Escape from L.A. Blu-ray Review

Escape from L.A.'s latest Blu-ray release by Scream Factory corrects many of the major flaws from its previous 2010, 2013, and 2017 editions. The re-mastering employs a 4K scan from the original camera negative, enhancing the AVC encoded image in 2.35:1 aspect ratio and resolving severe brightness issues that plagued earlier editions. This transfer darkens the overly bright scenes to better respect the original cinematography, resulting in a moody and atmospheric presentation that is palpably richer in texture. The notable improvements include black levels that are deep and inky, avoiding significant crushing despite the film’s grim aesthetic. The image also benefits from an almost film-like grain structure and notable detail, rendering the fine textures of Snake's weathered face and the intricate designs of costumes and settings with precision.

Details are notably clearer, providing a more immersive view of characters' facial features, clothing patterns, and production design elements. Skin tones are natural and consistent, while colors, though leaning towards a darker palette, are better balanced. Primaries such as Snake's blue eye and vibrant red jackets occasionally pierce through the pervasive brown, black, and gray hues, adding life to the otherwise dim environment. This new transfer even mitigates some of the dated CGI issues by blending them more seamlessly into the darkened visuals. Moreover, throughout the entire feature, the AVC encoding averages 36 Mbps with no evidence of macroblocking or compression artifacts.

Overall, this fresh 4K remaster presents a significant upgrade from any previous releases. The film elements remain in pristine condition with no blemishes or speckling. The dark palette now successfully conveys the intended grim atmosphere without compromising on detail or clarity. This version stands as a testament to quality restoration work, holding true to the cinematic vision of Escape from L.A. while significantly enhancing the viewer’s experience.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Escape from L.A." is a substantial improvement from previous editions, with a notable upgrade to a 5.1 DTS-HD MA track that surpasses the Dolby TrueHD mix found on earlier discs. The DTS-HD MA mix delivers robust surround dynamics with precise directional effects, especially evident in scenes featuring intense action sequences like the earthquake that transforms L.A. into an island, gunfire, and the coliseum crowd chants. The score by John Carpenter and Shirley Walker is rich and vibrant, integrating seamlessly with the atmospheric sound design. The bass response is particularly noteworthy, providing a potent yet balanced rumble during critical scenes such as explosions and surfing sequences.

Dialogue clarity is consistently excellent throughout the mix, with precise placement and clear discernibility, ensuring that even the whispered tones of Snake Plissken are delivered without distortion. While the LFE across the track may not reach the bombastic levels of premium reference soundtracks, it is still notably energetic, adding depth to motorcycle exhausts, roaring fire, and other low-frequency elements. Ambient sounds are effectively rendered, with active surrounds enhancing the immersive experience in diverse environments from police zones to giant stadiums.

Complementing the 5.1 track is an English 2.0 DTS-HD MA stereo mix which, though more confined, still performs admirably within its narrower soundstage. This mix, while serviceable, lacks the expansiveness that makes the new 5.1 DTS-HD MA track so compelling. The transition to the new audio format has resulted in an intricately woven and engaging sonic experience that revitalizes this 1996 action thriller with powerful yet carefully balanced dynamics, ensuring that all elements—vocals, score, and effects—are well-articulated and vividly presented across all speakers. Optional English SDH subtitles accompany both audio options for added accessibility.

The Blu-ray extras for "Escape from L.A." offer a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look into the film's production, despite the absence of direct contributions from John Carpenter and Kurt Russell. Highlighted by engaging interviews with cast and crew, the content provides valuable insights into the making of the movie and the legacy it left behind. Stacy Keach offers reflections on working with Carpenter and his personal experience during the shoot. Bruce Campbell humorously recounts his brief yet memorable involvement, focusing on the transformation process for his character. Peter Jason's extensive discussion covers his acting career trajectory and longstanding collaboration with Carpenter. Georges Corraface provides a deep dive into his role, linking it with historical inspirations, while Jim McPherson discusses technical challenges in makeup effects. Visual effects artist David Jones candidly examines his ambitious yet imperfect contributions, emphasizing the evolving nature of CG technology.

