Director – Simon Wincer (The Phantom, Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man)
Starring – Sigrid Thornton (#7DaysLater, The Pact), Chantal Contouri (Thirst, Offspring), and Robert Bruning (Ned Kelly, The Outsiders)
Release Date – 1979
Rating – 3/5
Blu Release – 4/5
Several years ago Vinegar Syndrome sent over their release of the 1979 ozploitation thriller Snapshot. The film, also known as The Day After Halloween, was a lot of fun and one I was not expecting to enjoy as much as I did. Since that original review I’ve forgotten about the film even though I told myself I would revisit it again sometime in the future. A few months back Umbrella Entertainment sent over a press release for release of Snapshot as part of their Ozploitation Classics line. I used this as an excuse to revisit it and requested a copy. After watching a couple turds and a decent film I decided it was time to toss it in. Like always, I want to thank Umbrella Entertainment for hooking me up with a copy.
**Spoiler Alert**The film follows Angela (Thornton). Angela is a hairdresser who befriends the beautiful Madeline (Contouri) who helps her break free from living payday to payday and into the world of modeling. She recently broke up with her boyfriend and agrees to the new venture. Her family turns their back on her and her ex becomes obsessive. Often following her as she meets up with business partners and potential employers. After receiving the head of a pig as a gift she suspects that her ex may turn to murder but quickly learns she has a stalker in the modeling community.**Spoiler Alert**
When I received Snapshot I had no idea what to expect from this film. The film was sexy but not as sleazy as I was thinking (or hoping for). Instead, it was a cold drama that plays out until it becomes a strong thriller. Honestly, its because of the unexpected that makes this one so enjoyable.
The acting in this is great. I really enjoyed the cast. Sigrid Thornton was fantastic as the reluctant model turned center of attention. She is gorgeous and delivers an emotional performance. I also enjoyed Chantal Contouri. This is the first film I’ve seen of hers but god damn will I be looking for more. Wow. The supporting cast does a solid job as well but these two are the stars of the show for sure.
The story for this one flows more like a drama until the film’s end segment until it takes on great thriller qualities. The film gets very dark and our star’s future is uncertain. I liked the way the film flows and the story it tells. It does have a slow flow but not slow enough to push the viewer away. In fact, it does the opposite. The viewer can’t wait to see what happens next.
Finally, if you are looking for blood you wont find it here. If you want skin and a great story you came to the right place. Overall, Snapshot is a fantastic film. Equal parts drama and parts thriller that will entertain. It’s one of the better entries in the Ozploitation Classics line that I highly recommend checking out. You will not be disappointed.
Special Features:
Antony I. Ginnane Ozploitation Sampler CD
Original 24 page collector’s booklet
2018 audio commentary with producer Antony I. Ginnane moderated by film critic Jaimie Leonarder
2017 audio commentary with actress Sigrid Thornton, director Simon Wincer, Antony I. Ginnane & cinematographer Vincent Monton moderated by filmmaker Mark Hartley
2013 audio commentary with Antony I. Ginnane moderated by horror hostess Katarina Leigh Walters
Extended interviews from “Not Quite Hollywood” with Sigrid Thornton, Simon Wincer, Antony I. Ginnane, writer Everett De Roche, Vincent Monton, assistant director Tom Burstall and actress Lynda Stoner
“Producing Snapshot”: interview featurette
100-minute original edit (sourced from VHS)
Antony I. Ginnane trailer reel
Stills and poster gallery with audio interview with stuntman Grant Page
TV spots
Alternative US credit sequence
