DVD Corner

The Mad Bomber Blu-ray Review

“The Mad Bomber” is a trashy exploitation film.

Written and directed by Bert I. Gordon (best known for schlocky “Mystery Science Theater 3000” B-movies like “Village of the Giants” and “The Amazing Colossal Man”), 1972’s “The Mad Bomber” is a crime-drama/grindhouse film/exploitation. The film, which is often known as “The Police Connection,” revolves around 3 characters in Los Angeles: 1. William- A confrontational bomber that is still grieving the loss of his daughter. 2. George- A sexually deranged married man that is also a rapist and a killer. 3. Geronimo- A gruff, violent, rule breaking cop. The 3 characters’ lives become intertwined when George discovers the identity of the bomber. Geronimo is trying to bust both of these wanted criminals, but he needs George’s help to find the titular psycho.

“The Mad Bomber” is the type of movie that would NEVER be made today. It’s graphically violent and filled with nudity (it’s shocking it avoided an X rating at the time), it will no doubt trigger some viewers, it’s deeply misogynistic, and it’s a downright sleazy and grimy movie that attempts to coast on its wild premise. B-Movie and exploitation movie fans may derive some entertainment from this forgotten film, but unfortunately, there’s just not much to this movie. The characters are one-note, the score is irritatingly distracting, and the story merely coasts along until the inevitable ending. It’s a story in need of more depth and characterization.

The one aspect of ‘Mad’ that is notable is Chuck Connors as William. Yes, “The Rifleman” himself plays the mad bomber. He truly commits to the role and gives an intense, chilling, and odd performance as the bomber. He makes the movie worth watching. Vince Edwards (Geronimo) and Neville Brand (as the creepy George) also turn in solid performances here. They all try to elevate the material as a whole.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? Scanned in 4K from the internegative, this transfer features a cleaned up print that maintains the grain. The colors are a bit faded, but overall it’s a quality transfer.

Audio Track: 5.1 and 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? Both audio tracks fare well here despite the ear piercing score. 

Extras:
* Isolated score
* The TV cut of “The Mad Bomber.”
* A booklet with an essay by Andy Turner.
* Commentary by Kier-La Janisse and retired Bomb Squad Detective Mike Digby.
* Audio interview (basically a feature length commentary) with Bert I. Gordon and moderator David Del Valle.
* 2 TV spots
* “On The Trail Of The Mad Bomber”- A featurette showcasing filming locations.
* “To Be In The Moment”- An interview with actress Cynthia MacAdams
* “Patricia Gordon Remembers Her Father”- A 27 minute audio interview with Patricia Gordon who talks about Bert I. Gordon.

November 7, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | 70's Movie, Chuck Connors, Exploitation Movie, Severin, The Mad Bomber Blu-ray Review