The Fly II Blu-ray Review

The Fly II appears on its original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1 with an MPEG-4 AVC-encoded BD-50. This release employs the same print as used in the Via Vision disc, retaining and highlighting grain throughout the film. However, due to limitations in the master, the grain density isn't optimal. The absence of edge enhancement is a noted advantage over the DVD version which exhibited edge halos and aliasing. Despite encoding the main feature with a relatively high video bitrate of 27,999 kbps, small white specks occasionally mar the image.

The visual presentation of The Fly II on Blu-ray offers a marginal improvement over its predecessor due to its bolder lighting and more textural look. However, this presentation doesn't stem from a new scan, with frequent dirt and a dusty aesthetic evident. The resolution is affected by chunky, thick grain, resembling an older, made-for-SD master. Black levels are adequate but not particularly dense, while color saturation is commendable. Accurate flesh tones are notable, and the vibrant colors help to distinguish this film from The Fly's muted palette. This presentation enhances the appreciation of the detailed paintwork on the finale's puppet.

Shout brings an electrifying audio experience to "The Fly II" with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround remix (3322 kbps, 24-bit) and original stereo in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 (1661 kbps, 24-bit). The soundscape truly benefits from the 5.1 mix, utilizing surround channels to heighten the immersion. Christopher Young's dynamic score significantly enhances the auditory experience, recalling the grandeur of John Williams's work on "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and the thematic elements of Danny Elfman's "Batman". The optional English SDH subtitles complement the experience, ensuring accessibility.

In practice, the 5.1 mix leverages minimal positioning to extend the stereo channels, creating an expansive yet controlled soundstage. The rear speakers are thoughtfully employed, primarily to underscore the electric hum of the pods and the enveloping musical score. While additional surround channels are used sparingly, they contribute to the overall fidelity, reaching impressively sharp peaks. Low-end execution is noteworthy, adding substantial weight to pivotal scenes such as the fly's movements. This mix is exemplary in both composition and technical quality.

Overall, Shout's audio presentation merges clarity with atmospheric depth, providing a compelling listening experience that significantly elevates "The Fly II".

The Blu Ray extras of "The Fly II" from Scream Factory's The Fly Collection offer a comprehensive set of features, both new and revisited from previous releases. Highlights include various interviews such as a new perspective from producer Stewart Cornfeld and screenwriters Mick Garris and Ken Wheat, offering insight into the film’s production and screenplay evolution. There's an 80-minute interview with director Chris Walas, and other noteworthy inclusions like the Transformations retrospective documentary. A multitude of production details are covered in segments with cinematographer Robin Vidgeon and composer Christopher Young, plus an extensive behind-the-scenes production journal. Notably, the bonus material is enriched by discussions from special effects artist Tom Sullivan and other key crew members. A variety of EPK content, an alternate ending, a deleted scene, and marketing materials round out the impressive suite of extras.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Chris Walas and Film Historian Bob Burns: Anecdote-rich commentary dominated by Walas.
• Fly in the Ointment – An Interview with Executive Producer Stuart Cornfeld: Discusses project changes.
• Original Visions – An Interview with Screenwriter Mick Garris: Insights on the screenplay's evolution.
• Version 2.0 An Interview with Screenwriter Ken Wheat: Comparisons of different screenplay versions.
• Big and Gothic – An Interview with Composer Christopher Young: Discusses his journey to scoring The Fly II.
• Pretty Fly for a Fly Guy – An Interview with Special Effects Artist Tom Sullivan: Details on creature effects.
• Interview with Cinematographer Robin Vidgeon: Recounts filming experiences and technical aspects.
• Interview with Director Chris Walas: In-depth, unabridged interview.
• Interview with Producer Steven-Charles Jaffe: Recollections of pre-production and conversations with Mel Brooks.
• Transformations: Looking Back at THE FLY II: Retrospective production documentary.
• The Fly Papers: The Buzz on Hollywood's Scariest Insect: Discusses the franchise’s legacy.
• Video Production Journal – A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Special Effects: Raw behind-the-scenes material.
• Composer's Master Class: Christopher Young: Insightful master class about scoring.
• Storyboard to Film Comparisons with Optional Commentary by Director Chris Walas: Juxtaposes storyboards with film scenes.
• Vintage Featurette: EPK promotional piece mixing movie clips and interviews.
• Extended EPK Interviews (Eric Stoltz, Daphne Zuniga, Chris Walas): Talks about characters, on-set experiences, makeup challenges.
• Alternate Ending: More of an epilogue than an alternative ending.
• Deleted Scene: Scene where Beth visits a hamburger joint.
• Teaser Trailer: Ultrasound reading-themed teaser.
• Theatrical Trailer: Full-screen original trailer.
• Still Gallery: Slideshow of 96 publicity images.
• Storyboard Gallery: Storyboards for the movie's big climax.

