Blast of Silence [1961] [Criterion] (DVD)

Allen Baron

Currently unavailable

SHIPS FREE in U.S.

Synopsis

Swift, brutal, and black-hearted, Allen Baron's New York City noir Blast of Silence is a sensational surprise. This low-budget, carefully crafted portrait of a hit man on assignment in Manhattan during Christmastime follows its stripped-down narrative with mechanical precision, yet also with an eye and ear for the oddball idiosyncrasies of urban living and the imposing beauty of the city. At once visually ragged and artfully composed, and featuring rough, poetic narration performed by Lionel Stander, Blast of Silence is a stylish triumph.

New, restored digital transfer
Requiem for a Killer: The Making of "Blast of Silence"
Rare on-set Polaroids
Locations revisited in 2008
Theatrical trailer
English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
PLUS A booklet featuring an essay by film critic Terrence Rafferty and a four-page graphic-novel adaptation of the film by acclaimed artist Sean Phillips (Criminal, Sleeper, Marvel Zombies)