DVD Review: Pterodactyl - Page 2

As the pterodactyls become extinct (again), their final moments are shamelessly stolen from Japanese classic Rodan. It’s likely because no one involved had ever seen it, they didn't have a better idea, or because it was a slight homage. Either way, it puts a fun cap to an impossibly entertaining piece of schlock that you'll never actually admit you enjoyed.

Video quality is sharp, clean, and clear as most of these low budget features turn out to be. The special effects are not helped by the added clarity as opposed to the static of a standard cable broadcast, though you can appreciate the detail on the creatures. Compression can be found in darker scenes, while shots during the day are flawless. Shots of heavy jungle backdrops have few aliasing issues, a fine achievement for the format.

Gunfire is active in the audio channels, consistently with shots ringing out in every speaker. There’s only minor movement as the birds sweep through the sound field, though there’s enough going on to end with a nicely immersive effort. Bass can pack a huge punch during explosions.

Extras include short filmographies, an even shorter photo gallery, and random trailers.

Director Mark Lester isn’t currently handling directorial duties of any films, though he’s producing a few. Lost Colony is a period piece involving a trio of wraith’s attacking a small village in the 1500s. The second is a Yeti creature feature. Both are due for release this year direct-to-cable, and likely the Sci-Fi channel will be the network.

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Article Author: Matt Paprocki

Matt Paprocki is a 12-year movie and game critic. He currently freelances for Blu-ray review site DoBlu.com and video game site MultiPlayerGames.com.

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  • 1 - Aaron Fleming

    Apr 18, 2007 at 5:58 am

    Sounds great! Always good to see a Mark L. Lester vehicle out there in the ether, even if it's not a Commando or Class of 84.

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