Anguish is a bizarre entry in the "film within a film" genre, and is one of those films, where the least said about it is best. You should really go in, knowing only if it's worth your time or not. The answer to that question lies ahead.

John (Michael Lerner) loves his mother and will do anything for her, but would he kill? The answer to that question is simple. Yes. John's overbearing mother (Zelda Rubinstein, of Poltergeist fame), using hypnosis, controls her son, and uses him at her will. Convincing John to punish those who "did him wrong" she sends him out on the town. This is where the film takes an interesting turn

As the audience we find out that we have been watching a movie, along with another audience. The film is entitled "The Mommy" and we are now introduced to a new line of characters. Confused yet? Well, we've just gotten started. Apparently there is someone in the theatre, who isn't quite, how should we say, mentally stable. At this point I will say no more.

The twists keep coming, and the juxtaposition between the parallel narratives, is handled quite well. You're never quite sure where the film is headed until the the final frame.

Anguish is a gimmick movie, plain and simple. A gimmick movie that works, and that is a rare treat. The viewer never feels as if he/she is being manipulated for the wrong reasons. Anguish is by no means a classic, or a great film for that matter, but it is great fun.

Anguish is presented in an anamorphic scope transfer, and this is quite simply the best this film has ever looked. The scope presentation opens up a lot of information lost in the previous pan and scan laser disc release. The DVD is clear of specs and scratches and is quite stunning.

The sound is 5.1 digital, and once again, this film has never sounded better. The surrounds are used in a very ingenious way. Approximately 20 minutes into the film, when we hit the theatre that "The Mommy" is playing in, the sound kicks into gear. Believe me when I say you are in for a real treat.

I know I'm leaving a lot to question, but horror fans owe it to themselves to check Anguish out, at the very least as a rental. Hopefully your curiosity has been peaked. Seasoned fans of the film, should be very pleased with the presentation. Anguish fans could not have asked for more. Anchor Bay has done a fine job bringing this little gem to DVD.