The Film (4/5)

David (Cliff Robertson) is a millionaire with a problem. His wife Dominique (Jean Simmons) has just passed away but seems to keep popping back up. Is she a ghost or does it have to do with her new timely will?

DOMINIQUE (1979), aka DOMINIQUE IS DEAD, is another chilly movie that seems to be forgotten minus its place in public domain home video releases. The previous DVD versions have left a lot to be desired with miserable transfer and spotty audio. But the good folks at Vinegar Syndrome have rescued another unsung film.

The film is based on the short story What Beckoning Ghost by Harold Lawlor and is adapted to screen by Edward and Valerie Abraham. The film’s direction is handled by Michael Anderson who has made some impressive action and spy thrillers with THE QUILLER MEMORANDUM and OPERATION CROSSBOW. Anderson brings the same chilly pacing to DOMINIQUE. In some ways echoing Mario Bava’s KILL BABY KILL and the Drop of Water segment of BLACK SABBATH, where one character is slowly losing their mind while stalked by an agent of fear. Also, like Bava’s work, this film is painted head to toe with bright neon color and nightmarish pinks.

I don’t want to spoil the plot, but the film is filled with a fine supporting cast of suspicious characters. Cliff Robertson is using some of intense energy from Brian De Palma’s OBSESSION, and makes quite an impression. Jean Simmons makes an off centered and unnerving ghost. In two smaller roles are character actors Judy Geeson (who charms in Rob Zombie’s LORDS OF SALEM) and Michael Jayston (CRAZED). Simon Ward (Hammer’s FRANKENSTIEN MUST BE DESTROYED) steals every scene he is in with his icy stare.

Audio/ Video (3.5/5)

The English 1.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix is a little uneven. There are a few hollow sounding sections around the hour mark and then again at an hour and 15 minutes. The musical score is balanced but some of the sound effects peak out and cause some light hiss. Some of the dialogue is also a little hard to understand.  English subtitles are included.

The 1080p HD transfer is well handled and has some vivid Bava styled lighting. The bright colors look wonderful on a bigger screen. The black levels are well defined and there is hardly any print damage. There is also some natural film grain.

Extras (2.5/5)

There are two audio interviews conducted via phone/ skype. The first is with Assistant Director Brian Cook, who discusses his work on the film as well as bits of THE WICKER MAN, FLASH GORDON, and THE SHINING. The second is with actor Michael Jayston, who shares some stories about Cliff Robertson and working with Jack Palance on CRAZED. Both are enjoyable listens, but the quality is muffled in a few spots. Rounding out the disc is the original theatrical trailer.

*The Limited Edition comes with a slipcover.

Overall (4/5)

Vinegar Syndrome releases another chilling horror film onto shiny disc. DOMINIQUE is a well-crafted thriller that deserves a second look if your only used to the public domain prints. Highly recommended.