Phantasm (General Discussion)

[Just Jeans]

Let's talk Phantasm, won't we? All things involving the Phantasm franchise are welcome here.

[Toejam]

Phantasm is one of my favorite series.
I wish part two would be released on dvd in the U.S.
There is a hole on my shelf waiting to be filled.

[The Dream Master]

I still haven't watched the new AB disc, and I bought it the week it came out. :X It's got to be way better than the uber-shitty disc that's been out there for years now, though. Can't wait to give it a spin sometime.

[Jigsaw]

My favorite Horror series, with Phantasm II being my all-time favorite Horror film. If only it would finally get a Region 1 DVD :(

[Shoesalesman]

I saw the first one for the first time only in the last few years. Fantastic, old-school horror. I have not seen the second one, but I'll take care of that soon I think.

[Wheatjedi]

I just watched the new AB disc for the original film last night, and I loved it. The commentary was pretty good, but Don's constant reminders that it was a low-budget film got tiresome after a while.

I do wish Part II would come out soon. I had a chance to get the DVD in March, but I passed it up. I did get to see it in the theater back in '88 with my cousin though.

[Jigsaw]

Seeing Phantasm II in the theaters must've been an awesome experience. I would've loved to have seen it on the big screen.

[Wheatjedi]

Oh, it was definitely a fun experience! We were supposed to see another movie (I don't remember which one), but my cousin and I snuck in to see Phantasm 2 instead. I used to do that all the time. :)

[sCabbOy]

Being a James LeGros fan I would have loved to see Phantasm II in the cinny.

[Wheatjedi]

Funny thing is, I had never seen the original Phantasm prior to seeing 2, but I still enjoyed it. I also got to finally see the original film several months ago on the big screen as a part of Friday Night Frights (as a double-bill with Silent Night, Deadly Night).

[The Dream Master]

The thing that bugs me is that the original film is one of my favorites, so it's quite annoying to not own the sequels. Universal either needs to get a DVD in production or let Anchor Bay do the honors.

[Jigsaw]

Phantasm III was recently released on DVD by Anchor Bay along with a re-issue of the first film. Phantasm IV is also available, but it's very hard to find. Your best bet to get Phantasm II is to find the VHS tape or import the Region 2 DVD.

[The Dream Master]

Yeah, I've had the AB edition of the first one since it was available. I haven't bothered to pick up the sequels until they're all available, though.

[The Tall Man]

but my cousin and I snuck in to see Phantasm 2 instead. I used to do that all the time.
Guess this is why "Phantasm II" bombed, eh? Wink

T.M.

[Wheatjedi]

Could be! That's how we got into a lot of horror movies back when we were too young to see them. We'd buy a ticket to one movie but see another.

Bad me!!!

[CampNewBlood]

These movies are so unique. I hope Don Coscarelli gets to make Phantasm V one day soon.

I love my dvd's. :)

Phantasm: 3 copies on DVD
Phantasm II: 1 copy on DVD
Phantasm III: 2 copies on DVD
Phantasm IV: 2 copies on DVD

These dvd's consists of the multiple Region 1 releases and the Region 2 boxset.

[Just Jeans]

Universal either needs to get a DVD in production or let Anchor Bay do the honors.

Much like the Doctor Who TV Movie, Universal refuses to put Phantasm II out on DVD. The film wasn't really successful, and they don't reckon it's high up on their list. Their asking price for the distribution rights in America is a bit steep (or so I've heard) and Don Coscarelli is still trying to acquire them. He was able to nab the rights to Phantasm III, now we just have to wait patiently for him to get the rights for part II, and then they'll all be out in region 1 (although I think Oblivion is OOP).

[Steve]

although I think Oblivion is OOP.

It is OOP for the time being, but I have still seen it lying around in the odd store from time to time. As of now, the best way to get these movies and a ton of cool extras to boot is to buy the region 2 set. Granted, you need a player capable of handling that, but it's well worth it.

It also opens up a whole new avenue of movie watching for you. A lot of the R2 stuff I have kills it's R1 counterpart. :)

[The Tall Man]

Jeans, "Phantasm: OblIVion" has suddenly out of nowhere reappeared en mass in my Circuit City.

T.M.

[Titan]

I have the AB edition of the first one. For some reason the stores here are carrying the first but not the third. Our Wal-Mart just recently started carrying the first and it was released quite a while ago.

[Joshg]

I have the pretty, new, Anchor Bay DVD of Part 1. Fairly good flick.

Part III: Lord of the Dead has yet to be seen on shelves by my eyes. I'll buy it as soon as spotted.

[Toejam]

I looked all over for Part III when the AB disc was released,
but I ended up just having to buy it off Amazon.com. I got
both Phantasm and Phantasm III for $8.99 each back at the
beginning of June.

[CampNewBlood]

I see Phantasm: Oblivion on eBay all the time for about $10 buy-it-now.

[Toejam]

I stumbled onto this site today Phantasm V Hype (http://www.phantasm5.com/).
They have a short clip (http://phantasmarchives.net/video.html) made by Don Coscarelli for the closing of the
Alamo Drafthouse. Although it is very short it got my attention.
They also claim there was a cast reading of the Phantasm V script a
few weeks back, maybe that is when they got Angus Scrimm and
A. Michael Baldwin together to film the clip.

[Titan]

I have pretty much given up hope for part V. Mostly because it has taken so long to have it released and if they dont get a move on it soon they might not have a Tall Man for the movie.

After all... no one on the cast is getting any younger.

[Erik]

It's been so long since I've seen any of these movies. I remember loving the first one, but I can't really remember any of the other three, although I'm sure I've seen at least one of them. I should probably pick up some of the DVDs.

[El Rooto]

Much like the Doctor Who TV Movie

Of all the examples you could have used, you use the one with Doctor Who. Again. :side:



:D



Anyhow, I prefer the original to II. I don't know why.
What made it so much easier to get the DVD rights for III?

[Scarecrow]

Never saw this until I got the awesome Region 2 Anchor Bay box set... and it has to now be listed asd a favourite horror franchise.

The Tall Man is one of the best horror villains, up there with Pinhead for an elegant yet sinister sadist.


- Scarecrow

[MaDMaNMaRz]

I agree Scarecrow. Angus Scrimm is awesome as The Tall Man.

I've always personally favored the original, with the 2nd coming in a close first. 3 is good too.

It's been awhile since i've seen 4. I don't really remember anything from it.

[Lance Lives]

I've never seen any of these. I was thinking about buying part 1 the other day but didn't. I think I probably will in the near future.

[MaDMaNMaRz]

I've never seen any of these. I was thinking about buying part 1 the other day but didn't. I think I probably will in the near future.

The original is great Tim. It's definitely worth it. It has a ton of special features on it, too.

The original has always been my favorite. 2 is really good too.

[Ron]

Shamefully I have never seen these, but that will soon change. I've been meaning to buy them for quite sometime.

[DarkPumpkin]

One of the reasons I bought a region free DVD player was for the awesomeness that is this boxed set. I cannot even describe to you how
cool the Sphere looks sitting on top of my television. I am planning on bringing the box it came in to Monster Mania and having Angus Scrimm autograph the side that has a drawing of him as The Tall Man on it.

You can get a region free player on ebay for a very reasonable price. I believe I purchased mine for around $30, and that included shipping and handling. I actually found it cheaper to purchase the set from Amazon UK than to Ebay it. On ebay, the Sphere set goes between 50-80, but I was able to find a vendor on Amazon UK marketplace that was selling new for around 28 American dollars.

[Joshg]

Still searching for Part III DVD. Man! Part 1 is everywhere, but Lord of the Dead is just, unobtainable, apparently.

[Lance Lives]

I have since my last post seen the first and I really liked it. Good characters and a good twist at the end, though I somehow thought about it before it happened.

Anyways, I bought a VHS copy of part 3 yesterday and was wondering if I should watch it without having seen part 2 yet?

[Scarecrow]

I know some would say so but I think Phantasm 2 set a hell of a lot up and really builds on the end of part 1. Having watche dthem in order form the Anchor Bay box set I'd say you get the msot out of this series by following the continuing story. After all, the only franchise really to have the same people makign every entry.

- Scarecrow

[MaDMaNMaRz]

Lance Lives - I would say to watch them in order.

------

I still need to get 2-4 on DVD. I have them on VHS at least to tide me over. I can't seem to find 2 and 3 in stores anywhere. :( :cry:

[Lance Lives]

Damn. It would of been against my better judgement to watch part 3 first anyway, but now with your guy's advice I'll have to wait for sure, which sucks because part 2 seems so hard to find.

[Scarecrow]

Not if you get Region 2. :p The sphere-shaped box set rocks.


- Scarecrow

[Lance Lives]

Yeah, I've really been thinking about getting a decent region free player, partly because I want that set and just because it would make things so much easier. I have a hacked player but it freezes up sometimes and it's really annoying. Anything you can recommend?

[MaDMaNMaRz]

Up until yesterday, it's been awhile since i've watched Phantasm II. After watching it yesterday, I now actually prefer that one slightly over the original. II was a bit more "action" oriented, in a way, but I liked it. Reggie kicked so much ass in this one.....LOVED the quad-barrel shot gun he made. :) I also enjoyed the scenery in this one........such as the scenes with Michael and Reggie driving, with the mountains in the background.

Elizabeth was a cutie, too. :) :shy:

[Scarecrow]

The second is certainly more cinematic then aht e first, or perhaps more Hollywood, but the first has a certain atmosphere on unreality, like a half-remembered dream making it a unquie and unsettling entry in the series. Only Part 4 comes close, in my opinion, thought that one was more of a mystery based on set peicies.


- Scarecrow

[Chex]

Up until yesterday, it's been awhile since i've watched Phantasm II. After watching it yesterday, I now actually prefer that one slightly over the original. II was a bit more "action" oriented, in a way, but I liked it. Reggie kicked so much ass in this one.....LOVED the quad-barrel shot gun he made. :) I also enjoyed the scenery in this one........such as the scenes with Michael and Reggie driving, with the mountains in the background.

Elizabeth was a cutie, too. :) :shy:

It's like you took the words right out of my mouth. :)

Does anyone have a post that was made on the old board that contained the theory of how each movie could be interpreted, but also that each ending is sort of Michael waking from a dream and how the Tall Man, Jody, Reggie, and the ongoing fight are all symbolic of the emotions and guilt that's inside Mike's mind?

Just curious as it was the most thought out, detailed outlook on the series that I've read and actually made sense of the films as well.

[Scarecrow]

Nah, I just think The Tall Man is messing with Mike, making him THINK it's all a dream. :p

Well, in seriousness, I think it can be read both ways but I think the Tall Man is too good a horror character to be written off as a product of Mike's increasingly fecked up mental state.


- Scarecrow

[Scarecrow]

Mods, as you may have noticed my computer just suffered a melt down. Sorry!!!

- Scarecrow

[French Friday]

Scarecrow, you want that thread to look like a Phantasm movie or what ? There's weird thing happening here... :D

[Chex]

Get out of my head, Scarecrow! :eek:

Seriously though, I agree in that the material could be interpreted many different ways. That's one of the things I love about the series. I would just like to find that particular theory again though as it was a good read and made the entire series fall into place and somewhat understandable.