Chris Walas’s 1989 film "The Fly II" continues the legacy of its predecessor with a fresh narrative style and thematically rich undertones. The movie diverges from the intimate, emotionally charged story of the original, delving instead into a critique of 1980s corporate ambition and Reagan-era capitalism. Through Martin Brundle, portrayed by Eric Stoltz, the movie underscores the chilling implications of conglomerates controlling young lives for profit. This is illustrated vividly with Bartok Industries, led by CEO Anton Bartok (Lee Richardson), exploiting Martin’s genetic legacy for dubious scientific pursuits. Although vibrant and seemingly cheerful initially, the tone darkens dramatically with disturbing scenes of animal cruelty that serve to critique societal desensitization.

Technically, "The Fly II" echoes its lineage but falters with pacing issues. The expanded runtime doesn’t add substantial depth; instead, it recycles familiar scientific explorations from previous entries, often feeling redundant. A romantic subplot with Martin’s co-worker Beth (Daphne Zuniga) adds an awkward dynamic given Martin’s technical age, further complicating viewer immersion. However, Stoltz’s performance shines in moments intensified by impressive practical effects, particularly under the blue glow of an electric fly trap where Martin teeters on insanity.

The film redeems its structural and thematic shortcomings with a climactic finale reminiscent of classic monster horror. The gruesome transformation sequences and the visceral depiction of Martin’s vengeance-driven rampage, complete with a meticulously designed Fly puppet by Walas, showcase the movie’s strength in special effects. Despite an ostensibly ‘happy’ conclusion, "The Fly II" remains brutally unflinching, adhering to its legacy’s inherent cruelty and cementing the Brundle curse as a generational blight. This blend of mainstream horror elements and socio-political allegory ensures the film’s place in the storied franchise.

"The Fly II" on Blu-ray offers a mixed bag of cinematic and technical experiences. Directed by Chris Walas, the film struggles under the weight of inconsistent scripts and challenging production conditions. Walas, better known for his special effects mastery than directorial prowess, delivers a narrative that doesn't fully resolve until its effects-heavy climax. Despite these narrative shortcomings, the film is engaging enough to hold one's interest, thanks largely to the practical effects and makeup, which remain a standout feature.

The Blu-ray edition, tailored for avid fans and collectors, brings significant upgrades from previous releases. It includes eight additional interviews and retains the original Dolby Surround 2.0 mix, offering both nostalgic and technical appeal. The visual quality is commendable, exhibiting clear improvements over older DVD versions. The film's effects, particularly in high-definition, are noteworthy and should satisfy devotees of practical special effects. The extras and features make it a worthwhile addition to any collection, especially for those already owning the Collector’s Edition DVD.

While "The Fly II" may falter as a seamless continuation of its predecessor, it holds its ground as a campy B-horror sequel. Its strengths lie in its practical effects and an entertainingly chaotic finale. Viewers should manage their expectations regarding the storytelling, but can anticipate a solid upgrade in technical presentation with this Blu-ray box set. All things considered, it's a very solid recommendation for fans and genre enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, "The Fly II" is a campy, enjoyable sequel that benefits immensely from Walas' skill in special effects. Despite narrative inconsistencies, the satisfying resolution and Blu-ray enhancements make it a must-have for fans. I rate it a 3.25/5.00, acknowledging both its shortcomings and its unique charms.