Cutting Class Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image for "Cutting Class" is presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and offers viewers a significant HD upgrade, taking the film out of semi-obscurity and imbuing it with a renewed visual vitality. The slasher flick benefits from an alert and vibrant cinematographic approach that firmly supports the bright, engaging aesthetic of its high school setting. Primary colors are secure and vivid, enlivening classroom decorations, costumes, and especially the emphatic red hues of its bloodshed. Skin tones maintain a natural consistency throughout the film. Detailed representation of the California outdoors and various school elements adds welcome depth to celebratory sequences populated with students, with clothing textures appearing fibrous and close-ups maintaining a crisp texture.

Shadow details are retained effectively, showcasing strong delineation even during nuanced lighting situations. The source material is generally well-preserved, with only minimal anomalies detected throughout the viewing experience.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray of "Cutting Class" is delivered in a 1.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix that proves to be highly effective given the film's limitations. The mix efficiently captures the essence of the performances, ensuring dialogue exchanges are clear and distinct, highlighting the actors' nuances and seamlessly tracking the escalating tension inherent in the genre. The atmospherics of school gatherings are particularly well-presented, adding an immersive layer that enhances the viewing experience. The soundtrack's synth-heavy beats are appropriately preserved, aligning well with the film's scoring, which, although thin, contributes effectively to maintaining the movie's mood, especially as the body count increases.

Despite the mono configuration, the audio packs a significant punch, notably through its robust treatment of both the score and sound effects. These elements are afforded ample amplitude that contributes to an engaging auditory experience. Dialogue remains consistently clear and comprehensible throughout the film, with all components mixed proficiently, ensuring there is no distortion. Additionally, the inclusion of optional English SDH subtitles provides an accessible feature for viewers who may require it. Overall, the audio mix on this Blu-ray release is a commendable effort that enhances the film without overshadowing it.

The Blu-ray of "Cutting Class" offers a comprehensive array of extras that provide deep insights into the production and experiences of the cast and crew. Commentary from The Hysteria Continues is an energetic addition, balancing humor and analysis. The interviews feature candid reflections from key players. Jill Schoelen delivers a sincere, articulate discussion about her concerns with the script, her strained relationship with director Rospo Pallenberg, and her broader experiences in the horror industry. Donovan Leitch provides an engaging perspective on working with Brad Pitt and his admiration for his co-stars. Audio interviews with Pallenberg and cinematographer Avraham Karpick add valuable technical insights. The Kill Comparisons segment offers a fascinating side-by-side look at the film's different versions, and the theatrical trailer rounds out the selection.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary features The Hysteria Continues: Energetic analysis and humor.
• Interview with Jill Schoelen: Insights into her role and experiences.
• Interview with Donovan Leitch: Engaging recollections from the actor.
• Audio Interview with Rospo Pallenberg: Director's audio insights.
• Audio Interview with Avraham Karpick: Cinematographer's perspectives.
• Kill Comparisons: Side-by-side look at R-rated vs. unrated versions.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional content.

"Cutting Class" (1989), famously noted for being Brad Pitt's debut starring role, is a quintessential slasher film with an identity crisis. Intended as a horror flick, it veers between attempts at humor and genuine frights, resulting in a chaotic narrative. Screenwriter Steve Slavkin's lack of clear direction doesn't help, leaving director Rospo Pallenberg struggling to balance the film’s tone. Despite Pitt’s earnest efforts to shine, the production mainly succeeds as a curiosity piece for fans eager to see the actor’s early work. The storyline revolves around Paula (Jill Schoelen), a diligent student embroiled in dangerous school dynamics involving her boyfriend Dwight (Pitt) and his unstable ex-friend Brian (Donovan Leitch).

The film's plot involves increasing violence at Furley High, with students and staff falling victim to gruesome deaths. Some notably macabre moments include an art teacher being roasted in a kiln and deaths under the school bleachers. Despite these shock elements, the storyline fails to develop its characters fully, notably leaving Brian’s role inscrutably vague. Instead, comic relief comes from over-the-top scenes like Principal Dante’s (Roddy McDowall) odd peeping antics and Carson’s (Martin Mull) absurd survival techniques.

While Rospo Pallenberg’s directorial debut in "Cutting Class" certainly doesn’t live up to his reputation as a capable screenwriter for John Boorman’s notable works, it offers some quirky entertainment. Slasher enthusiasts might find sporadic enjoyment in the inventive kills, but the film struggles significantly with its inconsistent tone and muddled character arcs.

Cutting Class is a film that juxtaposes European-styled horror elements with an unmistakably American setting, featuring a young Brad Pitt in an undeniably committed performance. Despite Pitt’s earnest attempts to elevate the material, the movie itself struggles to find a cohesive identity. The performances from Jill Schoelen and Donovan Leitch are fitting for the genre, but their efforts are undermined by the film's tendency to oscillate between horror and absurdity, diluting the potential scares and creating a somewhat disjointed viewing experience. The plot introduces a tangled core mystery, with ample bloodshed and body counts to satisfy genre expectations, but it ultimately suffers from a lack of focus and an overindulgence in campiness.

Over time, repeated airings on home video and cable have fostered a certain cult appeal for "Cutting Class," allowing it to be appreciated more for its quirks than its narrative coherence. The Blu-ray release by Vinegar Syndrome provides a pristine presentation of the film, evidently crafted with care and attention to detail. Fans of the genre will appreciate the high-quality transfer and the preservation of the film’s nostalgic charm. The artistry in the Blu-ray treatment is commendable, making it a desirable addition for collectors and horror enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, while Cutting Class is far from a masterpiece, it holds a peculiar charm that can captivate audiences who appreciate cult horror films. The performances are dedicated and noteworthy despite the film's many flaws, and the top-notch Blu-ray release by Vinegar Syndrome provides an optimal viewing experience. For genre fans seeking to explore the depths of 80s and 90s horror nostalgia, this release is highly recommended.