[Patrick]

Any word on the supposed 'Phantasm 5'?

[Kane Lives]

I bought the Anchor Bay edition of Phantasm recently. I already had their release of Phantasm III.
I'm sure a lot of people will find this hard to believe, but I was never a huge fan of the original Phantasm for some reason. I liked the mood of the mortuary and music, but for some reason I never really got into the first one much.

Strangely, I do like Phantasm II a lot. Figures that the one I really like isn't on DVD in the US. I'll have to stick with my taped from HBO version until it gets a release. lol

[Patrick]

I have the UK Anchor Bay boxed set and the Region 1 releases of Parts 1, 3 and 4. I have 3 copies Phantasm 1....The Region 2 from the boxset, the MGM and Anchor Bay Region 1 releases.

[nottidelterrore]

I love the Phantasm series. A series that doesn't have a bad entry in it, in my opinion. I've been into these movies since Phantasm III came out on VHS. I used to rent it a lot as a boy.

I own Phantasm 1, 2, & 4 on VHS. I did own Phantasm III but sold it for $10 shortly before the DVD came out. I have the Anchor Bay versions of Phantasm & Phantasm III that came out this year in addition to the MGM version of Phantasm that's been OOP for awhile. I actually like the MGM version better than the Anchor Bay version. I recently picked up the Phantasm IV lenticular cover slipcovered DVD, which is just the same DVD that's been out for awhile...with a sweet cover.

The region 2 UK Sphere set is great. I've had it for around a year. Probably the best "box set" that I own. It's worth owning just for the bonus disc. The full version of Phantasmagoria is probably the best documentary I've ever seen.

[MaDMaNMaRz]

I agree that all of them are good. Phantasm is the one film series where I really like ALL the films.

I only have 1 and 2 on VHS. I have 1, 3, and 4 on DVD. I really wish they'd get on it and release 2 on Region 1 DVD. What's taking so long? It's probably not a priority for them. :( :cry:

[The Dream Master]

Universal won't release it because they don't think it'd be profitable, yet they're asking for an astronomical amount of money to license it out either to Coscarelli or Anchor Bay, so go figure.

[Scarecrow]

And if Phantasm 5 happens and makes money guess what will be rushed out on a tacky vanilla disc... guys, bite the bullet and grab the R2 DVD. It's that or waiting for a studio to actually do something for the fans benefit...


- Scarecrow

[nottidelterrore]

And if Phantasm 5 happens and makes money guess what will be rushed out on a tacky vanilla disc... guys, bite the bullet and grab the R2 DVD. It's that or waiting for a studio to actually do something for the fans benefit...


- Scarecrow

Yeah the region 2 disc is great. A lot of DVD players can be hacked to be region-free players. Or you can drop a good chunk of cash on the Phantasm II VHS tape...or get lucky & find it somewhere for a cheap price.

[Scarecrow]

I still can't believe they have to be "hacked" over there whilst in the UK you can buy multiregion DVD players for thirty quid in Tesco's... :p


- Scarecrow

[Patrick]

And if Phantasm 5 happens and makes money guess what will be rushed out on a tacky vanilla disc... guys, bite the bullet and grab the R2 DVD. It's that or waiting for a studio to actually do something for the fans benefit...


- Scarecrow

That's the damn truth. Especially Universal or Paramount. When have they ever done ANYTHING for fans of horror.....except that lame excuse for Friday the 13th boxset. Albeit, it IS a boxset. :shifty:

[Lance Lives]

Just watched Oblivion...Now I've seen all of them except part 2. I did have a hacked player but it started to freeze up every now and again so I got a new one, and it's not hackable. I wish I could just pick up a Region Free player but money is tight as always.

[Patrick]

It's cool Anchor Bay is releasing Phantasm IV on DVD in August. Now if they could just get Phantasm II damn it.

[Cody]

It's cool Anchor Bay is releasing Phantasm IV on DVD in August.

I saw that report (http://www.shocktillyoudrop.com/news/topnews.php?id=6397) and got excited, looking forward to double dipping to hear the commentary.

Then I remembered that, except for the new documentary, I already have this DVD sitting in my room in the UK sphere. I've already listened to the commentary. I'm getting senile.

[Ron]

It really annoys me that II isn't on dvd.

[Jigsaw]

Awesome to hear Phantasm IV is getting an SE, we just need a Region 1 SE of Phantasm II now. Hard to believe next month it's going to be 20 years old.

[sam hane]

So I'm the only one who thinks the MGM DVD of Phantasm 4 is just fine and couldn't care less if Anchor Bay is doing their own version....

[Jigsaw]

Maybe, but as someone who cares for special features, I look forward to the new Anchor Bay DVD and will buy it as soon as it's out.

[sam hane]

I really only care about special features on movies I think are good, Phantasm 4 was a definite low low of the series. If this were a SE of Phantasm 2 I would be as excited as all hell but since it's for a mediocre movie that I've had a DVD of for years I'm just blah.

[Jigsaw]

I think Phantasm IV was inferior to the first two movies, but an improvement over Phantasm III (which I also loved, IMO all four movies have been fantastic). I think all four are deserving of jam-packed SEs, and await the P4 SE and P2 when it eventually hits Region 1.

[sam hane]

all this Phantasm talk has made me wanna do a marathon of the movies on DVD...I might start that tomorrow.

[Jigsaw]

It's been so long since I last watched any of the Phantasms. I used to have marathons of all four in a row all the time back in the day.

[nottidelterrore]

I'll....triple dip for this for the new retrospective documentary. I'm sure everything else will be ported from the UK Anchor Bay DVD.

[Scarecrow]

Phantasm III is probably my favourite as it gets the right balance between dream-based weirdness and plot, developing the series storyline and introducing the spheres as a genuine important part of the storyline. A little too much comedy perhaps, but more than amde up for by energy, stunts and amazing gore sequences.


- Scarecrow

[Just Jeans]

So I'm the only one who thinks the MGM DVD of Phantasm 4 is just fine...

I don't own it and it's out of print, so yeah, I do care about the new SE. I also like special features, of which the original release of Oblivion is shamefully lacking (which is the reason I skipped it when it was released).

[The Dream Master]

The MGM disc isn't out of print. In fact, it's recently be re-issued as one of those Fox-rebrandings with a holographic cover.

[Just Jeans]

When my best friend had me go hunting for it a year and a half ago, it was nowhere to be found. :shyface:

[Jigsaw]

With the new P4 DVD on the way, I'll probably pawn off my old one as soon as I get the new one.

[sam hane]

You might wanna keep it, the MGM DVD of the original has a couple of features that the Anchor Bay one didn't have.

[Jigsaw]

I meant Phantasm IV. I have both the MGM and Anchor Bay DVDs of the original Phantasm and kept the MGM one for the special features that weren't ported over to the AB DVD.The current Phantasm IV DVD has no special features at all except for a poorly-done trailer.

[sam hane]

the trailer on the Phantasm 4 was a promotional trailer for video dealers, wasn't meant to be seen by mass audiences which would explain the quality.

I also kept the MGM DVD of the original when I upgraded to the AB Phantasm disc. Gotta love those audio extras :)

[nottidelterrore]

The MGM disc isn't out of print. In fact, it's recently be re-issued as one of those Fox-rebrandings with a holographic cover.

Right on, DM! I got my copy a Sam's Club not too long ago for less than $10.

[The Dream Master]

When my best friend had me go hunting for it a year and a half ago, it was nowhere to be found. :shyface:

That's odd. As far as I know, it's never been out of print. It might be a bit hard to find in stores, I guess. I would try Circuit City--I seem to see it there quite a lot. I can't recall where I saw the holographic cover re-issue. It might have been Wal-Mart. At any rate, it can be found for less than $10 online, but I'd wait for the AB version, which is sure to have more extras.

[Shreds of Sanity]

I think Phantasm IV is the best sequel of them all actually. It's the only sequel that captures the one thing that truly makes the first Phantasm really special: it's atmosphere. I love seeing people get torn to shreds by the balls and quadruple shotguns in II and III, but that's just not really what Phantasm's about to me.

And it's a shame that we're this far into the thread and no one has mentioned the awesome score for these films yet. Phantasm's theme is one of the best ever created.

[Jigsaw]

The Phantasm theme IMO is the best score ever composed for a Horror film. It's simply incredible.

Phantasm IV is the most dream-like and surreal of the series, but Phantasm II still remains my favorite. I love the morbid and macabre feeling it has and the insane action combined with the rip-roaring pace and dark imagery.

[nottidelterrore]

That's odd. As far as I know, it's never been out of print. It might be a bit hard to find in stores, I guess. I would try Circuit City--I seem to see it there quite a lot. I can't recall where I saw the holographic cover re-issue. It might have been Wal-Mart. At any rate, it can be found for less than $10 online, but I'd wait for the AB version, which is sure to have more extras.

The MGM DVD isn't something that's seen everyday. When I saw it at Sam's Club, that's the first time I had ever seen it in stores.

Looking forward to the AB DVD. :D

[Scarecrow]

Well, I adorethe Anchor Bay box set of the series, hopefully the bonus disc wil get its own release soem tiem for you guys. The documentary on the series is fascianting stuff.


- Scarecrow

[The Dream Master]

The bonus disc? Scare, we're still waiting on Phantasm II over here. :misery:

[Jigsaw]

I hope to see the full-length Phantasm documentary sometime.

[nottidelterrore]

Well, I adorethe Anchor Bay box set of the series, hopefully the bonus disc wil get its own release soem tiem for you guys. The documentary on the series is fascianting stuff.


- Scarecrow

Agreed! The bonus disc is full of goodies. I paid like $40 for my sphere set from England. That included shipping. :)

[Lance Lives]

Damn, I need that Sphere set. I must purchase a region free player! I'm kinda iffy about buying a dvd player from Ebay...do you guys think it's a good idea?

I finally saw part 2, and I liked it...cleared alot of stuff up and showed the origin of Reggie's gun, which was cool. I personally didn't like the new guy as Mike though, it just didn't seem right after having seen all the other ones first.

[nottidelterrore]

The feelings on James LeGros as Mike are kind of mixed. Personally, I liked him as Mike although I prefer Michael Baldwin.

Tim, you could probably find a decent hackable player at Wal-Mart or K-Mart.

I hear this one is pretty good:

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5584897

[Monkey]

I just watched Phantasm last night (first time in over 20 years). Pretty damn good. The ending was, WTF?, but no big deal (dreams, what can you do?).

The bonus disc? Scare, we're still waiting on Phantasm II over here. :misery:
On the DVD, they advertised Phantasm III and said zip about II. I thought that was strange and that something was wrong with my player. Anchor bay doesn't own the rights to distribute part II? I was ready to go out and buy it... :|

[The Dream Master]

No, Universal still has the rights and have no intentions of releasing the film. Coscarelli has been trying to secure the rights for some time I think so that he can allow Anchor Bay to release it.

