Little Shop Of Horrors 4K UHD Review
“Little Ship Of Horrors” is a true cult classic.
Based on the original Roger Corman film and the stage musical, 1986’s “Little Shop Of Horrors” is a movie musical adaptation penned by Howard Ashman. Set in the 60s in New York City’s Skid Row, the story follows Seymour and Audrey who work at a flower shop together. The two have a crush on one another, but Audrey is in a relationship with a toxic sadistic dentist/biker (Orin). The shop is struggling and is on the verge of closure, but Seymour possesses an unusual plant (Audrey II) that may draw customers. The plan works, but a horrific discovery about Audrey II emerges as it turns out to be a talking man-eating alien plant that loves blood and can grow to an enormous size. Seymour becomes torn by his newfound fame associated with Audrey II, and the plant’s increasingly disturbing behavior. Furthermore, he wants to be with Audrey, but can the two develop a relationship?
Frank Oz is most well known as a prolific puppeteer and voice actor who did everything from Yoda to Miss Piggy, but he has also directed numerous films including “Little Shop Of Horrors.” Oz helming ‘Shop’ makes plenty of sense given that Audrey II is a puppet (and an incredible one at that). It turns out to be a match made in heaven as this stands as one of Oz’s best films (if not his best).
The 80s weren’t exactly a peak era for movie musicals, but “Little Shop Of Horrors” easily stands as one of the best of that era because it broke the mold of a traditional movie musical. It’s campy and romantic and it’s also a creature feature wrapped up in a musical that spoofs creature features (and even the original 1960 “Little Shop Of Horrors”). The music has a catchy and infectious motown vibe (see the great Prologue) and the soundtrack is littered with beloved tunes like “Suddenly, Seymour” and “Mean Green Mother From Outer Space.” At the heart of it all is a love story between Seymour and Audrey who want to break free from the rundown Skid Row and start a new life. It’s not hard to see why this film has captured the hearts of moviegoers and musical lovers for decades now. It’s got something for everyone.
Speaking of Seymour and Audrey, Rick Moranis and Ellen Greene are perfect for the roles. They really embody the characters. The supporting cast is rife with talent that includes Jim Belushi, John Candy, Bill Murray, and Steve Martin. Martin has a very different role than usual here as a crazed dentist/biker. It’s a real weird scene stealing role that he takes full advantage of.
Note: Viewers have the option of playing the theatrical cut or the director’s cut.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p. How does it look? The bright and colorful transfer makes this 4K well worth the upgrade.
Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? This is a superb new Atmos track. The musical numbers sound more lively than ever.
Extras:
* Commentary on the theatrical version by Frank Oz.
* Nearly 9 minutes of outtakes and deleted scenes with optional commentary by Frank Oz.
* Director’s cut ending with optional commentary by Frank Oz.
* “To Feed Or Not To Feed: For The Love Of Little Shop”- A new extra featuring interviews with Frank Oz and Ellen Greene, stills, and discussions about the film’s origins, casting and more.
* Digital copy
* “Mean Green Mother- Creating Audrey 2”- Another new extra about the creation of Audrey 2.
* “A Story Of Little Shop Of Horrors”- A vintage featurette.
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