Italian makes the best soundtracks! And their take on nazi zombies is classic. This movie is essential for any real 80’s horror movie fans. I play this movie in the background when I write poetry. It has so many functions, trust me! Italian makes the best soundtracks! And their take on nazi zombies is classic. This movie is essential for any real 80’s horror movie fans. I play this movie in the background when I write poetry. It has so many functions, trust me!
One of the Better Zombie Movies One of the better 1970s Zombie movies. Filmed in Florida at an abandoned luxury hotel,
The “Zombie Nazis” running around after the survivors of a boat wreck, with Peter Cushing yelling “Halt!, Halt!”
This really aged well This is an ancient film with ancient effects. And yet, it aged really well. There is suspense here that is simply lost in modern films which focus too much on the effect and not enough on the mystery.
Shock Waves on Blu-Ray Blue Underground released on Blu-ray this sleeper hit horror film from 1977 directed by Ken Wiederhorn about a group of cruise ship tourists who encounter strange weather and find themselves stranded on an island where a former Nazi Commander (played by Peter Cushing) is living, and his former, zombie-like super soldiers have risen from their watery graves to attack. Co-starring (among others) Brooke Adams, Luke Halperin and John Carradine.
Looking quite good in HD, the best it can from the surviving film elements, a fine upgrade from the 2003 DVD, porting over those extras, but now including new ones like interviews with Brooke Adams, composer Richard Einhorn, and Producer/Cinematographer Reuben Trane. Unique, dream-like film has a memorable nautical theme, downplaying the potential violence with eerie direction. Peter Cushing is the clear standout among the cast, with a most effective ending.
STAY OUT OF THE WATER A real favourite from my VHS rental days. An eye catching video cover in a large oversized box looked great on the shelf…..pity about the jumping picture and impossible to fix tracking problems. Thankfully all that’s gone now and we can enjoy Ken Wiederhorn’s 1976 entry in the Nazi zombie sub-genre in all it’s glory. Don’t expect the usual gut munching and extreme violence usually associated with these things, this is almost totally blood free with the killings pretty much hidden from view. Lets face it though, the film works really well as it is and so the focus is more on the basics such as a great setting, an atmospheric sun drenched island with it’s isolated mansion and Caribbean vistas, eventually put under siege by our zombie friends, rising from the depths in a very effective and convincing manner.
Tremendous to see the likes of Peter Cushing and John Carradine adding a quality dimension to the proceedings, although neither get a great deal to do. Cushing in particular spends most of his time walking around as if on a mission.
Yes, picture quality varies throughout and film grain is certainly evident, but this can’t be eradicated totally and does add that vintage feel reminiscent of old times (if you can remember the old times).
Not to everyone’s taste of course, in fact if you’ve been weaned on super smooth, super slick fare with fast paced editing you may be disappointed. If not, then this deserves a place in your collection.
Just to point out, the release here is Blue Underground’s original region free dvd and NOT their Special Edition.
**** BLU-RAY***
A word about Blue Underground’s Blu-ray release. Picture quality is sharper and looks more effective on a bigger screen, however this has increased the grain factor (the film was shot on 16mm), and while this is acceptable, it’s still a little disappointing. If viewing on a 60’+ screen you might want to be a little wary.
I love this movie. One of those truly dark dark moody early 80's flicks. Along the same feel as say "Death Ship" or "The Thing". They don't make them like this anymore. Not much for plot or character development, but who cares? I love this movie. One of those truly dark dark moody early 80’s flicks. Along the same feel as say “Death Ship” or “The Thing”. They don’t make them like this anymore. Not much for plot or character development, but who cares?
shock waves creepy and atmospheric 70s horror set on a small island where undead ww2 nazi soldiers lie in wait for their next victims. there was no gore but the film had so much tension and atmosphere that it didnt really spoil it. the soundtrack especially is one of the creepiest ive heard in a film and gave a constant feeling of dread and doom which really got under my skin. the blu-ray looked a bit soft and was extremely grainy but that just gave the film an old and gritty look which added to the creepiness. everything about this film was eerie and creepy. best watched in the dark.
This is the best of the so called "Video Nazis" This is the best of the so called “Video Nazis”.
A very decent cast star in this creepy zombie flick where the results of old Nazi experiments rise from their watery graves to attack some stranded tourists on a swampy desert island.
Excellent picture and sound with some good bonus materials.
~ THE DEEP END OF HORROR! ~ This is one of those ’70s horror flicks that utilizes the atmosphere and the creepy music to make it a definite “cult” classic. John Carradine (THE HOWLING), Peter Cushing (STAR WARS) and Brooke Adams (INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS ’79) are the only recognizable actors.
It’s a well done movie with Peter Cushing’s character being the lead as the former commander of the Nazi “undead” soldiers. He was part of a team during WWII to create a highly adaptable soldier. The soldiers then became uncontrollable and violent, even sometimes challenging their own Nazi’s in the field of combat. The War came to an end and Peter’s character took the soldiers on a ship to avoid capture and sailed for weeks. He intentionally ran it aground near a remote island. That’s where our story picks up. Unsuspecting tourists on a sailboat ride find themselves lost and end up on that particular island of all places. They venture ashore only to find an abandoned Hotel of sorts with Cushing’s character inhabiting the place. After introductions, he advises them to leave the island as soon as possible for there is danger all around the island. The window to leave is closed upon the weary traveler’s and they must fight off the undead. One by one, they fall victim to their menacing “thirst” to kill and drowning…. or do they?
The DVD itself could have been better, but I suppose at least it is widescreen with a few extras from Blue Underground Entertainment.
The DVD is 1:85:1, Dolby Digital 2.0 and runs about 85 minutes with credits.
The movie is not a gore fest, but it is spooky and the music really adds to the feel of the whole creepy island effect. Trees and the water look as if they are menacing. I am reminded of another zombie movie that came out after this in 1979 called “ZOMBIE” here in the US. It was the sequel (of sorts) to the very popular movie “DAWN OF THE DEAD”. In ZOMBIE, a few crew members from a sailboat go abroad to track down one of the crew’s father living on the island. Well, once there, the creepy tropical island effect with the music takes over and eventually they are all in danger.
~ Richard Einhorn needs to be commended on a brilliant horror soundtrack!
~ BLURAY EDITION: Some Great Features also on this edition including a very nice interview with two of the people who try and escape the island toward the end of the movie. Brooke Adams being one of them. She looks good for her age and talks about this movie and what it’s like to be known now as a horror icon of sorts. Get that one as it appears to be more cleaned up than this DVD edition if you want to spend a few more bucks on it. It’s worth it.
