Wild Zero [DVD] [2000]

Fans of obscure cinema owe a debt of gratitude to the fine folks at Synape Films for their tireless efforts to provide us with DVD releases of films that would otherwise go neglected in the mainstream marketplace, and their release of the Guitar Wolf rock & roll zombie horror classic Wild Zero is a prime example of precisely this kind of effort. While most studios would likely be content to offer a fair transfer of the film and little in the way of extras, Synapse has gone out of their way to ensure that fans will have a blast with this release. Presented in 1.85:1 widescreen, the image is clear, crisp, and provides vivid and well-balanced colors. The over-modulated, breakneck jams of Guitar Wolf fill the Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo soundtrack to capacity, with clear dialogue and no notable signs of audible hiss or distortion. Easy-to-read yellow subtitles ensure that viewers won't strain their eyes while enjoying the fast-paced thrills that Wild Zero has to offer. Even the menu screens rock on this one, with the band's music blasting through as viewers navigate their way to zombie-blasting rock & roll bliss. Extra features offer not only an informative, detailed biography and discography of Guitar Wolf, but also some supremely entertaining bonuses. The behind-the-scenes music video offers a montage of making-of footage accompanied, of course, by the music of the featured band, with an entertaining theatrical trailer and a still gallery of Guitar Wolf concert pictures and album covers offering fans a great look at the band in action. The item that most fans will likely be excited to explore, though, is the first ever DVD drinking game -- a true innovation in the format. Offering a beer mug icon in the corner of the screen as a cue when to take a swig, the feature is perfect for that upcoming Wild Zero party that's bound to happen. This disc is perhaps the most fun you'll have with a DVD.