‘Santa Sangre’ Limited Edition Dual 4K UHD/Blu-ray Review (Severin)
Stars: Axel Jodorowsky, Blanca Guerra, Guy Stockwell, Thelma Tixou, Sabrina Dennison, Adan Jodorowsky, Faviola Elenka Tapia, Teo Jodorowsky, Sergio Bustamante | Written by Alejandro Jodorowsky, Roberto Leoni, Claudio Argento | Directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky
Alejandro Jodorowsky’s Santa Sangre is an audacious, surreal journey through trauma, redemption, and the labyrinthine corridors of the human psyche. This film, a quintessential piece of cinematic surrealism, combines elements of horror, drama, and psychological thriller to create a visually stunning and emotionally intense experience. The film follows the life of Fenix, a boy raised in a circus who endures a series of traumatic events, including witnessing his father’s violent behavior and his mother’s descent into madness. The narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, interweaving past and present, reality and hallucination, to depict Fenix’s struggle with his haunting memories and his quest for liberation.
Jodorowsky is known for his rich, symbolic imagery and Santa Sangre is no exception. The film is a kaleidoscope of vivid colors, grotesque scenes, and striking visual metaphors. From the haunting image of the armless mother to the surreal circus performances, every frame is meticulously crafted to evoke a visceral response. The director’s background in avant-garde theater and graphic novels is evident in the film’s bold, often shocking visual style.
Santa Sangre delves into complex themes such as identity, religion, and the interplay between sanity and madness. The titular “Holy Blood” church, a central symbol in the film, serves as a locus for the exploration of corrupted faith and the search for spiritual purity. Jodorowsky masterfully blends these themes with Freudian undertones, particularly in the relationship between Fenix and his mother, which oscillates between dependency and domination.
The performances in Santa Sangre are intensely compelling. Axel Jodorowsky, the director’s son, delivers a powerful portrayal of Fenix, capturing the character’s vulnerability and descent into madness with a haunting authenticity. Blanca Guerra, as the domineering and tormented mother, brings a chilling intensity to her role, embodying the film’s central conflict.
The film’s score, composed by Simon Boswell, is an eclectic mix that enhances the surreal atmosphere. The music oscillates between ethereal melodies and discordant sounds, mirroring Fenix’s psychological turmoil. The sound design further amplifies the film’s unsettling and dreamlike quality, drawing the audience deeper into Jodorowsky’s visionary world.
Santa Sangre stands as one of Alejandro Jodorowsky’s most accessible yet profound works. Its blend of horror and surrealism has influenced a myriad of filmmakers and continues to be a touchstone in the realm of avant-garde cinema. The film’s ability to shock, provoke, and mesmerize remains undiminished, securing its place as a cult classic.
Alejandro Jodorowsky’s Santa Sangre is not merely a film; it is an immersive experience that challenges and transcends conventional narrative structures. Its rich symbolism, haunting performances, and audacious visual style make it a must-watch for enthusiasts of surreal and psychological cinema. This is a film that lingers in the mind, inviting endless interpretation and reflection.
Special Features:
Discs 1&2
- Feature, Trailer, Deleted Scenes & Jodorowsky Restoration Featurette
Disc 3
- Forget Everything You Have Ever Seen: The World of Santa Sangre – Feature Length Documentary with co-writer / director Alejandro Jodorowsky, Actors Axel Jodorowsky, Blanca Guerra, Thelma Tixou, Sabrina Dennison, Adan Jodorowsky, Elenka Tapia, Teo Tapia, co-writer Roberto Leoni, composer Simon Boswell, tattoo designer Sergio Arau and unit publicist Greg Day.
- Audio Commentary with Alejandro Jodorowsky and Journalist Alan Jones
- New Blood – Alejandro Jodorowsky on the restoration of SANTA SANGRE
- Deleted Scenes with Director Commentary
- Theatrical Trailer
- Like A Phoenix – Interview with producer Claudio Argento
- Holy Blood – Interview with cinematographer Danielle Nannuzzi
- Mexican Magic – Interview with executive producer Angelo Iacono
- The Language of Editing – Interview with editor Mauro Bonanni
- Innocence in Horror – Interview with screenwriter Roberto Leoni
- Santa Sangre 30th Anniversary Celebration at Morbido Festival, Mexico City
- Goyo Cárdenas Spree Killer – Documentary on the Real Life Inspiration for SANTA SANGRE
- Jodorowsky 2003 Interview
- Jodorowsky on Stage Q & A
- ECHECK – Adan Jodorowsky Short Film
- Simon Boswell Interviews Jodorowsky
- Close Your Eyes – Simon Boswell Music Video
Disc 4 (CD)
- Santa Sangre Original Soundtrack
Santa Sangre is out now on a Limited Edition Dual 4K UHD/Blu-ray from Severin Films.
