Posted on: October 22, 2010 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

VCI Entertainment has created a number of DVD releases for films that have been forgotten about or otherwise slept on for a great period of time. Hell is Sold Out is one of these films; a 1951 film featuring Richard Attenborough, has been released under the company’s “Best of!” line. This Special Edition has been cleaned up from source prints, ensuring that video and audio quality is absolutely stunning considering the nearly 60 years since the title was shipped to theatres.

The tension in Hell is Sold Out is absolutely palpable, as the title leads into viewers attempting to figure out exactly what Mai Zetterling (Valerie)’s angle is. Why exactly did ey go into Herbert Lom’s (Dominic)’s house, why was there a book written, and why exactly was it submitted for publishing? With an all-star crew that is filled out by Hermione Baddeley as Louise Menstrier and male secretary Cheri (Olaf Pooley), it is surprising that this title did not get the DVD treatment long before that.

We have not had much of a chance to see what VCI is capable of to this point, but going off of Hell is Sold Out, I have little doubt in my mind that whatever titles they focus on will be brought back to brilliance. If you like lesser-known titles, particularly in the British, horror, or sci-fi veins, make it a point to check out their new releases and back titles alike. I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed.

Rating: 7.8/10

Hell Is Sold Out (DVD) / 2010 VCI Entertainment / 85 Minutes / http://www.vcient.com

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