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Scanners Limited Edition 4K Review: This Mind-Blowing Release is a Must-Have for Horror Fans

David Cronenberg’s Scanners isn’t just a cult classic—it’s a cornerstone of horror and sci-fi, a film that redefined the genre with its grotesque practical effects, cerebral storytelling, and, of course, that legendary head-explosion scene. Now, thanks to the horror aficionados at Second Sight Films, this mind-melting thriller is getting the ultimate collector’s treatment with a brand-new 4K Limited Edition release. Spoiler alert: It’s absolutely essential.

A Restoration Worthy of the Horror Hall of Fame

Let’s talk about the restoration first because, wow, does Scanners look better than ever. This new 4K restoration was approved by Cronenberg himself, ensuring that every oozing brain explosion, every unsettling psychic battle, and every gritty detail of the film’s dystopian paranoia shines in pristine quality. The UHD disc is presented in HDR with Dolby Vision, meaning the film’s unique aesthetic—equal parts grimy and surreal—pops in a way it never has before.

But this release isn’t just about how it looks. It’s a full-on deep dive into the world of Scanners, with a treasure trove of bonus content that makes this set a must-own for fans of horror history and practical effects.

The Special Features: A Goldmine for Horror Aficionados

Let’s get into the juicy stuff—the extras. Second Sight Films has loaded this edition with a wealth of new and archival content that takes you deep into the making of Scanners and its lasting impact on the horror world.

  • New audio commentary by Caelum Vatnsdal – A fresh perspective on the film, packed with insights that longtime fans and newcomers alike will appreciate.
  • Classic commentary by William Beard – A great listen for those who want to dig into the deeper themes of the film.
  • A deep lineup of interviews with the cast and crew:
    • My Art Keeps Me Sane – An interview with Stephen Lack, who played Cameron Vale. His performance has always been a hot topic among fans, and this is a great opportunity to hear his thoughts.
    • Method in his Madness – Michael Ironside, the scene-stealing villain, opens up about playing Darryl Revok, one of horror’s most terrifying antagonists.
    • Bad Guy Dane – An interview with Lawrence Dane, another key player in the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
    • The Eye of Scanners – A conversation with cinematographer Mark Irwin, who helped bring Cronenberg’s vision to life.
    • Mind Fragments – A must-watch interview with legendary composer Howard Shore, whose score plays a huge role in the film’s eerie vibe.
    • The Chaos of Scanners – Executive producer Pierre David sheds light on the behind-the-scenes madness.
    • Exploding Brains & Popping Veins – A chat with makeup effects artist Stephan Dupuis, who helped craft some of the film’s most infamous moments.
    • Monster Kid – Another effects-focused interview, this time with Chris Walas, who worked on Scanners before bringing The Fly to life.
    • Cronenberg’s Tech Babies – A fascinating video essay by Tim Coleman that dissects the director’s themes and influence.

The Ultimate Collector’s Packaging

Second Sight Films didn’t just go all-in on the content; they made sure the packaging is just as enticing. The Limited Edition set comes housed in a rigid slipcase featuring striking new artwork by Krishna Shenoi, making it a true collector’s item. Inside, you’ll find a 120-page book filled with fresh essays from horror scholars, providing a deep dive into Scanners’ legacy. And for the cherry on top, six exclusive collectors’ art cards round out this stacked release.

Why Scanners Still Matters

For those unfamiliar with Scanners, it’s much more than a horror movie with cool practical effects (though it definitely has those in spades). The film explores themes of corporate control, government experiments, and the dangers of unchecked power, all wrapped in a neo-noir conspiracy thriller with a horror twist. It’s vintage Cronenberg—cold, cerebral, and deeply unsettling.

Over 40 years after its release, Scanners remains one of the most influential films in horror and sci-fi, inspiring everything from The X-Files to Stranger Things. This 4K edition cements its legacy, giving both longtime fans and newcomers the perfect way to experience its raw, mind-bending brilliance.

Where to Buy

If you’re a horror collector, a Cronenberg fanatic, or just someone who loves incredible special features, this is an essential pickup. The Scanners Limited Edition 4K UHD and Blu-ray box set drops on March 31, 2025, and you can pre-order it now:

Second Sight Films has delivered the definitive Scanners release, packed with enough extras to satisfy even the most die-hard horror fans. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to have your mind—and maybe your head—blown.