Blu-ray Review: ANGST (1983)

ANGST
Directed by:  Gerald Kargl
Distributed by Cult Epics / CAV Distributing

 Cult Epics has been putting out some wonderful films lately, and this latest release is no different.   Their latest release is the Austrian film ANGST from 1983.  Here is the basic synopsis from the CAV website:

  ANGST, photographed by legendary Oscar-winning Polish animator/experimentalist Zbig Rybczynski and scored by Krautrock synth god Klaus Schulze (Tangerine Dream), is one hell of a gorgeously stylized and shockingly visceral experience: a forgotten classic on the fringes of the slasher cycle. Erwin Leder (Das Boot, Schindler's List) plays a maniacal killer based on the real-life serial murderer Werner Kniesek. As he stalks through the bland Viennese countryside, Schulze's music pulses darkly, and Zbig's innovative "first-person" camerawork grabs you by the throat, never letting go. Angst is one film that, without any empty hyperbole, we can guarantee you'll never, ever forget.

 This is definitely one of those films that will stay with you long after you view it.  To say it's disturbing is an understatement.   The film focus on a psychopath that knows nothing more than killing.  Once he is released from prison, he can't help but continue on his killing streak.  The film is very realistic and has a very dark, disturbing feel to it.  That is a great accomplishment of the filmmakers for sure.   The acting is also very good by everyone involved, especially by Erwin Leder who plays the part of the killer.

  The camerawork is something that really sets this film apart from others like it.  The cinematography of ANGST is amazing, with some very good camera shots and setups.  These shots really let you get inside the mind of the killer as you follow directly behind him as he goes about his killings.

  I'm sure I won't be the first reviewer to compare this to the classic serial killer film, HENRY:  PORTRAIT OF A SERIAL KILLER.   This film reminded me of that film in spots, but ANGST was the better of the two films in my opinion, as it just feels more real.   Kudos to director  for this great film.  I find it very strange, and sad, that this was Director Gerald Kargl's only film!  If this was his first feature film, I would have loved to have seen more by this great filmmaker.

 ANGST is available now on DVD and Blu-ray from Cult Epics and CAV Distribution.  Special Features include the following:

- New High-definition Transfer
- Optional playback with or without Prologue
- New Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Introduction by Gaspar Noé (2015)
- Featurette: Erwin Leder in Fear (2015)
- Interview with Gerald Kargl by Jorg Buttgeriet (2003)
- Interview with cinematographer Zbigniew Rybzcynski (2004)
- Audio Commentary by Gerald Kargl conducted by film critic Marcus Stiglegger
- New HD Trailer

The Blu-ray also includes the following:
- 40 Page booklet which includes Interviews with Gerald Kargl, Erwin Leder, Silvia Rabenreither, Illustrated with rare photos and Werner Kniesek original Kurier articles.
- Colectible Blu-ray Slipcase and Sleeve


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD or Blu-ray