Another rare horror from two class horror icons Cushing and Carradine - Region Free Peter Cushing – John Carradine and Nazi Zombies – well if that hasn’t sold you what about the fact that the oddness of the film adds to the eeriness of the film. The Zombies aren’t to bad either. Well worth buying as its Region free!
"Don't apologize, navigate!" A group of stranded tourists play hide and seek on an island teeming with waterlogged Nazi Zombies from the deep.
The plot faithfully follows the standard horror archetype……..trap a bunch of people in a confined spot then pick them off one by one. The violence is kept safely hidden off screen, the bodies posed afterwards to demonstrate that something had been done to them, exactly what is mostly guess work. We’re alerted up front with a narration explaining there was a secret experiment with Nazi soldiers to make them invincible. Then the movie starts at the end and plays out the story as a remembrance. This doomed group of adventurers set sail on a crappy boat owned by a crabby captain with an acerbic wit (the fabulous John Carradine). Also along for the ride is a bickering couple, a stray tourist with issues about confinement, and the requisite babe of sorts (Brooke Adams as Rose). No stranger to water, the crew consists of Luke Halpin as Keith and a cook with definite hygiene problems. On the island, they meet a Nazi recluse (Peter Cushing as a cadaverous SS Commander). In no time at all, a veritable army of Nazis bob to the surface and slowly track down their victims………..one………by………..one. The movie is 85 minutes long so they have to take their time.
I freely admit that I love this film but I’m certain there are some who won’t appreciate the slow pace and lack of violence and/or gore that’s usually expected in zombie flicks. Instead, this film thrives on atmosphere and an overriding sense of doom. The action is sparse. And although there is a high body count, it really doesn’t seem to count as it’s not shown. It’s not particularly scary but it is artfully done!
Shock Waves Blue Underground's Region Free Blu ray review. Ken Wiederhorn’s classic 1977 zombie gem Shock Waves finally gets a much needed HD upgrade courtesy of Blue Underground, the company who gave fans the then definitive DVD version way back in 2002. The Blu ray is region free and playable on all Blu ray players worldwide so order with confidence. My copy came with the usual slim line case that is the norm for American imports but also came house in an embossed slipcase.
The set up is simple with a visibly traumatised girl (Brooke Adams) floating dazed and confused aided only by a small glass bottomed life dinghy somewhere in the middle of the ocean. She is promptly rescued by a fisherman and it is from this point that she narrates her story of a doomed pleasure voyage aboard the rickety Boneventure captained by the incredibly grumpy old sea dog Ben Morris(John Carradine) and his two man crew. After the ships compass is damaged due to a strange solar phenomenon (which is never fully explained) the Boneventure finds itself miles off course where it is nearly crushed by the hull of a huge rusted old warship that seemed to loom from nowhere out of the dark watery night. With the Boneventure taking on water and also the fact that the captain has mysteriously disappeared the first mate decides to take the passengers to a nearby island. Seemingly uninhabited, and sporting a huge and once grand deserted hotel the rag tag bunch of survivors believe they have a safe place to wait for a rescue. Unfortunately things go from bad to worse when the lost captain turns up dead and a strange island recluse (Peter Cushing) with a distinctive German accent arrives on the scene warning them of the untold dangers on the island concerning a platoon of specially manipulated and bloodthirsty Nazi zombie stormtroopers called The Death Corps, who had been contained in the rusting innards of the warship for decades but who are now free and lie in wait around the coast and waterways of the small tropical island.
The idea of Nazi zombies now seems abit of a cliche and is indeed nothing new with a resurgence of undead SS officers in such films as the Outpost series and The Bunker. The sub genre was also parodied in the incredibly gorey Norwegian black comedy Dead Snow and its sequel to the point of ridiculousness . Back in 1977 though the notion was still relatively fresh with nothing really quite like it unless you consider the 1966 helmed head transplantation flick The Frozen Dead. As was always the case European movie makers jumped on the idea churning such unforgettable titles as Jean Rollin’s Zombie Lake (which also plagurised the underwater theme) and Jess Franco’s Oasis Of The Zombies.
Shock Waves has always remained a firm favorite of mine ever since i saw it on a battered VHS tape from Vipco in the 90s, so for me to do any real critical analysis of this much loved picture is hard as I always look at this film through rose tinted glasses. That said Shock Waves is far from perfect and is definatly not to all tastes. Technical problems abound from bad continuity through to plot holes and the movie hardly looks polished. Also any newcomers to Shock Waves expecting a 70s zombie gorefest along the lines of The Living Dead At Manchester Morgue, Dawn Of The Dead or even the original 1968 Night Of The Living Dead will be surely disappointed with the lack of onscreen carnage as hardly a drop of blood is spilt throughout the whole picture so much so that it originally recieved a PG rating in the US and if re-submitted to the BBFC today would more than likely get away with a 12 certificate as the old Vipco release only carried an 18 rating due to the inclusion of trailers for other far more graphic movies. But to me non of this matters as Shock Waves remains as effective now as when I first saw it for a number of reasons. First and foremost Shock Waves is atmospheric to the core from the tropical island setting which as to be expected has drawn similarities with Lucio Fulci’s Zombie Flesh Eaters through to the often grungy 16mm photography. Much like another 1970s cult horror favourite, Tobe Hooper’s Texas Chiansaw Massacre, Wiederhorn manages to pull off quite a few shocks, moments of creepy imagery and raw power without resorting to over the top bloodletting often associated with the genre. Its these scenes, mostly involving the zombies rising from the water that are most effective giving the movie an eerie dreamlike quality. The cast too are mostly excellent with the two big marquee names in both Carradine and Cushing perfect in small cameo roles, adding a touch of class, experience and professionalism to such a low budget production despite being given relatively little to do. The remainder of the cast are good without being overly memorable with the exception of a pre Invasion Of The Body Snatchers Brooke Adams in her first credited starring role. A special note must also be made about the wonderful electronic soundtrack by Richard Einhorn which adds to experience immeasurable and dare I say it enhances the mood and atmosphere to help create what is a very unique movie.
For me Shock Waves is a minor classic with some wonderful moments, brimming with 70s horror atmosphere so thick you could spread it with a knife. As I mentioned before its not for everyone but if you like discovering forgotten cult horror then I can wholeheartedly recommend Shock Waves.