Extras included in this disc:

• A Little Bit Off Beat: An interview with actor Stacy Keach.
• Beverly Hills Workshed: An audio interview with Bruce Campbell.
• Part of the Family: An interview with Peter Jason.
• Miss A Shot, Get A Shot: An interview with George Corraface.
• One Eye is Better Than None: An interview with special effects artist Jim McPherson.
• The Renderman: An interview with visual effects artist David Jones.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original movie trailer.
• TV Spots: Promotional commercials.
• Still Gallery: Collection of film stills, publicity shots, and behind-the-scenes photos.

Escape from L.A. emerges as an eccentric sequel to John Carpenter's iconic Escape from New York. This 1996 follow-up brings Kurt Russell back in the iconic role of Snake Plissken, now tasked with a high-stakes mission involving the President's daughter and a world-destroying super weapon. The film dives deeply into satirical territory, giving audiences a mix of post-apocalyptic adventure and over-the-top antics. Notably, the satire levels are ramped up significantly, resulting in a movie that is both a love letter to and a lampooning of its predecessor. The settings, such as a tsunami-ravaged Los Angeles and a comically exaggerated L.A. Coliseum basketball sequence, highlight Carpenter's playful approach.

Technical aspects of the film come with their sets of critiques and praises. While the movie continues Carpenter's blending of spaghetti western influences with Mad Max-style visuals, it heavily relies on now-dated 90s CGI and cheesy prosthetics, adding to its campy charm yet indicating a significant step down in production value. The film’s practical effects and makeup efforts, like Bruce Campbell's role as the crazed plastic surgeon, however, add a unique cult appeal despite the subpar computer-generated visuals. The locations traverse a variety of Los Angeles locales reimagined into dystopian playgrounds - from surfing down Wilshire Boulevard to traversing ruined landmarks - pushing the boundaries of what the 90s visual effects were capable of.

Kurt Russell's reprisal of Snake anchors the film, maintaining the character's iconic gravitas amidst the madness. The supporting cast, including A.J. Langer, Steve Buscemi, and Peter Fonda, bring an array of colorful, albeit sometimes hit-or-miss performances. Despite replicating many elements from its predecessor, Escape from L.A. presents a distinct flavor with its increased emphasis on self-parody and B-movie undertones. The project may not have lit up the box office or critics' circles upon release, but it garners appreciation for its audaciousness and remains a testament to Carpenter's willingness to experiment within his world-building confines.

John Carpenter's "Escape from L.A." makes its presence felt in this Collector's Edition Blu-ray from Scream Factory. With Kurt Russell reprising his iconic role as Snake Plissken, the film treads a fine line between action and satire, effectively making it a compelling watch. Despite some dated CGI and a plot that might not have the same caliber as its predecessor, "Escape from New York," Carpenter's directorial finesse remains evident in the lively and visually arresting dystopian Los Angeles. The upgraded visual and auditory presentation breathe new life into the film, showcasing an impressive 2.39:1 AVC transfer and robust English DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track, ensuring that each fiery explosion and synth-laden score is delivered with remarkable clarity.

The Blu-ray package from Scream Factory also excels in the extras department. While it's unfortunate that neither John Carpenter nor Kurt Russell is featured in the bonus materials, the new interviews, especially one with Peter Jason, provide valuable insights that fans will appreciate. This release addresses many limitations present in previous versions, offering an excellent A/V presentation and encoding the surround mix adequately. These enhancements coupled with an engaging score coordinated with Shirley Walker emphasize the added value of this high-definition rendition.

Conclusively, "Escape from L.A." delivers a mixed experience but one that's undeniably enjoyable for fans of the genre. John Carpenter's evident enthusiasm for pushing boundaries manifests in each frame, making this film a joyride through a post-apocalyptic landscape. The Scream Factory's Collector's Edition, with its superior packaging and bevy of extras, makes it a must-have for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Despite its flaws and somewhat polarized reception over time, this edition undeniably represents the best version of the film yet, warranting a definitive place on any collector's shelf. Highly recommended.