Blu-ray Review: DEATH LINE (1972)

DEATH LINE
a.k.a. RAW MEAT
Directed  by:  Gary Sherman
Distributed by Blue Underground & CAV Distributing

  You might know this film by it's alternate title of RAW MEAT, which is the title used on the old 2003 MGM U.S. DVD release.  I actually had that DVD but had never watched it yet.  I was excited to see that Blue Underground was releasing this new Blu-ray of the film and was glad to get the chance to review it for my website!   Here is the basic plot of the film courtesy of the Blue Underground website:

 When a prominent politician and a beautiful young woman vanish inside a London subway station, Scotland Yard's Inspector Calhoun (Donald Pleasence of HALLOWEEN) investigates and makes a horrifying discovery. Not only did a group of 19th century tunnel workers survive a cave-in, but they lived for years in a secret underground enclave by consuming the flesh of their own dead. Now the lone descendant of this grisly tribe has surfaced, prowling the streets for fresh victims... and a new mate.
  Norman Rossington (A HARD DAY'S NIGHT), David Ladd (THE WILD GEESE), Sharon Gurney (CRUCIBLE OF HORROR), and the legendary Christopher Lee (HORROR OF DRACULA) also star in this heart-stopping horror classic co-written and directed by Gary Sherman (DEAD & BURIED). Originally recut and released as RAW MEAT in the United States, now DEATH LINE has been freshly transferred and fully restored in 2K from the original uncensored camera negative and comes fully loaded with exclusive new Extras produced for this release!

  I knew nothing about this film going into it, which is the way I like to go into movies I have yet to see.  I was very pleased with this film.   It reminded me of an urban "THE HILLS HAVE EYES".   I have always been fascinated by cannibal films, so this one is a nice addition to the collection.   The film is slow at some points, but overall it kept me entertained for sure.  Some of the gore is very well done, with the best scenes taking place in the cannibal's secret lair down in the subway tunnels.  His lair is full of rotting corpses, all in different stages of decay.

  Another great thing about this film is the presence of the great Donald Pleasence!    Most known for his role of Dr. Loomis in HALLOWEEN, his character here is very entertaining! 

  Blue Underground has gone all out with another amazing release.  DEATH LINE is available now from Blue Underground on a DVD/BD Combo Pack and contains the following special features:

Audio Commentary with Co-Writer/Director Gary Sherman, Producer Paul Maslansky, and Assistant Director Lewis More O'Ferrall

Tales From The Tube - Interview with Co-Writer/Director Gary Sherman and Executive Producers Jay Kanter & Alan Ladd Jr.

From The Depths - Interview with Star David Ladd and Producer Paul Maslansky

Mind The Doors - Interview with Star Hugh Armstrong

DEATH LINE Trailer

RAW MEAT Trailer

RAW MEAT TV Spots

RAW MEAT Radio Spots

Poster & Still Gallery

BONUS Collectable Booklet featuring new writing by authors Michael Gingold and Christopher Gullo

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD/BD Combo Pack