Blacula / Scream Blacula Scream Double Feature

Continuing with their recent vampire-themed film releases, Scream Factory goes back into the 1970's vaults for two classics that helped usher in the infamous blaxsploitation horror movie movement. "Blacula/Scream Blacula Scream" makes its U.S. Blu-ray debut after appearing only on a DVD double feature.

Stage actor William Marshall, he of the deep and debonair voice, plays Mamuwalde in "Blacula" who goes to Transylvania and begs Count Dracula to end the slave trade. Instead, good ole Drac bites Mamuwalde, turning him into the undead. Flash forward many, many years later and Blacula arises, thanks to two unsuspecting gay lovers (whom this viewer wishes the film focused on more). Blacula now roams the streets (and nightclubs) of seedy Los Angeles and stalks a young woman that reminds him of his deceased wife. It trudges along to an abrupt yet satisfying climax.

For special features, Scream Factory includes a trailer and photo gallery, along with an audio commentary featuring "Blacula" fan David Walker, also the author of "Reflections of Blaxploitation." Walker knows his black vampire films and offers "Blacula" anecdotes and little-known facts about the genre.

The queen of blaxploitation, Pam Grier, co-stars in the superior sequel "Scream Blacula Scream", an intentional howler of a follow-up. Her character becomes the centerpiece of the film when Mamuwalde (again played by William Marshall) gets resurrected and stalks a fresh new batch of victims. He enslaves a new partner in crime (Richard Lawson) and the dueling duo battle voodoo and vampirism together.

What makes "Scream Blacula Scream" adepter than its predecessor? There's more blood, a higher body count, Ms. Grier, and an even more convoluted script; the perfect sequel concoction. The reliable Marshall also appears more comfortable this time around as Blacula.

"Scream Blacula Scream" also has better Blu-ray supplements. The highlight is a brand new interview with actor Richard Lawson, who played Willis. Lawson naturally thinks his film one-ups "Blacula" in terms of entertainment. Like the "Blacula" Blu-ray, "Scream Blacula Scream" has a trailer and photo galleries to enjoy.

"Blacula/Scream Blacula Scream"
Blu-ray
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