[Monkey]

No, Universal still has the rights and have no intentions of releasing the film...
Wow. Why make money when you can piss people off?
What an excellent idea... :duh:

[The Dream Master]

I guess they figure a DVD release wouldn't make back the money it would cost to restore, transfer, and press the film on DVD. That's my only guess, really.

[Monkey]

I guess they figure a DVD release wouldn't make back the money it would cost to restore, transfer, and press the film on DVD. That's my only guess, really.
I hate it when different companies own the rights to different installments in a movie franchise. It would be nice to own a complete set of F13 (1 to Jason X & FvJ), Halloween, or Phantasm, but I guess that's just not in the cards. Oh well.

Apparently a box set of Halloween exists, but it's region 2? And there's a box set for Phantasm...
...but we don't have anything like that in the U.S. Doh... :(

[Patrick]

One would assume if Universal isn't interested in it, they would let Don Coscarelli buy it back. I mean, that would be the only logical solution. Hopefully it wasn't burned to smithereens the other day. Oh yea, I forgot, that had copies of all of their films.

[The Dream Master]

I figure Universal just plain doesn't know what to do. On the one hand, if they sell it to Coscarelli, they might sell it off for much less than it's actually worth; on the other hand, if they release it themselves and the interest isn't there, they're screwed. That's my theory anyway; I wish they'd just let Coscarelli have it because there's not going to be any more Phantasm on DVD interest as there was last fall when 1 and 3 were released by AB. Of course, they might just be waiting to tie it in with a potential new Phantasm film too.

[Patrick]

True. I just wish Universal would do something. I mean, what good is it doing them just sitting there, you know.

[The Dream Master]

Believe me, I wish the same thing. I actually find it hard to believe that Phantasm II wouldn't be at least a bit profitable on DVD. I mean, there are far more obscure and shittier films that have received a release on DVD at this point.

[Scarecrow]

No doubt holding out to do a tie-in release with the remake. Buy region 2 and get an awesome box set, much easier!


- Scarecrow

[Chex]

Does the region 2 set have the casting footage of Brad Pitt trying out for Mike?

[Jigsaw]

As far as I know, it doesn't.

[Monkey]

Does the region 2 set have the casting footage of Brad Pitt trying out for Mike?
That's funny, I didn't know that.

Several years ago a Korean company released a region-free DVD player (in '97 or '98), but quickly had to recall it (if I remember correctly, possibly due to potential litigation). Does anybody know if somebody is manufacturing a region-free player? That would be the only way I'd purchase a region 2 set. Given the variety other countries seem to enjoy, I'd like to have the opportunity to buy anything that's released.

I'm not a fan of region encoding. The way I understand it, it's so different companies can buy the rights to distribute in different areas and to control the content out there (why buy a DVD in the U.S. when you might be able to snag another region's release on the cheap?), it would be nice to just have flexibility, more options... a free market, so to speak. :| Correct me if I'm wrong, but can't you buy a CD from any country and play it on any CD player?

I'm not a huge phantasm fan, but they're pretty good flicks to add to the collection. I think my desire to pick up Phantasm II on DVD skyrocketed once I found out it hasn't been released for region 1. Dang.

[Scarecrow]

I still find it bizarre how it seems that difficult. In the UK it's almost standard for a DVD player to be multiregion these days.

- Scarecrow

[jasonx]

i want to see this movie.

[Jigsaw]

I highly recommend the entire series, but IMO the first two are the best and the ones worth seeing the most.

[nottidelterrore]

i want to see this movie.

You should give it a watch as well as the sequels.

[sam hane]

Anchor Bay posted new artwork for their Phantasm 4 DVD on their site:

http://www.anchorbayentertainment.com/Files/013131561296.jpg

[Jigsaw]

I like the older cover art better but the new one is cool, too. I look forward to the special features this new DVD will have.

[The Dream Master]

Wake me up when Anchor Bay (or Universal, or whoever) posts the cover art for a Phantasm II disc.

No, in all seriousness, I'll buy the new Oblivion disc.

[Jigsaw]

I'll buy the new Oblivion DVD, and am among the many still awaiting P2 on DVD. It's pathetic, P2 is 20 years old and still doesn't have a Region 1 DVD.

[Kane Lives]

Nice to see Anchor Bay is releasing a SE for Oblivion. This Fall is shaping up to have several DVD releases I'll be picking up. :D

[Jigsaw]

My bank will be busted this Fall with all the new DVD releases coming out. Phantasm IV SE, Child's Play SE, Iron Man, Saw IV SE, Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull and probably a ton of sales and bargains on Horror DVDs as well. I'm already saving up :D

[nottidelterrore]

I actually like the cover a good deal. I'm looking forward to this release. Can't wait to own it!

[Jigsaw]

If this DVD sells well enough, hopefully it'll convince Anchor Bay to wrangle the rights for P2 from Universal and give us a multi-disc SE of that film :pray:

[AOD]

Looking forward to Anchor Bays release of Phantasm IV. I got one of the mini posters Anchor Bay was giving out at Flashback Weekend.

[The Dream Master]

It's not just about Anchor Bay being interesting in wrangling the rights away. Actually, it's Coscarelli that's got the rights to the other films, and he's optioned them out to AB. And with II, Universal just refuses to either sell it to Don or release it, probably because they think they'll be able to cash in on a future film (if that ever happens, which isn't looking good right now).

[nottidelterrore]

The sphere is in Universal's court. I don't think they'll be doing anything with Phantasm II for awhile. Many people will have that empty gap on their DVD shelves.

The best alternative is to buy the sphere set or import just the region 2 AB Phantasm II disc. Or pay a lot for a Phantasm II tape.

[Jigsaw]

I have an unofficial P2 DVD from Germany that has the theatrical cut and workprint, and a second disc full of bonus features including a two-hour home movie of behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the film. They definitely need to include this on the official R1 DVD of P2 if it ever happens. I can see P2 as a two-disc set and the second disc having the two-hour BTS home movie on it.

[Scarecrow]

What's the differences with the P2 workprint?

- Scarecrow

[Jigsaw]

I actually haven't gotten around to seeing the workprint yet (the DVD is PAL-region, meaning I can only view it on either a PAL DVD player or a region-free one. Thankfully, we have one region-free player in our home, and one day I'm making it my mission to watch the workprint).

[sCabbOy]

The workprint actually has a lot of differences, some small, some not so small. I have the DVD with the "workprint" trailer as well... that trailer is also very different. The title looks hand drawn in it.

[nottidelterrore]

I'd like to see the PII workprint one of these days.

[The Dream Master]

I've got a composite print that takes the workprint and adds it in with the theatrical version. There's some extra gore, an extra scene with Reggie and Mike before the funeral, a love dream sequence (that was thankfully cut out), another scene with Mike and Reggie while they're on the road, among other shit. It's interesting.

[Patrick]

I'll probably just pass on this since I have the MGM disc already. Until, if/when, Anchor Bay ever gets Phantasm II and release them on Hi-Def.

[Livingdeadboy]

PII is the best of the series. that is all.

[skuppy]

Those living in the northern Kentucky, Southern Indiana area, the drive-in at Georgetown, IN will be showing the original Phantasm on Saturday, August 16, with special guests Angus Scrimm and Reggie Bannister!
http://www.georgetowndrivein.com/upcomingattractions.shtml

[Jigsaw]

PII is the best of the series. that is all.


Amen to that. P2 is still my favorite Horror movie of all-time and has still held up remarkably well.

[MaDMaNMaRz]

I like 2 the best also. I just felt the pacing was much better than the original. I also liked the inclusion of action, which made it even more entertaining.

[Jigsaw]

I love the fast pacing and high action content of P2 along with the darkness and morbidness of it.

[Scarecrow]

I do enjoy the action, but I think Pat 3 gets a much better balance of action and surrealness and is really where the Tall Man mytholgoy takes off and becomes something really interesting.


- Scarecrow

[Jigsaw]

I think the action in P2 was a lot more exciting and pulse-pounding to watch, while P3 was more rooted in surrealness.

[Chex]

If you've been in the Phantasm V topic, then you know that Angus mentions that the film isn't going to happen from the looks of things. However, he also mentions a sphere set for the U.S. release as well:

http://www.fangoria.com/news_article.php?id=7112

Still, the franchise’s followers should not be in total despair, as Scrimm reveals. “I am told that Anchor Bay might be doing a silver sphere release over here,” he says—referring to the British DVD boxed set of all four movies, plus a bonus disc, which has been a popular import for U.S. collectors. “However, it might just be three of the films in the U.S. set, because Universal is still hanging tough on PHANTASM II. They want a lot of money to put it out. So it doesn’t look as if that will be in there.”

Of course, it would appear that the most sought after entry for region one folks won't be in it. Honestly, convert your dvd player over to region free and just import the region 2 sphere set.

[nottidelterrore]

Honestly, convert your dvd player over to region free and just import the region 2 sphere set.

That's good advice, people. I've been enjoying Phantasm II on DVD for almost two years now because of the sphere set.

[Scarecrow]

Does seem fairly pointless without Part 2 and that may make releasing the extras hard as i think some feature footage form Part 2.


- Scarecrow

[Ron]

I didn't really care too much for the first film, but I've heard a lot of great things about the series as a whole. If I ever get to see the second film then I'm fairly confident that it will change my opinion of the first one.

[The Dream Master]

It depends what kind of movie you like; part 2 is radically different from the first. Maybe it'll make you appreciate the first more, or maybe it'll make you wish it were more like the second.

For what it's worth, I think the original is one of the best horror films of all time. Part 2 and 3 are both okay, but I actually prefer Oblivion to both of those. As for the future of the series, it's a shame part 5 isn't happening, but I'm not sure how I'd feel if they attempted to explain things completely.

[Esten]

Of course, it would appear that the most sought after entry for region one folks won't be in it. Honestly, convert your dvd player over to region free and just import the region 2 sphere set.


Way ahead of you. I got my copy from the guys from Bla.... I mean from the UK. Great little set, even if it protects the discs for shit.

[Chex]

It seems some of the dislike of Phantasm II also stems from if you've seen the other films and have grown attached to Michael A. Baldwin. If not, then there's less of a chance of the transition between actors being a bogged down factor.

I think the series is fine the way it is as you could say it's actually over along with plenty of material for just about everyone to form their own ideas and theories about exactly what happens through out. I agree with DM as I wouldn't want things really fully explained as that's part of the charm, but rather just to see the cast together for one final outting if possible.

Oh well, I suppose there's always a slight chance that a remake will happen even if the past deal fell through. The upside is that considering this material, a remake may not really be one at all, but another story that could fit into the universe.
ADDED:
Way ahead of you. I got my copy from the guys from Bla.... I mean from the UK. Great little set, even if it protects the discs for shit.

Maybe you can help me with this question then. There's a number of other region dvd's out there that run at a different frame rate compared to region 1 (pal releases). From what I've read here and there, I've seen some folks say that it is noticable in Phantasm (haven't heard any comparison for the sequels). Anything that noticable or is it just one of those flubs you really only pick up on if you've watched the other release multiple times.

