BLADE TRILOGY [1998 / 2002 / 2004 / 2020] [Blu-ray] [UK Release] The Power of an Immortal! The Soul of a Human! The Heart of a Hero!
BLADE: Wesley Snipes stars as the tortured soul Blade, who is half man, half immortal. Blade sharpens his lethal skills under the guidance of Whistler – his mentor, guardian and fellow hunter of the night. When the bloodthirsty Immortals’ lord, Deacon Frost, declares war on the human race, Blade is humanity’s last hope for survival.
BLADE II Guillermo del Toro directs this high-voltage adventure from screenwriter David S. Goyer. When the world is threatened by a new and deadlier breed of super vampire, Blade and Whistler join forces with an elite team of vampire warriors made up of Blade’s sworn enemies to stop the carnage and destroy the ravenous fiends.
BLADE: TRINITY: For years, Blade has fought the vampires under the cover of night. But after falling into the crosshairs of the FBI, he is forced into the daylight, where he joins forces with a clan of human vampire hunters, the Nightstalkers. Together with two deftly trained Nightstalkers, Blade follows a trail of blood to the original vampire: Dracula aka Drake.
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FILM FACT: BLADE The first cut of the film was 140 minutes long. It had a disastrous test screening with audiences. Heavy edits and re-shoots were implemented which delayed the release date for more than half a year. The most significant change was the addition of the final sword fight between Blade and Deacon Frost, which did not exist in the original cut. In the original ending, Frost turned into La Magra and became a large swirling mass of blood instead of keeping his form. This was scrapped because the filmmakers could not get the special effects to look right. It can be seen as a special feature on the DVD release.
BLADE [1998]
Cast: Wesley Snipes, Stephen Dorff, Kris Kristofferson, N'Bushe Wright, Donal Logue, Udo Kier, Arly Jover, Traci Lords, Kevin Patrick Walls, Tim Guinee, Sanaa Lathan, Eric Edwards, Donna Wong, Carmen Thomas, Shannon Lee, Kenny Johnson, Clint Curtis, Judson Scott, Sidney S. Liufau, Keith Leon Williams, Andray Johnson, Stephen R. Peluso, Marcus Aurelius, John Enos III, Eboni Adams, Lyle Conway, Freeman White III, D.V. DeVincentis, Marcus Salgado, Esau McKnight Jr., Erl Van Douglas, Matt Schulze, Lennox Brown, Yvette Ocampo, Irena Stepic, Jenya Lano, Levani, Richard 'Dr.' Baily (uncredited), Ron Cobert (uncredited), Nikki DiSanto (uncredited), Ryan Glorioso (uncredited), Al Goto (uncredited), Jeff Imada (uncredited), Diana Lee Inosanto (uncredited), Steven Ito (uncredited), Elliott James (uncredited), Ted King (uncredited), Henry Kingi (uncredited), Will Leong (uncredited), David Matthiessen (uncredited), Stephen Norrington (uncredited), Gerald Okamura (uncredited), Frankie Ray (uncredited), Simon Rhee (uncredited), Carrie Seeley (uncredited), Michael Stumpf (uncredited), Jen Taylor (uncredited) and Beth Theriac (uncredited)
Director: Stephen Norrington
Producers: Andrew J. Horne, Avi Arad, Jon Divens, Joseph Calamari, Lynn Harris, Michael De Luca, Peter Frankfurt, Robert Engelman, Stan Lee and Wesley Snipes
Screenplay: David S. Goyer
Composer: Mark Isham
Cinematography: Theo Van de Sande, A.S.C. (Director of Photography)
Image Resolution: 1080p
Aspect Ratio: 2.40:1
Audio: English: 6.1 TS-HD Master Audio
German: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Italian: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Spanish [Castilian]: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Spanish [Latin]: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Português: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Czech: 2.0 Dolby Digital Stereo Audio
Russian: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
English: 2.0 Dolby Digital Stereo Audio
Subtitles: English SDH, German, Italian, Spanish [Castilian], Dutch, Spanish [Latin], Português and Russian
Running Time: 120 minutes
Region: All Regions
Number of discs: 1
Studio: Warner Home Video
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BLADE II [2002]
Cast: Wesley Snipes, Kris Kristofferson, Ron Perlman, Leonor Varela, Norman Reedus, Thomas Kretschmann, Luke Goss, Matt Schulze, Danny John-Jules, Donnie Yen, Karel Roden, Marit Velle Kile, Tony Curran, Daz Crawford, Santiago Segura, Samuel Le (aka Xuyen Tu Valdivia), Marek Vasut, Pete Lee-Wilson, Paul Kasey, Andrea Miltner, Ladislav Beran, Jirí Maria Sieber, Bridge Markland, Jamie Wilson, Stuart Luis, Ladislav Mohyla, Jan Malík, Jan Révai, Mário Wild, Tomás Böhm, Zdenek Bubák, Jan Loukota, Jan Bursa, Petr Krusalnicky, Jaroslav Misek, Karel Vávrovec, Jaroslav Peterka, Milos Kulhavy, Ivan Mares, Lennox Brown, André Hyde-Braithwaite, Pavel Cajzl (uncredited), Olga Lounová (uncredited), Stephen R. Peluso (uncredited), John Salvitti (uncredited), Rey-Phillip Santos (uncredited), Kenji Tanigaki (uncredited) and Michael Woods (uncredited)
Director: Guillermo Del Toro
Producers: Andrew J. Horne, Avi Arad, David S. Goyer, Jon Divens, Lynn Harris, Michael De Luca, Patrick J. Palmer, Peter Frankfurt, Robert Bernacchi, Stan Lee, Toby Emmerich, Tomas Krejci and Wesley Snipes
Screenplay: David S. Goyer (written), Gene Colan(character) and Marv Wolfman (character)
Composer: Marco Beltrami
Cinematography: Luis Gabriel Beristáin, A.S.C., B.S.C., A.M.C. (Director of Photography)
Image Resolution: 1080p
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1
