The Pit

Special Features (Blu-ray)

• Commentary features film historians Paul Corupe and Jason Pichonsky.
• Interview (16:06, HD) with star Sammy Snyders discusses the young actor's entrance into the film business, having built comfort with performing through his passion for dance. Snyders credits his time on the television show "Huckleberry Finn and His Friends" as proper training for acting, eventually securing the lead role in "The Pit," which he describes as a happy shoot. Snyders discusses long work days and schooling, and a commitment to character, handed room to develop Jamie's fragile mental state by director Lew Lehman. Snyders seems happy about his moviemaking experience, and he takes the film's cult legacy seriously.
• Interview (7:21, HD) with Jeannie Elias isn't an in-depth investigation of "The Pit," but the actress does share her early excitement for the part, which remains her only starring role. Elias offers memories of the shoot in Wisconsin, where the locals were absolutely tickled to have a film crew in town. She also shares her career achievements in voiceover, with hopes to transition to screenwriting and producing.
• Interview (12:31, HD) with screenwriter Ian Stuart is a must-see conversation about "The Pit." Stern, borderline humorless, Stuart has strong opinions about the final edit of the picture, which essentially destroyed the subtext he worked hard to create, trading psychological shadings for B-movie horror highlights, including the alteration of the ending, changing the tone for the entire feature. Stuart is candid, revealing how he had to shoot nude scenes because Lehman's wife wouldn't allow him to do so, and his explanation of the material's origins is fascinating.
• Interview (7:34, HD) with Victor Davies is a short overview of the composer's early years, where he managed to get Lehman's attention and secure a gig on "The Pit," commencing a friendship with the helmer. Davies also explains his low-tech approach to timing and his quest to beef up the sound of the orchestra, delighting the producer.
• A Theatrical Trailer isn't included.

Blu-ray Screenshots