Banned for 18 years and now released minus 58 seconds (sexualised strangulation and knifing), Bill Lustig's schizo-killer pic is all grub and grit. Like Abel Ferrara's Driller Killer, it makes a decent stab (ahem) at playing the reality card, authenticating the dementia of Ed Gein-alike nutter Frank (Joe Spinell) by lingering on grimy New York streets, subway stations and his flat's blood-drenched interior.
DVD Extras:
The deeply amusing commentary groups Lustig with legendary make-up artist Tom Savini, editor Lorenzo Marinelli and Luke Walter, a mate of Spinell's. But best of all is The Story Of Joe Spinell, a 50-minute documentary on the late actor, seen in everything from The Godfather to Rocky. Packed with anecdotes - - most concerning booze, dope and Sly Stallone - - it's exactly the kind of tabloid tribute he would have wanted.
