Fade to Black (1980) is releasing on 4K UHD as part of the 88 Films March releases. It joins the label’s Slasher Classics Collection, along with Sorority House Massacre and Stripped To Kill, and features a 4K restoration sourced from the original 35 mm camera negative.
Film Overview
Fade to Black (1980) follows Eric Binford, a reclusive film fanatic whose deep obsession with cinema begins to take a darker turn. Written and directed by Vernon Zimmerman, the film examines the unsettling side of fandom through a blend of psychological horror, slasher elements, and surreal humor.
As Eric retreats further into his movie-inspired fantasies, the line between homage and violence blurs, creating a portrait of obsession steeped in classic film references. The cast includes a very early appearance by Mickey Rourke, adding to the film’s place within the era’s cult landscape.
Video and Audio Specs
The release features a 4K restoration in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio sourced from the original 35 mm camera negative. The film is presented in a 4K 2160p UHD presentation with Dolby Vision High Dynamic Range that is HDR10 compatible. The Blu-ray is presented in High Definition 1080p.
Audio options include uncompressed 2.0 English mono and optional English SDH subtitles.
Bonus Features
The release includes the following bonus features:
- Commentary track with lead actor Dennis Christopher
- Commentary track with The Hysteria Continues!
- Historical commentary track with film historians Amanda Reyes and Bill Ackerman
- Music Fading: A Brand New interview with Craig Safan
- Fade In, Fade Out – A video essay by Heather Wixson
- Living & Dying for the Movies – an interview with lead actor Dennis Christopher
- Celluloid Heroes – an interview with executive producer Irwin Yablans
- Taking the Hits – an interview with special effects artist Wayne Beauchamp
- A Shiny Quality – an interview with actress Marcie Barkin
- Experimenting with Sound – an interview with composer Craig Safan
- Finishing the Story – an interview with editor Barbara Pokras
- A Brush with Darkness – an interview with stylist Patricia Bunch
- Audio interview with lead actress Linda Kerridge
- Original theatrical trailer
Release Date and Availability
88 Films will release Fade to Black (1980) on 4K UHD on March 16, 2026. It is currently available to pre-order.