Picture:
Shock Waves has always looked a little rough around the edges which could have been attributed to the fact that the original elements had been lost many years before. Blue Underground’s new Blu ray release states that it was created from the only known surviving elements but when compared to their old SD DVD release this is significant upgrade especially if your a fan who has seen the film many times. Presented in the correct aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and sporting an AVC encoded MPEG4 transfer this looks about as good as I expect Shock Waves ever will unless a pristine print is ever discovered. Obviously there is always going to be room for improvement but fine detail is far stronger than SD could produce and despite a few out of focus sections which would have been inherent in the original photograpy this is fairly pleasing. The HD transfer also handles the thick grainy image more accurately lending the visuals a natural filmic appearance and thanks to a decent bitrate there are no encode problems to report. Print damage is somewhat lessened compared to previous release. That doesent mean its completely clean and indeed there is the odd line and traces of spotting print damage but it is never overly distracting and doesent diminish the overall viewing experience. Contrast at times can be a little bright especially on the brighter outdoor scenes and the image can come across as a little pale with colours hardly ever popping but dark scenes show
greater depth and are more discernable than the old DVD despite some crush and obvious fading. It is also worth noting that more image is visible within the frame on nearly all four sides. There isn’t a huge amount of difference but it is always a positive to get the most accurately framed version. Hardly an award winning restoration but taken on its own terms this is a worthy upgrade that should please fans although newcomers who demand pristine smooth presentations may find the grain structure a little overpowering.
Audio:
Blue Underground have remained faithful to the original sound design and presented Shock Waves in its original mono delivered here by a two channel DTS-HD Master mix. Obviously this comes across as a little limited slightly lacking in atmospherics and depth but then is how it would have originally sounded. Dialogue on this lossless track is almost always discernable if at times hollow and effects feature more punch than the DVD. The most notable upgrade from this lossless track must go to Richard Einhorn’s soundtrack which does indeed sound far richer and as its possibly the most important attribute to Shock Waves’ sound design make this new Blu ray a very worthy upgrade.
Extras:
If you already own Blue Underground’s previous release then some of the extras will be familiar such as the audio commentary featuring input from director Ken Wiederhorn, make-up designer Alan Ormsby and B movie director Fred Olen Ray and the documentary ‘From Flipper To Shock Waves concerning star Luke Halpin. But for its Blu ray premiere, Blue Underground have produced some brand new extras to really add value to an already worthy package. First up is an all new documentary entitled ‘Nazi Zombies On A Budget’ which features a 21 minute chat in full HD with producer and cinematographer Reuben Trane who talks about the production and how much it cost to bring in both Cushing and Carradine for five days work apiece. Another acquisition for this new release is a 13 minute interview again in HD with the music composer Richard Einhorn and last but not least is yet another interview recorded in HD with star Brooke Adams with the title ‘Sole Survivor.
Shock Waves marks yet another worthy Blu ray upgrade from Blue Underground. The transfer is a significant improvement over standard definition and the new extras are the icing on the cake. Keep supporting Blue Underground’s decision to re release their back catalogue in HD as there are still some very worthy titles languishing in SD DVD hell and this release comes highly recommended.
Je m attendais pour un dvd à une meilleur qualité ... Je m attendais pour un dvd une meilleur qualit de image mais a reste un trs bon film pour l poque l ide du film est trs bonne et j aime bien les espces de mystre et inconnu qui plane tout au long du film
For a 1970's movie, well done, this is a well thought out, not original, but different in its approach, with even a big name in the 70's, HAMMER Productions own Peter Cushing, and this time not playing the English Gentleman type. The action is quick to surface, no pun intended, with the arrival of the "Ghost Ship", the deserted Island, with a three star hotel being used as a hermitage which is keeping a dark secret. It is well know the NAZI's were big into the occult and this movie tugs on that string throughout the movie. The acting is above average, to include a character you just want to shoot right off the bat. The zombies are not the flesh eating kind, but have a more watery grave mentality, which really does make this a different type of zombie film. The zombies are tame looking for today standards, but do pull of a wierd creepiness which is well captured in the movie. The movie lacks the blood and gore of most zombie movies, but can hold the audience captive. A good movie for any zombie lover. For a 1970’s movie, well done, this is a well thought out, not original, but different in its approach, with even a big name in the 70’s, HAMMER Productions own Peter Cushing, and this time not playing the English Gentleman type. The action is quick to surface, no pun intended, with the arrival of the “Ghost Ship”, the deserted Island, with a three star hotel being used as a hermitage which is keeping a dark secret. It is well know the NAZI’s were big into the occult and this movie tugs on that string throughout the movie. The acting is above average, to include a character you just want to shoot right off the bat. The zombies are not the flesh eating kind, but have a more watery grave mentality, which really does make this a different type of zombie film. The zombies are tame looking for today standards, but do pull of a wierd creepiness which is well captured in the movie. The movie lacks the blood and gore of most zombie movies, but can hold the audience captive. A good movie for any zombie lover.
