A passion project for Frank and Eleanor Perry, Ladybug Ladybug imagined the dread of a singular day when the faculty and students at a rural grade school are led to believe that a nuclear attack is imminent. The students are chaperoned home on-foot by a teacher. There is tension in the air, even as the kids do their best to keep each other calm, each straining to come across as calm. Focus is put on a boy and girl just entering puberty, and the awkwardness of first-time mutual attraction. A confusing time for any adolescent, their initial confessions are exciting, but soon forgotten. It soon becomes evident that what is a sweet moment foreshadows tragedy.
Uniquely horrifying, Ladybug Ladybug is a minor classic with an important message about the immediate need for peace on Earth. The acting is solid across the board. The film marks an early appearance by William Daniels as the school’s principal.
A 1080p transfer, Ladybug Ladybug is presented in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This new 2K restoration offers rich contrast throughout. Blacks are deep and inky. The print shows no visible artifacts. Leonard Hirschfield’s cinematography captures the rural surroundings with pleasing shades of light.
The DTS-HD Master Audio track provides clean, clear, and concise dialogue. The sound mix is spark yet effective. There’s minimal instances of flutter or distortion. This is likely the best this film will look and sound.
English SDH subtitles are included.
The following extras are available:
- Audio Commentary with Film Historian Richard Harland Smith
- Teaser Trailer (HD, 0:44)