Audio: English: 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
English: 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
German: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Spanish [Latin]: 2.0 Dolby Digital Stereo Audio
Português [Brazil]: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Czech: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Hungarian: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Russian: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
English: 2.0 Dolby Digital Stereo Audio
Subtitles: English SDH, German SDH, Spanish [Latin], Português, Czech, Hungarian and Russian
Running Time: 116 minutes
Region: All Regions
Number of discs: 1
Studio: Warner Home Video
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BLADE: TRINITY [2004]
Cast: Wesley Snipes, Kris Kristofferson, Dominic Purcell, Jessica Biel, Ryan Reynolds, Parker Posey, Mark Berry, John Michael Higgins, Callum Keith Rennie, Paul Levesque (aka Triple H), Paul Anthony, Françoise Yip, Michael Anthony Rawlins, James Remar, Natasha Lyonne, Ginger Page (aka Haili Page), Patton Oswalt , Ron Selmour, Christopher Heyerdahl, Eric Bogosian, Scott Heindl, John Ashker, Clay Cullen, Steven McMichael, Paul Wu, Kimani Ray Smith, Darren McGuire, Shannon Powell, Jill Krop, Jordan Hoffart, Kett Turton, Cascy Beddow, Simon Pidgeon, Michael St. John Smith, Stephen Spender, Kwesi Ameyaw, Alejandro Rae, Erica Cerra, Garvin Cross, Raymond Sammel, John Ulmer, Justin Sain, Darryl Scheelar, Camille Martinez, Michelle Stoll, Dawn Mander, Aaron Atkins (uncredited), Gabriel Beristain (uncredited), Mike Cook (uncredited), Chris Gorak (uncredited), Andrew Kucharski (uncredited), Johanna Olson (uncredited), Chris Sayour (uncredited) and Brian Steele (uncredited)
Director: David S. Goyer
Producers: Art Schaefer, Avi Arad, Cale Boyter, David S. Goyer, Kevin Feige, Lynn Harris, Peter Frankfurt, Stan Lee, Toby Emmerich and Wesley Snipes
Screenplay: David S. Goyer (written), Gene Colan (character) and Marv Wolfman (character)
Composer: Ramin Djawadi RZA
Cinematography: Luis Gabriel Beristáin, A.S.C., B.S.C., A.M.C. (Director of Photography)
Image Resolution: 1080p
Aspect Ratio: 2:35:1
Audio: English: 6.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
German: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
Czech: 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio
English: 2.0 Dolby Digital Stereo Audio
Subtitles: English SDH, German SDH, Spanish [Latin] and Czech
Running Time: 122 minutes
Region: All Regions
Number of discs: 1
Studio: Warner Home Video
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Andrew’s Blu-ray Review: With the BLADE TRILOGY franchise we have the ultimate vampire slayer starring Wesley Snipes. Of course Marvel Comics got its first big break in 1998, with one of the lesser properties in their illustrious history, with the character called “Blade,” that debuted in “The Tomb of Dracula” #10. Then in 1973, the character was never a hot or popular, because the character completely disappeared from the face of Marvel Comics for over sixteen years, until the rebooted “Ghost Rider” brought back the interest in occult characters. Before the film was released, “Blade” had only received ten total comic books with his name in the title and a mere fraction of the Marvel Comic heavy hitters that had existed continuously since the early 1960's. “Blade” went on to be Marvel Comic's first real success, a full two years before their comic book adaptation craze started. Let's flash twelve years back, to a time when Marvel Comics were best kept in print, and DC ruled theatres, though their grip was slipping...
With the film ‘BLADE’ [1998] it follows a basic story structure, and is so paint-by-numbers that it really doesn't require much thinking. You get your introduction to the character, and the theme of the film, in the opening, showing how vampires operate in modern times, and how one man can take down an entire army of them, and evade police at the same time. You then meet the supporting characters, and the villain, and slowly they piece themselves into the main plot. Conflict is introduced, clues are followed, and tension and drama is introduced by way of attacking Blade's cohorts, all leading to one final battle between evil and not-so-evil. But the beauty of ‘BLADE’ is that it doesn't matter how predictable or cliché the story is, as it's easy to just enjoy the film for what it is: mindless slaughter, mixed with internal anguish and guilt, which will be used against the character in the climax. To some people the film ‘BLADE’ may not be the best comic movie out there, but totally disagree, because I personally could not ask for a more brilliant Marvel Comics film concerning a non-integral Marvel Comics character. Honestly, one could leave the film, not knowing it was a comic movie, and be shocked to find out the real history of the character of Blade. That's part of the charm. With a quick and understandable backstory and introduction, lots of action, and an obvious villain character to root against. The film ‘BLADE’ doesn't redefine the wheel, but it does take us along for the ride with great style and I have loved this film the first time I viewed it in the cinema and I still get a thrill watching on the Blu-ray format and I think Wesley Snipes is perfect as Blade and especially his wonderful sidekick Whistler played by Kris Kristofferson.
