Silent Running Blu-ray Review

Eureka Entertainment's UK Blu-ray release of Douglas Trumbull's Silent Running, presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, utilizes an AVC encode and boasts a meticulous HD restoration. Sourced from a 35mm interpositive made in 1996, further cleanup was executed using a combination of HD-DVNR, Phoenix, and MTI systems by Deluxe 142, London. This comprehensive process has admirably preserved the film's character without overly cleaning or sharpening it to the point of losing its original texture.

The high-definition transfer is particularly commendable for maintaining a fine layer of grain throughout, thereby preserving the filmic texture that enhances its nostalgic appeal. There are no noticeable issues with edge enhancement, smearing, or aliasing. Color reproduction is accurate and vibrant, with the costumes and sets showcasing rich, well-saturated colors. The foliage and fauna scenes are particularly striking, featuring detailed, organic colors. Some close-ups, particularly of Bruce Dern’s face, exhibit significant detail, with excellent skin texture and depth.

Despite these strengths, the transfer is not without its imperfections. Occasionally, mid-ground faces can appear too clean and smooth due to the noise removal process. Contrast levels are managed well, though there are moments of fluctuating blacks and minor vertical banding during specific scenes. These are minor distractions and do not detract significantly from the overall visual experience. The film's dark sequences maintain clarity without succumbing to blockiness or murkiness, and the disc adeptly handles bright flashes within the image. Overall, this Blu-ray release presents Silent Running with impressive detail and visual fidelity, faithfully capturing the essence of the original production while making notable improvements over previous home video iterations.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Silent Running" has been executed with impressive fidelity, maintaining the integrity of the original elements through a DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix. Dialogue is exceptionally clear and discernible, capturing even the subtleties of Bruce Dern's distinctive accent and mumbling tendencies. Communication over ship-to-ship radios is devoid of distortion, ensuring clean and clear transmission. The ambient sounds, from the bleeps and whoops of the drones to more subtle effects like the flicking of switches or clacking of pool balls, are reproduced with precision and naturality.

Additionally, the score by Joan Baez benefits immensely from this mix, her voice resonating with power and grace while the music maintains a warm, immersive presence. Bass management is robust, keenly handling the exploding bolts, impacts, and the roaring journey through Saturn's rings—all while adhering to the space’s unique acoustic environment. The portrayal of quieter sounds, such as birdsong and rustling leaves within the spacecraft garden, enhances the experience, making it a strong transfer of a modest yet intricate sound design.

For audiophiles, there are two available tracks: an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track and a Music & Effects DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. The lossless audio format ensures that special audio effects are enhanced and the overall sound quality is distinctly crisper and clearer. Notably, Joan Baez's vocal performance is richer and more rounded. Importantly, there are no discernible pops, cracks, or background hiss to detract from the viewing experience. Eureka Entertainment also provides optional English SDH subtitles for those who require them, rounding off a meticulous audio presentation that respects the original source material while enhancing its clarity and depth.

"Silent Running" Blu-ray extras offer a comprehensive insight into the making of this eco-science fiction classic, blending detailed technical commentary with nostalgic reflections. Director Douglas Trumbull and actor Bruce Dern's audio commentary, recorded in 2000, provides a rich, technically skewed discussion on filmmaking freedoms at Universal in the 70s. The 50-minute vintage documentary, "The Making of Silent Running," details production intricacies, set design, and special effects, providing an extensive behind-the-scenes look. Two video interviews from 2001 with Trumbull provide depth on his motivations and career evolution. Bruce Dern's candid 11-minute interview offers personal anecdotes about working on set. Additional features like an isolated music and FX audio track and a stunning 48-page collector booklet enrich the experience, making these extras indispensable for fans and film historians alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary Track: In-depth technical and nostalgic discussion by Douglas Trumbull and Bruce Dern.
• The Making of Silent Running: Vintage on-set documentary focusing on production and set design.
• Silent Running by Douglas Trumbull: Detailed recollections from the director on making the movie.
• Douglas Trumbull: Then and Now: Insight into Trumbull's career and innovations.
• A Conversation with Bruce Dern: Personal reflections from the actor on his role and career.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer.
• Isolated Music and FX audio track: Enjoy Peter Schickele's score in DTS-HD MA 2.0.
• Lavish 48-page collector booklet: Comprehensive overview with photos and concept art.

Douglas Trumbull's "Silent Running" (1972) is a seminal work in the landscape of science fiction cinema, notable for its environmental commentary and groundbreaking visual effects. With freedom granted by Universal, Trumbull harnessed his expertise from "2001: A Space Odyssey" to craft a film that, despite its flaws, has become a cult favorite. Bruce Dern delivers an intense performance as Freeman Lowell, an astronaut who rebels against orders to destroy Earth's remaining forests housed in domes aboard the Valley Forge. His descent into madness is both poignant and gripping, underlined by his interactions with three drones named Huey, Louie, and Dewey. The film's visuals, particularly the effects used to portray space and the lush domes, remain impressive and influential.

The script, co-written by notable future filmmakers Michael Cimino and Steven Bochco, balances its narrative with a powerful yet not overwhelming environmental message. The story's pacing is deliberate, fostering an atmosphere that mirrors Lowell's psychological unraveling as he grapples with isolation and his drastic actions. Despite some moments of unnecessary sentimentality towards the end, the film maintains tension and engagement. Dern's portrayal of Lowell’s Internal conflict keeps the viewer invested in the character's journey from peace-loving ecologist to desperate fugitive.

"Silent Running" also gains from its superb supporting elements. The multiple-amputee actors operating the drones add a unique layer of authenticity to their on-screen presence. Peter Schickele's soundtrack, featuring Joan Baez’s haunting melodies, enhances the film’s retro yet timeless feel. Coupled with a crisp image transfer and clear audio quality on this Blu-ray release, Trumbull’s directorial debut remains a visually and emotionally compelling experience that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.

The Blu-ray release of "Silent Running," facilitated by Eureka Entertainment in collaboration with Universal Studios, successfully brings Douglas Trumbull's 1972 eco-centric sci-fi classic to a new audience with a level of care and detail befitting its cult status. The transfer quality is exceptional: the visuals are sharp, the colors vibrant, and the overall fidelity to the original film's aesthetic is impressive. This high-definition upgrade allows viewers to fully appreciate the film’s pioneering special effects and thematic depth. The restoration work ensures that both the space sequences and the naturalistic imagery retain their intended impact.

From an audio standpoint, this Blu-ray offers a richly layered soundscape that enhances the immersive quality of the film. The soundtrack, including Joan Baez's emotive songs, is crisp and clear, supported by a well-balanced mix that respects the original audio integrity while providing modern clarity. The enhancements extend to the ambient sounds of the spaceship and environmental elements, which are now delivered with improved precision and subtlety.

The included special features add valuable context, offering interviews with cast and crew, behind-the-scenes footage, and insightful commentaries that deepen appreciation for the film's innovative production and its environmental message. These extras not only celebrate "Silent Running"’s legacy but also give fans ample reason to revisit the film and newcomers a comprehensive introduction.

In conclusion, Eureka Entertainment’s Blu-ray release of "Silent Running" is a triumph, providing a definitive version of this classic sci-fi film. With superior audio-visual quality and a rich array of supplementary material, it meets and exceeds expectations. Fans of classic sci-fi cinema will be very pleased with this thoughtful and meticulous restoration. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.