Radiance Films to Release 4K Restorations of Harry Kümel’s Daughters of Darkness and Malpertuis

Radiance Films has announced the upcoming release of two restored classics from Belgian filmmaker Harry Kümel. The limited edition 4K restorations of Daughters of Darkness (1971) and Malpertuis (1971) will arrive on October 13, 2025, following their world premiere screenings at FrightFest in London this past August, where Kümel attended in person.

Celebrated for his fusion of gothic imagery, surrealism, and bold themes of power and identity, Kümel remains one of the most distinctive voices in European genre cinema. Both films have been given deluxe collector’s editions, including new transfers and special features.

Daughters of Darkness

Daughters of Darkness (1971) - New Trailer [Radiance #136]

Daughters of Darkness will be available in a Limited Edition 4K UHD/Blu-ray Box Set as well as a Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set. The film follows newlyweds Stefan (John Karlen) and Valerie (Danielle Ouimet) whose honeymoon in a nearly deserted seaside hotel takes a dark turn with the arrival of Countess Elizabeth Bathory (Delphine Seyrig) and her companion. Widely regarded as a landmark in queer horror, the film combines gothic atmosphere with hypnotic storytelling.

Malpertuis

Malpertuis (1971) - New Trailer [Radiance #137]

 Kümel’s follow-up, Malpertuis, will be released as a Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set. Adapted from the novel by Jean Ray, the film stars Mathieu Carriere as Jean-Jacques Griffon, who returns to his family’s decaying mansion after his father’s death. Inside, he discovers a labyrinth haunted by secrets, mythological figures, and his family’s cursed legacy. The film also features a late-career performance by Orson Welles.

This double release offers an opportunity for audiences to rediscover two of Kümel’s most ambitious works, restored with modern clarity while preserving their surreal and unsettling qualities.

Daughters of Darkness and Malpertuis will be available from Radiance Films beginning October 13, 2025, and are now available for pre-order.