The Wild Bunch Blu-ray Review

Warner's reissue of "The Wild Bunch" on Blu-ray delivers an impressive 1080p, VC-1-encoded transfer that honors Lucian Ballard's deep focus photography. The substantial detail captured not only accentuates the harsh beauty of the landscape but also enriches Peckinpah's visual storytelling. Naturally occurring film grain is consistently visible throughout, challenging the recurring complaints about DNR. These likely stem from softer focus shots mistakenly perceived as digitally reduced grain or artifacts originating from the multiple sources used in the restoration. Black and contrast levels perform admirably with strong shadow detail and a pleasing balance of bold, vivid colors. While occasional red edging appears in the lower frame, likely due to source material rather than post-process edge enhancement, these quirks do not significantly detract from the viewing experience.

Moreover, the exterior sequences particularly benefit from the high-definition upgrade, with outdoor textures like dry grass and fractured pebbles rendered in striking detail. Even interiors and fire-lit scenes maintain a crisp vibrancy, demonstrating impressive clarity in sweat, grime, and the intricate details of clothing and skin textures. Comparisons to earlier standard DVD releases reveal a vast improvement in image fidelity, with advanced delineation bringing out the painstakingly captured nuances.

While the transfer is not without faults—intermittent edge enhancement and minor artifacting may rile discerning viewers—this Blu-ray presentation remains a substantial leap forward from previous editions. Although a new 4K scan could theoretically offer further enhancements, the existing version is more than adequate for most viewers, making "The Wild Bunch" a pleasure to watch in its resurrected high-definition format.

The Audio presentation of "The Wild Bunch" Blu-ray features a Dolby Digital 5.1 surround track mastered at 640 kbps, which is the highest available rate for Dolby Digital. This track, although not lossless, provides an involving and enjoyable audio experience. The mix remains front-oriented, with clear dialogue centered, Jerry Fielding's distinctive score spread across the front channels, and period-appropriate, modest bass extension. Occasional sound effects add to the immersion through the rear speakers, though the common assumption that older movies will gain modern explosive sound effects is a misconception.

The technical attributes of the Dolby Digital 5.1 surround mix on this Blu-ray exceed those of its DVD counterpart, yet it carries over some inherent issues from its initial DVD release. The dialogue and film score appear disjointed at times due to being sourced differently, and the soundfield is predominantly front-focused, limiting the effectiveness of rear channels to ambient noise and heavy-handed effects like gun blasts. While the sound elements are generally well-prioritized, and dialogue remains crisp, accuracy and directionality can be inconsistent. Despite these shortcomings, the mix retains a natural sense of pans when they do occur, a resonant bass tone, and vibrant trebles in musical passages, creating an aurally satisfying (if imperfect) experience considering the original source limitations.

In conclusion, while it doesn't measure up to the more advanced high-definition releases out there, this 5.1 track does the best it can with the source material. It's a testament to how historical mixes can still deliver an engaging listening experience without resorting to unnecessary modern enhancements. The audio may not meet the expectations of high-end audiophiles seeking lossless perfection, but for a cinematic classic like "The Wild Bunch," it sufficiently honors its original sonic identity.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Wild Bunch" are an enlightening collection, offering deep insights into Sam Peckinpah's vision and the film's production process. The commentary by biographers Nick Redman, Paul Seydor, Garner Simmons, and David Weddle is a scholarly exchange teeming with facts and anecdotes, making multiple listens rewarding for those interested in Peckinpah's oeuvre. "Sam Peckinpah's West: Legacy of a Hollywood Renegade" is a comprehensive biography narrated by Kris Kristofferson, featuring notable contributors like Benicio del Toro and Roger Ebert. "The Wild Bunch: An Album in Montage" provides engaging behind-the-scenes footage and commentary by cast and crew, with a poignant voiceover by Ed Harris as Peckinpah. Additional features include outtakes, a trailer gallery, and an excerpt from the documentary "A Simple Adventure Story," which fans will appreciate despite its brief length.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Biographers: Experts share extensive information about Peckinpah.
• Sam Peckinpah's West: Legacy of a Hollywood Renegade: Comprehensive biography narrated by Kris Kristofferson.
• The Wild Bunch: An Album in Montage: Behind-the-scenes footage with cast and crew commentary.
• Excerpt from A Simple Adventure Story: Chronicles filming locations in Mexico.
• Peckinpah Trailer Gallery: Trailers for several of Peckinpah's films.
• Outtakes: Unused takes set to the film's score.

Sam Peckinpah’s "The Wild Bunch," released in 1969, remains a seminal work that continues to influence the action and heist genres. Set in 1913 near the US/Mexican border, the film follows Pike Bishop (William Holden) and his gang, including key members Dutch Engstrom (Ernest Borgnine), Lyle and Tector Gorch (Warren Oates and Ben Johnson), and Angel (Jaime Sanchez). Tasked with executing one final heist before retiring, Bishop’s gang must contend with an ambush by bounty hunters led by Deke Thornton (Robert Ryan), Pike’s former partner turned pursuer. The film's layered narrative doesn't merely focus on action but delves deeply into character interactions, revealing vulnerabilities and complex motivations.

Peckinpah, often referred to as "Bloody Sam" for his portrayal of graphic violence, uses this element purposefully in "The Wild Bunch." The film's three major action sequences bookend scenes of detailed character development and interaction, emphasizing the consequences of violence rather than glorifying it. This approach was groundbreaking, with a notable influence evident in the works of directors like Quentin Tarantino and John Woo. The finely edited sequences juxtapose adrenaline-pumping moments with sobering aftermaths, creating an impactful viewing experience that moves beyond mere spectacle.

Despite its violent imagery, the film maintains an engaging dynamic among its characters. The camaraderie within Bishop's gang offers moments of genuine humor and warmth amidst the chaos. Peckinpah’s direction ensures the audience forms an emotional connection with these flawed anti-heroes, turning their struggles and ultimate fates into compelling cinema. The film’s depth is enhanced by poignant performances and a tight, evocative script that scrutinizes themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the inevitable passage of time. "The Wild Bunch" is not just a relic of its era but a timeless masterpiece still relevant and resonant today.

The Blu-ray release of "The Wild Bunch" stands as a remarkable preservation of Sam Peckinpah’s groundbreaking Western, underlining its profound influence on the genre and its lasting impact on modern action cinema. The high-definition video transfer is a significant upgrade from previous DVD editions, presenting the film with improved clarity, color balance, and depth. The deliberate approach to maintaining the film's gritty, realistic aesthetic ensures that each frame retains the raw power and intensity that defines its narrative.

One area of contention lies in the audio presentation, which, while adequate, does not mask the limitations of its original source material. The audio mix, although serviceable, reflects the era of its initial recording, displaying a lack of the immersive richness found in more contemporary sound designs. On a brighter note, the supplementary materials are extensive and insightful, providing a wealth of context and background that enhance the viewing experience. These features include documentaries, commentaries, and behind-the-scenes footage that offer an in-depth exploration of the film's production and its enduring significance.

In conclusion, as much as I would like to see an entirely new transfer of "The Wild Bunch" with the latest technology and techniques, the current version is perfectly serviceable and certainly bests any version I've seen theatrically or at home in the last two decades. It comes with a wealth of fine supplements and represents the film far better than can be said of many great world classics. It's a film that every film enthusiast should see and that every serious collector should own, especially at current prices. With the caveat that someday you will be buying this film again (and it will be worth it), this Blu-ray edition is highly recommended.