The Fly / Return Of The Fly (1959)

Interesting Lure of the Fly

This DVD is a good example of 1950s classic science at its best. You get the original THE FLY and its sequel. In 1958's THE FLY man through his science takes experimentation of his environment one step too far. Man's attempts to disrupt nature's harmony leads to destruction and horror to him and his loved ones. This is a well intentioned, poignantly directed and produced film. The horror resulting from Al (David) Hedison's experiments gone awry are devastating and disturbingly represented in the film's images. Once seen, the viewer can never forget them. This is a powerful film even to this day. Vincent Price as Francois and Charles Herbert as the young Philippe are good. However, David Hedison and Patricia Owens' performances are brilliant and elevate this film a notch higher. This CinemaScope print by cinematographer Karl Struss on this DVD is beautiful. The colors are rich and the Stereo Sound is excellent. Paul Sawtell's lush score is eerily touching. 1959's RETURN OF THE FLY is an interesting and imaginative sequel. Brydon Baker's black & white CinemaScope photography gives it a feel of film noir with a twist of science fiction. It looks great on this DVD. Both Vincent Price as Francois and Bret Halsey as the grown Philippe turn in believable performances. This can be attributed to Director Edward Bernds' choice to concentrate on characterization over the science fiction elements, which had also been effectively accomplished in the original. John Sutton as Inspector Charas, played by Herbert Marshall in the original turned in a credible performance. The score by Paul Sawtell and Bert Shefter was very effective to the mood of the piece. RETURN OF THE FLY is an interesting and a somewhat overlooked film. I would recommend both these films. January 12, 2007

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