[The Dream Master]

I grew up watching the series, so I saw it in order; LeGros's presence in part 2 isn't really an issue for me. I've just personally grown to enjoy the tone of 1 and 4 more so than the middle entries. Both of those are a ton of fun, though, and I think Reggie is at his best in the second one. This series is one of the few out there where I actually think every entry is top-notch, though.

"Come on, you mutha!"

[Esten]

Maybe you can help me with this question then. There's a number of other region dvd's out there that run at a different frame rate compared to region 1 (pal releases). From what I've read here and there, I've seen some folks say that it is noticable in Phantasm (haven't heard any comparison for the sequels). Anything that noticable or is it just one of those flubs you really only pick up on if you've watched the other release multiple times.

No, I didn't notice a framerate difference on PII when I watched it the other day. It sounded like a perfectly normal pitch too. I've noticed the PAL speedup on PAL releases like, say, Quantum Leap and Shocker, though.

[Chex]

DM- Wow, I think we're two of a very small group who enjoy Phantasm IV.

S-10- I meant the first entry.

[The Dream Master]

Yeah, I really love part 4, even if I do think a part 5 would make me like it even more. I wouldn't want a fifth film to explain everything, but it does feel like there needs to be something after 4. However, if there's not, there's not, I guess. If the final scene in Oblivion is indeed the end, it's an appropriate head-scratcher that lends itself well to many different interpretations.

[Jigsaw]

Although the first two Phantasms will always be the best of the series by a long shot IMO, Oblivion is also very good and it stands out from the pack. It's an even more moody, surreal and all-around bizarre film than the original, which is saying something. I think all four are solid films though, and a rare series in which every installment is excellent. Even Lord Of The Dead, my least favorite, is still superb.

[Chex]

Yeah, I really love part 4, even if I do think a part 5 would make me like it even more. I wouldn't want a fifth film to explain everything, but it does feel like there needs to be something after 4. However, if there's not, there's not, I guess. If the final scene in Oblivion is indeed the end, it's an appropriate head-scratcher that lends itself well to many different interpretations.

Exactly! The final scene just opens up so many possible theories. I believe that's what the poster from the old board was missing though from his as he hadn't seen IV yet. Still, his idea was one of the most interesting, deep, attempts I've ever read.

Even Lord Of The Dead, my least favorite, is still superb.
I gave the film another shot not too long ago and I still couldn't sit through it. I even made sure not to watch II before hand since they're more similar than say the first and third. To me, there's very little right with this entry and too many things wrong.

I still have to hand it to them though, the ending is just one of those that keep you on your seats. I'm glad though that IV was just released by the time I saw it as otherwise, I couldn't imagine having to sit through the wait to find out what happens.

[Esten]

DM- Wow, I think we're two of a very small group who enjoy Phantasm IV.

S-10- I meant the first entry.

Hah, I actually prefer IV over all the other sequels. II comes in dead-last, if that tells you anything.

Ah. I haven't even watched the PAL disc of 1 yet.

[The Dream Master]

I find 2 and 3 to be pretty much the same movie, only 3 is more Reggie's film; I do, however, enjoy the side characters from 3 (Rocky and Tim) more so than the ones from part II. So yeah, IV is definitely my favorite sequel.

[Jigsaw]

What I really like about Phantasm II is how Mike and Reggie are together for so much of the duration of that film. I think you really get a sense of how strong their bond is and how loyal they are to each other, and are willing to die for each other. I feel LOTD and Oblivion both were missing the bond and connection those two had in P2, although Oblivion does manage to re-capture it momentarily towards the end and in a very emotional way.

[Esten]

III feels more like a Phantasm movie than II does. II is a little too.... I don't know..... coherent? III also has the much superior carflip.


"You ever try Vanilla?" - That line never works for me either, Reg.

[Jigsaw]

Well bearing in mind that P2 was heavily edited before it's release at the insistance of the studio, the original cut of the film is probably more surreal. I don't mind the more reality-based feel of P2 though, I feel it makes the movie stand out more among the series. Each movie is it's own unique entity.


P1 is simple yet very surreal, nightmarish and effective, and even has some moving character drama in the form of Mike and Jody's bond.

P2 is more action-oriented and gives more insight into The Tall Man's origins and operations, yet doesn't reveal too much.

P3 has more humor and comic book-esque situations, and the focus shifts to Reggie.

P4 is the most surreal and disorienting film of the series and also the darkest and most dramatic to date.

[The Dream Master]

Even the composite version that re-inserts deleted scenes still feels more like a Hollywood version of Phantasm than any of the others, even though it does have some strange shit going on (including one of the most awkwardly bad love scenes ever). Universal basically told Coscarelli to cut out everything that made the original movie so great (dreams, the overall illusory tone, etc.), so we're left with what's basically an action movie take, which still works. I think 2 is a better movie overall, but 3 is a better Phantasm movie, so they're about dead even for me.

[Jigsaw]

I don't really mind the studio feel of P2, to me it doesn't even really feel like a Hollywood movie much to me at all. It still has a low-budget, independent feeling to me, with a bit of studio backing behind it for added measure. And I always feel that if you're going to get the backing of a major studio for your sequel, go all-out to make your sequel a great one with all you have.

[Esten]

None of the Phantasm films feel low-budget to me. The $3 Million budget looks about $10 Million. They're like the Nightmare films in that regard.

[Jigsaw]

I think Coscarelli and the crew have put the minimal budgets they had on all of the films to very good use.

[The Dream Master]

Aesthetically and visually speaking, part 2 might not look exactly like a big budget blockbuster, but from a plot standpoint, it's a lot more safe than the original was. A lot of the stuff that made and didn't make the final cut were a direct result of studio interference, which is the very definition of a Hollywood movie, pretty much. The first and last ones are very unconventional movies, but most independent movies are because studios don't see the need to take risks on them.

And Coscarelli is a wizard when it comes to handling budgets. Hell, his use of outtakes from the original film in Oblivion is downright brilliant.

[Jigsaw]

I don't think there's anything wrong with the plot of P2 being more simplistic or "safe" than the other three films. I think all four films are very unique and different from each other, yet they still feel consistant with each other with their stories and themes. It helps a ton that Coscarelli has been involved with every single installment.

[The Dream Master]

I didn't say there was anything "wrong" with it, but it's the element that most obviously reflects how part 2 feels like a studio movie more so than the other 3.

[Jigsaw]

Regardless, I don't mind the studio feel P2 has if someone even feels that, I personally don't. I think all four films feel very different from each other, with the original being simple yet surreal, P2 being very morbid and action-oriented, P3 being more comical but bringing back some of the surrealness of P1, and P4 being the most doom-laden and glum of the series and also the most surreal.

[Scarecrow]

I never found P3 overtly comical, if anything it was a healthy does of black humour. But VERY black, and it had a lot of twisted elements in it. The introduction of the gold sphere in Mike is one of the most izarre unanswered questions of the series. It's also the sphere to switch the rolesof the spheres and the dwarfs.

- Scarecrow

[Lammert]

I have never seen any of the Phantasm films....

[Jigsaw]

You're really missing out, Lammert. All four films are highly recommended.

[Scarecrow]

Definitly, possibly my second favourite horror series. I definitly prefer series with a more epic storyline and fantasy elements, there's a real mythology to Phantasm that's very appealing.


- Scarecrow

[Chex]

Definitly, possibly my second favourite horror series. I definitly prefer series with a more epic storyline and fantasy elements, there's a real mythology to Phantasm that's very appealing.

Plus it has Jawa rejects from Star Wars complete with sound effects, four barrel shotguns, and rare 1970-1971 Hemi Cuda's. :p

[Jigsaw]

I went to Wal-Mart and Target about an hour ago to see if the new DVD of Oblivion was in stock, but I couldn't find it. I'll have to head down to Best Buy to see if they have it.

[The Dream Master]

I forgot all about the new disc, but I'm guessing DDD will ship it whenever. I figure I won't have time to watch it for a while anyway. Strange that Target didn't get the new disc. They got both part 1 and 3 when AB released them last year.

[Ron]

I felt the same disappointment today when I searched my local shops for Cannibal Terror:confused:

[Scarecrow]

What's on the new Oblivion DVD?


- Scarecrow

[Chex]

http://horrordvds.com/modules/News/showarticle.php?threadid=36940

Anchor Bay's PHANTASM OBLIVION doesn't street until August 26th, but we've got a quick first look until we're allowed to post the full review. Here's the short of it: compared to the Anchor Bay UK release, this new transfer beats it in terms of sharpness, framing and color timing. There's still the Dolby Digital 5.1 mix from the UK disc, but the DTS is missing, and most surprising of all, so too is the original stereo mix. In terms of extras, there's the same commentary from the previous release with Reggie, Don and Angus, as well as a 9-minute behind-the-scenes taken from the Phantasmagoria documentary, a trailer and an extended promo reel. The big plus here is the vastly improved picture, but the dropped audio and lack of new extras may turn off those content with the previous R2 release.

[Jigsaw]

Finally picked up the AB re-issue today, at Best Buy. I'll try to see it by the weekend and listen to the commentary as well.

[Esten]

but the DTS is missing, and most surprising of all, so too is the original stereo mix.

Pretty sure the original soundtrack for Oblivion is 5.1. My MGM disc only has that track.

[Chex]

Any folks lucky enough to have read, let alone own, this:

Link (http://www.amazon.com/Phantasm-Novel-Coscarelli-Original-Screenplay/dp/B000NGVKQ4)

There's only 500 copies made when it was released in 2002. Kate Coscarelli (most sources list her as Don's wife while one lists her as his mother) took Don's script and simply turned it into a novelization. If was his original script though, that thing supposedly was able to shot into a 3 1/2 film or so which makes me wonder if it has all the cut out bits from the film and expands a bit further on things.

[Steve]

I do have one of these, bought it back in 2003 and got it signed by Reggie Bannister.

Nice guy by the way. :)

[Chex]

Wow! Completely agree with Reggie Bannister being a nice guy. He'll take the time out just to chat with you about anything.

So does the novel expand a little further than the movie does or is relatively the same?

[Steve]

There's quite a bit more from what I recall (haven't read it in years), such as Jody's girlfriend, and his job at a bank which their parents ran. The family was really well off from what I can recall. Aside from that, nothing I can think of off the top of my head.

[4BarrelHemi]

If I recall there are some cut scenes they filmed that sort of go into Jody working at the bank and his gf but they were very brief unless Don has more footage he hasn't released which is a possibility.

I still haven't watched the Oblivion Doc yet :doh:

[Lammert]

Going to watch these films this week... I've never seen them, so I'm really curious.

[Scarecrow]

Can't wait to hear what you think, maybe let us know where you think the serie sis heading after each film? :D


- Scarecrow

[4BarrelHemi]

Going to watch these films this week... I've never seen them, so I'm really curious.


Just remember this though........."Seeing is easy....Understanding well that takes a little more time." ;)

[Boiler Room Brawler]

Can't wait to hear what you think, maybe let us know where you think the serie sis heading after each film? :D


- Scarecrow

That would be interesting. :D

[Chex]

So I recently rewatched Phantasm the other day and had a few thoughts.