The 70's was the breeding ground for great horror films. The mainstream audiance was being treated to a slur of religious themed horror films (Exorcist, its sequel, The Omen, Beyond The Door) etc, and there was a big underground scene going on. In 1977, this indie shocker crept to theatres and made a small impact. But it's reputation since then has grown and it has been dubbed a classic, rightfully so. Of course there are many clones, the most obvious being the truely horrible Zombie Lake. But this movie, utilizing the underwater nazi zombie idea is very well crafted and lives up to its title. Although some might find it slow and lacking by modern standards, for those who like horror from the era when real horrror was being done, this one is a near essential. Staring an unknown Brooke Adams, and horror legends John Carradine and Peter Cushing, the low budget on this flick is apparent. Like Halloween a year after it, the writers wisely cast one (or 2) highly famaliar face to reel in their target crowd. Although they play the same usual "warning theres something bad going on here" character they've both always played, they do it with the bravado you'd expect of both the veterans. Some island tourists aboard a boat captaine'd by Caradine has some kind of equipment problems, loses its way, and gets sideswiped by a large unknown ship. They take refuge on a nearby island and not to give too much away, Cushing living there in isolation, is the former head of a core of superhuman killers (not dead nor alive but somewhere in between) that have just so happen to be rising from their watery grave on this day. Of course, on paper this sounds cheesy, however director Ken Wiederhorn really treats this flick as if it were the kind of late 60s Hammer film Cushing himself comes from. It's extremely eerie indeed. The music by Richard Einhorn is what really fills this movie with great tension and a very chilling atmosphere. Of course the shots of the monsters rising from the sea are the trademark image of the movie, this is one of the best horror films of it's decade, at least in the top 30. One thing that might irritate some waters is the lack of gore or any real violence, although others might find this a good thing. That doesn't mean this a kid movie, it's mood more than makes up for the lack of blood, and the raw low budget look will turn off anyone from the younger generation that is used to the typical Hollywood 10 million dollar slasher remake crap. This is a classic yet underlooked horror nugget. The 70’s was the breeding ground for great horror films. The mainstream audiance was being treated to a slur of religious themed horror films (Exorcist, its sequel, The Omen, Beyond The Door) etc, and there was a big underground scene going on. In 1977, this indie shocker crept to theatres and made a small impact. But it’s reputation since then has grown and it has been dubbed a classic, rightfully so. Of course there are many clones, the most obvious being the truely horrible Zombie Lake. But this movie, utilizing the underwater nazi zombie idea is very well crafted and lives up to its title. Although some might find it slow and lacking by modern standards, for those who like horror from the era when real horrror was being done, this one is a near essential. Staring an unknown Brooke Adams, and horror legends John Carradine and Peter Cushing, the low budget on this flick is apparent. Like Halloween a year after it, the writers wisely cast one (or 2) highly famaliar face to reel in their target crowd. Although they play the same usual “warning theres something bad going on here” character they’ve both always played, they do it with the bravado you’d expect of both the veterans. Some island tourists aboard a boat captaine’d by Caradine has some kind of equipment problems, loses its way, and gets sideswiped by a large unknown ship. They take refuge on a nearby island and not to give too much away, Cushing living there in isolation, is the former head of a core of superhuman killers (not dead nor alive but somewhere in between) that have just so happen to be rising from their watery grave on this day. Of course, on paper this sounds cheesy, however director Ken Wiederhorn really treats this flick as if it were the kind of late 60s Hammer film Cushing himself comes from. It’s extremely eerie indeed. The music by Richard Einhorn is what really fills this movie with great tension and a very chilling atmosphere. Of course the shots of the monsters rising from the sea are the trademark image of the movie, this is one of the best horror films of it’s decade, at least in the top 30. One thing that might irritate some waters is the lack of gore or any real violence, although others might find this a good thing. That doesn’t mean this a kid movie, it’s mood more than makes up for the lack of blood, and the raw low budget look will turn off anyone from the younger generation that is used to the typical Hollywood 10 million dollar slasher remake crap. This is a classic yet underlooked horror nugget.
Goose Stepping Ghouls From Beyond The Grave A small ship with a small group of crew members and passengers on board is lost in the sea, the ship’s compass broken. There also seems to be some kind of underwater turbulence. During the night, Keith(Luke Halpin), who is on night watch, and also steering the ship, sees a large boat heading straight for them, and frantically tries to steer a safe course. The ship undergoes some damage. In the morning, all that is visible is a rusted wreck in the sea. They have also sailed near to an island so the remaining passengers and crew go looking for help(the ship’s Captain is found drowned). What they find is a seemingly deserted hotel, but if that is the case, why can they hear music playing? Meanwhile something is stirring in the depths of the sea….
First of all, I’m sorry for the rather lurid title of my review. It’s not really that type of film at all. It is in fact an old fashioned horror film, that relies on atmosphere and plot to sell itself, rather than the gory set pieces that were becoming more prevelant in films from that period(mid-late 70’s). Its lovely to see both Peter Cushing and John Carridine in the same film, even though their characters do not meet, as Carridine’s crusty old sea captain is killed off rather early. The rest of the cast do a fine job as well. The special effects are minimal, but the undead Death Corp soldiers do look great with short blond locks and black goggles. Just a couple of minor critisisms. I would have liked a bit more back story to the Death Corp formation, and how they had been turned into superhuman killing machines, and a little less running around the island. Also, if you look closely, when they fish poor Dobb’s corpse out of the river, he lifts his head up just as the scene finishes. Still, these are very minor grumbles, as its a very enjoyable low budget horror with an engaging cast and premise.
This review is for the film only, as I havent seen this particular Blue Underground release. 4 out of 5
Shock n roll. Definetly one for the collector,good atmos and Peter Cushing is a far cry from his Baron Frankenstein days in it,simply bizaare,the nazi zombies look effective and menacing,grotesque at times,it probably won’t appeal to the fulci/ romero zombie lovers enmasse but,definetly an icon to savour.
Peter Cushing makes a great scared face Nazi from WWII(looking past his brit accent...haha)) in 1975's Shock Waves The Death Corps. are storm troopers killed in action during World War II and part of a Nazi supernatural experiment to create the indestructible soldier out of the most evil men they could find.Using their bodies making them into zombie soldiers.30 years later and a small ship carring a group of vacationers and a 3 man crew have awaken these Nazi zombies.Peter Cushing once commandered these troops,saying they were not able to control the squad,being that they were unpredictable and eratic in nature killing soldiers on their own side.Cushing is the soul occupant on an island they have become shipwrecked on.You can pretty much take it from there.Great soundtrack.Totally creepy atmosphere.Not a lot of blood and gore as this movie doesn’t really need these elements to help make this little gem a great horror movie.If you like Peter Cushing ,pick this up.You will thank me for it.The one zombie nazi movie that really counts.Stay away from “Zombie Lake” and “Oasis of Zombies”.These two turds came out in 1980 and 1981.”Shock Waves” is the one to have in your collection.
P.S. I do own ‘Zombie Lake’ and ‘Oasis of Zombies’,but do not recommend them(cuz the’re so BAD)unless you are a total nazi zombie junkie like me,if so while your at it pick up ‘Dead Snow’
.......................not just for hair. The first, and best, of the Nazi Zombie movies, the others being: Zombie Lake (1981), The Chilling (1981) and Oasis of the Zombies (1983), SHOCK WAVES arrives courtesy of Blue Underground as a Region 0 disc.
When a group of American tourists get lost during a boating holiday, and run into Hammer favourite, the always watchable, Peter Cushing, sporting a facial scar and talking with a clipped German accent, you know you are in for quite a ride.
Unlike other walking dead movies, these zombies hunt in packs, not slow moving crowds, and kill only for the sake of killing. Mean. Granted, the majority of the cast deserve killing, anyway.
Throw in Forties horror star, John Carradine as the crusty sea captain, and you’ve got yourself one creepy little horror film.
Zombie fans used to Romero style gore may find this tame by comparison to the great zombie man’s epics, but it is the unease you feel during, and after, that makes this worth a viewing.
