If you like your horror with a heavy dose of psychological dread and a side of surrealism, get ready. Unearthed Films is resurrecting The Ugly in a gorgeous, jam-packed Limited Collector’s Edition.
This atmospheric 1997 Kiwi masterpiece takes you directly inside the fractured mind of a serial killer. We follow Simon (Paolo Rotondo), a deeply disturbed young man locked away in a mental institution. Not only is he tormented by sadistic orderlies, but he’s also plagued by his own personal demons—one specifically, “The Ugly.” It’s a dark entity that compels him to kill. Forget cheap jump scares; this is a stylish, mind-bending descent into madness.
One of the most stylish shockers of the late ’90s, this acclaimed New Zealand descent into madness features startling makeup effects from Oscar®-winning Wētā Workshop team (The Lord of the Rings trilogy). Both touching and haunting, this film marked the impressive debut of director Scott Reynolds (When Strangers Appear). After being unavailable for years, it has now been fully restored to its original glory for the first time. But be warned… once you meet “The Ugly,” you may never be the same again.
Award-Winning Pedigree
Lest you think this is just another mindless slasher, The Ugly racked up some serious hardware on its original festival run.
-Sitges Fantasy Film Festival: Winner – Best Director
-Fantafestival: Winner – Best Actor & Best Screenplay
-New Zealand Film & TV Awards: Winner – Best Design
-Puchon International Fantastic Film Fest: Citizens’ Choice Award
The Collector’s Edition Loot
Unearthed Films went all out for this release. Here is what you are getting on the disc:
-Visuals & Audio: A brand-new 4K restoration from the original 35mm interpositive, plus Original Theatrical 2.0 Stereo and 4.0 DTS-HD MA Surround.
-Extras: Audio commentary with stars Paolo Rotondo and Rebecca Hobbs, a 1997 Radio NZ interview with director Scott Reynolds, and a brand-new visual essay.
-Short Films: Scott Reynolds’ short films’ A Game with No Rules’ and ‘The Minute’.
-Physical Goodies: A collectible booklet, an isolated score, and a reversible cover.
This atmospheric drama-thriller-horror combo delves into the psyche and evolution of a serial killer from his own warped perspective. Get your copy on April 21st, 2026. However, pre-orders are live now at Unearthed Films, Diabolik DVD, Brother Belial, and Orbit DVD.
