Naschy on DVD? I never thought I'd see the day. Not only that, but I never thought I'd see Naschy films looking as good as they do today. From Mondo Macabro to Anchor Bay to Image, they're all doing the Naschy and fans have a lot to be thankful for. The first of two Naschy films courtesy of Anchor Bay is 1970's Werewolf Shadow. Shadow is by far not one of Naschy's best films, however it does remain a solid entry in the realm of Spanish horror and there really is a lot to like here. Presentation is key and Anchor Bay holds up to the high standards set by previous releases. In other words, they done pretty good.

Genevieve (the ultra lovely Gaby Fuchs) and Elvira (Barbara Cappell) are two young women traveling Spain's countryside in search of the mysterious Countess Wandessa (Paty Shepard) an age-old witch or an age-old myth? After experiencing a bit of car trouble (cue music… da dum!) the twomeet up with the now infamous Waldemar (Paul Naschy) who graciously offers up a spare bedroom in his castle. The three travel to Wandessa's tomb, camera in hand and expose the deteriorated corpse of the virgin blood drinking age-old vamp. Silly Elvira cuts her arm and the blood slowly trickles down onto the corpse, uh oh. Do I really need to tell you what happens next? Wandessa rises from her tomb and sets her sights on the two fair young maidens with Genevieve being turned almost immediately. All the while Elvira and Waldemar fall in love as he tries to hide a little secret of his own (psssst! He's a werewolf, shhhh!). Before you can say bark at the moon, it's a werewolf/vampirific fight to the finish, Naschy style.

Werewolf Shadow is full of elements of terror that could fill a sack of wet dreams for a true fan of gothic terror. You've got your incredible gothic sets, gorgeous vampire women, charismatic werewolf heartthrob and gobs of gooey gore. Atmospheric and incredible to look at Shadow is, however, the film does have its week points. The story does get a little convoluted as things progress (so many sub-plots so little time). Maybe Naschy was trying too hard with his story, as there is a lot to follow through with (and follow through his something he does not). Characters are brought in and out on a whim and sub-plots (yup, those pesky sub-plots again) are shifted around so much they seem to never end. Not to worry though folks as this film has style to spare (that's what's most important in a case like this, right?). If you're anything like me you'll sit in front of the TV with a shit-eating grin on your face and enjoy every minute of this films atmospheric goodness.

Anchor Bay presents Werewolf Shadow on DVD uncut in all of its sexual and violent glory. Fully restored in its longest version available, Werewolf Shadow has never looked this good on home video. The proper widescreen framing opens up bits of info on the sides not present on previous full frame editions. Colors are so sharp and vibrant they just leap off the screen. Print damage is minimal, as is grain. This is an extremely pleasing transfer, Anchor Bay has done an outstanding job with this release.

Audio is presented in a dubbed mono mix and is quite acceptable. Although it would have been preferable to have the film in its original Spanish with subs, the dubbed track will have to do. Audio is fairly clear with just some minimal instances of distortion. Considering the films age and history, we couldn't have asked for much more.

Extras include an excellent 15-minute interview with Paul Naschy (subtitled) once again, the man is great to listen to. He's honest and humble and a truly genuine human being. Also included is a nice still gallery featuring poster art for a slew of Naschy films along with a theatrical and TV trailer. Last but not least is a nice little Naschy BIO. Considering the price point of the disc, this is an impressive little package.

Needless to say, but this disc is a must own for Naschy fans. Along those lines, it's also a good place to start for Naschy virgins as it should leave you wanting more. It's important to remember there are better Naschy offerings out there we can enjoy, so you've got something to look forward to. Shadow may not be his best, but if you're anything like me, any Naschy is good Naschy. Sink in and enjoy, I know you will.