The disc is presented in widescreen, remastered from the director’s own print, and even though this is grainy, it does not detract too much. Nice set of extras; trailer, still gallery.
You’ll never view the beach on holiday the same again……
BLOND AMBITION SHOCK WAVES has for years been a often referenced, reviewed and beloved little gem of a zombie film that could. But it was also hard to find on video for years, and most people had to make due with dupes or copies taken off late night television, but no more. SHOCK WAVES on DVD is finally here, and it is just about perfect. Presented in widescreen with a touched up print, and a host of extra’s (a fun and informative commentary, a photo gallery that not only gives us some insight into the behind the scene work, but also clues us in on some of the footage missing from the film – plus a great selection of poster art and production notes), SHOCK WAVES is sure to please any fan of the zombie genre without question. My only complaint about the film is that, while it builds atmosphere, suspense and a general feeling of unease, it is up until the last third of the film a bit of a bore. It seems that the Nazi Zombies are everywhere and yet nowhere as well, and Peter Cushing, a true star, actually has nothing more than a cameo role here (spending most of his times either in shadows, long shots or on the run). But when the film finally cuts loose, it’s a thrill ride up until the final frame that leaves you grappling to turn on the lights quickly and check under the bed, just to be sure. A powerful film that has actually inspired a “tribute” from Peter Benchley, the author of JAWS, in his novel WHITE SHARK, which is almost a novelization of this film. For fans, SHOCK WAVES is a must, no collection can be complete without it. For those new to the zomibe wasteland, SHOCK WAVES is a slow starter that once going won’t stop until you’re good and scared.
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Italian makes the best soundtracks! And their take on nazi zombies is classic. This movie is essential for any real 80’s horror movie fans. I play this movie in the background when I write poetry. It has so many functions, trust me!
Italian makes the best soundtracks! And their take on nazi zombies is classic. This movie is essential for any real 80’s horror movie fans. I play this movie in the background when I write poetry. It has so many functions, trust me!
One of the Better Zombie Movies
One of the better 1970s Zombie movies. Filmed in Florida at an abandoned luxury hotel,
The “Zombie Nazis” running around after the survivors of a boat wreck, with Peter Cushing yelling “Halt!, Halt!”
This really aged well
This is an ancient film with ancient effects. And yet, it aged really well. There is suspense here that is simply lost in modern films which focus too much on the effect and not enough on the mystery.
Cool film!
Shock Waves on Blu-Ray
Blue Underground released on Blu-ray this sleeper hit horror film from 1977 directed by Ken Wiederhorn about a group of cruise ship tourists who encounter strange weather and find themselves stranded on an island where a former Nazi Commander (played by Peter Cushing) is living, and his former, zombie-like super soldiers have risen from their watery graves to attack. Co-starring (among others) Brooke Adams, Luke Halperin and John Carradine.
Looking quite good in HD, the best it can from the surviving film elements, a fine upgrade from the 2003 DVD, porting over those extras, but now including new ones like interviews with Brooke Adams, composer Richard Einhorn, and Producer/Cinematographer Reuben Trane. Unique, dream-like film has a memorable nautical theme, downplaying the potential violence with eerie direction. Peter Cushing is the clear standout among the cast, with a most effective ending.
A real favourite from my VHS rental days. An eye catching video cover in a large oversized box looked great on the shelf…..pity about the jumping picture and impossible to fix tracking problems. Thankfully all that’s gone now and we can enjoy Ken Wiederhorn’s 1976 entry in the Nazi zombie sub-genre in all it’s glory. Don’t expect the usual gut munching and extreme violence usually associated with these things, this is almost totally blood free with the killings pretty much hidden from view. Lets face it though, the film works really well as it is and so the focus is more on the basics such as a great setting, an atmospheric sun drenched island with it’s isolated mansion and Caribbean vistas, eventually put under siege by our zombie friends, rising from the depths in a very effective and convincing manner.
Tremendous to see the likes of Peter Cushing and John Carradine adding a quality dimension to the proceedings, although neither get a great deal to do. Cushing in particular spends most of his time walking around as if on a mission.
Yes, picture quality varies throughout and film grain is certainly evident, but this can’t be eradicated totally and does add that vintage feel reminiscent of old times (if you can remember the old times).
Not to everyone’s taste of course, in fact if you’ve been weaned on super smooth, super slick fare with fast paced editing you may be disappointed. If not, then this deserves a place in your collection.
Just to point out, the release here is Blue Underground’s original region free dvd and NOT their Special Edition.
**** BLU-RAY***
A word about Blue Underground’s Blu-ray release. Picture quality is sharper and looks more effective on a bigger screen, however this has increased the grain factor (the film was shot on 16mm), and while this is acceptable, it’s still a little disappointing. If viewing on a 60’+ screen you might want to be a little wary.
I love this movie. One of those truly dark dark moody early 80's flicks. Along the same feel as say "Death Ship" or "The Thing". They don't make them like this anymore. Not much for plot or character development, but who cares?
I love this movie. One of those truly dark dark moody early 80’s flicks. Along the same feel as say “Death Ship” or “The Thing”. They don’t make them like this anymore. Not much for plot or character development, but who cares?
shock waves
creepy and atmospheric 70s horror set on a small island where undead ww2 nazi soldiers lie in wait for their next victims. there was no gore but the film had so much tension and atmosphere that it didnt really spoil it. the soundtrack especially is one of the creepiest ive heard in a film and gave a constant feeling of dread and doom which really got under my skin. the blu-ray looked a bit soft and was extremely grainy but that just gave the film an old and gritty look which added to the creepiness. everything about this film was eerie and creepy. best watched in the dark.
This is the best of the so called "Video Nazis"
This is the best of the so called “Video Nazis”.
A very decent cast star in this creepy zombie flick where the results of old Nazi experiments rise from their watery graves to attack some stranded tourists on a swampy desert island.
Excellent picture and sound with some good bonus materials.
This is one of those ’70s horror flicks that utilizes the atmosphere and the creepy music to make it a definite “cult” classic. John Carradine (THE HOWLING), Peter Cushing (STAR WARS) and Brooke Adams (INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS ’79) are the only recognizable actors.
