Footloose Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray transfer of "Footloose" presents itself as a paradoxical tapestry of exceptional enhancements marred by significant digital mishaps. On one end of the spectrum, we witness an undeniable uplift in resolution compared to its DVD predecessor, with particular praise warranted for the sharp, detailed captures of textures in clothing, architecture, and even the rust stains on Ren's iconic yellow bug. Colors leap off the screen with a vivacity that is both lively and faithfully saturated, ensuring that scenes are imbued with an energy reflective of the movie's spirit. However, the digital arteries of this transfer are clogged with a series of technical flaws that cannot be overlooked. Noise reduction techniques have been liberally applied, rendering facial details unnaturally smooth in several instances, while poorly-lit scenes reveal a sprinkling of noise and occasional aliasing that detracts from the overarching visual fidelity.

Of grave concern is the inconsistent handling of finer details and colors; while there are moments where the image quality is nothing short of stunning, there exists a pervasive issue with softness, smearing, and an erratic grain structure that disfigures motion. The attempt to stabilize colors has resulted in moments where they appear remarkably stable and balanced, yet these are interspersed with sequences where hues turn dim or overly vibrant, distorting the original pallete. Technical mishaps such as compression artifacts, jagged edges, and a heavy crush on darker frames compound these issues, leading to a viewing experience that oscillates between visual delight and disappointment.

As it stands, the Blu-ray rendition of "Footloose" is a mixed bag that showcases the promise of high-definition remastering while simultaneously falling victim to a litany of technical shortcomings. It's clear that while effort was invested in upgrading the resolution and color fidelity, the transfer is beleaguered by inconsistencies and artifacts that make it less than ideal for the discerning videophile. In its current state, this edition screams for a comprehensive re-master to fully realize the potential of "Footloose" in Blu-ray format, without the blemishes that currently mar its cinematic splendor.

The audio quality of "Footloose" on Blu Ray is celebrated through its DTS-HD MA 6.1 lossless soundtrack, providing a vibrant and meticulous audio experience that admirably complements the film's spirited essence. The soundstage is remarkably defined, starting strong with Kenny Loggins's iconic "Footloose", which emanates with exceptional clarity, dynamic guitar riffs, and crisp vocals that could easily fool listeners into thinking they're sharing the studio space with Loggins himself. The soundtrack particularly shines by taking full advantage of the additional channel across the back, enriching the listener's environment with potent and invigorating musical tracks from the 1980s, turning the audio presentation into a compelling selling point for the disc.

In addition to the stellar musical performances, environmental sounds and dialogues are handled with equal finesse. John Lithgow's opening monologue in the church exemplifies the soundtrack's ability to create a spacious atmosphere, placing listeners amidst the scene's ambiance with remarkable authenticity. While most ambient sounds are captured with clarity, presenting immersive experiences such as the vivid arcade noises, some inconsistencies remain, particularly with less pronounced background sounds which can occasionally appear muddled. Nevertheless, dialogues maintain a front and center focus, ensuring every word is delivered with crystal clear precision, which is a testament to the soundtrack's overall quality.

The Blu Ray's audio stands out not just for its music but also for its thorough and engaging treatment of environmental sounds and dialogue, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. Despite the odd inconsistency in ambient effects, the auditory presentation largely succeeds in enveloping viewers in its energetic soundscape, from the beats of 80s pop tunes to the more nuanced sounds of everyday moments. Whether it's the forceful rumble of a train or the lively chatter in a school cafeteria, the "Footloose" audio track delivers a robust and satisfying experience that significantly enhances the film, making it an essential aspect of this high-definition release despite any visual shortcomings.

