Phantoms 4K UHD Review
“Phantoms” is a lousy sci-fi horror film.
Based on the novel by Dean Koontz (who also wrote the script), 1998’s “Phantoms” begins with sisters Jennifer (a Doctor) and Lisa venturing to the small town of Snowfield, Colorado. Upon arrival, something is immediately off…to say the least. The town appears deserted, dead bodies are discovered, and there are mounds of metal and belongings. Jennifer and Lisa eventually encounter 3 cops (Sheriff Bryce and Deputies Stu and Steve). As the group investigates unsettling matters, they discover a creature known as the Ancient Enemy. The amoeboid creature can shapeshift, absorb knowledge, eat flesh, etc. In over their heads, Sheriff Bryce calls in help which leads a British journalist (Timothy Flyte) and the army to arrive on the scene. Can the Ancient Enemy be stopped or will they wipe out humanity?
When it comes to the legacy of “Phantoms,” the most memorable thing about the film was the joke from “Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back” in which Jay utters the line “Affleck, you da bomb in Phantoms, yo!” Revisiting the film 26 years later, it’s clear why this sci-fi horror bomb remains a forgotten film.
Even though Dean Koontz is a renowned horror author, his stories have never found crossover success in the film world. Sometimes stories just work better on the page. Director Joe Chappelle’s take on “Phantoms” starts off promising enough with an eerie atmosphere, but the film soon falls apart. The characters lack depth, the depiction of the creature is half-baked and borrows heavily from the likes of H.P. Lovecraft, “The Thing,” and more, and the whole story feels like a rush job. Everything feels so overly choreographed to the point where there is no tension, scares, or excitement. Hardly the sort of vibe you want for a creature feature.
“Phantoms” does somehow boast a hell of a cast with Rose McGowan, Peter O’Toole, Liev Schreiber, and Ben Affleck. Truth be told, it’s puzzling as to why one of the acting greats in Peter O’Toole decided to pick this role. Sure, he classes up the movie, but it’s so beneath his talents. Affleck isn’t quite “Da bomb,” but he gives a respectable performance. Liev Schreiber steals the movie as the creepy cop turned creepy Ancient Enemy puppet. It’s an entirely over-the-top performance, but he gives the movie a much needed energy boost.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p With Dolby Vision. How does it look? The print is taken from a 4K scan from the original camera negative. The result? Another sharp 90’s film upgrade from Scream Factory.
Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The 5.1 track is a little soft for my liking, but adequate nonetheless.
Extras (On The Blu-ray):
* Blu-ray copy
* Trailer and TV spot.
* “Terror From Below: Making Phantoms”- A new 14 ½ minute interview with producer Joel Soisson.
* “Chaos In The Flesh: Filming Phantoms”- New 24 minute interview with DP Richard Clabaugh.
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