It’s a well done movie with Peter Cushing’s character being the lead as the former commander of the Nazi “undead” soldiers. He was part of a team during WWII to create a highly adaptable soldier. The soldiers then became uncontrollable and violent, even sometimes challenging their own Nazi’s in the field of combat. The War came to an end and Peter’s character took the soldiers on a ship to avoid capture and sailed for weeks. He intentionally ran it aground near a remote island. That’s where our story picks up. Unsuspecting tourists on a sailboat ride find themselves lost and end up on that particular island of all places. They venture ashore only to find an abandoned Hotel of sorts with Cushing’s character inhabiting the place. After introductions, he advises them to leave the island as soon as possible for there is danger all around the island. The window to leave is closed upon the weary traveler’s and they must fight off the undead. One by one, they fall victim to their menacing “thirst” to kill and drowning…. or do they?
The DVD itself could have been better, but I suppose at least it is widescreen with a few extras from Blue Underground Entertainment.
The DVD is 1:85:1, Dolby Digital 2.0 and runs about 85 minutes with credits.
The movie is not a gore fest, but it is spooky and the music really adds to the feel of the whole creepy island effect. Trees and the water look as if they are menacing. I am reminded of another zombie movie that came out after this in 1979 called “ZOMBIE” here in the US. It was the sequel (of sorts) to the very popular movie “DAWN OF THE DEAD”. In ZOMBIE, a few crew members from a sailboat go abroad to track down one of the crew’s father living on the island. Well, once there, the creepy tropical island effect with the music takes over and eventually they are all in danger.
~ Richard Einhorn needs to be commended on a brilliant horror soundtrack!
~ BLURAY EDITION: Some Great Features also on this edition including a very nice interview with two of the people who try and escape the island toward the end of the movie. Brooke Adams being one of them. She looks good for her age and talks about this movie and what it’s like to be known now as a horror icon of sorts. Get that one as it appears to be more cleaned up than this DVD edition if you want to spend a few more bucks on it. It’s worth it.
Another rare horror from two class horror icons Cushing and Carradine - Region Free
Peter Cushing – John Carradine and Nazi Zombies – well if that hasn’t sold you what about the fact that the oddness of the film adds to the eeriness of the film. The Zombies aren’t to bad either. Well worth buying as its Region free!
A group of stranded tourists play hide and seek on an island teeming with waterlogged Nazi Zombies from the deep.
The plot faithfully follows the standard horror archetype……..trap a bunch of people in a confined spot then pick them off one by one. The violence is kept safely hidden off screen, the bodies posed afterwards to demonstrate that something had been done to them, exactly what is mostly guess work. We’re alerted up front with a narration explaining there was a secret experiment with Nazi soldiers to make them invincible. Then the movie starts at the end and plays out the story as a remembrance. This doomed group of adventurers set sail on a crappy boat owned by a crabby captain with an acerbic wit (the fabulous John Carradine). Also along for the ride is a bickering couple, a stray tourist with issues about confinement, and the requisite babe of sorts (Brooke Adams as Rose). No stranger to water, the crew consists of Luke Halpin as Keith and a cook with definite hygiene problems. On the island, they meet a Nazi recluse (Peter Cushing as a cadaverous SS Commander). In no time at all, a veritable army of Nazis bob to the surface and slowly track down their victims………..one………by………..one. The movie is 85 minutes long so they have to take their time.
I freely admit that I love this film but I’m certain there are some who won’t appreciate the slow pace and lack of violence and/or gore that’s usually expected in zombie flicks. Instead, this film thrives on atmosphere and an overriding sense of doom. The action is sparse. And although there is a high body count, it really doesn’t seem to count as it’s not shown. It’s not particularly scary but it is artfully done!
Ken Wiederhorn’s classic 1977 zombie gem Shock Waves finally gets a much needed HD upgrade courtesy of Blue Underground, the company who gave fans the then definitive DVD version way back in 2002. The Blu ray is region free and playable on all Blu ray players worldwide so order with confidence. My copy came with the usual slim line case that is the norm for American imports but also came house in an embossed slipcase.
The set up is simple with a visibly traumatised girl (Brooke Adams) floating dazed and confused aided only by a small glass bottomed life dinghy somewhere in the middle of the ocean. She is promptly rescued by a fisherman and it is from this point that she narrates her story of a doomed pleasure voyage aboard the rickety Boneventure captained by the incredibly grumpy old sea dog Ben Morris(John Carradine) and his two man crew. After the ships compass is damaged due to a strange solar phenomenon (which is never fully explained) the Boneventure finds itself miles off course where it is nearly crushed by the hull of a huge rusted old warship that seemed to loom from nowhere out of the dark watery night. With the Boneventure taking on water and also the fact that the captain has mysteriously disappeared the first mate decides to take the passengers to a nearby island. Seemingly uninhabited, and sporting a huge and once grand deserted hotel the rag tag bunch of survivors believe they have a safe place to wait for a rescue. Unfortunately things go from bad to worse when the lost captain turns up dead and a strange island recluse (Peter Cushing) with a distinctive German accent arrives on the scene warning them of the untold dangers on the island concerning a platoon of specially manipulated and bloodthirsty Nazi zombie stormtroopers called The Death Corps, who had been contained in the rusting innards of the warship for decades but who are now free and lie in wait around the coast and waterways of the small tropical island.
The idea of Nazi zombies now seems abit of a cliche and is indeed nothing new with a resurgence of undead SS officers in such films as the Outpost series and The Bunker. The sub genre was also parodied in the incredibly gorey Norwegian black comedy Dead Snow and its sequel to the point of ridiculousness . Back in 1977 though the notion was still relatively fresh with nothing really quite like it unless you consider the 1966 helmed head transplantation flick The Frozen Dead. As was always the case European movie makers jumped on the idea churning such unforgettable titles as Jean Rollin’s Zombie Lake (which also plagurised the underwater theme) and Jess Franco’s Oasis Of The Zombies.
