The iconic 1982 horror film “Poltergeist” has returned with stunning new 4K Blu-ray collector`s editions from The Film Vault. The Special Edition Steelbook showcases original artwork by Matt Ferguson and Florey, reimagining classic scenes, and comes housed within a collectible cigar box, complete with various memorabilia.
Two distinct limited editions are available: the Special Edition Steelbook and a steelbook-only “Solus Edition.” Both versions include region-free 4K Blu-ray and 1080p Blu-ray discs. The Film Vault, a collaboration with UK-based Vice Press, specializes in releasing limited collector`s editions of classic films from Warner Bros. and Universal.
These new “Poltergeist” editions were part of The Film Vault`s third release wave, launched on September 2. Originally, “The Shining” was also slated for this wave but faced a delay in the US, now expected on October 3. Demand for “The Shining” editions was high, with both the Special Edition Steelbook and Solus Steelbook already sold out as of August 24.
Consistent with The Film Vault`s philosophy, these editions are crafted for display, offering the flexibility to present the steelbook artwork with or without the official credit text.
The artwork by Matt Ferguson and Florey powerfully captures iconic scenes, such as Carol Anne`s unsettling gaze into the television or the infamous spectral portal. The accompanying art cards further highlight pivotal horror moments as the Freeling family battles malevolent spirits intent on claiming their youngest child.
Among the special features is “They Are Here: The Real World of the Poltergeists,” a two-part documentary originally from the 2008 Blu-ray release. It explores the film`s mythology through the lens of self-proclaimed psychics and paranormal investigators, who posit that the supernatural events depicted might not be entirely fictional, despite the questionable nature of their assertions.
Also included is the 1982 “Making of Poltergeist” featurette, offering a concise behind-the-scenes look with interviews from key cast and crew members, such as director Tobe Hooper, actor Craig T. Nelson, and writer-producer Steven Spielberg. The collection of special features concludes with the original theatrical trailer for the film.
The “Poltergeist” Film Series
For those who miss out on the limited Film Vault editions or prefer more budget-friendly options, the “Poltergeist” film series remains widely available. Standard 4K and Blu-ray releases of the original film offer the same bonus content as the special editions.
The 1986 sequel, “Poltergeist II: The Other Side,” which saw the Freeling family confront the malevolent spirit of a doomsday cult leader again, received a 4K Blu-ray release last year.
The third installment, “Poltergeist III” (1988), relocated Carol Anne`s supernatural struggle to a haunted skyscraper. While not available on 4K Blu-ray, all three original films are accessible in other formats.
A 2015 reboot of “Poltergeist,” directed by Gil Kenan (“Monster House”) and starring Sam Rockwell, Rosemarie DeWitt, Jared Harris, and Jane Adams, achieved moderate box office success. This modern adaptation is available on Blu-ray and DVD.