Poltergeist: The Film Vault – Classic Horror Movie Gets New 4K Collector’s Editions

The iconic 1982 horror film “Poltergeist” is making a grand return with new 4K Blu-ray collector`s editions from The Film Vault. The “Poltergeist” Special Edition Steelbook boasts fresh case art that masterfully recreates pivotal scenes from the movie. This steelbook is presented in a unique cigar-box-style packaging, accompanied by a selection of exclusive collectibles. All the new artwork has been meticulously designed by Matt Ferguson and Florey from The Film Vault.

The “Poltergeist” Special Edition Steelbook is currently available for $100. For those primarily interested in the film itself, a steelbook-only “Solus Edition” is offered for $65, excluding the additional collectibles. Both editions include region-free 4K Blu-ray and 1080p Blu-ray discs. The Film Vault is a distinguished series of limited-edition releases for classic Warner Bros. and Universal movies, curated by Vice Press, a UK-based company celebrated for its licensed movie memorabilia and art.

The latest “Poltergeist” editions from The Film Vault debuted on September 2nd as part of the collection`s third wave. While “The Shining” was initially slated to join this release, new editions of Stanley Kubrick`s horror masterpiece were postponed until October 3rd in the US. Notably, “The Shining” Special Edition Steelbook and Solus Steelbook were already sold out by August 24th.

In line with other Film Vault releases, these versions of “Poltergeist” are designed to be prominently displayed. Enthusiasts have the flexibility to showcase the steelbook with or without the official credits text.

The striking artwork by Matt Ferguson and Florey features an unsettling depiction of Carol Anne`s eerie warning as she fixates on the television screen, and the infamous door through which malevolent spirits and the Beast invade the living world. The accompanying art cards also pay homage to several of the film`s most iconic horror moments, as the Freeling family endures a spectral siege by ghosts determined to claim their youngest daughter.

The “Poltergeist” Solus Edition, while lacking the physical extras of the Collector`s Edition, still comes with the limited-edition steelbook case. Its artwork prominently features Carol Anne Freeling listening to voices from the television. The back of the case displays an image of the sinister clown doll, and the interior reveals another classic scene from the film.

Key Features of Special and Solus Editions:

• Region-free 4K Blu-ray and Blu-ray (1080p) discs with the “Poltergeist” film.
• “They Are Here: The Real World of Poltergeists” documentary (31 minutes).
• “The Making of Poltergeist” featurette (7 minutes).
• Original theatrical trailer.
• Technical Specifications: Native 4K (2160p) Resolution, HDR10, DTS-HD Master 5.1 and 2.0 Audio.

“They Are Here: The Real World of the Poltergeists” is a two-part documentary, originally included in the 2008 Blu-ray release. It features self-proclaimed psychic mediums and paranormal investigators who assert that the foundational mythology of “Poltergeist”`s events might not be as far-fetched as it seems—even if their claims often stretch credulity.

A brief behind-the-scenes look is provided by the 1982 “Making of Poltergeist” featurette, showcasing quick interviews with the cast and crew, including director Tobe Hooper, actor Craig T. Nelson, and writer-producer Steven Spielberg. The special features conclude with the original “Poltergeist” theatrical trailer.

The Poltergeist Film Series on 4K, Blu-ray, and DVD

Should the Film Vault editions of “Poltergeist” sell out or if the $65-$100 price point is prohibitive, the entire series of these spooky films remains widely available on Blu-ray. The standard 4K and Blu-ray release of the original “Poltergeist” includes all the bonus content found in the special editions mentioned above. Currently, the 4K Blu-ray edition is on sale for just $11.49 this week.

The 1986 sequel, “Poltergeist II: The Other Side,” received a 4K Blu-ray release last year. In this installment, the Freelings confront the Beast once more, as this malevolent spirit, embodying a doomsday cult leader, is obsessed with claiming the youngest member of their family for its nefarious agenda.

A third film, “Poltergeist III,” followed in 1988, shifting Carol Anne Freeling`s battle against evil spirits to a haunted skyscraper. While “Poltergeist III” is not available on 4K Blu-ray, all three original films can be purchased in a DVD box set for only $8.34 (originally $15).

In 2015, “Poltergeist” was rebooted under the direction of Gil Kenan (“Monster House”). Starring Sam Rockwell, Rosemarie DeWitt, Jared Harris, and Jane Adams, the remake achieved moderate box office success. It is available on Blu-ray and DVD, with both editions being budget-friendly.

Available Editions:

• Poltergeist (1982)
  • 4K Blu-ray: $11.49 ($34)
  • Blu-ray: $12.41 ($20)
  • DVD: $10
• Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986)
  • 4K Blu-ray: $24.49
  • Blu-ray: $20
• Poltergeist III (Collector`s Edition)
  • Blu-ray: $64
  • DVD: $10
• Poltergeist: Extended Cut (2015)
  • Blu-ray: $15
  • DVD: $9
• Poltergeist 3-Film Collection
  • DVD: $8.34 ($15)
• Poltergeist I & II: Double Feature
  • DVD: $7 ($15)
• Poltergeist II & III: Double Feature
  • DVD: $10