BLADE MUSIC TRACK LIST
CONFUSION (Pump Panel Recon Mix) (Written by Stephen Morris, Peter Hook, Bernard Sumner, Gillian Gilbert and Arthur Baker) [Performed by New Order]
BAD MOON RISING (Written by John Fogerty) [Performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival]
AH SINGAPORE (Written by Naoko Yamano) [Performed by Shonen Knife]
UT1-DOT (Written by Aphex Twin) [Performed by Aphex Twin]
DIG THIS VIBE (Written by DJ Krush) [Performed by DJ Krush]
YEAH (Written by DJ Krush) [Performed by DJ Krush]
DEALING WITH THE ROSTER (Written by Tom Holkenborg and Patrick Ian Tilon) [Performed by Junkie XL]
PLAYING WITH LIGHTNING (Written by Chylow Parker, Fredro Scruggs, Kirk Jones, Tyrone Taylor, George Rodriguez and James Bernard) [Performed by Expansion Union] [Contains a sample of "Shiftee" Performed by Onyx]
ECLIPSE (Written by Elmar Schulte and Ruediger Gleisberg) [Performed by Solitaire]
CALL & RESPONSE (Written by James Baker and Philip Aslett) [Performed by Source Direct]
SOLIEL (Written by Elmar Schulte and Ruediger Gleisberg) [Performed by Solitaire]
ETHER (Written by Matt Walker) [Performed by Siren]
FEARLESS (Written by Elmar Schulte and Ruediger Gleisberg) [Performed by Solitaire]
RATTLE THE FEAR (Written by Steve Snow, Jimmy Hawes and Tom Maxwell) [Performed by Spirit Fire Child]
RAINBOW FORCE From "Hearing Solar Winds" (Written by David Hykes) [Performed by David Hykes]
NI TEN ICHI TYU (Two Swords Technique) (Written by Photek) [Performed by Photek]
GO GET IT ON (Written by Kelly Reverb and Chad Littlepage) [Performed by Southside Reverb]
CHIN CHIN (uncredited) (Written by Damien Wagner) [Performed by Bang Wa Cherry and DJ June and features "Japanese Schoolgirl Rap" and played in the Night Club scene]
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Then in 2002 they released ‘BLADE II’ and Blade’s mantra is “The enemy of my enemy is my friend/ally.” Blade may be part vampire, but he doesn't like it all that much, and he sure as shit isn't all too fond of vampires in general. They have his companion Whistler, have converted him, and have been torturing him for two years. Seemingly as soon as Whistler is back in Blade's arms and converted yet again, conflict will arise. Then we have the Reapers, the Bloodpack, and of course Blade. It's like a Ménage à trois of hatred and distrust. The vampiric Bloodpack, a group of trained hunters who are vampires, don't much trust vampire hunter Blade, yet have been forced to form an alliance with their mortal enemy, due to a new threat: mutated vampires who feed on both humans and vampires, alike. A group of equal opportunity bloodsuckers that is led by Nomak the Reaper [Luke Goss]. With tensions at a high, distrust through the roof, and danger around every turn, it's up to Blade to work with the ally he doesn't trust, and to borrow yet another clichéd term, "keep his friends close, and his enemies closer." ‘BLADE II’ trumps the original in many ways. First, of course is the storytelling. Because in the first film ‘BLADE’ you had a much more enjoyable, but the wild, untamed, borderline uncontrollable pace, than the structure found in ‘BLADE II’ is its great strength. There is still a series of acts, but they blend, and the role of aggressor changes constantly in the film, between who really acts in control: Reapers, vampires, or vampire hunters. Fight scenes are more personal, and are honestly much more brutal. ‘BLADE II’ has perfected the formula as much as it could be done, and with this bloody film it is loaded with twists and turns, some that can be seen a mile away, others that can be seen as a revelation. A smarter script, a director with superior, better performances, and more complex fight sequences create a sequel superior to the original in just about every way. So all in all, you have a really jolly time, especially seeing Blade trying his utmost to trying to eliminate the evil vampires and especially the Reapers and definitely the Bloodpack.
BLADE II MUSIC TRACK LIST
KALINKA (Traditional Russian Folk Song) (Arranged and Performed by Limpopo aka Crazy Russian Folk 'n' Roll)
GORILLAZ ONE MY MIND (Written by Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett and Reggie Noble) [Performed by Redman & Gorillaz]
PHDream (Written by Ken Jordan, Scott Kirkland, Warren Anderson Mathis and Organized Noize Productions, Inc.) [Performed by Bubba Sparxxx & The Crystal Method]
RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW (Written by Ice Cube, Paul Oakenfold, Andy Gray and Steven John Osborne) [Performed by Ice Cube & Paul Oakenfold]
FREESTYLE FREAKIN’ (Written by Scott Schorr) [Performed by Turntable Bay]
THE ONE (Written by Busta Rhymes, Vyshonn Miller, Barry Ashworth and Jason O'Bryan) [Performed by Busta Rhymes, Silkk the Shocker & Dub Pistols]
TAO OF THE MACHINE (Written by Tariq Trotter and Brian Transeau) [Performed by The Roots & BT]
WE BE LIKE THIS (Written by Jason T. Phillips, John Jackson and Danny Saber) [Performed by Fabolous, Jadakiss & Danny Saber]
BLOOD IS PUMPING (Cold Blood) (Written by C.J. Stone and Reinhard Raith) [Performed by Reinhard Raith and Serano]
CHILD OF THE WILD WEST (Written by Louis Freese, Larry Muggerud and Ryan Williams) [Performed by Cypress Hill & Roni Size]
THE NAME OF THE GAME (Written by Ken Jordan, Scott Kirkland and Tom Morello) [Performed by The Crystal Method]
I AGAINST I (Written by Dante Smith, Robert Del Naja, Grantley Marshall and Andrew Vowles) [Performed by Yasiin Bey & Massive Attack]
MIND WHAT YOU SAY (Written by Lennox Brown) [Performed by Lennox Brown]
COWBOY (Written by Eve Jeffers, Kasseem Dean, Jay Jackson, Mashonda Tifrere and Norman Cook) [Performed by Eve & Fatboy Slim]
GANGSTA QUEEN (Written by Katrina Taylor, Rashia Fisher, Andrew Cato and Tom Findlay) [Performed by Trina, Rah Digga & Groove Armada]
TONIGHT THE STARS REVOLT! (uncredited) (Written by Spider One)
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With the third and final franchise we have ‘BLADE: TRINITY’ [2004] and what a journey it has been. They say "In the movies, Dracula wears a cape, and some old English guy always manages to save the day at the last minute with crosses and holy water. But everybody knows the movies are full of shit. The truth is, it started with Blade, and it ended with him. The rest of us were just along for the ride." With ‘BLADE: TRINITY’ we find Blade has dropped himself into a big world of trouble, when Danica Talos [Parker Posey] proves she's not the “Best in Show,” and but she sure might be the smartest, framing Blade into killing a human disguised as a vampire, and capturing it all on video tape. The FBI, where the vampires control the police, as was pointed out in the first film, raid Blade's safe house, and end up killing his compatriot, Whistler [Kris Kristofferson]. Captured by his enemies, Blade is rescued by the Nightstalkers, who include Whistler's bastard daughter Abigail [Jessica Biel] and the big mouthed Hannibal King [Ryan Reynolds], who have been “Waiting...to get a warrior of the calibre of Blade in their ranks.” The vampires have unearthed an ancient evil and is definitely literally an ancient evil. The original vampire Dracula [Dominic Purcell] or Drake as he now likes to be called. He's had a few thousand years to think up that clever name. Well, after being sort of “Prison Break” in a sense, Dracula learns of the new vampire hunter, and a fight to the death is in the cards. As to the finale of ‘BLADE: TRINITY,’ not to spoil too much for those who haven't seen this compilation of excess, but we get to see a vampire stronghold in the end. We had a similar finale in ‘BLADE II,’ only that abode made sense, with lots of protective devices to keep sunlight away from the ghastly Ghoulies. But this time around, we have a freaking high-rise looking building, covered with windows. Why would any creature make their headquarters in a building that could kill them for more than a minute a day, let alone over half a day, considering how long summer days can be? But to find out the final outcome of the film, and of course the only way to find out is to purchase this Blu-ray disc package and enjoy!