From the first frame to near the end when Mike wakes up in his bed, that entire section of film is just a dream of sorts that Mike was having. While I'll go into more details in a moment, I'll point out the reasons we know this is because when Mike wakes up, things are different from what we just viewed. Jodie wasn't ever alive as he had died in a car wreck. Reggie didn't get stabbed to death as he's alive and well. Mike isn't near the old mineshaft as he's all of a sudden in his bed and waking up.

When viewed like that, everything makes sense for the most part. It's why there's strange and bizarre creatures, characters, boxes appearing out of nowhere. At least, it would make complete sense except for the final moments of the movie where all of a sudden, the Tall Man appears. Going by that, we have the following indications that reality was a dream and now it's over, but that what we now think is reality was a dream again which then causes us to question everything once more.

To make things less confusing, I'm going to say that from the start of the movie to when Mike wakes up in his bed near the end is the dream. From him waking up until the credits is reality. I'll explain that last part in greater detail further on. Before expanding upon what we saw, I'm not going to refer to any of the sequels and instead go over some things in the film as looked at as a stand alone movie. I'm also going to split some of the examples that we see into two categories. One is dream while the other is reality to help explore details.

Dream:
Mike's constant following of Jodie. Wherever Jodie goes, Mike is always seen tagging along behind him. Early in the movie we learn that Mike does this because he's afraid Jodie will leave him behind even after being reassured that he won't.

Reality:
Jodie died in a car wreck. With his parents dead along with Jodie, Mike feels alone. What we see in the dream portion of the film is Mike's yearning to make sure Jodie doesn't leave him which he subconsciously already knows he did in reality. It's the source as to why he follows him everywhere.

Dream:
Mike visits Granny (the old woman) and a black box magically appears out of nowhere. The point of the box is for Mike to put his hand inside. In order to pull it back out, he has to learn to control his fear. Basically, the box is a chinese finger trap. Taking action while afraid makes the box hold onto the hand. Taking action with emotion in check allows Mike to retrieve his hand.

Reality:
The box is symbolic of Mike being afraid to move forward in his life. Due to Jodie and his parents death, Mike's subconscious appears to be consumed with guilt and emotions that tie into his loss. It's also why this fantastical dream is taking place.

Dream:
The Tall Man is this being who is strange and otherwordly. He shows odd reactions to extreme cold and is not only shown chasing Mike, but is the cause of Tommy and Reggie's death. He can't be killed nor stopped in any way.

Reality:
The Tall Man is Mike's guilt and emotions manifested into an entity. Everything that Mike is afraid of such as death and having his loved ones taken away from, that's what Tall Man represents. It's why he has such interest in Mike and pursues him relentlessly and why Mike continues to run away. The source of all of Mike's problems, his demons, that he needs to overcome is shown in the guise of the Tall Man (not the member here).

Dream:
Upon coming across his parent's casket, Mike doesn't look inside to see if they've become slaves of the Tall Man.

Reality:
His refusal to bear witness to his parent's fate is of him denying acceptance of his loss.

Dream:
The Tall Man has short helpers who were once the deceased. Somehow he's managed to take regular dead bodies, compress them into a 3ft stature, and revived the corpses into doing his bidding.

Reality:
Phantasm was filmed over the course of 2-3 years which means it's possible this was supposed to happen around 1976 when Star Wars was released. Mike recently watched Star Wars and decided to include Jawas in his dream as that way, Lucas can't sue him for copyright infringement.

...Oh, I mean it's just Mike's subconscious view of his guild and sense of loss are being represented against him similar to what the Tall Man is. To compare, in some mediums a person that has guilt over what they did to another soon comes into contact with that person's ghost or appirition. It's similar here. The slaves are Mike's guilt and loss being used against him by the entity that represents those things (Tall Man).

Dream:
The blonde haired girl helps to guide Mike to over come his emotions via the black box and words of wisdom (which are also provided by Granny). She visits the mausoleum and is presumably killed.

Reality:
The girl and Granny were the two major forces that encouraged Mike to overcome his emotions. The blonde haired girl being destroyed by either the slaves of the entity of Mike's emotions and guilt, or the entity itself (Tall Man) represents Mike's emotions taking over his subconscious.

Graveyard Dream Scene:
Mike falls asleep and wakes up in a graveyard with the Tall Man standing behind him. Soon after, hands erupt from the graves and grab Mike. At this point in the film, Mike hadn't shown any attempts to fighting his emotions in his subconscious. Him falling asleep while already in a dream seems impossible, but don't take it at face value. Instead, it shows how Mike is dangerously close to being strangled by said emotions.

The Final Scene:
Mike wakes up and we see that everything in the film up to that point was a dream and what we're now watching is reality. At least, until the Tall Man still shows up which indicates we're back in the dream.

Mike waking up isn't meant to be taken literally. It's similar to how he was able to dream while already inside a dream earlier in the film. Him waking up or dreaming showcases his battle in his mind against his guilt and emotions. For example:

-Say pure reality is represented by the #0.

-From the start of the film until Mike falls asleep and dreams is represented by the #2.

-Mike's dream where he awakes in the graveyard and the Tall Man is standing over him is represented by the #3.

-Mike waking up near the end of the film is represented by the #1.

Going by this, we see that the film never shows us reality. Instead, we're entirely in Mike's subconscious. Not only that, but it contains different levels which display how close he is accepting and realizing the truth along with him denying it and having his guilt and emotions rule his mind. At one point, his mind starts to give in to his emotions, but comes back. By the end of the film, he starts to understand and accept certain things like his brother dying.

The last big scene before Mike wakes up near the end of the film is him somewhat confronting his emotions. He's able to control his fear and make it through the mudpit and past the hands that want to drag him down. He's not completely won though as he's still running away from the Tall Man and all that he represents and even attempts to bury him. It's very possible that Mike's subconscious accepting and learning to cope with events is why the Tall Man is able to reappear at the end. You can't bury the guilt, but have to confront it at some point. If he wishes to full cope and accept what's happened, he'll have to eventually meet his guilt face to face which is why the Tall Man comes back.

As I said, I'm not going to touch the sequels until I get a chance and the ability to rewatch Phantasm II and Phantasm III. I don't think there's much in them that would really alter the above rather than somewhat fitting into it, but I'd like to be sure. Phantasm IV, on the other hand, certainly could. While the first two sequels seemed to streamline everything and move away from this sort of storytelling, Phantasm IV somewhat returns to it.

I will comment on the final scene in Phantasm IV though because I feel it helps make a complete circle that ties into the above.

At the very end, Mike confronts the Tall Man and loses the fight. The Tall Man opens up Mike's head, takes what he's after and then leaves. After Reggie goes to chase him, the camera does a close up to Mike's face (I believe all the way to his eye, but I could be mistaken).

The next scene takes place during Phantasm where we witness a young Mike riding with Reggie in his ice cream truck. A noise is heard and Mike comments that it's only the wind. This is very similar to Mike and Jodie's conversation in the cemetary as Mike comments about strange noises that could be heard while Jodie replies that it's only the wind. In Phantasm, Jodie was fearless. He represented everything Mike needed to be.

The final shot shows the ice cream truck driving off into the thick darkness. Once again, this takes us back to the black box. The truck is the only thing visible moving into the darkness, the unknown.

It could be possible that this entire scene, from the camera going close into adult Mike's face/eye/mind to now seeing a young Mike, represents that Mike's subconscious ordeal is finally over. This young Mike is nothing like the Mike we first saw in Phantasm as he's heading into the unknown, showing no fear at what could be ahead nor what strange sounds are heard from nearby. He confronted the Tall Man, his demons, and now he finally has control over his guild and emotions on all levels.

So there you go. Have a completely different theory? Agree or disagree to any extent? Has Lammert finally watched the series? Any other crazy Phantasm musings? Post away! :p

[Hypnocil]

That was a really great post. :) The sequels definately go back and forth on wether part 1 was all a dream or not. A few examples I can recall are:

In part 2...the opening is somewhat vague, the whole continuation of part 1. Reggie goes from his guitar-playing "it's only a dream" to kicking dwarf ass pretty darn quick, he doesn't seem particularly shocked by what he's supposedly 'experiencing for the first time.'

If one chose to view Mike's dream in part 1 as a "prophetic dream", then Lizabeth's character highly supports this. She too had prophetic dream about the Tall Man, and Mike. Mike and Liz found out that they could communicate in the dream world. When Lizabeth is killed in part 3, all the Tall Man wanted was her head, which he took with him. I always assumed that meant she must have had a ball in her head also?

In part 3, Jodie-ball has just rescued Mike, and Reggie seems to know how to close the gateway. Jodie yells to Reggie, "Do it Reggie, you've done it before!" We then get a clip of Reggie closing the gate in part 1, then Reggie closes the gate. Of course, he doesn't remember getting stabbed by the "lady in lavender".

To me the most important line in Phantam: OblIVion was when Jodie-ball revealed to Mike that he did, indeed, die in a car accident. This throws everything into question.

Who knows where it's all heading. Coscarelli could go anywhere, because he keeps it so vague. We could learn Mike's parents and Jodie are very much alive and well, and it's Mike that's been in a coma since "the car accident." The Tall Man is merely Dr. Morningside, the local head of the coma ward, and Reggie is a friendly janitor that talks to the patients, and Lizabeth is a fellow coma patient. :p

[Chex]

In part 2...the opening is somewhat vague, the whole continuation of part 1. Reggie goes from his guitar-playing "it's only a dream" to kicking dwarf ass pretty darn quick, he doesn't seem particularly shocked by what he's supposedly 'experiencing for the first time.'

He also just recently saw Star Wars and figured Lucas had come to collect the money he borrowed from him to buy that guitar. Yeah, that's it. :p

That's a good point as he doesn't seem too freaked out about it yet he should no matter what.

I always assumed that meant she must have had a ball in her head also?

That's what I assumed as well.

In part 3, Jodie-ball has just rescued Mike, and Reggie seems to know how to close the gateway. Jodie yells to Reggie, "Do it Reggie, you've done it before!" We then get a clip of Reggie closing the gate in part 1, then Reggie closes the gate. Of course, he doesn't remember getting stabbed by the "lady in lavender".

Does Reggie actually say he remembers though?

Something I was thinking of is that Reggie is part of Mike's subconscious to help "guard" him from his guilt/Tall Man. This is actually not what needs to be though as it's more harm than good. Anyway, I can see it as something like Mike's subconscious has remembered happening so him telling Reggie (and possibly urging him to if this is all in his head) is enough to either make Reggie think he has or just flat out make him try.

At least that sorta makes sense to me since Jodie wasn't even in the room with Reggie during Phantasm when that happened so he shouldn't really know...and if he was actually supposed to be dead at that time and the events didn't happen yet or shown anyway, then that's the best answer I can come up with.

Or, a wizard did it. :p

To me the most important line in Phantam: OblIVion was when Jodie-ball revealed to Mike that he did, indeed, die in a car accident. This throws everything into question.

