Malone Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded 1.85:1 aspect ratio presentation of "Malone" on Blu-Ray is a mixed experience, characterized by both strengths and notable weaknesses. The transfer, provided by FOX/MGM, showcases fine film grain, which retains a mildly filmic presence and contributes to pleasing detail levels. Facial textures, particularly Burt Reynolds' iconic mustache, and the lush mountain scenery are depicted well, bringing a sense of authenticity to costume changes and location shots. However, the image occasionally suffers from issues related to age; colors tend to be muted, especially in skin tones, and there is consistent speckling throughout the source material.

On the other hand, certain technical aspects detract from the overall viewing experience. While daylight scenes benefit from inky blacks and a solid sense of depth, darker scenes often appear crushed with contrast issues leading to distracting haloing effects around whites. This issue is exacerbated by the presence of edge enhancement, creating a slightly artificial crunchiness in the image. Additionally, while delineation is maintained adequately in some areas, white bloom and banding sporadically disrupt the overall coherence of the visuals. These elements collectively suggest that this isn't a recent master, limiting the potential of what could have been a stellar high-definition presentation.

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix on the Blu-ray of "Malone" provides a competent listening experience with no distortion issues. Dialogue exchanges are mostly clear, although occasionally threatened by inherent audio limitations during dramatic extremes. The scoring is bold and supportive, enhancing excitement effectively. Atmospherics generally handle exterior expanses well, and no pronounced damage was detected.

The English DTS-HD MA 2.0 track is well-suited to "Malone," a film that shifts rapidly from quiet moments to high-action sequences. The dialogue remains clean and centrally focused throughout the more conversational first half of the movie. When the action intensifies, the audio track showcases dynamic imaging with gunfire and explosions creating an engaging auditory experience. Channel movement is adequate, maintaining listener interest without any disruptive volume spikes or shifts. Overall, the track complements the film's tone and pacing effectively, making it a solid addition to this Blu-ray release.

The extras on the Blu-ray edition of "Malone" offer a nostalgic and comprehensive look back at Burt Reynolds' cinematic legacy. From an engaging theatrical trailer narrated by Peter Cullen, combined with the evocative score from 'Commando', to a collection of trailers for other Reynolds classics such as "White Lightning", "Gator", "Sam Whiskey", and "Navajo Joe", each provides a rich, cheesy, and enjoyable glimpse into movie marketing's golden days. The collection embodies the promotional styles that define different eras of Reynolds' career, making it a fascinating watch for film historians and enthusiasts alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Malone Trailer: Narrated by Peter Cullen, featuring the score from 'Commando'.
• White Lightning Trailer: Showcases another action-packed Reynolds film.
• Gator Trailer: Feature narrated by Reynolds himself.
• Sam Whiskey Trailer: Promises an entertaining revisit, hinting at possible Blu-ray release.
• Navajo Joe Trailer: Classic marketing style enhances the viewing enjoyment.

"Malone," a 1987 release starring Burt Reynolds, encapsulates the waning action hero phase of the actor's career. The film is a quintessential B-movie that keeps the spotlight squarely on Reynolds, who plays a burnt-out CIA assassin seeking refuge in a small Oregon town. His retreat quickly transforms into a battleground against local tyrant Delaney, portrayed with a blend of restraint and bombast by Cliff Robertson. The character of Delaney operates a burgeoning white supremacist society, acquiring swathes of land through coercion and violence, prompting Reynolds' Malone to employ his lethal skills in defense of the oppressed townsfolk.

The narrative, adapted from William P. Wingate's novel "Shotgun," is stripped to its bare revenge-flick essentials. Malone's encounters with thinly-drawn antagonists like Calvin and Dan add to the predictable yet engaging cycle of violence. Despite Reynolds' stoic presence, he appears more as a static figurehead than an active participant, with the stunt team carrying much of the action load. The character dynamics further deepen with Jo's (Cynthia Gibb) unsettling infatuation with Malone and the brief but impactful role of CIA handler Jamie (Lauren Hutton), who reconnects with Malone both professionally and romantically.

"Malone" offers a straightforward action experience replete with explosive confrontations and archetypal tropes of lone heroes facing corrupt adversaries. The supporting cast brings some vitality to the otherwise routine script, with Kenneth McMillan’s portrayal of the morally bankrupt Sheriff Hawkins adding layers to the town's oppressive atmosphere. In sum, "Malone" is undemanding yet entertaining 80s fare, ideal for viewers seeking nostalgic action sequences and Rudimentary heroics delivered by an iconic actor in one of his lesser-regarded films.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Malone" offers a mix of technical proficiency and nostalgic appeal, making it an intriguing package for fans of 80s action cinema and Burt Reynolds enthusiasts. The film itself, although often passed over as just another entry in Reynolds’ illustrious action-packed career, delivers a cocktail of engaging albeit brainless entertainment. Reynolds’ portrayal of Malone, with his unique blend of tough yet disinterested demeanor, continues to resonate, despite the narrative flaws.

From a technical standpoint, the video transfer presents some inconsistencies but generally maintains an acceptable standard for a film of this age. The audio track is robust, rendering the explosive sequences and gunshots with satisfying impact, thus enhancing the viewer's immersion. The Blu-ray does fall short on supplementary content, limited to a few trailers, which might disappoint those looking for more in-depth insights or behind-the-scenes material.

The clunky third act of Malone strives to work out a reason for the titular character to slip into One Man Army mode, watching Reynolds become Arnold Schwarzenegger for a moment as the assassin arms himself with guns and grenades to take on Delaney's security force. In a film with random car chases and sketchy reasons to kill a man who knows too much, the graduation to explosions and bullets is actually comforting, with the effort finally accepting its brain-dead ways by giving in to blunt violence. Malone might've worked with a hungrier star and more dynamic direction, delivering cheap but cinematic thrills. Instead, we're stuck with Reynolds mentally distancing himself from what often looks like a television pilot, leaving the feature to die a slow death from disinterest.

Overall, if you are a fan of Burt Reynolds or enjoy 80s action flicks, Kino Lorber’s release of "Malone" is a recommended pick. While it may not be a pinnacle of cinematic artistry, its blend of nostalgia and action makes for an entertaining viewing experience, particularly appealing to those with a soft spot for retro home entertainment.