This listing is for the standard edition 3-disc 4k UHD/Blu-ray release. The limited edition slipcase (designed by Adam Maida) was limited to 8,000 units and is sold out. The two versions are identical, aside from the packaging and 40-page book.
Following a mysterious eclipse-like solar event, scientists begin to notice strange and unexplainable behavioral changes in ants. While initially written off as an unconcerning anomaly, it soon becomes apparent that the creatures have developed advanced intelligence along with the ability to work collectively. Scientists Ernest Hubbs and James Lesko have been transferred to a futuristic lab in a remote part of the Arizona desert in which to study these phenomena. However, when the ants begin to attack and kill both wildlife and humans, Hubbs and Lesko realize that the entire human race might now be at a deadly evolutionary disadvantage to the tiny insects…
The sole feature film directed by acclaimed graphic artist Saul Bass, PHASE IV is a landmark of 1970s science fiction as it blends arresting visuals, photographed by Dick Bush (Sorcerer) along with nature photographer Ken Middleham, with a tense and harrowing animal attack narrative. Starring Nigel Davenport (Chariots of Fire), Michael Murphy (Nashville), and Lynne Frederick (Schizo) and featuring a mesmerizing musical score by electronic music pioneer Brian Gascoigne, Vinegar Syndrome presents PHASE IV on 4K UHD, newly restored from its 35mm original camera negative and at last containing its legendary and never-before-on-video Preview Version, featuring exclusive, extended, and alternate sequences which have remained unseen since 1974!
directed by: Saul Bass starring: Nigel Davenport, Michael Murphy, Lynne Frederick, Alan Gifford, Robert Henderson, Helen Horton 1974 / 1.85:1 Theatrical Version: 84 min / English Mono Preview Version (BD only): 89 min / (2) English Mono soundtracks
Additional info:
3-disc Set: 4K Ultra HD / Region A Blu-ray x2
4K UHD presented in High-Dynamic-Range
Newly scanned & restored in 4K from its 35mm original camera negative
The 84-minute Theatrical Version is available on both the UHD and Blu-ray discs
The 89-minute Preview Version with multiple soundtrack options is included on a Blu-ray disc
Commentary track for the Theatrical Version with film historian Matthew Asprey Gear
"Evolutions: The Making of Phase IV" (48 min) - a brand new documentary by Elijah Drenner featuring interviews with Jeffrey Bass, co-star Michael Murphy, screenwriter Mayo Simon, archivist Sean Savage and design historian/Saul Bass biographer Pat Kirkham
"Formicidae Sinfonia: The Music and Sounds of Phase IV" (15 min) - a brand new featurette with composer Brian Gascoigne and electronic music artist David Vorhaus
Deleted shots and sequences (2 min)
Raw footage from Saul Bass' original ending montage sequence (16 min)
Theatrical trailer
Still gallery
Reversible sleeve artwork
English SDH subtitles
Overall rating: 4.8374166 / 5 from 449 reviews.
AI Generated Review Summary
PHASE IV, a limited edition 3-disc 4K UHD/Blu-ray set, impresses with its stunning visuals, premium packaging, and high-quality restoration. The film's unique narrative and beautiful art make it a must-have for sci-fi enthusiasts. Extras like the commentary track, documentaries, and deleted scenes add significant value to this exceptional release.
"I liked this movie, nice packing and transfer." — Robert E.
"The art work and packaging was top notch The transfer was great, brings back the older film quality." — Jose V.
"Fantastic 4K release for an awesome film and a great package." — Viral T.
Reviews
A lot more than four. . .
"A cerebral insects attack sci fi movie. Instead of their size, as in Them, or their sheer numbers, as in Kingdom of the Spiders, it’s the intelligence of the ants in Phase IV that poses the threat to humanity. In the film, a cosmic force changes the nature of the ants on Earth. They organize, join forces, and work to take over. Interesting and visually stunning at times, it’s a more intellectual, rather than action oriented, insects attack movie. Great presentation by VS. It’s a wonderful time capsule of that sci-fi/psych period."
— chris c. (4/5)
Good, but not great
"I went into to this film completely blind and while it was overall a good watch, I wouldn't call it a great film in my opinion. The concept was interesting but I felt the execution was a bit lacking."
— Christopher A. (4/5)
AMAZING FILM
"I didn't expect much here but I completely loved this. Incredible combo of sounds, effects, locations. . . excellent."
— Michael D. (5/5)
Set Phasers on IV
"The only thing worse than ants in your pants is crazed insect movies. Of all the subjects Saul Bass was interested in it had to be ants. The packaging and film quality are stellar and am looking forward to VS releasing Phase 1-3."
— Paul C. (4/5)
Great release
"Sci-Fi classic. Great edition with excellent collection of extra features."
— Paulo A. (5/5)
Ants!
"Went in blind on this one but it was such a cool ride. Some of the shots with the ants were unbelievable and captivating. As usual, got the full treatment from Vinegar Syndrome."
— Nathanial P. (5/5)
One of the best 70s Sci-Fi films
"Fantastic underrated gem and the VS release is fantastic"
— Will B. (5/5)
Ants Invasion
"Excellent addition to my collection!"
— Michael M. (5/5)
Banging score
"Amazing music to go along with one of the best sc-fi movies of the 70's"
— Thomas E. (5/5)
Very Visually Interesting
"This movie is a good time and is such a treat, especially the opening."
— Joshua N. (4/5)
Q&A
More Items to Consider
Cart
0 Item(s)
Stay in the know!
Join our mailing list for updates on new releases, promotions & events.
