I remember seeing the full 1 hour 26 minute version of this late 1970s crime movie on VHS. It held together ok and although not able to stand up against the truly magnificent films of this genre, it was watchable.
My low score however, is for the 2002 "Hollywood DVD" release. Its transfer looks terrible and its missing 16 minutes, clocking in at only 71 minutes duration.
Not only is it missing key scenes, but the edit is totally different than the VHS version.
If you have a VHS player and can find a VHS version cheaply then 'Portrait of A Hitman' is worth seeing but don't buy the 2002 dvd version distributed by 'Hollywood DVD', that company was operating at a low budget level and obviously couldn't afford to perform a proper restoration of this movie
Maybe in time, 'Vinegar Syndrome' or 'Arrow' may release a Blu Ray version given its cast boasts Rod Steiger, and Jack Palace. If not, don't waste your money on the butchered 2002 release.
My low score however, is for the 2002 "Hollywood DVD" release. Its transfer looks terrible and its missing 16 minutes, clocking in at only 71 minutes duration.
Not only is it missing key scenes, but the edit is totally different than the VHS version.
If you have a VHS player and can find a VHS version cheaply then 'Portrait of A Hitman' is worth seeing but don't buy the 2002 dvd version distributed by 'Hollywood DVD', that company was operating at a low budget level and obviously couldn't afford to perform a proper restoration of this movie
Maybe in time, 'Vinegar Syndrome' or 'Arrow' may release a Blu Ray version given its cast boasts Rod Steiger, and Jack Palace. If not, don't waste your money on the butchered 2002 release.