BLADE: TRINITY MUSIC TRACK LIST
THIRSTY (Written by Robert Diggs and Keith Robinson) [Performed by Ol' Dirty Bastard and Keith Robinson]
VELOCITY SHIFT (Written by Robert Howes) [Performed by Overseer]
RAINBOW VOICE (Written by David Hykes) [Performed by David Hykes]
THEME FROM ‘A SUMMER PLACE’ (Written by Max Steiner)
FATAL (Written by Robert Diggs and Lou Reed) [Performed The RZA] [Strings arranged by The RZA and Stephen Coleman] [Contains a sample of "Venus In Furs" Performed by The Velvet Underground]
WHEN THE GUNS COME OUT (Written by William Calhoun, Robert Diggs, Narada Greenaway, Andre Johnson and Earl Stevens) [Performed by WC, E-40, P Dot and Christ Bearer of Northstar]
VENUS IN FURS (Written by Lou Reed) [Performed by The Velvet Underground]
I GOTTA GET PAID (Written by Dennis Coles), Robert Diggs, Wesley Weston and Corey Woods) [Performed by Lil' Flip featuring Ghostface Killah & Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan]
PARTY IN THE MORGUE (Club Mix) (Written by Antoine Ageaoili, Daniel Merlot), Keith Thornton and K. Jeffries) [Performed by Kool Keith Presents The Undatakerz]
THIS BLOOD (Written by Andy Ellis and Paul Durham) [Performed by Black Lab]
STARTING OVER (Written by Ken Jordan and Scott Kirkland) [Performed by The Crystal Method]
HARD WAX (Written by Max Odell, Brett Parker, Antonio Hardy and Marlon Williams) [Performed by Manchild] [Contains a sample of "Set It Off" Performed by Big Daddy Kane] [Contains a sample of "Soul Power" Performed by James Brown]
SKYLIGHT (Written by Robert Howes) [Performed by Overseer]
WEAPOMS OF MASS DISTORTION (Written by Ken Jordan, Scott Kirkland and KYONO) [Performed by The Crystal Method]
BOMBS AWAY (Danny Saber Remix) (Written by Scott Sherpe, Nolan Treolo, Matthew Tennessen, Samuel Vinz and Nicholas Zinkgraf) [Performed by Paris Texas and Danny Saber]
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Blu-ray Image Quality – Warner Home Video presents us the BLADE TRILOGY is every bit a statement as its opening scene in the ‘BLADE’ film. The overall look of these three Blu-ray discs looks so fresh, clean and new. They have great cinematic look and feels like the scale of it has even jumped ahead some. Sure, some of the special effects in certain spots may hit at age, but everything going on is so good and exciting. The image with the three Blu-ray discs is sharp with loads of details and lots of texture to sink your fangs into. The depth of field with the three films is really terrific, with good pushback on interiors and the scale of the city really looming large and tall above the clouds. Movements are confident, smooth and never have any issues with jitter or blur. Blacks are very natural and deep. There are lovely shadows and night-time scenes on display in the film. Despite how dark, textures, patterns and follicles showcase through clearly throughout the three films. When it comes to the three films with the dark scenes, with scenes including fire, light displays, tail lights, signs, lasers and more pop out off the screen really well. Many of the regular colours are bold and full looking in the image. Whites come across with lots of tints and flavour. Again throughout all three films skin tones are natural and consistent from start to finish of the film. Facial features and textures are discernible from any given distance. So all in all, Warner Home Video gets a five star rating from me for giving us the three films with outstanding image presentation.
Blu-ray Audio Quality – Warner Home Video brings us the BLADE TRILOGY with three distinct 6.1 TS-HD Master Audio, 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and 6.1 DTS-HD Master Audio experiences. All three films are totally impressive in their own unique way. They are very engaging audio tracks that show you what it is made of right from the opening scenes of each film. There is a great, layered balance on displayed in all three films. Sounds are distinct and every environment really comes to live and puts you right in the middle of some vampire action scenes. With each film there is plenty of fun in the sound experience. It doesn’t overdo it, but always makes sure the ceiling channels can participate in the action. Debris falling, people jumping above camera, bullets whizzing and more are truly exciting. The subwoofer really pounds when the action in each film hits the spot via explosion, fire, impaling, gunfire, glass shatter, engine revving and much more and so again each film delivers quite the force. Sounds in each film zips and zaps around the room. It always knows and paints a clear picture, and is aware of what is off screen and where something on screen may move to once an angle changes. Rolling sounds in each film is tremendous and moves with good force and accuracy and of course in each film Vocals are loud, clear and crisp and again Warner Home Video gets a five star rating from me for giving us the three films with outstanding audio presentation.
