| Special Features: |
UHD:
- New Commentary features director/co-writer Don Coscarelli and co-writer/producer Paul Pepperman.
- Archival Commentary features director/co-writer Don Coscarelli and co-writer/producer Paul Pepperman.
Disc 1:
- Theatrical Version (118:27, HD) of "The Beastmaster" is included.
- New Commentary features director/co-writer Don Coscarelli and co-writer/producer Paul Pepperman.
- Archival Commentary features director/co-writer Don Coscarelli and co-writer/producer Paul Pepperman.
- "The Beastmaster Chronicles – Chapter One: Gateway Coscarelli" (10:34, HD) introduces viewers to a world of appreciation for the feature, with filmmakers Joe Lynch, Adam Wingard, and Robert Cargill offering their viewing memories and obsession with the endeavor. The making of "The Beastmaster" includes interviews with Don Coscarelli, Paul Pepperman, and actor Marc Singer. The creators walk through the origin story of the project, providing a loose adaptation of Andre Norton's original novel, only to find Hollywood refusing to make the project. Salvation arrived with producer Sylvio Tabet, who agreed to finance the project. Coscarelli closes with a vehement rejection of comparisons to "Conan the Barbarian," noting how his movie came out three months after the Arnold Schwarzenegger classic.
- "Chapter Two: A Lion Doesn't Have to Say He's a Lion" (19:42, HD) goes into casting with Tanya Roberts, John Amos, and Josh Milrad joining the interview roster. Coscarelli admits he had little control over the hiring process, highlighting near-misses with Demi Moore and Klaus Kinski, and he shares his frustration with the labor involved when dealing with animals and kids. Joined by assistant producer Frank K. Isaac Jr. and makeup effects artist Mark Shostrom, Coscarelli delves into production complications, experiencing struggles to find the right location while experiencing "creative interference" from Tabet's company.
- "Chapter Three: Gasoline, Mortars, Diesel Fuel and Lots of It" (19:45, HD) goes into production challenges over the course of the 12-week shoot, with the actors facing bitter cold while half-naked. Animal trainer Boone Nar examines his role on-set, managing different animals and intensity, while Marc Singer shares respect for his creature co-stars, actually discussing this honor with them during production. Practical effects for the climatic battle are detailed, resulting in massive explosions. Makeup achievements on monsters are also celebrated. And Coscarelli closes with appreciation for cinematographer John Alcott.
- "Chapter Four: A Blade of Grass" (11:47, HD) introduces costume designer Betty Pecha Madden, who shares her inspiration for the outfits in "The Beastmaster," while Coscarelli and Milrad share their initial uncertainty over the revealing loincloths. Props are examined, with Coscarelli showing off certain items he kept from the production. Also included is a tribute to the sword-making in the film.
- "Chapter Five: Close Your Eyes and Write" (10:10, HD) provides an overview of the post-production process, with Coscarelli ultimately kicked out of the editing room after his initial cut was deemed too short. Composer Lee Holdridge arrives to explain his creative motivations, offered two weeks to write the music for "The Beastmaster." Sound designer Jeremey Hoenack provides an understanding of the sonic space of the picture.
- "Chapter Six: Hey, Beastmaster's On!" (11:52, HD) offers first impressions of the finished film, with Coscarelli sharing how the theatrical cut doesn't represent his vision. The picture's cult legacy is examined, with cable showings saving "The Beastmaster" after its dismal, botched theatrical release. And some tales are shared concerning the hunt for the lost negative.
Disc 2:
- "Special VFX Version" (118:27, HD) of "The Beastmaster" is included, featuring new touch-ups by Coscarelli.
- New Commentary features director/co-writer Don Coscarelli and co-writer/producer Paul Pepperman.
- Archival Commentary features director/co-writer Don Coscarelli and co-writer/producer Paul Pepperman.
- "The Saga of 'The Beastmaster'" (55:07, HD) is a 2005 making-of for the picture, which collects interviews with actors Marc Singer, Tanya Roberts, and Josh Milrad, production designer Conrad E. Angone, co-writer Paul Pepperman, and co-writer/director Don Coscarelli. The documentary examines the early years for Coscarelli and Pepperman, with the partners making their way through the film business, finding a hit with "Phantasm." Trying to create a heroic adventure with a bigger budget, the men began work on "The Beastmaster," dealing with a lengthy pre- production process and casting choices, also scoring big time with cinematographer John Alcott, who brought visual expertise to the production. Anecdotes from the shoot are shared, with the actors dealing with animals and cold weather. Some character analysis is offered as well. Post- production blues are highlighted, as Coscarelli was blocked from editing the feature. The movie's journey from a box office disappointment to a cable staple is also detailed.
- Super 8 Home Movies (27:39, HD) presents terrific 8mm BTS footage from the making of "The Beastmaster," taking cameras to location shooting and set construction. Commentary from Coscarelli and Pepperman is included, providing memories and lessons learned while making the picture.
- Still Gallery (9:10) collects concept art, BTS snaps, press kit pages, news coverage, and poster art.
- Outtake Footage (2:25, HD) gives fans of "The Beastmaster" and Tanya Roberts a little more to appreciate. Clips are presented without sound.
- Theatrical Trailer (2:13, HD)
|