I had figured Jodie would have been the most problematic of everything, but I think he may be the easiest to explain. He shows up and can morph into a ball so automatically we think he's with the Tall Man. Then we see that perhaps that's not the case so he's actually on Mike's side. Then we do see he's actually on Tall Man's side. The idea to use his dead brother to guide and persuade him to fall into the Tall Man's clutches seems like it would be a bad thing when it would be exactly what's needed. Jodie in Mike's subconscious is now different than when he was in Phantasm. Of course, quite a bit has changed as Mike had taken steps to confront and understand certain things like Jodie's death. So Jodie goes from guardian (which Reggie becomes) to, well, I guess you could still say a guardian but not to protect Mike from his guilt/emotions but to lead him to confront them.

The series goes back and forth on so many things though. At the end of Phantasm III, Reggie is pinned by several balls (er, orbs). Instead of killing him, Tall Man let's him go and says "Ice cream man....all in his head." Then shortly later, Reggie is attacked through out the film by a demon cop, boob-spheres, jawas...if he didn't care to kill Reggie then why are the minions allowed to? I was thinking that perhaps Mike's subconscious isn't what it was back in Phantasm so neither guardian nor entity can actually kill one another which is why Reggie can't exactly stop the Tall Man nor why the Tall Man can stop Reggie (Defense from the truth versus Mike's guilt and emotions).

I've got the notion that the comment (all in his head) was referring to Mike. For the longest time I thought it was about Reggie, but if you think about it meaning all the events are in Mike's head it makes slightly more sense. Then again, it could mean that he literally has it all in his head which is the ball. :p

Who knows where it's all heading. Coscarelli could go anywhere, because he keeps it so vague. We could learn Mike's parents and Jodie are very much alive and well, and it's Mike that's been in a coma since "the car accident." The Tall Man is merely Dr. Morningside, the local head of the coma ward, and Reggie is a friendly janitor that talks to the patients, and Lizabeth is a fellow coma patient.

That would honestly be one of the more logical explanations. :p If you take the films just how they are at face value, it doesn't all add up. If you take the theory I presented, some things still don't quite connect. I honestly don't know if there's a way to make everything work. The problem I see is that the first film tries for the twist in that the majority of the film is a dream, make wakes up, we learn the truth, and then there's another twist. I wouldn't be surprised if that last twist was really just Mike still having the dream and he didn't really wake up. Then sequels change directions with the prophetic look while streamlining everything, then four comes in and heads somewhat back to the first film's ideas and starts adding in more fantasy elements via the gateways. I'm sure there were certain liberties taken as not everything has a purpose of sorts. Sort of like there's an underlying element while on top is this horror/fantasy stuff.

That's why I would love a Phantasm V, but am a bit weary at the same time. It would be great to see everyone on screen again, but I feel Phantasm IV's ending was perfect no matter what theory you follow. Phantasm V then would need to make things more clear cut not to confuse and mess everything around.

All of this talk though makes me want to watch the sequels again at some point.

[4BarrelHemi]

The ending for Oblivion I thought was a perfect ending if that is the last Phantasm. It brought everything back full circle.

I'd love for a P5 but it would be hard to wrap everything up in one last movie. Also as we've seen that's not the Phantasm way for every answer we get more questions pop up.


We are basically in the same boat as Mike and Reggie in knowing what we've seen but questioning it.

[Scarecrow]

The ending for Oblivion I thought was a perfect ending if that is the last Phantasm. It brought everything back full circle.

I'd love for a P5 but it would be hard to wrap everything up in one last movie. Also as we've seen that's not the Phantasm way for every answer we get more questions pop up.


We are basically in the same boat as Mike and Reggie in knowing what we've seen but questioning it.

I think Phantasm has two stories. One is the idea based, emotional story where the whole thing could be a dream, and is about dealing with death. The other is the more literal story about the evil reality-manipulating Tall Man out to invade our world.

Phantasm IV is a perfect ending fro the first storyline, the metaphorical aspect of the series. And whislt it DOES work for the other it doesn't resolve anything; rather it ends on an "Angel" / "Blakes' 7" style cliffhanger, where Regie goes to face the Tall Man against massive odds.

I generally see the series in these two lights and whislt the above discussion IS fascinating and well-written I almost think the metaphorical storyline is the easiest of the two to deal with and there's a LOT more complexity and depth, of a different nature, to explore in the more literal epic, fantasy-horror storyline.


- Scarecrow

[The Tall Man]

Chex, just to make your ideas more correct, at the beginning of "OblIVion", Angus delivers the following solillique:

"Small Man... your end approaches, but it is not yet. Take great care how you play. The final game now begins..."

Angus doesn't do the "Ice Cream Man" thing until the "big showdown" at the end of the movie. Anybody get the idea that Angus is a bit perterbed in IV that the heroes have just assigned a name to him?

T.M.

[Chex]

Chex, just to make your ideas more correct, at the beginning of "OblIVion", Angus delivers the following solillique:

"Small Man... your end approaches, but it is not yet. Take great care how you play. The final game now begins..."

Angus doesn't do the "Ice Cream Man" thing until the "big showdown" at the end of the movie. Anybody get the idea that Angus is a bit perterbed in IV that the heroes have just assigned a name to him?

Well, that answers what's been bugging me: what does he say to him near the end of the film. :p

I think Phantasm has two stories. One is the idea based, emotional story where the whole thing could be a dream, and is about dealing with death. The other is the more literal story about the evil reality-manipulating Tall Man out to invade our world.

I agree in that that's what it became. With the first film, I don't believe there's much more to it as a simple twist at the end with "ah ha, it didn't actually happen!" to Coscarelli for some reason deciding to go "well, no, maybe it wasn't all fake".

To be honest, I don't think the Tall Man showing up at the end honestly works because the film just got finished acting as if nothing of the sort really happened yet now it does, but the events are all changed around to where the viewer still doesn't know what happened. It's as if he got cold feet and felt the "twist" was a middle finger to the viewers and he didn't want them to feel "cheated".

The sequels are where I think the idea of metaphorical notions are somewhat dropped for "what you see is what you get" for the most part. Jodie being involved doesn't really hamper either view. It's the fourth one where it somewhat attempts to go back to the first film...and then some.

I don't think there's a way to fully explain, without leaving any sort of loose threads, using either view point. Problem is, not even a mish mash of the two doesn't create a full on answer for things. It's a fun series, but it needed to stick with either a "what's on screen is what there is" or a "everything has a deeper meaning" method.

I'd love for a P5 but it would be hard to wrap everything up in one last movie. Also as we've seen that's not the Phantasm way for every answer we get more questions pop up.

I'm sure I speak for all Phantasm fans when I say Phantasm V needs to be about an adult Tim and his wacky adventures. He obviously was the greatest character in the entire series. To make things interesting, we'll pair him up with Rocky (the other survivor, not the boxer) and have them fight the army of balls (it feels weird typing that). Hundreds of balls. Adult Tim. Rocky and her nunchucks with her flat hair do. Oh, and we'll toss in that pink hearse. There we go, the best of the series all wrapped up in one film.

:p

[Scarecrow]

RE: Phantasm

I rather like the theory that it pretty much all did happen but it was Reggie's fecking about with the space gate that warped reality, drawing not just the dwarfs and everythign else back through it but the actual events that took place, reality itself drawn back through. That is, until a pissed off Tall Man steps back through and heads straight to Mike and Reggie's place to deal with them.

Reality is warped and he Tall Man does alter things around him, not just directly by his control, but reality itself is unstable and I think that works as an explanation. Things arne't what they seem, as the old lady teaches Mike and, considering he later is seen to have a Gold Sphere in his head, it could be that he himself has some control over these manipulations. She's essentially teaching him to let go of fear, and try and use his own strength to couer the phantasms he see's... by the end oif Part 4 Mike is attempting to finally use his own skills.


- Scarecrow

[Chex]

That's pretty much the one I had followed for the past 10 years, more or less until recently. I believe Coscarelli said that the Tall Man is able to alter time and space around him to a small extent as well which does somewhat go with that.

The only problem I've had with it is that it still didn't quite add up at the end. How do we know messing with the gate (which lead to a different world) messed up time in ours? How was the audience supposed to go "oh ok, yeah time got pushed back and events changed because he messed with the tuning fork entrance that lead to a different planet" ? It still always came off to me as just...well, weak writing at the end.

[The Tall Man]

Chex, keep in mind that "Phantasm" was a 3 hour epic that was cut down to 90 minutes because the distributor wasn't going to release a 3 hour horror movie. Nothing in its current incarnation is going to make that much sense.

It's like the U.S. version of "Once Upon a Time in America" that had 90 minutes removed. Totally incomprehensible.

T.M.

[Chex]

Yeah I get that. Doesn't help the resulting product.

[The Tall Man]

Exactly right. And the film as is doesn't even have the original ending. They had to shoot the ending they have now just for its current incarnation. You probably know part of the original ending is found in IV.

T.M.

[Chex]

One of the reasons why Phantasm: Oblivion is somewhat interesting is all of that old footage incorporated. Well, that, and Angus offering folks lemonade.

[Hypnocil]

That's what I assumed as well.

Either way you want to look at the series of films, Lizabeth's purpose remains a mystery in that her character was introduced to have connections to Mike via head-spheres (or in part 2, I believe we were led to assume Mike and Liz were both psychic), yet no other people have been discovered with this trait (unless the sphere-boob lady was a radical new phase of experimenting.) and then she's offed without any explanation or purpose. Was the Tall Man prepping her to become the Tall Woman?

However, if you wanted to view the entire series as a dream, Lizabeth obviously becomes a very different character. Honestly, it's been so long since I've seen Phantasm 2 (still waiting for the DVD if ever) I don't remember much about her character, except the movie focuses on her exclusively for several scenes. To me this isn't a problem, because even in Phantasm, Mike seemingly dreams about Jodie several times when he himself is nowhere to be found, like when Jodie and Reggie rock out together. :p

Phantasm III barely features Mike for much of the movie, yet that doesn't mean Rocky and Timmy couldn't represent aspects of Mike's subconscious all the same. And Oblivion enforces the notion that it's all in Mike's head.

Maybe Coscarelli realized he painted himself into a corner when it came time to write part 2. Since the twist ending does seem to indicate the "dream" wasn't over, then logially everything after should be a dream also. That's probably why he walks that fine line, because general audiences probably wouldn't care about the myriad of characters if they were all figments of a disturbed boy's subconscious.

Seriously, dream logic basically cleans up every loose question about the series. Perhaps it cleans it too easily... :X


Does Reggie actually say he remembers though?

No, he doesn't say he remembers. He sees the prongs of the gate, and he instinctually raises his hands to close it, but then hesitates. That's when Jodie yells, "Do it Reggie, you've done it before!" We get the flashback, then Reggie closes it.

Also, later on in the movie, Mike has a flashback to part 1 and remembers that the Tall Man hates the cold...which turns out to be true.

Something I was thinking of is that Reggie is part of Mike's subconscious to help "guard" him from his guilt/Tall Man. This is actually not what needs to be though as it's more harm than good. Anyway, I can see it as something like Mike's subconscious has remembered happening so him telling Reggie (and possibly urging him to if this is all in his head) is enough to either make Reggie think he has or just flat out make him try.

