RoboCop 3 Blu-ray Review

Shout! Factory has delivered "RoboCop 3" as part of its Collector's Editions with a solid video presentation, maintaining its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio on an AVC-encoded BD-50 disc. The release utilizes an average bitrate of 35000 kbps, which surpasses the 29992 kbps bitrate of the earlier MGM Blu-Ray edition. Despite lacking a new transfer, this edition appears to be a near carbon copy of its predecessor with fine definition and resolution. The source itself is in commendable condition, presenting minimal speckles and artifacts. Natural grain adds a layer of authenticity, complemented by richly-saturated colors and well-rendered skin tones. However, some exteriors and establishing shots might appear flat, likely an artistic choice rather than a flaw.

In terms of clarity and detail, the Shout! Factory edition delivers sharp and detailed images throughout most scenes. Lettering in distant shot backgrounds remains legible, demonstrating superlative resolution. While facial close-ups convey minute details like wrinkles and stubble convincingly, medium and long shots are comparably less revealing but still adequate. Black levels are impressively deep, with no instances of crushing, though shadow details may occasionally get lost. Contrast and brightness are well-balanced, producing clean whites and deep blacks that imbue the film's image with appreciable depth.

Overall, while "RoboCop 3" may not rival the immaculate transfers of its predecessors, Shout! Factory has utilized the materials available to them admirably. Despite the film’s age and some dated visual effects, fans will appreciate the warm, vibrant hues and precisely represented secondary colors in this 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode. Interiors possess respectable depth, making even RoboCop’s flight sequences visually engaging, accentuated by smooth cinematic movements free from distracting jitter or blur. The result is a visually competent presentation that remains faithful to the aesthetic intent of the original film.

Shout! Factory’s Blu-ray release of "RoboCop 3" is presented with two attractive DTS-HD Master Audio options: a 2.0 stereo track and a more immersive 5.1 surround sound mix. The surround mix, with its 4166 kbps, 24-bit depth, provides a broad and engaging soundstage, with excellent channel balance. Gunshots and explosions exhibit satisfying spatial placement, ricocheting effectively across the rear speakers. Basil Poledouris’s score benefits from a warm and clear presence that complements the action sequences. Dialogue is generally clean and intelligible, though it occasionally becomes muffled during more intense scenes. Optional English SDH subtitles are available, enhancing accessibility.

Both the 2.0 and 5.1 mixes show strong dynamics and layering, particularly in the front-heavy sound design which spreads evenly across all channels. While the low-frequency extension could be more robust for a film of this type, the track still delivers an appreciable amount of oomph during key action moments like gunfire and explosions. Despite some minor limitations, the detailed mid-range ensures higher frequencies remain distinct, providing clarity amid the chaos. The 5.1 track introduces unexpected life to the surround activity, with modest but effective LFE that adds weight to the soundtrack and effects. Dialogue is crisply rendered across both tracks, maintaining good volume levels throughout.

The careful attention to speaker travel, depth, and effects results in a rock-solid audio experience that enhances the film’s viewing pleasure significantly. Whether opting for the more immersive 5.1 mix or the solid 2.0 track, audiences can expect a performance that is both engaging and technically proficient, maintaining a high level of clarity and presence throughout "RoboCop 3."

The extras included with the Blu-ray edition of "RoboCop 3" offer a comprehensive exploration of the film's production, featuring a mix of new and engaging content from key figures in its creation. The highlight includes an insightful audio commentary by director Fred Dekker, who candidly discusses the film's shortcomings and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, coupled with another commentary by the team behind the documentary "RoboDoc: The Creation of RoboCop". Additionally, the "Delta City Shuffle" featurette provides an in-depth look at the making of "RoboCop 3", with interviews from cast and crew. Other notable segments include "Robo-Vision", which dives into the early CGI effects, and character-focused interviews such as "Training Otomo" and "Climbing the Corporate Ladder."

Extras included in this disc:

• NEW Audio Commentary with Director Fred Dekker: Insightful, candid discussion on production.
• NEW Audio Commentary with the Makers of RoboDoc: Forgiving yet critical retrospective.
• NEW Delta City Shuffle: The Making of ROBOCOP 3: Extensive behind-the-scenes interviews.
• NEW Robo-Vision: The FX of ROBOCOP 3: Exploring the early CGI technology used.
• NEW The Corporate Ladder – An Interview with Actor Felton Perry: Insights on character development.
• NEW Training Otomo – An Interview with Actor Bruce Locke and Martial Arts Trainer Bill Ryusaki: Perspectives on pre-production training.
• NEW War Machine – An Interview with RoboCop Gun Fabricator James Belohovek: Details on prop and model work.
• Theatrical Trailer
• Stills Gallery

"RoboCop 3," the third installment in the RoboCop franchise, directed by Fred Dekker, sought to capitalize on the previous successes of its predecessors. Released in 1993, this film faced significant constraints in pursuit of a PG-13 rating to appeal to a younger demographic, compromising its original gritty and violent essence. A noteworthy shift from graphic violence towards a more family-friendly presentation is evident. Ray Burke replaces Peter Weller in the titular role, emulating the iconic protagonist with mixed results. His performance, unfortunately, lacks the nuanced humanity that Weller brought to the character. The narrative builds around RoboCop aiding an underground resistance against a tyrannical corporate giant, OCP, that enforces martial law in Detroit. Despite a structured script co-written by Frank Miller and Dekker, major critics largely deemed the film as an underwhelming and juvenile imitation of its predecessors.

Technical aspects such as special effects and thematic elements reflect the diluted intensity of the franchise's earlier entries. Key scenes like RoboCop's interactions with Otomo, the cyborg ninja, and the rushed introduction of a jetpack fail to deliver climactic impact. Despite solid performances from supporting actors Jill Hennessy and Remy Ryan, and composer Basil Poledouris's return for the soundtrack, the overall cohesion is lacking. The film's attempt to integrate appealing features for toy lines and lessened violence alienated core fans while falling short of attracting new ones. Critics such as Mark Kermode and David Lyman underscored these shortcomings, noting that the softer approach detracted from the franchise's hard-hitting roots. Yet, isolated bright spots and moments of humor manage to provide some fleeting enjoyment. Ultimately, RoboCop 3 stands as a cautionary tale of franchise dilution driven by commercial pressures.

RoboCop 3, directed by Fred Dekker from a story by Frank Miller, hasn't aged particularly well since its 1993 release. The film features weak dialogue, lackluster action sequences, and an increasingly far-fetched plot culminating in a somewhat laughable final battle. Despite these shortcomings, the new Blu-ray release from Shout! Factory provides an exceptional video and audio presentation that enhances the film's dubious charm. The package also includes a substantial array of supplements that delve into the behind-the-scenes financial and creative challenges Dekker faced, offering valuable insights for film enthusiasts and scholars.

Notably, while the movie itself may still be considered disappointing by many, this Collector's Edition Blu-ray makes a compelling case for revisiting it. The additional features—rich with interviews and documentaries—offer a new perspective that might lead some viewers to find fresh appreciation for what is often dismissed as a "fascinating piece of garbage." These extras serve not only as educational tools but also as a testament to the complex production dynamics that can doom a sequel from the start.

Before it started production, RoboCop 3 was hindered by a prescriptive formula that prevented it from being a success. The film has some small pleasures but is wildly erratic. Shout! Factory equals if not betters the video and audio presentations of the previous MGM Blu-ray. Although the movie is much maligned, this Collector's Edition is recommended for the several worthwhile supplements that provide context into the financial and creative decisions that Dekker faced while making it. They can be useful teaching aids for how certain films (especially sequels) are set up for failure.