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Blu-ray Special Features and Extras:
BLADE [1998]
Audio Commentary by Actor/Producer Wesley Snipes, Actor Stephen Dorf, Writer David S. Goyer, Director of Photography Theo Van de Sande, Production Designer Kirk M. Petruccelli and Producer Peter Frankfurt: Here we are introduced by Wesley Snipes, Stephen Dorf, Writer David S. Goyer, Theo Van de Sande, Kirk M. Pelruccelli and Peter Frankfurt and unfortunately the way this recording has been set up it is kind of disorienting to have six people on this track, but despite this it has some awesome information about the film ‘BLADE.’ One of my favourite bit of information is the underground train chase scene. I had no idea that there was no train in the actual scene and it was all done by green screen, just incredible. There is also a part where they talk about an effect they did to heighten the white levels. Overall, this is a mixed bag audio commentary and a bit of a mess and after a while I got really fed up the way they recorded this and gave up half way through the audio commentary as it was very off putting.
Special Feature: La Magra [1998] [480i] [1.37:1] [14:08] This very informative documentary that focused on the alternate ending where Deacon Frost literally turns into a bloody whirlwind while talking to Blade. La Magra is an immensely powerful and ancient blood god, the patron deity of vampires, and an important figure in vampire lore as he created Drake, the first vampire. Contributors include: Michael De Luca [President of Production for New Line Cinema], Peter Frankfurt [Producer]. Kirk M. Petruccelli [Production Designer] and David S. Goyer [Screenwriter].
Special Feature: Designing ‘BLADE’ [1998] [480i] [1.37:1] [22:31] This very cool documentary about the mind-set behind designing. We go behind-the-scene on the use of the green screen technique that is used for the underground train chase scene accompanied in the scene with Pearl. Contributors include: Kirk M. Petruccelli [Production Designer], Greg Cannon [Cannon Creations], Jeff Ward [Stunt Coordinator] and Richard “Dr.” Baily [Special Effects Producer].
Special Feature: Origins of Blade: A look at Dark Comics [1998] [480i] [1.37:1] [12:10] This documentary doesn't actually focus too much or discuss the origins of Blade at all. Instead, it focuses on the Comics’ Code Authority of the 1950’s and 1960’s. They had ridiculous rules about even referencing a vampire or the living dead. The highlight of the documentary is hearing Stan Lee talk about the Comics’ Code Authority. Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Screenwriter], Stan lee [Marvel Comics] and Gareb Shamus [President and Publisher of Wizard Magazine].
Special Feature: The Blood Tide [1998] [480i] [1.37:1] [20:02] With this documentary, it tends to concentrate on religion, and the lore of vampires throughout time. Contributors include: Father Gregory Louis Coiro, O.F.M. Cap. [Los Angeles Archdiocese], Dr. Gary Schiller [Associate Professor of medicine UCLA], Dr. J. Gordon Melton [Author of Encylopedia of Vampires]. Nina Auerbach [Author of Our Vampires Ourselves], David S. Goyer [Screenwriter], Brian Clemens [Writer, Director of ‘Captain Kronos – Vampire Hunter’ and Co-Producer of ‘The Avengers’] and Mick Farren [Author of The Time of Feasting].
Theatrical Trailer [1998] [1080p] [2.40:1] [2:09] This is the original Theatrical Trailer for the film ‘BLADE.’
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BLADE II [2002]
Audio Commentary by Director Guillermo Del Toro: This audio commentary is a new recording and Guillermo Del Toro makes a reference to the film ‘Avatar,’ so we know it's at least after 2009. Guillermo Del Toro cannot avoid sharing some of the same production anecdotes, but he still manages to provide some new information about the film ‘BLADE II’ and his thoughts about the film. It's particularly interesting to compare the new audio track with the old one, in which Guillermo Del Toro seems to be more critical about his work. Guillermo Del Toro does mention that ‘BLADE II’ was one of his more enjoyable directing experiences, so it's interesting to hear what a little time away can do. The only off putting aspect of this audio commentary is Guillermo Del Toro very heavy Spanish accent and I had a really bad job understanding what Guillermo Del Toro was saying most of the time and eventually I gave up as things like that annoy me immensely despite Guillermo Del Toro being a director.
Audio Commentary by Director Guillermo Del Toro and Producer Peter Frankfurt: Guillermo Del Toro’s candid and self-deprecating comments about his work, along with some serious talk about his filmmaking methods, make for another interesting and worthwhile audio commentary track, but helped having Producer Peter Frankfurt helping most of the time and again, sadly again Guillermo Del Toro very heavy Spanish accent which I had a really bad job understanding what Guillermo Del Toro was saying most of the time and eventually I gave up as things like that annoy me immensely despite Guillermo Del Toro being a director.
Audio Commentary by Writer David S. Goyer and Actor/Producer Wesley Snipes: With this final audio commentary, David S. Goyer and Wesley Snipes inevitably suffered from too many comparison to what has come before it, and some may bristle a bit at Wesley Snipes' personality. Still, the man Wesley Snipes knows what he wants and seems completely committed to the property and wanting making ‘BLADE: TRINITY’ the best ever franchise Vampire film. Again, having three audio commentaries is to my opinion far too many and in the end it became a total slog and unfortunately again I gave up half way as it started to get very tedious and there was far too much repeat information in all three audio commentaries and eventually I got overload fatigue information and started to hurt my brain. One audio commentary would suffice in my opinion.
Special Feature: Director’s Notebook: Here you get to view Guillermo Del Toro actual director’s notes. To view everything you use the directional right and left arrows on your remote control. If you want to EXIT you press the ENTER button on your remote control.
