MADMAN (1982) BLU-RAY REVIEW

'MADMAN' is directed by Joe Giannone and tells the tale of a local campground legend coming to horrible life and setting its sights on the campers that foolishly taunted him. One of the first of many 'Friday the 13th' copies to come out during the 1980's, 'Madman' stands out however as one of the better slashers to come out during that period. The film's legend, known as Madman Marz was based upon an actual East Coast urban legend known as 'Cropsy' (A documentary based upon this legend has been created as well and I highly recommend checking it out on Netflix). The Cropsy Killer was supposed to be an infamous serial killer during the 1940's and 50's who's existence seems to have many different stories connected. Another slasher during this period 'The Burning' would also use this concept for its plot and both films had conflicts during filming due to this.

As far as which adaptation is the better or rather, which slasher is better I tend to go back and forth with 'Madman' and 'The Burning'. What I can tell you for a fact is the music on 'Madman' is much more enjoyable, giving us that camp experience feeling throughout. The film's many folk and campfire style songs were written by actor Tony Fish who plays a character in the film. These songs really get you into the mood for the night to come and fits the best.

The film's atmosphere is also a treat, with fog, blue lighting, and the flickering of fire throughout. I believe this is what truly makes 'Madman' stand out among the slashers of its day: Quality. Now, having said that 'Quality' is a strange word at first for most thinking of a film such as 'Madman', but I mean what I said just in a different context. The film has better quality than other slasher films of the decade. It has better acting, better camera work, and a better overall film.

What can be said about the film's downsides is that while the film's settings are top notch, I can't say the same for the makeup effects. Something like this is rather important for a horror film after all, and honestly the killer's look is rather cheap looking. Luckily, we really don't get to see him in the light (again another great aspect of this film). As for the victims' makeup during their gruesome demises, they vary from here to there. Some obvious cheapness aside they overall can be considered both a strength and a weakness to 'Madman'.

Video quality and Sound come in strong here from Vinegar Syndrome. A vast improvement from the now out-of-print Anchor Bay DVD with both a newly crisp picture and higher quality sound. The color issue with the Code Red DVD has been thankfully fixed and the film is presented in Widescreen to great effect. Special Features include the original commentary from the Anchor Bay set along with a brand new commentary and both are well worth listening to. 'The Legend Lives' documentary from the previous release has been included as well. A great addition to the set, it gives you everything you could possibly want to know about the film (aside from a noticeably missing actress from the film) and has good heart and humor sprinkled in as well. An interesting addition to this Blu-Ray is a segment involving music and bands inspired by the film. You'd be surprised how many people were inspired by this little known film.

'MADMAN' has been given the release it deserves after many years of disappointment. This film is quite the hidden horror gem that any slasher fan should check out. And be careful to not say his name out loud...Madman Marz...


THE MOVIE: B
VIDEO: A
AUDIO: A-
SPECIAL FEATURES: A+

FINAL GRADE: A-


(Madman is the property of The Legend Lives Co. and Vinegar Syndrome. Images are not mine.)