Special Features: |
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ewly scanned and restored in 2k from 35mm original camera negative
- Commentary features writer/director Jamaa Fanaka.
- Isolated Soundtrack is offered.
- Interview (27:39, SD) is an archival conversation with Fanaka (who passed away in 2012), who's decked out in "Penitentiary" gear, opening the chat with a discussion of distribution woes, sharing his experiences with shady studios. The helmer recalls the heyday of grindhouse exhibition, where his films built their reputations, and shares tidbits from his family history, with money from his parents helping to pay for the first "Penitentiary" movie. Fanaka also explores work around union rules, the Jewish people who've helped him along the way, the upcoming digital cinema indie revolution, future plans (talking to Snoop Dogg about a possible "Penitentiary IV"), and his own struggles with health, going into detail about his battle with diabetes.
- Interview (16:14, HD) with Leon Isaac Kennedy continues the exploration of the "Penitentiary" series, though the star doesn't really have much to share about the making of the first sequel. Kennedy focuses on production issues, including battles over film rights and cast expendability to save some money, with new faces brought in without a second thought, including Kennedy, who took back his role with a story he's "saving for the book." The actor discusses the hiring of Mr. T and the failure of United Artists to capitalize on the icon's success after "Rocky III," also detailing the overall arrogance of the studio, who refused to trust Kennedy with the same promotional duties that made the original movie a hit. While Kennedy is charming and a passionate speaker, he seems to be dancing around his true opinion of "Penitentiary II," keeping things just vague enough to escape negativity.
- Theatrical Trailer (2:26, HD)
- Reversible Cover Art
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