Special Feature: BLADE II: Blood Brothers [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [10:22] Screenwriter/ Executive Producer David S. Goyer reflects on his longstanding professional relationship and friendship with Guillermo Del Toro. Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer].
Special Feature: Genesis Redux [Beginnings] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [10:22] Here we take a look at behind-the-scene filming of the film ‘BLADE II.’ Contributors include: Peter Frankfurt [Producer], David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer], Guillermo Del Toro [Director] and Luis Gabriel Beristáin [Director of Photography].
Special Feature: Man and Myth [The Blade Character] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [2:35] Here we again go behind-the-scenes, and hear all about Blade and the myth and legends of the character. Contributors include: Peter Frankfurt [Producer], David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer] and Guillermo Del Toro [Director].
Special Feature: Leader of the Pact [On Directing] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [9:44] We get to hear from people who was very keen to film ‘BLADE II,’ where we get to view behind-the-scenes filming and also go on location in Prague in the Czech Republic. Contributors include: Peter Frankfurt [Producer], David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer] and Guillermo Del Toro [Director].
Special Feature: The Devil's Architect [Production Design] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [12:23] We get to hear how they wanted to the film ‘BLADE II’ to look like with the design and with the tunnel sequence in the film set took 14 weeks to build and was longer than a football field. Contributors include: Peter Frankfurt [Producer] and Carol Spier [Production Designer].
Special Feature: Fear the Reapers [Creature Effects] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [9:40] Here we get an in-depth talk about what the director Guillermo Del Toro wanted the Reapers character should be like. We also get to see behind-the-scene of people discussing the concept designs of the Reaper. Contributors include: Guillermo Del Toro [Director], David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer], Marc Boley [Prosthetics and Creature Coordinator], Nick Brooks [Visual Effects Supervisor], Steve Johnson [Prosthetics and Creature Effects Supervisor], Blair Clark [Visual Effects Supervisor], Luke Goss [Nomak the Reaper] and Edward Irastorza [Visual Effects Supervisor].
Special Feature: Suck-Head Chic [Costuming] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [9:18] Here we take a look at the designing of different costumes that the actors and extras had to wear in the film, which ran into hundreds of designs. Contributors include: Wendy Partridge [Costume Designer], Guillermo Del Toro [Director] and David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer].
Special Feature: Kicking and Screaming [Stunts and Choreography] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [12:35] Here we get an in-depth look behind-the-scenes of the filming of the stunt action scenes in the film, and especially Nomak the Reaper and Blade.
Special Feature: Vampire Nocturnes [The Music Score] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [19:35] Here we get to view behind-the-scene composing the film score for the film ‘BLADE II’ in the recording studio with the full orchestra. The composed film score recording was done over a four day period, from the 4th February, 2002 to the 11th February, 2002. Contributors include: Marco Beltrami [Composer/Conductor], Guillermo Del Toro [Director], Blake Neely [Orchestra] and Buck Sanders [Additional Music].
Special Feature: Comic Book Origins [The Comic Book Spirit] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [5:19] With this special feature, we hear about the challenges adapting a comic book into a film. Guillermo Del Toro was so very keen to direct the film ‘BLADE II’ and wanted it to be a really dark and sinister film genre. Contributors include: Guillermo Del Toro [Director], David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer] and Peter Frankfurt [Producer].
Special Feature: The Vampire Mystique: Suck Puppy Mystique [The Allure of the Vampire] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [5:19] Here we get the thoughts on the cross-cultural appeal of the vampire myths and legends going right back to the original vampire culture. Contributors include: Guillermo Del Toro [Director], David S. Goyer [Screenwriter/Executive Producer], Marit Velle Kile [Verlain] and Leonor Varela [Nyssa Damaskinos].
Special Feature: Damaskinos Blood Bath [On The Set: Damaskinos’ Bath House] [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [4:22] Here we go behind-the-scene shooting various scenes involving the Damaskinos character and the Damaskinos Blood Bath scene and was filmed on the 11th and 12th of June, 2001.
Special Feature: Alternative Sunrise Music [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [11:13] Here we get to view a scene from the film where the sunrise happens, where we see the group have found the lair for the vampire Reapers, and we hear an alternative sunrise composed music score.
Special Feature: Percussion Instruments [Stills]: With this special feature, when you click on the item, you get an in-depth information about the instruments used for recording the soundtrack.
Special Feature: Sequence Breakdowns: Here you get to view six special features and they are as follows:
Blood Bank: Here you get to view five separate features and they consist of Original Script; Shooting Script; Storyboard/FX Breakdown; Scene in Film and On the Set.
Ninja Fight: Here you get to view five separate features and they consist of Original Script; Shooting Script; Storyboard/FX Breakdown; Scene in Film and On the Set.
Reapers in the House of Pain: Here you get to view five separate features and they consist of Original Script; Shooting Script; Storyboard/FX Breakdown; Scene in Film and On the Set.
Underground: With this item you get to view once again of Original Script; Shooting Script; Storyboard/FX Breakdown; Scene in Film and On the Set.
Chapel Fight: Once again you get to view once again of Original Script; Shooting Script; Storyboard/FX Breakdown; Scene in Film and On the Set.
Caliban: Here for the last time you get to view once again of Original Script; Shooting Script; Storyboard/FX Breakdown; Scene in Film and On the Set.
Special Feature: Visual Effects: Here you get to view two separate features and they are as follows:
Synthetic Stuntmen [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [11:13] Here we get to hear comments about the special effects in creating and animating the digital doubles. Contributors include: Guillermo Del Toro [Director], Blair Clark [Visual Effects Supervisor], Edward Irastora [Visual Effects Producer] and Craig Hayes [Visual Effects Supervisor].
