‘The Phantom’ Blu-ray Review (Kino Lorber)
Stars: Billy Zane, Treat Williams, Kristy Swanson, Catherine Zeta-Jones, James Remar, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Patrick McGoohan | Written by Lee Falk, Jeffrey Boam | Directed by Simon Wincer
The 1990s gave us no shortage of memorable comic-book movies, from Dick Tracy and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to Batman Returns, The Crow and Blade. Yet one hugely entertaining pulp-inspired adaptation often gets overlooked in those conversations: The Phantom. As the film approaches its 30th anniversary, Kino Lorber, through its KL Studio Classics line, is giving this underrated superhero adventure the deluxe 4K and Blu-ray treatment it deserves. It’s the perfect opportunity for fans to rediscover – or finally appreciate – one of the most overlooked comic-book films of the decade and add it to their collection in style.
The story begins as an expedition lands on the island of Bengalla, seeking the legendary skulls of Touganda. Believed to harness an energy force of incalculable power, the skulls could spell disaster for mankind. And that’s exactly what ruthless tycoon Xander Drax has in mind…unless one man can save it.
The Phantom remains such a criminally underrated superhero film that, astonishingly, it doesn’t get mentioned more often. Billy Zane is superb in the title role, bringing charisma and old-school pulp heroics to the masked crimefighter. At the same time, the supporting cast is stacked with talent, including Treat Williams, Kristy Swanson, Catherine Zeta-Jones, James Remar, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa and Patrick McGoohan. Director Simon Wincer crafts a thrilling, fast-paced adventure that still delivers nearly 30 years after its theatrical release, blending swashbuckling action, comic-book fun and classic serial spirit. All of which makes this new 4K and Blu-ray release from Kino Lorber even more welcome – a long-overdue spotlight on a superhero gem that deserves far more love.
Kino Lorber has transferred The Phantom to 4K and Blu-ray, respectively, and it is presented in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. There are two audio track options: an English 5.1 Surround and Lossless 2.0 Audio. There is also the option for English Subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. Kino Lorber’s new HD master comes from a 4K Scan of the 35mm Original Camera Negative. What results is a crisp, clean, and simply spectacular-looking picture. The audio is clean with no audio issues. But a gorgeous new 4k scan is not all this release has going for it. Take a look at the bonus features included on this disc:
Special Features:
- NEW Audio Commentary by Director Simon Wincer, Moderated by Filmmaker Douglas Hosdale
- Kismet in the Jungle: NEW Interview with Star Billy Zane
- Slam Evil – Scoring The Phantom: NEW Interview with Composer David Newman
- Theatrical Trailer
As you can see, this release is packed with worthwhile and newly produced bonus features, making it much more than just a catalogue upgrade. The audio commentary is a particularly rewarding listen, loaded with insight and appreciation for the film, while the interviews with Billy Zane and David Newman highlight the genuine affection those involved still have for The Phantom.
***** 5/5
No, The Phantom may not be the greatest superhero film ever made, but it remains enormously enjoyable, full of charm, adventure and old-fashioned pulp fun. Call it a guilty pleasure if you like, but it’s one I’m always happy to revisit, and I’m more than pleased to have this new release in my collection. If you’ve got a soft spot for The Phantom too, head over to Amazon and order your copy now.
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