Joel D. Wynkoop's Lost Faith Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Joel D. Wynkoop's Lost Faith" effectively captures the essence of the original SOV (Shot-On-Video) production. Presented in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio and utilizing an AVC-encoded 1080p transfer, the viewing experience focuses more on the historical charm of the source material than on pristine detail. This VHS source transfer, although marred by analog artifacts and limited detail, successfully maintains a cohesive visual aesthetic consistent with similar productions of its era.

The color palette is particularly indicative of its vintage roots, with hues leaning towards a washed-out presentation and skin tones adopting a reddish tinge. The extensive greenery, as well as the brighter clothing featured throughout the film, are handled with adequate fidelity. While the black levels and image noise are suboptimal, they are characteristic of the materials from which this transfer was derived. Despite these inherent limitations, the source displays no major stretches of physical damage, a testament to its careful preservation.

Viewers interested in comparing the quality will find minimal differences when contrasting the main feature with the Original VHS Version included in the bonus features. Both presentations offer insight into the film’s authentic visual style, though the Blu-ray version presents a slightly cleaner, albeit still artifact-laden, experience that stays true to the film's original production values.

The audio presentation of "Joel D. Wynkoop's Lost Faith" arrives exclusively on Blu-ray with a single 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio track. This audio format, while simple, manages to deliver a decent auditory experience. Dialogue clarity is generally maintained, although it occasionally struggles against inherent technical limitations and ambient background noise. Nonetheless, voiceover recordings are notably well-defined, maintaining coherence throughout.

The soundtrack features an energetic and upbeat synth-heavy score that matches the film's action-driven narrative. The music adds a dynamic layer, effectively amplifying the intensity of the scenes and engaging viewers with its rhythmic beats. Despite minor synchronization issues during dialogue exchanges, the audio track preserves an overall enthusiastic atmosphere, capturing the spirited essence of the film.

In summation, although the audio track in "Joel D. Wynkoop's Lost Faith" does face specific limitations, it consistently achieves a satisfactory listening experience, largely due to the vigorous synth score and distinct dialogue clarity. This DTS-HD Master Audio presentation remains competent for viewers seeking a nostalgic action-oriented cinematic experience.

The extras included in the Blu-ray of "Joel D. Wynkoop's Lost Faith" offer a comprehensive exploration of both the filmmaking process and Wynkoop’s unique influence on genre cinema. The content delves into various aspects of the 1992 film, ranging from nostalgic archival material to in-depth documentaries. Highlights include the original VHS cut of "Lost Faith," which brings a vintage perspective to the film, paired with insightful commentary by Wynkoop and Sean McCarthy. The making-of documentary "Stay Hungry" offers a detailed behind-the-scenes look that emphasizes Wynkoop’s dedication and the production's unexpectedly professional environment. Short films like "Nekoda" and "The Set-Up" enrich the package by showcasing Wynkoop's evolving vision across different time periods. Overall, the inclusion of these extras creates a dynamic and enriching experience for aficionados of indie films and Wynkoop's creative journey.

Extras included in this disc:

• Introduction by Director / Star Joel D. Wynkoop: Poolside intro where Wynkoop praises his cast and shares production insights.
• Lost Faith Original VHS Version: A slightly shorter edit with additional scenes; includes optional commentary.
• Stay Hungry: The Making of Lost Faith: Documentary featuring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.
• Dailies Reel: Collection of raw footage showing various scenes being shot.
• Local News Segments: Archival interviews showcasing Wynkoop promoting the film on Florida news stations.
• Alternate Opening
• Alternate Ending
• The Setup: A Super 8mm short film from 1979.
• Nekoda: Pseudo-sequel short film exploring faith-based action themes.
• Joel at Screamfest 2007: Wynkoop interacts with horror icons at a convention.
• Vintage Audition Reel: Displays Joel Wynkoop's acting range.
• Lost Faith Trailer
• Lost Faith TV Spot
• Saturn’s Core Releases

"Joel D. Wynkoop's Lost Faith" is a film that embodies the chaotic fervor of early 90s DIY action filmmaking, stitched together with fervent martial arts sequences and interwoven with an attempt at religious wandering. The narrative unfolds around Steve Nekoda, played by Wynkoop himself, an action hero inspired by Chuck Norris, who embarks on a solo mission to rescue his abducted wife from an international human trafficking ring. Despite attempting to inject spiritual undertones into the story, the film struggles to maintain consistency, often stumbling over its convoluted directing choices and awkward pace.

Wynkoop’s direction showcases an unwavering dedication to what he enjoys most: martial arts and eccentric storytelling. He saturates the film with extended shots of fight sequences and prolonged driving scenes, which serve as both narrative momentum and filler, albeit underlined by a soundtrack courtesy of a local radio station. This juxtaposition of intense martial arts elements with gratuitous behavior strips away potential suspense, as Wynkoop often opts for the novelty of backyard brawls over refining the movie’s narrative or coherent theme.

On the technical front, the film is realized through a shot-on-video presentation, which contributes to its amateur ambiance but also cleverly aligns with Wynkoop’s roots in exploitation cinema. Characters evolve into exaggerated caricatures, with dialogues leaning into absurdity rather than depth. The antagonists function as both comedic relief and societal stereotypes, failing to elevate the film beyond mere B-movie boundaries. While not entirely successful in achieving its philosophical aspirations, "Lost Faith" remains a charming homage to the genre enthusiasts who fancy nostalgia-fueled, spectacle-driven cinema adventures typical of the shot-on-video era. Despite its lack of nuanced writing and polished performances, it offers entertainment for those seeking spirited yet sloppy cinematic endeavors.

"Joel D. Wynkoop's Lost Faith" attempts to capture the nostalgic spirit of 80s martial arts flicks, yet remains rooted in its low-budget origins. Wynkoop, with his Chuck Norris-esque might, shoulders the production with palpable enthusiasm and roundhouse vigor. The narrative, however, stumbles as it tries to blend action with a faith-based storyline, leaving audiences perplexed by its muddled message. Is the film advocating for redemption or reveling in chaotic heroism? This question hangs unanswered as the plot meanders through a series of clumsy yet amusing encounters and boss-like antagonists that give the film a whimsical, video game quality.

The Blu-ray release from Saturn’s Core diligently caters to fans of shot-on-video (SOV) and exploitation films. Given its origins, the audio-visual package is commendable, enhancing the film’s raw aesthetic with notable clarity and definition. Perhaps more intriguing are the extensive bonus features: an alternate cut, an array of short films, and abundant behind-the-scenes insights that enrich the viewing experience for enthusiasts.

In conclusion, while "Lost Faith" teeters between ambitious homage and amateur execution, it is Wynkoop's relentless spirit that offers genuine entertainment value. Though the film’s message gets tangled in its own narrative web, those passionate about niche martial arts cinema or curious about Florida's exploitation scene will find charm in its imperfections. This release is solidly for fans entrenched in the genre's idiosyncrasies, appreciating both its flaws and fervor.