Search - The Toolbox Murders on DVD

FOUR STARS FOR TRANSFER -- GRIND-HOUSE IN HI-DEF?!

Robin Simmons | Palm Springs area, CA United States | 03/04/2010

(4 out of 5 stars)

"A handyman goes berserk and murders women he judges as immoral or bad. He uses the tools of his trade: screwdrivers, claw-hammers, a nail gun, and a power drill. A simple plot for a grisly film that offers no real redeeming values. But although this notorious 1978 grind-house title was roundly banned, censored, vilified and damned - there are those who see it as a cinematic exercise not only of the First Amendment, but also an opportunity for the release of pent-up anger and frustration. But is it art? Or does it fuel the rage of psychopaths until they act out? What can one say about vicariously experiencing the torture and murder of women as entertainment? Can you say the same thing about Hitchcock's "Psycho"?

Camereron Mitchell stars in this cult sickie (for some, that's high praise). Look for former child star Pamela Ferdin and adult film star Kelly Nichols aka Marianne Walter.

This classic exploitation film still shocks and can be "enjoyed" now in a true hi-def, uncensored transfer that has been newly remastered from the original negative.

Extras include a amazing audio commentary with producer Tony DiDio, cinematographer Gary Graver and actor Pamela Ferdin. The story of the making of the film is more interesting than the film itself. A featurette aptly titled "I Got Nailed in the Toolbox Murders" is a memorable interview with adult star Marianne Walter.

Few film posters have so clearly advertised the intent and content of the movie it heralds - and delivers.

This film is not for everyone. Maybe not for anyone but exploitation film scholars, misogynists and psychiatrists."