The Blu-ray of "Footloose" shines not only for its main feature but impressively so for its rich array of extras, making it a treasure trove for both aficionados of the film and those keen on the intricacies of filmmaking. Paramount has meticulously collated a mix of material, ranging from fascinating audio commentaries led by producer Craig Zadan and writer Dean Pitchford, to actor Kevin Bacon offering a more personalized perspective. These commentaries delve into the movie's production nuances, challenges, and its cultural impact. Adding depth are various high-definition featurettes, including reflective interviews with Bacon and Sarah Jessica Parker, alongside raw footage like Bacon's screen test and costume montage. The behind-the-scenes outlook is rounded off with a nostalgic look back at the music that defined "Footloose," providing a comprehensive insight into both its making and enduring legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Producer Craig Zadan and Writer Dean Pitchford share insights about the movie's influence and behind-the-scenes challenges.
• Audio Commentary: Kevin Bacon discusses his experience during filming, themes, and music importance.
• Let's Dance! Kevin Bacon on Footloose: Reflections on Bacon's career impact and behind-the-scenes anecdotes.
• From Bomont to the Big Apple: Sarah Jessica Parker recounts her casting and shooting experiences.
• Remembering Willard: Chris Penn's portrayal and on-set friendships explored with cast reflections.
• Kevin Bacon's Screen Test: Commentary over Bacon's initial screen tests.
• Kevin Bacon Costume Montage: Compilation of Bacon trying on various costumes.
• Footloose: A Modern Musical -- Part 1 & Part 2: A two-part documentary probing the film's development, casting, and legacy.
• Footloose: Songs That Tell a Story: Examination of the soundtrack's role within the film and pop culture.
• Footloose Theatrical Trailer: The original theatrical preview.

The Blu-ray presentation of the iconic 1980s film "Footloose" arrives with much anticipation but delivers a mixed bag, with the movie's enduring charm and thematic resonance somewhat marred by disappointing video quality. As a cinematic experience, "Footloose" navigates the dynamic clash between youthful rebellion and conservative societal norms, encapsulated within the small, faith-driven town where dancing and modern music are banned due to past tragedies. Kevin Bacon's portrayal of Ren McCormack, the rebellious new kid who challenges these prohibitions, alongside Lori Singer as the preacher's daughter Ariel Moore, and the formidable John Lithgow as Reverend Shaw Moore, brings to life the struggle for freedom of expression and the quest for a middle ground between tradition and change.

Despite its linear and predictable nature, where character arcs and plot outcomes can be anticipated early on, the movie’s strength lies in its genuine heart and universal themes of acceptance, compassion, and the yearning for individuality. The performances, particularly from Lithgow, are commendable, even if the chemistry between the leads and the depth of secondary characters leave something to be desired. The lack of suspense in plot progression is noted, yet the film’s emotional essence and message still manage to resonate, articulated through a mix of engaging dance sequences set to a memorable 1980s soundtrack, of which Kenny Loggins's "Footloose" stands out as an iconic anthem.

However, this Blu-ray release does not fully deliver on the technical front. The video quality is underwhelming for a modern high-definition format, failing to do justice to the movie's visual and kinetic energy. This shortcoming detracts from the overall viewing experience of a film celebrated for its vibrant dance scenes and emotive moments. While "Footloose" remains a worthwhile watch for its spirited narrative and nostalgic value, enthusiasts looking for a pristine visual presentation may find their expectations unmet by this Blu-ray edition.

The Blu-ray release of "Footloose" presents a polarizing concoction of nostalgia, technical miscues, and a bit of what still makes this film tick despite its age. On one hand, "Footloose" remains an engaging piece of 80s cinema, capturing the essence of teenage rebellion and angst with a vigor that, to this day, encourages viewers to tap their feet to its iconic soundtrack. Despite facing competition from heavyweights like "Dirty Dancing," it stands its ground as a memorable, albeit slightly melodramatic portrayal of youth. The audio quality on this Blu-ray certainly does the legendary soundtrack justice, providing a clear and immersive listening experience that fans and newcomers alike will appreciate.

However, the picture quality of this Blu-ray release is where the enthusiasm dampens substantially. Described by some as atrocious, it undermines the overall viewing experience to such an extent that it may dissuade even the most ardent fans. While the lossless audio track shines, offering an auditory experience that brings the music of "Footloose" to life, the visual presentation is marred by glaring issues, pulling viewers out of what should be an engaging cinematic journey. This is juxtaposed with the availability of a blend of original and new supplemental materials, suggesting that while efforts were made to provide a comprehensive package, the execution leaves much to be desired in terms of visual fidelity.

In conclusion, while the Blu-ray release of "Footloose" encapsulates the enduring spirit and compelling themes of the original film, it is significantly hampered by its subpar picture quality. Though it boasts commendable audio tracks and a decent array of extras, these elements can only partially redeem the overall experience. Therein lies a critical trade-off for potential buyers: is the nostalgic pull strong enough to overlook the visual blemishes? This release might cater well to die-hard fans desiring to relive the '80s magic or collectors aiming to complete their libraries. However, those prioritizing a pristine viewing experience should perhaps consider alternative options or resort to renting before making a commitment.