2007 Blu-ray, offered in 1080p High Definition, as well as 16×9 (1.85:1) Presentation, what really stands out is the brand-new director’s commentary courtesy of Zombie, plus the addition of a second disc. On this second disc you get a ton of never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage, which is fun if you enjoy that sort of thing. Furthermore, it is informative to watch, because apparently a ton of material was cut from the film because of rating restrictions. And while this is no director’s cut with added footage, it still gives you more insight into Zombie’s visions.
Which leads us to the packaging; an important aspect to any collector. With this in mind, the Premium Box Set features some really great artwork, while the Steelbook offers solid design and a nice slipcover. All in all, both releases are a fitting 20th anniversary celebration of House of 1000 Corpses, and that is why Cryptic Rock gives this release 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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