70's cinema; Was there any better time than the 70's in the history of motion pictures? With so much to choose from, especially in the world of horror, it makes my head spin to even think about it. In addition to the sleazy grindhouse gore flicks, there was the polar opposite present in the form of PG rated horror. Ironically enough, PG rated horror of the 70's was nearly as sick and disturbing as its grindhouse counterparts. A prime example of what I consider to be the "golden age" of 70's cinema would definitely be And Soon the Darkness. Extremely subtle and unassuming in its actual "badness", this is the type of film that would have given me many nightmares as a child. Discovering a film like this in my ::cough:: late twenties, is a rare and extremely welcomed treat.

Two attractive young ladies are bicycling through some rural countryside in Paris. Cathy (Michele Dotrice) the unapologetic flirt and Jane (Pamela Franklin of The Legend of Hell House) the reserved "mom" of the two, seem to be enjoying their down time together. Whether it's hanging out at a cozy café or lounging around a scenic spot in the woods, they're living the life. During this time, amidst the lighthearted 70's theme music, there is a definite foreboding that SOMETHING is going to happen. We don't know when, where, or how, but we KNOW it's coming. The two girls suffer from a petty argument and reluctantly go their separate ways. Jane's remorse gets the best of here (she is the good girl after all) and she decides to head back to the clearing where she left Cathy. Jane arrives only to find that Cathy is now nowhere to be found. What follows is a creepy game of cat and mouse, as Jane encounters some creepy locals and finds herself to be scoped out by guys wearing sunglasses (among other things). To say anymore about the story itself would be a crime against nature, as much of the fun comes from how the story unfolds and the many unexpected turns it takes.

And Soon the Darkness is a creepy little gem that takes a real minimalist approach to horror. Most importantly is the fact that it's done right. We're introduced to likable characters and given enough information so we can identify and sympathize with
them. Then, without warning, we're beaten over the head, repeatedly and there's nothing we can do about it. The film itself is very clean, with really no sex, language, or nudity (I can hear the groans already, what a bunch of pervs you are). It isn't until the end of the film that there is even a hint of violence, which makes it all the more upsetting, when it finally happens.

This film is true horror from start to finish, as Jane's hope diminishes, ours does as well. Every aspect of the production falls into place from the writing, to the performances and most importantly, the direction. And Soon the Darkness is an expertly crafted exercise in subtle fright. There are enough twists and turns to keep one involved right up until the end and all of the performances are dead (pardon the pun) on target. Plain and simple, this film is cool without being excessive or exploitative and I can dig that.

Anchor Bay has struck gold once again; there's really nothing more I can say. This film looks outstanding, end of story. Aside from some evidence of grain (most likely inherit in the source material) there is really no print damage to speak of. There may have been one slight scratch at one point, and possibly a few instances of specs or film dirt. Colors are so vivid, you'd never think this film was made in the 70's. This is an example of film preservation at its finest.

Sound is presented in Dolby Digital Mono and is quite acceptable. Not much going on here, just your typical flat mono mix from the 70's. It would have been great to have a 2.0 mix to really give the incredible (yet repetitive) 70's score a chance to shine. As it stands now, dialogue is clear, and the music and effects are never overpowering.

Extras include an awesome trailer that is just as creepy as the film itself (that whispering voice, ouch!), and two original radio spots (also extra creepy). Also included is a full-length commentary with director Robert Fuest (Director of the Dr. Phibes films) and Co-Writer/Producer Brian Clemens, moderated by Journalist Jonathon Sothcott. The commentary itself is entertaining enough for at least one sitting. It's a treat for those interested in the technical aspect of filmmaking, while the casual viewer may find it to be a bit slow moving. Extras are rounded out with your standard Bios.

Overall, this is another booming success for Anchor Bay. Rescued from obscurity, And Soon the Darkness has now hit the digital format for everyone to enjoy. I'd even go so far as to say that you might even want to share this one with the kids (are you an adventurous parent?). It's sure to keep them entertained and give them nightmares (just like most children's programming!), and isn't that what it's all about? If you haven't had the pleasures of seeing this fine film (as I hadn't until now), do yourself a favor and check it out.