Company Business Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded 1.85:1 aspect ratio presentation of "Company Business" does an admirable job of honoring the original cinematography. The colors retain their intended vibrancy without appearing overly faded, allowing urban reds and espionage blues to make their respective impacts. Skintones generally remain consistent, aside from occasional pinkish extremes. Notably, the film grain, while heavy and noisy at times, contributes to a pleasingly filmic viewing experience by preserving satisfactory detail in close-ups, set dressing, and costume textures. However, the source material exhibits some deterioration with frequent debris and speckling, which can distract from the otherwise well-preserved images.

For a film of its vintage, the 1080p transfer of "Company Business" proves surprisingly satisfying, preserving fine film grain to deliver fantastic detail levels. European locations in Paris and Berlin are captured with impressive clarity, showcasing facial features and clothing details vividly. Colors are bright and vibrant, striking a balance between providing primary pop and maintaining an earthy spy thriller aesthetic. Black levels are spot on, achieving appropriate inkiness with sufficient shadow separation to avoid image crush. The transfer appears free from intrusive DNR or image smoothing technologies, and there are no significant compression issues to note. Overall, considering its budget release status, "Company Business" presents a commendably robust video quality that respects its cinematic origins.

The English DTS-HD MA 2.0 audio track for "Company Business" presents a mixed bag in terms of consistency and impact. On one hand, it manages to create a sense of space and atmosphere, filling scenes with sharp and effective sound effects that contribute to the film's dramatic urgency. Dialogue exchanges are full-bodied and clear, allowing both friendly banter and more urgent conversations to shine through. However, some passages reveal minor damages likely inherent to the source material. These issues are not drastic but noticeable enough to affect the listening experience slightly.

Despite some inconsistencies in audio levels, especially during shifts from conversation to action scenes necessitating manual volume adjustments, the overall experience is generally positive. The track benefits from strong imaging, especially considering its age and stereo limitation. Ambient effects, such as footsteps echoing down vacant streets, are particularly well-realized, adding a subtle yet immersive layer to the soundscape. Technical issues like hiss, pop, or audio breaks are virtually nonexistent, highlighting the track's quality preservation. All things considered, this audio presentation makes a commendable debut on Blu-ray.

The Blu-ray of "Company Business" includes a robust selection of extras, providing valuable insights into the film's production. "Our Country 'Tis of We" serves as an engaging EPK-style making-of featurette with on-set interviews featuring Gene Hackman, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Nicholas Meyer. Each cast member discusses their roles and the story, though the overall enthusiasm is somewhat lacking. "Sound Bites" are brief interview segments with Hackman, Baryshnikov, Meyer, and producer Steven-Charles Jaffe, each adding layers of detail about the film’s creative and thematic elements. The "Selected B-Roll" offers a candid look at behind-the-scenes moments, giving viewers a fly-on-the-wall perspective of the movie-making process, despite some mundane content. Additionally, the disc includes theatrical trailers for both "Company Business" and "The Package," providing a nostalgic glance back at the promotion of these films.

Extras included in this disc:

• Our Country 'Tis of We: EPK making-of featurette with interviews and a glimpse of the original ending.
• Sound Bites - Gene Hackman: Extra interview footage exploring character details.
• Sound Bites - Mikhail Baryshnikov: Additional segments focusing on character insights.
• Sound Bites - Nicholas Meyer: Insights into production and actor interactions.
• Sound Bites - Steven-Charles Jaffe: Perspective influenced by real-life events.
• Selected B-Rolls: On-set footage offering a behind-the-scenes look.
• Company Business Trailer: Action/Comedy tone setting trailer.
• The Package Trailer: Thrilling promotional trailer.

Nicholas Meyer’s "Company Business" is a Cold War-era thriller that attempts to merge the waning tensions of the era with old-school espionage. Set near the end of the Cold War, it follows ex-CIA operative Sam Boyd (Gene Hackman), whose corporate espionage exploits fail to match the thrill and purpose of his past. When tasked with a covert prisoner exchange in Berlin, readers follow Sam’s reluctant pairing with Ivanovich Grushenko (Mikhail Baryshnikov), a KGB mole, leading to an intricate dance of survival and grudging camaraderie. Meyer's screenplay delves into themes of obsolescence and adaptation, offering a bittersweet narrative of two aging spies grappling with their now outdated skills in a rapidly changing world.

The narrative magnifies the personal struggles of its protagonists, highlighting Sam’s realization of his obsolescence in an age of computer espionage and Ivanovich’s difficulty adapting to a changed Russia. However, despite this poignant take on forced obsolescence, the film occasionally falters in execution. The chemistry between Hackman and Baryshnikov lacks the spark necessary to elevate their relationship beyond mere functionality, making their alliance feel somewhat manufactured. Additionally, a few bewildering plot developments and questionably fleshed-out supporting characters detract from what could have been a tighter, more engaging story.

On the technical side, Meyer's direction shines in moments of genuine suspense and action set-pieces across various European locales. Despite its shortcomings in character interactions and some muddled script choices, "Company Business" manages to offer a nostalgic trip through a bygone era of spy craft, propped up by its charmingly retro approach and solid performances from its cast. The humor interwoven throughout adds a layer of satirical commentary on the absurdities of espionage during such volatile times, making it an entertaining, if imperfect, watch.

"Company Business," directed by Nicolas Meyer, attempts to recreate the intense atmosphere typical of Cold War spy thrillers but falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. The film features Gene Hackman in a role that brings the charisma expected from a 1990s era spy thriller. Despite Meyer's efforts, including the use of Dutch angles, expansive sets crafted by James Bond veteran Ken Adam, and a dynamic score from Michael Kamen, the movie struggles to maintain consistent engagement. The resulting feel is one where both cast and crew move through the paces of an espionage plot without fully committing to the material, only occasionally striking true suspense. While Meyer excelled in highlighting Cold War tensions within the Star Trek universe during the same period, "Company Business" fails to harness the same political and cultural relevance.

On the technical front, Kino Lorber has made an impressive effort in bringing "Company Business" to Blu-ray. The audio-visual presentation is commendable, enhancing the viewing experience with crisp visuals and robust sound quality. Additionally, the Blu-ray package includes some valuable archival extras, which add depth and context to the film. The movie also incorporates elements commonly seen in buddy cop films, adding a layer of camaraderie that provides a refreshing twist to the traditional spy genre. This blend of action and light-hearted interaction makes it enjoyable for viewers seeking a blend of suspense and entertainment.

In conclusion, while "Company Business" may not fully satisfy those looking for a deeply engaging Cold War thriller, it remains a solid piece for fans of early 90s action films. The Blu-ray edition's superior A/V quality and additional content certainly elevate its value. For those in need of a reliable action flick with notable performances and polished technical execution, "Company Business" is worth exploring. Recommended for casual viewing and collective appreciation of its individual merits.