The Burning  Thorn EMI  UK Pre Cert

The UK pre-cert (pre-certification) video release of The Burning on the Thorn EMI label is another highly sought-after collectible, especially due to its association with the Video Nasties era. Here’s a breakdown of what makes this release particularly interesting:

  1. The Film: The Burning (1981) is a slasher film directed by Tony Maylam, centered around a summer camp where a disfigured caretaker named Cropsy seeks revenge after a prank gone wrong. It’s notable for its graphic kills, many of which were created by legendary special effects artist Tom Savini.
  2. Video Nasty Controversy: The Burning  became infamous due to its violent content, particularly the notorious “raft scene” where several campers are brutally killed. The Thorn EMI release was mistakenly released on video in its uncut form by Thorn/EMI, who had intended to release the edited UK cinema version. This version of the film included the graphic violence that made it a target of moral panic. The company did try to recall the tapes. Many copies were withdrawn but to their further embarrassment, the uncensored version was reissued again without the necessary cuts. Eventually, a BBFC-approved edition was released, with Tom Savini’s impressive gore effects being heavily censored in later releases.
  3. Rarity and Collectibility: Like other pre-cert videos, the Thorn EMI version of The Burning has become a rare and valuable item for collectors. The uncut version, particularly in good condition, can fetch a high price in the collector’s market. It’s especially desirable due to the association with the slasher genre’s golden age and the film’s role in the Video Nasties controversy.
  4. Cover Art: The cover for the Thorn EMI release is quite striking. It features a figure in flames. The artwork is bold and evocative, adding to its appeal for collectors of retro horror.
  5. Censorship and BBFC Cuts: When The Burning was eventually passed by the BBFC in the mid-1980s, it was subjected to cuts—over 30 seconds were trimmed from the most violent scenes, including the raft massacre. This makes the pre-cert version especially important for fans who want to experience the film in its original form.

The Thorn EMI pre-cert release is a gem for horror collectors, representing a time when films like The Burning pushed the boundaries of on-screen violence and tested the limits of what was acceptable in home video entertainment.