Fans of Italian horror filmmaker Mario Bava include such directors as Martin Scorsese and Joe Dante. Bava even lent a hand in filming an underwater sequence for Dario Argento’s Inferno. If you aren’t familiar with Bava, a recently released set of his films as been issued as re-mastered DVDs. And more is to come!

In less than two weeks, film historian and critic, Tim Lucas, will release his epic study of every film Mario Bava worked on. The book, All the Colors of the Dark, covers both the films Bava worked on as a cinematographer as well as director. Also, Lucas will discuss the films Bava had an uncredited hand in, such as Raoul Walsh’s biblical tale, Esther and the King. The book will also include a look at Bava’s father, Eugenio Bava, a pioneer cinematographer from the silent era. There is also a third generation filmmaker in the form of Mario Bava’s son, Lamberto, who has continued the tradition of specializing in horror films. Those interested in getting this collector’s item book can order directly from Tim Lucas.

October 9, Anchor Bay will release their second set of Bava films on re-mastered DVD. The titles will be Bay of Blood, Baron Blood, Lisa and the Devil, House of Exorcism, Roy Colt & Winchester Jack, 5 Dolls for an August Moon and Four Times That Night. For several film critics, Bay of Blood was a direct influence on the Friday the 13th series. House of Exorcism is actually a re-cut version of Lisa and the Devil. The film might be notable for featuring Telly Savalas, constantly seen with a lollipop in his mouth, a visual trademark he carried over for his television series “Kojak”.