Piranha II: The Spawning (Blu-Ray Review)

Arriving this week on Blu-ray is 1981’s “Piranha II: The Spawning”, originally titled “Flying Killers”.  One the most notable things about this film is that it was the feature directorial debut from James Cameron, just 3 years before he broke out with “The Terminator”. It also marks the first collaboration with actor Lance Henriksen. The two would work together again in not only “The Terminator”, but in 1986’s “Aliens”.  This isn’t one of Cameron’s proudest projects, as he still refers to “The Terminator” as his first feature film. “Piranha II” is a terrible film, but even some of the worst-of-the-worst deserve to be given the HD treatment.

I have always had a soft spot for not only Joe Dante’s 1978 original but also James Cameron’s ridiculous follow-up.  The key element here is the fact that the fish can now fly.  It ads to the fun and laughs.  Scream Factory has delivered a great 2K transfer and also included new interviews with actor Ricky Paull Goldin and effects artist Brian Wade.  If you are a fan of the film, you may want to grab this release for yourself.

Bonus Features

• NEW 2K Scan From The Original Camera Negative
• NEW Interview With Actor Ricky Paull Goldin
• NEW Interview With Special Effects Artist Brian Wade
• Theatrical Trailer

By: Marc Ferman