:p You do realize I am now in the process of searching for my lost Phantasm 2 VHS. It sucks, but I want to watch the entire series with complete dream-logic and see what I find. Jodie, Reggie, the Tall Man, the Lady in Lavender, Lizabeth, Timmy, Rocky, Alchemy, even the boob-sphere lady would all represent some aspect of his mind. Like, Timmy would probably represent Mike's lost youth, I would assume Rocky represents Mike's will to live. I'm not sure.

Then sequels change directions with the prophetic look while streamlining everything, then four comes in and heads somewhat back to the first film's ideas and starts adding in more fantasy elements via the gateways. I'm sure there were certain liberties taken as not everything has a purpose of sorts. Sort of like there's an underlying element while on top is this horror/fantasy stuff.

The sequels did streamline it, but that doesn't mean Coscarelli can't still get his final wish. If the sequels never came out, the first movie would be viewed as a dream from beginning to end. Coscarelli keeps this vague on purpose, I believe.

That's why I would love a Phantasm V, but am a bit weary at the same time. It would be great to see everyone on screen again, but I feel Phantasm IV's ending was perfect no matter what theory you follow. Phantasm V then would need to make things more clear cut not to confuse and mess everything around.

Well, it's been a good decade now....time for a new Phantasm! :)

While I agree Phantasm IV has a truly beautiful, low-key ending...my curiousity over what Coscarelli has in store only grows with each passing year.

I'm sure I speak for all Phantasm fans when I say Phantasm V needs to be about an adult Tim and his wacky adventures. He obviously was the greatest character in the entire series. To make things interesting, we'll pair him up with Rocky (the other survivor, not the boxer) and have them fight the army of balls (it feels weird typing that). Hundreds of balls. Adult Tim. Rocky and her nunchucks with her flat hair do. Oh, and we'll toss in that pink hearse. There we go, the best of the series all wrapped up in one film.

ZOMFG! Phantasm V: Lost in New York. Rocky takes Timmy to the Big Apple, but loses him due to wacky circumstances. The Zombie-trio has found their way to New York, and once again Timmy must booby-trap a random house. Guest starring Angus Scrimm as the scary, seemingly crazy old man in Central Park, who really just misses his estranged daughter....Rocky. Get out your Kleenexes, Phantasm fans!

[Chex]

Very good points about Lizabeth. To be honest, I can't remember all that much about her other than she shares a psychic connection and Tall Man eventually takes her head which...well, I'm wanting to say was he took psychic minds to make the spheres, but that doesn't seem to fit in anywhere. I really need to just pick up a region free player and buy the region 2 box set one of these days.

Maybe Coscarelli realized he painted himself into a corner when it came time to write part 2. Since the twist ending does seem to indicate the "dream" wasn't over, then logially everything after should be a dream also. That's probably why he walks that fine line, because general audiences probably wouldn't care about the myriad of characters if they were all figments of a disturbed boy's subconscious.

Seriously, dream logic basically cleans up every loose question about the series. Perhaps it cleans it too easily...

I'm not sure dream logic fully explains everything. You could say that if something couldn't get figured out, it doesn't necessarily mean anything, but then that feels somewhat cheap. There's still some things that I'm not sure of.

Then there's the time/space theory that Scarecrow brought up which can work just as well.

No, he doesn't say he remembers. He sees the prongs of the gate, and he instinctually raises his hands to close it, but then hesitates. That's when Jodie yells, "Do it Reggie, you've done it before!" We get the flashback, then Reggie closes it.

Ah, ok. I suppose it could be viewed as Reggie doesn't remember and the flashback is just for the viewer or I guess it could be Mike's mind trying to recall a previous event allow Reggie to remember/recollect the event.

You do realize I am now in the process of searching for my lost Phantasm 2 VHS. It sucks, but I want to watch the entire series with complete dream-logic and see what I find. Jodie, Reggie, the Tall Man, the Lady in Lavender, Lizabeth, Timmy, Rocky, Alchemy, even the boob-sphere lady would all represent some aspect of his mind. Like, Timmy would probably represent Mike's lost youth, I would assume Rocky represents Mike's will to live. I'm not sure.

Sorry to drag you down this confusing path with me. :p

I figure Timmy would be the easiest to explain. Young kid who's all alone after his parents died. Sounds similar to Mike. Well, maybe if Mike decided to meld himself with the kid from Home Alone. :p

Well, it's been a good decade now....time for a new Phantasm!

While I agree Phantasm IV has a truly beautiful, low-key ending...my curiousity over what Coscarelli has in store only grows with each passing year.

I know deep down that even if the film wouldn't make a damn bit of sense and even completely clashed any theories, whether they're dream or space/time, I'd still anticipate it. :p

ZOMFG! Phantasm V: Lost in New York. Rocky takes Timmy to the Big Apple, but loses him due to wacky circumstances. The Zombie-trio has found their way to New York, and once again Timmy must booby-trap a random house. Guest starring Angus Scrimm as the scary, seemingly crazy old man in Central Park, who really just misses his estranged daughter....Rocky. Get out your Kleenexes, Phantasm fans!
As much as I feel Phantasm III is a weak film and as much as I dislike Tim, I'd watch it if it were an adult Tim played by Conan O'Brien. Hell, I'd probably like Phantasm III if Conan was pasted and inserted over Tim in the film.

[Hypnocil]

Very good points about Lizabeth. To be honest, I can't remember all that much about her other than she shares a psychic connection and Tall Man eventually takes her head which...well, I'm wanting to say was he took psychic minds to make the spheres, but that doesn't seem to fit in anywhere. I really need to just pick up a region free player and buy the region 2 box set one of these days.
That's what I originally assumed...Tall Man was rounding up the psychic youth for some reason, but this theme pretty much left with Liz and hasn't been revisited.

And yeah, if I don't get P2 on DVD soon I will go mad.

Then there's the time/space theory that Scarecrow brought up which can work just as well.
Yes, that is a fascinating theory. I don't see why it wouldn't fit, seeing as how things/events changed afterwards. I will pay attention when I watch Phantasm again.

In part 3, Reggie closes the gate. I'm not positive, but I think Mike was being held in another dimension, so it would seem closing the gate abruptly then should have caused a reality shift, but I don't think it did. Again, I'm not sure on that one.

I figure Timmy would be the easiest to explain. Young kid who's all alone after his parents died. Sounds similar to Mike. Well, maybe if Mike decided to meld himself with the kid from Home Alone. :p

The more I think about Timmy, the more I think he would represent Mike's willingness to abandon his childhood or innocence.

As much as I feel Phantasm III is a weak film and as much as I dislike Tim, I'd watch it if it were an adult Tim played by Conan O'Brien. Hell, I'd probably like Phantasm III if Conan was pasted and inserted over Tim in the film.

My problem with Timmy is probably a combination of corny writing and a corny child actor. I can so clearly see Coscarelli designing Timmy to be this great homage to Michael in part 1...but man did he fail miserably. Young Mike and Tim couldn't be more different. The biggest difference being that Mike isn't a murderer. Tim has murdered so much, he needed to fun it up with clowns and frisbees. Mike lost himself without his brother, Timmy found himself after his parents were murdered.

Oh, and Tim is a total Mary Sue. Gotta love a kid that has uncanny accuracy when it comes to shooting guns past people's heads, or aiming a frisbee throw to gently slice a person's neck.

I think it's bizarrely humerous that Reggie didn't even bother checking to see if Timmy was rescuable. He just leaves, allowing the dwarfs their din-din. :D

But, you know, Tim probably isn't dead. Tall Man did tell him "I have plans for you! Later..." So with any luck Tall Man's been keeping Timmy in one of those boxes he held Mike in, since 1993. ;)

[Chex]

That's what I originally assumed...Tall Man was rounding up the psychic youth for some reason, but this theme pretty much left with Liz and hasn't been revisited.

Lizabeth represents the blonde hair girl from Phantasm that helped the old woman who Mike always liked. Yeah, ok, I got nothing other than she's another warning of what Mike's subconscious thinks will happen to him if he gives in to the Tall Man. In a way, she's a defense mechanism to his defense mechanism in making Mike reassure himself that he needs to stay away from his guilt/Tall Man.

And yeah, if I don't get P2 on DVD soon I will go mad.

I heard Anchor Bay is releasing the Hellraiser puzzle cube for region 1 that looks just like the on in region 2, only no part 3 (since they don't own it). I wonder if they'll do the same for Phantasm with a sphere and no part 2.

In any case, perhaps considering importing it. The prices for importing can equal up to regular MSRP prices here in the states if you look hard enough. Region free player prices have dropped drastically as well.

Yes, that is a fascinating theory. I don't see why it wouldn't fit, seeing as how things/events changed afterwards. I will pay attention when I watch Phantasm again.

In part 3, Reggie closes the gate. I'm not positive, but I think Mike was being held in another dimension, so it would seem closing the gate abruptly then should have caused a reality shift, but I don't think it did. Again, I'm not sure on that one.

That's a good point if he does close the gate once more yet nothing similar to the event of the first film happens.

The more I think about Timmy, the more I think he would represent Mike's willingness to abandon his childhood or innocence.

I'd say try and explain Rocky, but I've got a better one. Why does Mike's subconscious really dislike the idea of Reggie getting laid? :p

It's just funny when I think about it even though two of the women were sent to stop Reggie/work from the inside and do the Tall Man's dirty work so it's more of the guilt's side acting out in a way to stop Mike's subconscious efforts to continue protecting himself.

It does make you wonder though, and this goes for any theory or even taking the film just as what it shows on screen, why does Tall Man let Reggie go at the start of Phantasm: Oblivion yet send a demon cop, boob sphere girl, and some jawas all to stop Reggie from getting to Mike? If he really wanted him stopped, he could have killed him so you would think he doesn't, but then he sends some goons to try again.

Totally agree with you about Timmy. His character is one of the reasons the film just doesn't work for me along with a 'meh' Rocky and the more comedic elements added in. I like how both Tim and Rocky just get to vanish from the series with no follow up. Usually I'd feel that's a bit of a letdown yet here I can only nod my head in agreement. :p

[Scarecrow]

Yes, that is a fascinating theory. I don't see why it wouldn't fit, seeing as how things/events changed afterwards. I will pay attention when I watch Phantasm again.

In part 3, Reggie closes the gate. I'm not positive, but I think Mike was being held in another dimension, so it would seem closing the gate abruptly then should have caused a reality shift, but I don't think it did. Again, I'm not sure on that one.


Well, tehre's nocorrect answer with this series, that's for sure, it's been made for varying reasons but thewre are,a s we've said two distinct storylien possibilities ; the metaphorical and literal (although the literal still has the events working AS metaphors, even thought they're happening rather than "dreams").

At any rate, I would suggest the Tall Man, originally, had little knowledge of people beign able to stop him, this is early days. Reggie's interference caused a total warp of reality, sucking tiem and space back through the portal, un-doing events. But as the Part 3 sequence shows, it also did happen as well; Reggie remembers with prompting.

However, I'd suggest the Tall Man is more powerful now, and more cautious. Whislt Reggie can manipualt the gate I find it feasible to believe that a more pwoerful/experience Tall Man would not allow such an easy reversal of his plans again. Also, it could be, that events have progressed a lot further, the situation grown more complex. Alternativly, Reggie doens't know exactly how it works and the full effect the firts time could even have been a lucky "fluke" as such. Many ways it could be steered, I believe, to explain why things aren't quite the same.