Progress Reports: With this special feature, you have seven separate video features and they consist of Embryos [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [1:49]; Reaper Autopsy [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [9:08]; The Vampire's Backbone [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [1:49]; Dummy Whistler [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [6:57]; Lighthammer Kitchen [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [5:22]; Priest Bites It [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [8:06] and Reapers and Boo Heads [2002] [480i] [1.37:1] [19:53].
Special Feature: Script Supervisor's Notebook: Here we get to view a very in-depth reproduction of the pages from the Script Supervisor's Responsibility notebook that shows methods of maintaining continuity throughout the course of the production for the film and you get to view 208 images.
Special Feature: Unfilmed Script Pages: Here you get to view three separate features and they are as follows: Whistler and Blade's First Meeting, Mini-Mart Attack, and Blade Takes Nyssa to the Hospital.
Special Feature: Art Gallery: Here you get to view five separate features and they are as follows:
Sequence Concepts: Here you get to view 42 black-and-white illustrated drawings. Also colour illustrated drawings of the Reaper’s tongue works.
Props and Weapons: Here you get to view 22 black-and-white illustrated drawings of different weapons that are used to kill the Reapers, the blade buckle, the van and the futuristic motorbike designs.
Costume Design: Here you get to view 9 black-and-white illustrated designs of the black costumes.
Set Design: Here you get to view 17 black-and-white and colour illustrated design.
Character Design: Here you get to view 116 black-and-white and colour illustrated design drawings of the characters designed outfits, mouth of the Reaper, and the designs of the inside of their stomach and chest cavity.
Special Feature: Deleted and Alternate Scenes [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1/1.85:1] [28:29] Here you get to view 16 small video scenes that did not feature in the final cut of the film ‘BLADE II,’ plus we get an introduction from director Guillermo Del Toro explaining what you will be actually viewing. As usual you can either watch each small video separately or Play All.
Special Feature: Deleted and Alternate Scenes with Director Guillermo Del Toro [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1/1.85:1] [24:29] Here you get to view 16 different small video scenes that were that did not feature in the final cut of the film ‘BLADE II.’ As usual you can either watch each small video separately or Play All.
Special Feature: Cypress Hill and Roni Size "Child of the Wild West" Music Video [2002] [1080i] [1.37:1] [24:29]
Teaser Trailer [2002] [1080i] [1.78:1] [0:37] This is the Teaser Trailer for the film ‘BLADE II.’
Theatrical Trailer [2002] [1080i] [1.78:1] [1:53] This is the Original Theatrical Trailer for the film ‘BLADE II.’
* * * * *
BLADE: TRINITY [2004]
Audio Commentary by Writer/Director/Producer David S. Goyer and Actors Ryan Reynolds and Jessica Biel: After everyone introduces themselves, this audio commentary is more of a lighter tone, as to be expected and they are very excited to make comments about their experience of appearing in the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ But unfortunately there is very little substance here that carries for the entire film and I got very frustrated with having far too many gaps in their comments, but the only Writer/Director/Producer David S. Goyer tried to maintain concentration on describing his overall experience with the film. However, the humorous atmosphere of the audio commentary gives you mixed results and was a very disappointing experience overall.
Audio Commentary by Writer/Director/Producer David S. Goyer, Producers Peter Frankfurt and Lynn Harris, Cinematographer Luis Gabriel Beristáin, Production Designer Chris Gorak and Editor Howard E. Smith: With this second audio commentary, after everyone introduces themselves we experience a much more technical audio commentary track, start to talk extensively about each particular scenes in the film apart and inform us the specific details and craftsmanship required to bring this film to life. The mood is conversational, with the participants sounding like a group of friends marvelling over their own work. With this second audio commentary, it was the much more preferred audio commentary and their exploration of the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’
Special Feature: Daywalkers, Nightstalkers and Familiars: Inside the World of BLADE: TRINITY: Here we get to view 18 separate features and they are as follows:
Intro [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1 / 1.78:1] [1:13] This is basically an introduction to the world of ‘BLADE: TRINITY’ and is basically a short promotional for the film, with short introductions mainly from the cast in the film.
The Urban Vampires: Story Development [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1 / 1.78:1] [4:28] This is basically informing us how they developed the story line for the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Contributors include: Lynn Harris [Producer], David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Avi Arad [Executive Producer] and Peter Frankfurt [Producer].
The Familiar Leader: David S. Goyer Directs [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [7:48] Here we get inputs for different contributors who were interviewed on-set. Contributors include: Lynn Harris [Producer], David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Peter Frankfurt [Producer], Wesley Snipes [Blade/Producer], Ryan Reynolds [Hannibal King], Luis Gabriel Beristáin [Director of Photography], John Michael Higgins [Dr. Edgar Vance], Kris Kristofferson [Whistler], Ronnie Yeskel [Casting Director], Jessica Biel [Abigal Whistler], Triple H [Jarko Grimwood] and Parker Posey [Danica Talos].
Fresh Blood: Casting [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1 / 1.78:1] [18:22] Here we get comments from different contributors on the story line, direction, costume design, cinematography, stunts, weapons, editing, visual effects, music, sound design, and talking about post-production. Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Ronnie Yeskel [Casting Director], Luis Gabriel Beristáin [Director of Photography], Peter Frankfurt [Producer], Triple H [Jarko Grimwood], Lynn Harris [Producer], Wesley Snipes [Blade/Producer], Jessica Biel [Abigal Whistler], Ryan Reynolds [Hannibal King], Parker Posey [Danica Talos], Dominic Purcell [Drake], Kris Kristofferson [Whistler] and John Michael Higgins [Dr. Edgar Vance].
Nightstalker Boot Camp: Cast Training [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1] [9:40] With this feature it is basically showing how the main cast had very intensive training for the more aggressive scenes in the film. Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Lynn Harris [Producer], Dominic Purcell [Drake], Wesley Snipes [Blade/Producer], Ryan Reynolds [Hannibal King], Jessica Biel [Abigal Whistler], Peter Frankfurt [Producer], Chuck Jeffreys [Fight Choreography] Clay Donahue Fontenot [Stunt Coordinator].
