101 Films presents 1970s sci-fi classic Phase IV (1974), a gripping and philosophical cult classic that examines humanity's place in the universe. Title 012 on the 101 Films Black Label and a UK Blu-ray debut, Phase IV is the only feature film directed by designer and filmmaker Saul Bass, this release includes his original ending, among a host of additional extras, including a bonus disc featuring the finest of the director's short films.
In a sealed lab in the Arizona desert, scientists James Lesko (Michael Murphy, Manhattan) and Dr. Ernest Hubbs (Nigel Davenport, A Man for All Seasons) search for answers to an evolutionary shift in the ant population; the development of a collective intelligence and cross-species hive mentality. With humanity under threat, the scientists are faced with the choice of either communicating with or eradicating their antagonists.
Extras/Episodes:
- New HD restoration
- The Original Saul Bass ending (plus optional commentary)
- An Ant's Life: Contextualising Phase IV Commentary with film historians Allan Bryce and Richard Holliss
- Theatrical trailer
Saul Bass: Short Films (Disc 2)
- The Searching Eye (1964)
- Why Man Creates (1968)
- Bass on Titles (1977)
- Notes on the Popular Arts (1978)
- The Solar Film (1980)
- Quest (1984) (new HD restoration)
Phase IV
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I'm so pleased to finally have a copy of this magnificent film in my collection. I first watched 'Phase IV' over 40 years ago and it scared the living daylights out of me. An ultra-intelligent animal attack science-fiction film that feels like an earth based '2001'. Saul Bass in his, sadly, lone feature-length directorial outing and writer Mayo Simon managed to make a film of such beauty in design and aesthetic but one which manages to be so unnerving, it gives me shivers whenever I watch it. The cinematography is beautiful, the sound editing is gorgeous, the footage of the ants is amazing, the performances are wonderful and Lynne Frederick was so beautiful. It's a truly unique film and I often wish there were more like it. There is a commentary and excellent video essay about the film as well Then there is the second disc of Saul & Elaine Bass short films, none of which I had seen, they are all excellent and show what a unique vision Saul Bass had and what a good Graphic Designer he was. It's a very good edition and well worth getting if you like late 60's and 70's films films such as 2001, The Andromeda Strain, The Satan Bug, Colossus: The Forbin Project and THX 1138.