Just Desserts:
The Making of "Creepshow" (2015)Reviewed for TheBluFile.com by Dustin Putman
(Release Date: July 12, 2016) – A big-screen tribute to EC Comics, 1982's "
Creepshow" is—for good reason—one of the most revered horror anthologies in cinematic history. Written by Stephen King and directed by George A. Romero, the movie embodies the feel of a vintage "Tales from the Crypt"/"The Vault of Horror"-style comic book issue. It's spooky, it's darkly funny, and all five segments ghoulishly knock it out of the park. Michael Felsher's 2007 documentary "Just Desserts: The Making of 'Creepshow'" is a 90-minute celebration of this classic genre film, touching upon the genesis of the project and the collaboration between Romero and King (who also starred in the lead role of "The Lonesome Death of Jordy Verrill"). Make-up effects artist Tom Savini discusses his impressive effects work and creature designs, while a handful of actors—among them, Tom Atkins, Adrienne Barbeau, Ed Harris and David Early—talk about their memorable roles and experiences making the film.
While Stephen King disappointingly does not participate in the interviews, George A. Romero more than picks up the slack, affably guiding viewers through the creation of a project he clearly loves. Outtakes are highly amusing (particularly the ones involving Ted Danson and Gaylen Ross in their drowned corpse make-up), as are all of the behind-the-scenes anecdotes provided by the game participants (talks of wrangling thousands of cockroaches for "They're Creeping Up on You" is a highlight). If there is one overlooked aspect to the picture, it is a deeper dive into the writing and creation of the five stories themselves; without King's involvement, however, one supposes it would be difficult to discuss his intentions with each macabre segment. Nevertheless, "Just Desserts: The Making of 'Creepshow'" is a love letter to a great movie, and to the fans who have kept it a relevant part of the public consciousness for 34 years and counting.
B/B
"Just Desserts: The Making of 'Creepshow'" was filmed in 2007, but looks even newer than that in its 1080i transfer. While the footage from "Creepshow" is inherently older and has a certain softness to it, the newer talking-heads interviews boast pleasing detail in clothing and facial features. Colors and skin tones appear natural. Hints of banding may pop up in darker moments, but they are minimal. The 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio is a capable, straightforward track. Dialogue is clear, while music (including John Harrison's unforgettable "Creepshow" score) is handled well within the mix.
- Audio Commentary with director and editor Michael Felsher
- Audio Commentary with actor John Amplas, property master Bruce Alan Miller, and make-up effects assistant Darryl Ferrucci
- "Creepshow Days with Michael Gornick" Featurette (8:01, HD)
- "Tom Savini's Behind-the-Screams" Featurette (26:31, HD)
- Extended Interview Segments (23:45, HD)
- "Horror's Hallowed Grounds with Sean Clark" Featurette (14:56, HD)
- Vintage 1982 Evening Magazine Segment (7:31, HD)
- Behind-the-Scenes of Creepshow Photo Gallery (8:30, HD)
- "Scream Greats Volume One: Tom Savini, Master of Horror Effects" Documentary with optional Tom Savini commentary (52:54, SD)
Previously released as a special feature on Second Sight's 2013 UK Blu-ray release of "Creepshow," "Just Desserts: The Making of 'Creepshow'" makes its U.S. home video debut with Synapse Films' standalone Blu-ray release. Fans of "
Creepshow" will be in heaven watching this walk down memory lane, and even those who already own the UK "Creepshow" disc will want to pick this up for its overflowing bonus content. On top of the film itself, this U.S. release includes 6-plus hours of special features—wow! Highly recommended.