From Tombs to Towers: Set Designs [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [8:09] Here we go behind-the-scene interviewing the people involved with designing the complex sets for the film ‘BLADE: TRNITY.’ Contributors include: Chris Gorak [Production Design], TyRuben Ellingson [Conceptual Artist] and David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer].
Dress to Kill: Costume Design [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [7:25] Here we get input from Costume Designer Laura Jean Shannon on what style of clothing that was most appropriate for the film ‘BLADE: TRINTY.’
UV Lighting: Cinematography [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [4:17] Here we get input from different contributors on how they wanted the film to reflect its unique image with this third and final film of the franchise. Contributors include: Luis Gabriel Beristáin [Director of Photography], David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Ryan Reynolds [Hannibal King], Dominic Purcell [Drake], Peter Frankfurt [Producer] and Howard E. Smith [Editor].
Beyond the Basics: Facts for the Uber-Fan [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [5:30] Here we get comments from different contributors on how they wanted to respect the Blade comic book ultra-fans in making the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Chris Gorak [Production Designer], Laura Jean Shannon [Costume Designer], Chuck Jeffreys [Fight Choreography], Ryan Reynolds [Hannibal King], Dominic Purcell [Drake], Jessica Biel [Abigal Whistler] and Peter Frankfurt [Producer].
Silver, Swords and Sundogs: Designing the Blade Weaponry [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [2:56] Here we take a close look at all the weapons used in the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Contributors include: Chris Gorak [Production Designer], David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Peter Frankfurt [Producer] and Jessica Biel [Abigal Whistler].
Creating Mayhem: Stunts and Action [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1 / 1.78:1] [4:13] Here we take a look behind-the-scene of some of the cast and their stunt people working out the moves they need to perform in the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Contributors include: Chuck Jeffreys [Fight Choreography], Clay Donahue Fontenot [Stunt Coordinator], Lynn Harris [Producer], Jessica Biel [Abigal Whistler], Ryan Reynolds [Hannibal King], Rory Cutler [Special Effects Coordinator] and David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer].
Sword Against Celluloid: Editing [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1 / 1.78:1] [8:16] Here Howard E. Smith [Editor] and David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer] talk about the editing of the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’
The Perfect Ash: Visual Effects [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [4:30] Here we get input from people involved with the totally unique special effects for the film the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Contributors include: Joe Bauer [Visual Effects Supervisor], Greg Baxter [Visual Production Manager] and Joseph B. Conmy IV [Visual Effects Producer].
The Best of Blade: The Music [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1 / 1.78:1] [7:40] Here we go behind-the-scene on composing the unique style of music for the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], The RZA [Composer] and Ramin Djwasi [Composer].
The Sounds of Slaying: Sound Design [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [4:58] Here we take another look behind-the-scene, but this mainly looked at the dedicated professional people who went about producing the unique sound effects for the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Curt Schulkey [Supervising Sound Editor], Aaron Glascock [Supervising Sound Editor Re-Recording Mixer], Howard E. Smith [Editor], John Roesch [Foley Artist], Skip Lievsay [Re-Recording Mixer].
The Color of Blood: Enhancing the Colors [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 2.35:1] [3:47] Here we get in-depth input from Luis Gabriel Beristáin [Director of Photography] and Jill Bogdanowicz [Digital Intermediate Colorist] working on the computer to create the best colours for the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’
Who Shall Die: The Future of Blade [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1 / 1.78:1] [3:47] Here we get input from different contributors on whether there will be a fourth film for Blade. Contributors include: David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer], Wesley Snipes [Blade/Producer] and Jessica Biel [Abigal Whistler].
End Credits [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1] [1:12] This is basically just the end credits for this last special feature.
Special Feature: Visual Effects Progressions: Here we get to view three separate features and they are as follows:
Beast Bone Tests [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 1.37:1] [1:52] Here we get to view early tests showing how Drake transforms into the beast.
Beast Maw Development [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 1.37:1] [2:56] Here we get to view the animation test showing how the actor Dominic Purcell would turn into true Drake form.
Pomeranian Maw Development [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1 / 1.37:1] [1:33] Here we get to view the animation test to determine the behaviour of the Pomeranian Maw and the Tongue.
Special Feature: Goyer on Goyer [2004] [1080p] [1.78:1] [5:11] Here we get a sort of jokey send up interview with David S. Goyer [Writer/Director/Producer] with his double [trick photography] in a private cinema, who interviews himself, covering the challenges of the film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’ Both David S. Goyer’s about the rumour of a ‘BLADE 4’ film or a ‘Nightstalker’ film and whether rumours are true, and it might happen, so watch out of news on this situation in the future. But at the very end of the double interview the David S. Goyer on the right gives us a pronounced wink.
Special Feature: Alternate Ending [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1] [1:22] Here the setting is in six months later and is set in Shanghai in China, and Ryan Reynolds is the main character searching for vampires in a casino and suddenly a giant Werewolf leaps onto one of the gambling table and just at that point we do not find out if the beast is killed by Ryan Reynolds.
Special Feature: Blooper Reel [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1] [10:59] Here we get the usual plethora scenes that were deleted from the final film ‘BLADE: TRINITY.’
Trailers: Here we get to view two Theatrical Trailers and they are as follows: Teaser Trailer [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1] [1:25] and Theatrical Trailer [2004] [1080p] [2.35:1] [2:24].
Finally, with the entire BLADE TRILOGY franchise, was the ground-breaking Marvel Comics films. The Marvel Cinematic Universe is just plain fun and shows no signs of slowing down. As for Blade being offered a cure for his vampirism, “You keep your cure. There’s still a war going on, and I have a job to do.” The BLADE TRILOGY is a Ground-breaking comic book Superhero Trilogy. Highly Recommended!
Andrew C. Miller – Your Ultimate No.1 Film Aficionado
Le Cinema Paradiso
United Kingdom
