Visitors from the Arkana Galaxy Blu-ray - Deaf Crocodile
A Quirky Addition to Collectors' Shelves
"Visitors from the Arkana Galaxy," released by Deaf Crocodile, a partner label of Vinegar Syndrome, is an eclectic film that embodies the unique charm of Eastern European genre cinema. Directed by Dusan Vukotic, this Czech-Yugoslavian co-production weaves together sci-fi, comedy, and monster movie elements into an unpredictable narrative.
The film tells the story of Robert, an aspiring writer whose creations manifest in reality, including the alien leader Andra and her companions from the planet Tugador. The plot, while whimsical and engaging, often veers into surprisingly dark and violent twists. The visual portrayal of the aliens, alongside the vibrant early '80s production design, is a standout feature, offering a visual feast that complements the film's eccentric narrative.
While "Visitors from the Arkana Galaxy" is an interesting film, it's fair to say that it's average at best. It's the kind of movie that fills a niche on a collector's shelf but may not appeal to a broader audience. Its unique blend of genres and its offbeat style make it a curious addition to any collection, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of must-watch cinema.
Deaf Crocodile's release of the film is commendable, especially considering its relative obscurity in the U.S. The new scan of the film preserves its original aesthetics, complete with the vivid colors and effects typical of the era. The DTS-HD MA 2.0 Croatian mono track is well-executed, although the decision to include only English SDH subtitles, complete with sound effect notations and speaker names, might not sit well with all viewers.
The inclusion of five restored short films by director Dusan Vukotic is a welcome addition, offering insights into his animation background and the broader context of Yugoslavian cinema. However, it's worth noting that the price point of this release is quite high, almost veering into the realm of being overly expensive for what is offered.
The packaging, similar to Vinegar Syndrome's typical slipcases but rebranded for Deaf Crocodile, feels like a missed opportunity to differentiate this unique title. It seems to be another instance of repurposing the same style for a premium price, a trend that's becoming increasingly common among boutique labels.
“Visitors from the Arkana Galaxy" is a fine addition for mega-collectors or fans of Eastern European cinema, its average film quality, okay restoration, and steep price point might not make it a compelling purchase for the casual viewer. It's a release that finds its place among niche collections, offering a glimpse into a less-explored corner of genre cinema, but it may not have the broad appeal to justify its cost for everyone.