Dead Leaves is one of the most underrated and unappreciated title on Cult Epics extensive catalog. Having not heard about this until a few weeks ago, I can honestly say this one was worth the wait; however, it might not appeal to some.
FILM- Joey has found the love of his life, Laura. Love turns to tragedy, as almost all love does, when Laura suddenly falls to her death. Joey is distraught, and left a psychological wreck. He begins a road trip, carrying Laura's corpse with him, from New York City to West Virginia. While traveling, Joey makes frequent stops at gloomy hotels. It is here where Joey remembers the time spent with Laura; good and bad. It is in these flashbacks that we see Joey was very troubled long before her death. Soon, Laura's body begins to decay. Like the flesh of his love, Joey's his already damaged mind follows. Joey becomes self destructive, and his mind and emotions deteriorates rapidly.
Dead Leaves is a very worldly film. It not only uses references to films, but to music and classic macabre literature. This film features a phenomenal soundtrack, which is discussed in depth in the AUDIO section. Many of the voice overs used in this film are poems from Poe, and I can't think of a better reciting of Annabel Lee. I love how at it's heart, this is a love story. Joey tends to the corpse daily; trying his hardest to preserve the beauty of his one true love. This is basically the film equivalent of combining A Rose For Emily, The Yellow Wallpaper, and as many Poe tales as you can think of. It works so beautifully, and really makes this film seem like the visual companion to the Romantic era of American literature. People who don't particularly like this style of writing; you probably won't like this style of film either. I hoverer found this to be an excellent piece of visual poetry. 9/10.
PICTURE/ AUDIO- Dead Leaves has a very fitting transfer. The film uses many landscape shots, and the gloomy, gray rainclouds are one of the main reasons for this films mood. Cult Epics transfer is once again spot on; very rough and edgy feeling, but not to firm or soft. The gloom shows up well, and is enhanced by this transfer. 9/10.
The audio track for this is perfect. It contains new music by Rozz Williams, Gitane Demone, Soma Music, Camarillo Blues Triangle, and Mutant Press. This soundtrack is amazing, it's connection with the mood of the film is almost scary. The film has a mixture of dialog and voice overs. This is a very successful combination, and is presented in a way I have never seen before. The transfer is great, no volume fading or cracks at all. Cult Epics has once again dazzled my eardrums. 10/10.
EXTRAS- Only on disk extras this time. We get: A Director's Commentary, and The Making of Dead Leaves. The making of is very insightful, and I enjoyed it very much. Overall not much, but enough to keep me happy. 7/10.
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