Shock Waves has always remained a firm favorite of mine ever since i saw it on a battered VHS tape from Vipco in the 90s, so for me to do any real critical analysis of this much loved picture is hard as I always look at this film through rose tinted glasses. That said Shock Waves is far from perfect and is definatly not to all tastes. Technical problems abound from bad continuity through to plot holes and the movie hardly looks polished. Also any newcomers to Shock Waves expecting a 70s zombie gorefest along the lines of The Living Dead At Manchester Morgue, Dawn Of The Dead or even the original 1968 Night Of The Living Dead will be surely disappointed with the lack of onscreen carnage as hardly a drop of blood is spilt throughout the whole picture so much so that it originally recieved a PG rating in the US and if re-submitted to the BBFC today would more than likely get away with a 12 certificate as the old Vipco release only carried an 18 rating due to the inclusion of trailers for other far more graphic movies. But to me non of this matters as Shock Waves remains as effective now as when I first saw it for a number of reasons. First and foremost Shock Waves is atmospheric to the core from the tropical island setting which as to be expected has drawn similarities with Lucio Fulci’s Zombie Flesh Eaters through to the often grungy 16mm photography. Much like another 1970s cult horror favourite, Tobe Hooper’s Texas Chiansaw Massacre, Wiederhorn manages to pull off quite a few shocks, moments of creepy imagery and raw power without resorting to over the top bloodletting often associated with the genre. Its these scenes, mostly involving the zombies rising from the water that are most effective giving the movie an eerie dreamlike quality. The cast too are mostly excellent with the two big marquee names in both Carradine and Cushing perfect in small cameo roles, adding a touch of class, experience and professionalism to such a low budget production despite being given relatively little to do. The remainder of the cast are good without being overly memorable with the exception of a pre Invasion Of The Body Snatchers Brooke Adams in her first credited starring role. A special note must also be made about the wonderful electronic soundtrack by Richard Einhorn which adds to experience immeasurable and dare I say it enhances the mood and atmosphere to help create what is a very unique movie.
For me Shock Waves is a minor classic with some wonderful moments, brimming with 70s horror atmosphere so thick you could spread it with a knife. As I mentioned before its not for everyone but if you like discovering forgotten cult horror then I can wholeheartedly recommend Shock Waves.
Picture:
Shock Waves has always looked a little rough around the edges which could have been attributed to the fact that the original elements had been lost many years before. Blue Underground’s new Blu ray release states that it was created from the only known surviving elements but when compared to their old SD DVD release this is significant upgrade especially if your a fan who has seen the film many times. Presented in the correct aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and sporting an AVC encoded MPEG4 transfer this looks about as good as I expect Shock Waves ever will unless a pristine print is ever discovered. Obviously there is always going to be room for improvement but fine detail is far stronger than SD could produce and despite a few out of focus sections which would have been inherent in the original photograpy this is fairly pleasing. The HD transfer also handles the thick grainy image more accurately lending the visuals a natural filmic appearance and thanks to a decent bitrate there are no encode problems to report. Print damage is somewhat lessened compared to previous release. That doesent mean its completely clean and indeed there is the odd line and traces of spotting print damage but it is never overly distracting and doesent diminish the overall viewing experience. Contrast at times can be a little bright especially on the brighter outdoor scenes and the image can come across as a little pale with colours hardly ever popping but dark scenes show
greater depth and are more discernable than the old DVD despite some crush and obvious fading. It is also worth noting that more image is visible within the frame on nearly all four sides. There isn’t a huge amount of difference but it is always a positive to get the most accurately framed version. Hardly an award winning restoration but taken on its own terms this is a worthy upgrade that should please fans although newcomers who demand pristine smooth presentations may find the grain structure a little overpowering.
Audio:
Blue Underground have remained faithful to the original sound design and presented Shock Waves in its original mono delivered here by a two channel DTS-HD Master mix. Obviously this comes across as a little limited slightly lacking in atmospherics and depth but then is how it would have originally sounded. Dialogue on this lossless track is almost always discernable if at times hollow and effects feature more punch than the DVD. The most notable upgrade from this lossless track must go to Richard Einhorn’s soundtrack which does indeed sound far richer and as its possibly the most important attribute to Shock Waves’ sound design make this new Blu ray a very worthy upgrade.
Extras:
If you already own Blue Underground’s previous release then some of the extras will be familiar such as the audio commentary featuring input from director Ken Wiederhorn, make-up designer Alan Ormsby and B movie director Fred Olen Ray and the documentary ‘From Flipper To Shock Waves concerning star Luke Halpin. But for its Blu ray premiere, Blue Underground have produced some brand new extras to really add value to an already worthy package. First up is an all new documentary entitled ‘Nazi Zombies On A Budget’ which features a 21 minute chat in full HD with producer and cinematographer Reuben Trane who talks about the production and how much it cost to bring in both Cushing and Carradine for five days work apiece. Another acquisition for this new release is a 13 minute interview again in HD with the music composer Richard Einhorn and last but not least is yet another interview recorded in HD with star Brooke Adams with the title ‘Sole Survivor.
Shock Waves marks yet another worthy Blu ray upgrade from Blue Underground. The transfer is a significant improvement over standard definition and the new extras are the icing on the cake. Keep supporting Blue Underground’s decision to re release their back catalogue in HD as there are still some very worthy titles languishing in SD DVD hell and this release comes highly recommended.
Je m attendais pour un dvd à une meilleur qualité ...
Je m attendais pour un dvd une meilleur qualit de image mais a reste un trs bon film pour l poque l ide du film est trs bonne et j aime bien les espces de mystre et inconnu qui plane tout au long du film
For a 1970’s movie, well done, this is a well thought out, not original, but different in its approach, with even a big name in the 70’s, HAMMER Productions own Peter Cushing, and this time not playing the English Gentleman type. The action is quick to surface, no pun intended, with the arrival of the “Ghost Ship”, the deserted Island, with a three star hotel being used as a hermitage which is keeping a dark secret. It is well know the NAZI’s were big into the occult and this movie tugs on that string throughout the movie. The acting is above average, to include a character you just want to shoot right off the bat. The zombies are not the flesh eating kind, but have a more watery grave mentality, which really does make this a different type of zombie film. The zombies are tame looking for today standards, but do pull of a wierd creepiness which is well captured in the movie. The movie lacks the blood and gore of most zombie movies, but can hold the audience captive. A good movie for any zombie lover.
