It's been a long time coming, but finally we can enjoy "The Evil Dead" uncut in the UK with the blessing of the BBFC. Not only that, but it's also the first Anchor Bay release in the UK, and they clearly intend to impress as much here as they have in the US with such DVD titles as "Deep Red", "Let Sleeping Corpses Lie", and "Inferno".

Picture quality is good. Sure, it's a little grainy, but people seem to forget that despite the often-impressive veneer, this was a film shot on 16mm, often in low light conditions. Compared to any of the old video releases (including such treasured copies as the uncut Palace original), this is a vast improvement and the prowling camera shots in the woods look sensational.

It's the same for the sound. What has been achieved with the 5.1 mix of the old mono track is fantastic. Often such attempts result in a nasty echo with thin effects smeared around the speakers. That's not the case with this mix, which boasts a strong music score and excellent rear speaker atmospherics, including steering effects. Don't expect a vast difference with the 6.1 DTS mix, but it does sound a little tighter and just a touch more oppressive (which is a good thing for those added chills!).

Apart from a small photo gallery, there's nothing in the way of visual extra features. What you do get is two commentary tracks. Sam Raimi and Robert Tapert are on the first one, and they discuss the origins of various props and poke fun at Bruce Campbell. Campbell gets a chance to poke fun back on track two, and not only is he more amusing, but he also has a lot more information to offer as to how various effects and shots were achieved.

Released on 3rd September 2001.

Chapters: 18
Region: 2
Ratio: 1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1 or DTS 6.1EX
Extra Features: Scene selection, audio commentary with director Sam Raimi and producer Robert Tapert, audio commentary with Bruce Campbell, photo gallery, trailer, animated menus.