On Jody, why we're here, I don't believe he was working for the Tall Man in Part 3. he seems too genuine, he never needed to atackt he Tall Man and have his "orb" fried either. Rather, I think after he was made into a sphere, he somehow, and uniquely, managed to hold his free will, but at some point aorund the Part 3/4 crossover, the Tall Man merely reasserted his control over the Jodi-sphere.


- Scarecrow

[nottidelterrore]

30 years ago today, Phantasm was released in United States. Happy 30th Birthday, Phantasm!

[4BarrelHemi]

Happy 30th Phantasm!! Changed my life!

[Ron]

Happy 30th....time for a remake:X:X:X

[pa®tci]

... time for a remake:X:X:X

Or a reboot... :duh:

30 years, wow. :confused: Hope in the next thirty we'll get more clear explanation on what exactly is going on. :D

Why I think I heard there will be a new episode this year?

[The Dream Master]

time for a remake

Coscarelli already tried it himself. He pitched a remake as a trilogy of films to NLC some years back, but they balked at some of the things he wanted to do, so he walked, I believe.

[The Tall Man]

DM, I thought New Line wanted to do shit Coscarelli wasn't down with so he left?

T.M.

[Ron]

I feel dumb when it comes to the Phantasm series. Those who love it, seem to love it dearly. I wish I could appreciate it. I read a pretty solid explication of all of the films a while back (possibly here??) and I planned on rewatching the first film, but never got around to it.

[The Dream Master]

DM, I thought New Line wanted to do shit Coscarelli wasn't down with so he left?

T.M.

Well, I think it was sort of a mutual thing, no? He wanted to keep all the original cast members, and NLC said they wanted a new cast, which resulted in Coscarelli walking, I believe.

[nottidelterrore]

If he walked because of that, kudos to him. Maybe he didn't want to pull another Phantasm II & have to replace not just one cast member...but all of 'em! Vinnie Jones as Reggie. Paul Walker as Mike. Dikembe Mutombo as The Tall Man. John Cena as Jody. Linda Hunt as The Lady in Lavender.

[nottidelterrore]

Phantasm II finally on Region 1 DVD? (http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6663030.html)

Phantasm II UNIVERSAL prebook 7-28; DVD $19.98 Horror: The Tall Man is back with a vengeance in Phantasm II, available on DVD for the first time.

It's closer towards the bottom of the article.

[Patrick]

Sweet! Finally! They need to release it on Blu-ray.

[Ron]

That's cool...maybe now it will light a fire under my ass to get the rest of the series after 1 on dvd.

[DrSpengler]

That's great to hear. I own Phantasm II and III on R2 DVD, but I'd like versions that'll play on all the other DVD players in my house and not just the one in my bedroom (I only have 1 region-free player).

[Brett H.]

Finally I can watch the sequels in order. Been holding off watching III/4 for... 5 years now? :X

[The Dream Master]

:o

First Night of the Creeps and now this?!

[nottidelterrore]

Despite owning it on VHS & region 2 via the Sphere set, I'll still get it.

I bet the disc is barebones.

[Joshg]

Finally!

I own 1, 3 and 4, but I haven't seen OblIVion yet for some strange reason. Maybe because I just wasn't supposed to see it before II.

But, wait. I've seen Lord of the Dead. "Ball is Back", what are you trying to tell me? :(

I'll pick this up definitely. I hope Universal keeps the form of artwork Anchor Bay has been using for 1, 3 and 4.

[The Dream Master]

The Digital Bits (http://thedigitalbits.com/#mytwocents) is reporting the trailer as the only special feature (to no one's surprise, I'm sure).

We've already mentioned this before, but Universal will finally release Phantasm II on 9/15 too, though on DVD only (SRP $19.98). The only extra is a theatrical trailer.

[The Tall Man]

"No... it's not!"

Wait a minute... yes it is. Kudos, Universal, you cheap, lazy bastards.

T.M., Esq.

[Just Jeans]

Phantasm II was up there with the Doctor Who TV movie on the list of films I never expected Universal to put out on DVD. Kudos to Universal. Can't wait to get it.

Now where's mah Eric Roberts vs the Doctor movie? Make it happen, Universal!

[nottidelterrore]

I'm not surprised that Universal is only giving us a trailer on the DVD. At least we're actually getting Phantasm II on region 1 DVD. If I want special features, I'll just crack open my sphere set.

[Just Jeans]

Universal has got a lot of films in their back catalog that I expect will have no special features at all, should they even be released in the first place. It's all part of their clever plan: wear us down for years, making us beg for these flicks, and when they finally release a cheap-as-hell, bare-bones DVD, we're so greatful to just to get the stinking thing on DVD that we don't complain (too much) about the lack of extras.

Well played, Universal. Well played.

Incidentally, weren't the Phantasm II extras in the Sphere Set produced by Anchor Bay? I guess Universal didn't want to pony up to purchase the rights to those extras.

[The Tall Man]

Jeans, you're so so nice. "Didn't want to pony up to purchase the rights." THEY'RE CHEAP! Cheap bastards. :)

T.M., Esq.

[Scarecrow]

Wow. A trailer. I'm susprised they aren't still listing "Animated Menu's" and "Scene Selection" as extra features!


- Scarecrow

[Brett H.]

http://www.dvdactive.com/images/news/screenshot/2009/7/phantasm2r1artworkpic.jpg

[nottidelterrore]

I don't think that cover is great but I've seen a lot worse too.

[The Tall Man]

I can't even see the cover. Even if I go to the site, it's just a dvdactive.com label.

T.M., Esq.

[nottidelterrore]

Here ya go, TM.

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r294/oltrelamorte/be2d4157.jpg

[sam hane]

http://webpages.charter.net/igotsnewshoes/Phantasm2Cover.JPG

I like the cover, it goes well with the others

[The Dream Master]

Once again, Angus seems to be winking at us.

[sam hane]

He IS quite the elder flirt.

[The Tall Man]

Wow. That is weak. Couldn't have just used the poster art, could they?

T.M., Esq.

[Just Jeans]

I actually like it. As far as modern DVD covers go -- I gave up on getting "original poster art" on DVDs a long time ago -- it's pretty good. Sort of reminds me of the part III art.

[nottidelterrore]

Wow. That is weak. Couldn't have just used the poster art, could they?

T.M., Esq.

I wish they would've used it.

Or used this:

http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r294/oltrelamorte/8f85ce11.jpg

[The Tall Man]

Jeans, I absolutely detest the III poster art. It's just so generic and lifeless.

Notti, that's good art, no doubt about it, but Angus needs to be there somewhere.

T.M., Esq.

[nottidelterrore]

Notti, that's good art, no doubt about it, but Angus needs to be there somewhere.

Very true! That's why they should've just used the VHS cover art.

[Just Jeans]

Is the poster art for III the same thing that's on the VHS cover, Tall?

The art you posted above would be good, notti, if not for the fact that Fake Mike is on it. Fuck that guy and his chiseled physique. I wish they'd go into the film and digitally replace him with a 46 year old A Michael Baldwin. That would be doep.

[nottidelterrore]

Here's the VHS art for P3:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511H4W6C7BL._SS500_.jpg

I'm not sure about where the Phantasm III DVD cover is from but I vaguely remember seeing a poster with that same artwork on it. Foreign perhaps? Tally will more than likely know this. :)

*Edit*

The Phantasm III DVD cover is very similar to the international poster art.

http://www.phantasm.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=22&products_id=30

[Just Jeans]

Isn't that international poster art on one of the Anchor Bay Phantasm DVDs?

I've actually still got Phantasm III on VHS. It's in pretty good shape. I quite like the VHS box art.

[nottidelterrore]

Yes, it's on their release of Phantasm III from a few years back.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5107FKilwWL._SS500_.jpg

I miss my Phantasm III tape. I sold it on eBay for about $10 not too long before the DVD came out.

[Just Jeans]

I only paid $5 for my VHS copy, but considering the thing used to cost round about $100 to buy new, I don't think I'll ever let it go.

[nottidelterrore]

I got my Phantasm III VHS as a part of a three for $5 VHS deal at a pawn shop about four years back. The other two tapes were Maniac Cop 2(a rare tape itself) & the not so rare Beverly Hills Cop III.

[The Tall Man]

The "Phantasm III" domestic poster and the VHS cover are one and the same.


I'm not sure about where the Phantasm III DVD cover is from but I vaguely remember seeing a poster with that same artwork on it. Foreign perhaps? Tally will more than likely know this. :)
The Phantasm III DVD cover is very similar to the international poster art.
The DVD cover that Anchor Bay used is the same as the "international" Phantasm III poster, but that's kinda not right. The imagery that poster used is from a foriegn (probable European... possibly French or Italian) poster for the original "Phantasm" way back in 1979.

One of those guys in jumpsuits was added to the imagery for the III redux.

T.M., Esq.

[nottidelterrore]

Did anyone pick up the new region one Phantasm II DVD today?

[sam hane]

Mine is on the way from amazon.com, should be getting it tomorrow hopefully.

[Ron]

Did anyone pick up the new region one Phantasm II DVD today?

Shit, i forgot it was coming out today:X

[The Dream Master]

Can't wait for that shit to get here. Probably on Thursday. Gonna be doep.

[The Tall Man]

Hell no. The only store in town that has it (and NINE of them apparently) is a Best Buy on the north side of town. I'll go up there Thursday when I run some other north-side errands and pick it up.

T.M., Esq.

[nottidelterrore]

I looked at Wal-Mart today but didn't see it. I did see the new Army of Darkness DVD(8000th release I believe), which I'm not getting. I wanted to get the new X-Men: The Animated Series volumes but I am poor. :(

[ToJarJa]

Hell no. The only store in town that has it (and NINE of them apparently) is a Best Buy on the north side of town. I'll go up there Thursday when I run some other north-side errands and pick it up.

T.M., Esq.

Hell no also. I got the UK sphere set. :D

[The Tall Man]

ToJarJa, yeah, Universal's disc is a monument to underachievement really. The print also looks really... color saturated. The region 2 disc is easily the one to have. A trailer? Really, just a trailer Universal? You didn't even try did you?

T.M., Esq.

[ToJarJa]

ToJarJa, yeah, Universal's disc is a monument to underachievement really. The print also looks really... color saturated. The region 2 disc is easily the one to have. A trailer? Really, just a trailer Universal? You didn't even try did you?

T.M., Esq.

Yeah, such a long awaited release and then... *cue price is right fail music*

[SlasherFreak]

Had anyone ever seen the Phantasm 2 workprint?

[nottidelterrore]

I've never seen it but I know of it.

I don't know when I'll get the region one disc. I'm not really in any hurry because I have the Sphere set. The Phantasm II disc in there sounds like it's superior to the lackluster region one release. It's nice that it's finally out here though.

[SlasherFreak]

Theres a ton of shit they could of put on the disc from the workprint. Theres a bunch of deleted and extended scenes.

ask and you shall recieve