The 70’s was the breeding ground for great horror films. The mainstream audiance was being treated to a slur of religious themed horror films (Exorcist, its sequel, The Omen, Beyond The Door) etc, and there was a big underground scene going on. In 1977, this indie shocker crept to theatres and made a small impact. But it’s reputation since then has grown and it has been dubbed a classic, rightfully so. Of course there are many clones, the most obvious being the truely horrible Zombie Lake. But this movie, utilizing the underwater nazi zombie idea is very well crafted and lives up to its title. Although some might find it slow and lacking by modern standards, for those who like horror from the era when real horrror was being done, this one is a near essential. Staring an unknown Brooke Adams, and horror legends John Carradine and Peter Cushing, the low budget on this flick is apparent. Like Halloween a year after it, the writers wisely cast one (or 2) highly famaliar face to reel in their target crowd. Although they play the same usual “warning theres something bad going on here” character they’ve both always played, they do it with the bravado you’d expect of both the veterans. Some island tourists aboard a boat captaine’d by Caradine has some kind of equipment problems, loses its way, and gets sideswiped by a large unknown ship. They take refuge on a nearby island and not to give too much away, Cushing living there in isolation, is the former head of a core of superhuman killers (not dead nor alive but somewhere in between) that have just so happen to be rising from their watery grave on this day. Of course, on paper this sounds cheesy, however director Ken Wiederhorn really treats this flick as if it were the kind of late 60s Hammer film Cushing himself comes from. It’s extremely eerie indeed. The music by Richard Einhorn is what really fills this movie with great tension and a very chilling atmosphere. Of course the shots of the monsters rising from the sea are the trademark image of the movie, this is one of the best horror films of it’s decade, at least in the top 30. One thing that might irritate some waters is the lack of gore or any real violence, although others might find this a good thing. That doesn’t mean this a kid movie, it’s mood more than makes up for the lack of blood, and the raw low budget look will turn off anyone from the younger generation that is used to the typical Hollywood 10 million dollar slasher remake crap. This is a classic yet underlooked horror nugget.
Goose Stepping Ghouls From Beyond The Grave
A small ship with a small group of crew members and passengers on board is lost in the sea, the ship’s compass broken. There also seems to be some kind of underwater turbulence. During the night, Keith(Luke Halpin), who is on night watch, and also steering the ship, sees a large boat heading straight for them, and frantically tries to steer a safe course. The ship undergoes some damage. In the morning, all that is visible is a rusted wreck in the sea. They have also sailed near to an island so the remaining passengers and crew go looking for help(the ship’s Captain is found drowned). What they find is a seemingly deserted hotel, but if that is the case, why can they hear music playing? Meanwhile something is stirring in the depths of the sea….
First of all, I’m sorry for the rather lurid title of my review. It’s not really that type of film at all. It is in fact an old fashioned horror film, that relies on atmosphere and plot to sell itself, rather than the gory set pieces that were becoming more prevelant in films from that period(mid-late 70’s). Its lovely to see both Peter Cushing and John Carridine in the same film, even though their characters do not meet, as Carridine’s crusty old sea captain is killed off rather early. The rest of the cast do a fine job as well. The special effects are minimal, but the undead Death Corp soldiers do look great with short blond locks and black goggles. Just a couple of minor critisisms. I would have liked a bit more back story to the Death Corp formation, and how they had been turned into superhuman killing machines, and a little less running around the island. Also, if you look closely, when they fish poor Dobb’s corpse out of the river, he lifts his head up just as the scene finishes. Still, these are very minor grumbles, as its a very enjoyable low budget horror with an engaging cast and premise.
This review is for the film only, as I havent seen this particular Blue Underground release. 4 out of 5
Shock n roll.
Definetly one for the collector,good atmos and Peter Cushing is a far cry from his Baron Frankenstein days in it,simply bizaare,the nazi zombies look effective and menacing,grotesque at times,it probably won’t appeal to the fulci/ romero zombie lovers enmasse but,definetly an icon to savour.
The Death Corps. are storm troopers killed in action during World War II and part of a Nazi supernatural experiment to create the indestructible soldier out of the most evil men they could find.Using their bodies making them into zombie soldiers.30 years later and a small ship carring a group of vacationers and a 3 man crew have awaken these Nazi zombies.Peter Cushing once commandered these troops,saying they were not able to control the squad,being that they were unpredictable and eratic in nature killing soldiers on their own side.Cushing is the soul occupant on an island they have become shipwrecked on.You can pretty much take it from there.Great soundtrack.Totally creepy atmosphere.Not a lot of blood and gore as this movie doesn’t really need these elements to help make this little gem a great horror movie.If you like Peter Cushing ,pick this up.You will thank me for it.The one zombie nazi movie that really counts.Stay away from “Zombie Lake” and “Oasis of Zombies”.These two turds came out in 1980 and 1981.”Shock Waves” is the one to have in your collection.
P.S. I do own ‘Zombie Lake’ and ‘Oasis of Zombies’,but do not recommend them(cuz the’re so BAD)unless you are a total nazi zombie junkie like me,if so while your at it pick up ‘Dead Snow’
The first, and best, of the Nazi Zombie movies, the others being: Zombie Lake (1981), The Chilling (1981) and Oasis of the Zombies (1983), SHOCK WAVES arrives courtesy of Blue Underground as a Region 0 disc.
When a group of American tourists get lost during a boating holiday, and run into Hammer favourite, the always watchable, Peter Cushing, sporting a facial scar and talking with a clipped German accent, you know you are in for quite a ride.
Unlike other walking dead movies, these zombies hunt in packs, not slow moving crowds, and kill only for the sake of killing. Mean. Granted, the majority of the cast deserve killing, anyway.
Throw in Forties horror star, John Carradine as the crusty sea captain, and you’ve got yourself one creepy little horror film.
Zombie fans used to Romero style gore may find this tame by comparison to the great zombie man’s epics, but it is the unease you feel during, and after, that makes this worth a viewing.
The disc is presented in widescreen, remastered from the director’s own print, and even though this is grainy, it does not detract too much. Nice set of extras; trailer, still gallery.
You’ll never view the beach on holiday the same again……
SHOCK WAVES has for years been a often referenced, reviewed and beloved little gem of a zombie film that could. But it was also hard to find on video for years, and most people had to make due with dupes or copies taken off late night television, but no more. SHOCK WAVES on DVD is finally here, and it is just about perfect. Presented in widescreen with a touched up print, and a host of extra’s (a fun and informative commentary, a photo gallery that not only gives us some insight into the behind the scene work, but also clues us in on some of the footage missing from the film – plus a great selection of poster art and production notes), SHOCK WAVES is sure to please any fan of the zombie genre without question. My only complaint about the film is that, while it builds atmosphere, suspense and a general feeling of unease, it is up until the last third of the film a bit of a bore. It seems that the Nazi Zombies are everywhere and yet nowhere as well, and Peter Cushing, a true star, actually has nothing more than a cameo role here (spending most of his times either in shadows, long shots or on the run). But when the film finally cuts loose, it’s a thrill ride up until the final frame that leaves you grappling to turn on the lights quickly and check under the bed, just to be sure. A powerful film that has actually inspired a “tribute” from Peter Benchley, the author of JAWS, in his novel WHITE SHARK, which is almost a novelization of this film. For fans, SHOCK WAVES is a must, no collection can be complete without it. For those new to the zomibe wasteland, SHOCK WAVES is a slow starter that once going won’t stop until you’re good and scared.