4K UHD Review – Deathstalker (1983)

1982’s “Conan the Barbarian” was deemed a risky project during production. It was based on material that developed more of a cult than a fanbase, and it starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, who wasn’t typical leading man material. Once the feature began screening for the public, perception of its success changed, and it went on to become a hit during a highly competitive summer. And as with any unexpected score at the box office, copycats soon followed, helping to launch an industry fascination with sword and sorcerer endeavors, with all of them lacking the epic swing and budgetary might of “Conan the Barbarian.” Roger Corman wanted in on the action, with his New World Pictures launching “Deathstalker” in 1983, striving to provide moviegoers with a Conan-like character and his experiences in a fantasy realm. Directed by James Sbardellati, “Deathstalker” doesn’t have much of a budget to do anything, but the production certainly tries to stretch a dollar, submitting a mildly diverting presentation of burly men, monstrous evil, and enough topless women to make Motley Crue blush. Corman knows what he wants, and Sbardellati works to give it to him, though he can’t conquer all of the effort’s creative challenges, making for an uneven sit while watching these days of high (and more affordable) adventure. Read the rest at Blu-ray.com