Thinner Blu-ray Review

The 2023 Blu-ray release of "Thinner" by Scream Factory enhances the film with a more recent scan than the previous Olive Films edition, significantly improving the visual presentation. The AVC encoded image maintains a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and, while the source remains unspecified, details appear substantially elevated. Makeup work, crucial to the plot's progression, is finely textured, capturing intricate skin particulars and decay with clarity. Costuming details are pronounced, and the interiors offer a deep exploration of various settings. Exterior shots present a dimensional quality, with prominent primary colors, although some scenes experience a slight warmth. Skin tones remain natural, and the film's grain structure is carefully managed, ensuring an authentic cinematic experience without intrusiveness.

The audio is delivered via a 5.1 DTS-HD MA track that is subtly dynamic. While it potentially mirrors the previous mix from Olive Films, notable surround engagement enhances key sequences, such as during Richie’s aggressive encounters and the unsettling score comprising horn and synthesizer elements. Although dynamics aren't extensively wide, few powerful blasts provide auditory impact in the film's later stages. The front-heavy acoustics maintain clear dialogue delivery, making these nuanced audio improvements noteworthy for fans and audio enthusiasts alike.

Overall, this Blu-ray release effectively capitalizes on technical enhancements. Despite ambiguity around the precise age of the transfer, the improved encode and higher bitrate elevate fine details, especially noticeable in shadow detailing during pivotal nighttime scenes. While a 4K release may remain speculative due to niche appeal, the current Blu-ray presentation stands as a respectable upgrade from its predecessor, catering to both newcomers and long-standing fans of "Thinner."

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Thinner" features a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround mix that excels in delivering crisp and clear dialogue, retaining the dramatic emphasis and comprehensible accent work. The sound quality is notably superior, with sharp instrumentation and well-positioned scoring that intensifies the film's atmospherics. Surround channels engage moderately, creating a palpable sense of community activity, particularly during scenes involving Romani gatherings. Although the low-end frequencies do not face significant challenges, moments of violence are effectively underscored with weighty emphasis, reinforcing the film’s dramatic intensity.

Complementing the DTS-HD MA 5.1 track, "Thinner" also offers a DTS-HD MA 2.0 stereo option. While both options provide a solid listening experience, the 5.1 mix delivers a heightened level of immersion. This track adeptly animates the soundscape, bringing scenes such as the gypsy camp and car crash nightmare to life by actively engaging the surround channels. The orchestration by Daniel Licht is well-balanced, ensuring the score complements rather than overpowers other elements. The 2.0 track is respectable, maintaining clarity and clean dialogue, though it lacks the depth and spatial dynamics of its 5.1 counterpart.

Overall, either audio track will serve viewers well; however, the DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix is particularly recommended for those seeking an immersive and dynamic auditory experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Thinner" offers a comprehensive suite of extras that delve deep into the film's production nuances. The disc features multiple audio commentaries, including new tracks with Producer Mitchell Galin and Actor Joe Mantegna, providing robust insights into the filmmaking process. Renowned Film Critic Lee Gambin and Novelist Aaron Dries also contribute a commentary, adding a critical historical perspective. This edition enriches the viewer's experience with revealing interviews such as "Weight of the World" with Director Tom Holland, who openly shares personal challenges faced during production. Lucinda Jenney and Vincent Guastini's discussions in "Thick and Thin" and "The Incredible Shrinking Man," respectively, add depth to the makeup and character portrayal challenges. The inclusion of a vintage featurette, "The Magic of Special Effects Makeup," offers a nostalgic look at practical effects artistry. Collectively, these extras provide valuable context and behind-the-scenes insight.

Extras included in this disc:

• NEW Audio Commentary With Producer Mitchell Galin And Actor Joe Mantegna: Insightful discussion featuring participants from the production team.
• NEW Audio Commentary With Film Critic/Historian Lee Gambin And Novelist Aaron Dries: Engages with historical and critical perspectives.
• NEW Weight Of The World: Interview with Director Tom Holland describing personal and professional challenges.
• NEW Thick And Thin: Actress Lucinda Jenney discusses casting and working dynamics.
• NEW The Incredible Shrinking Man: Special Makeup Effects Artist Vincent Guastini shares technical challenges.
• Audio Commentary With Tom Holland And Joe Mantegna: Perspective from the director and actor.
• Vintage Featurette: The Magic Of Special Effects Make-Up: A look at the 1997 approach to visual effects in "Thinner."
• Theatrical Trailer: Preview of the film for theatrical release.
• TV Spot: Original promotional content used for television.
• Still Gallery: Collection of film stills, behind-the-scenes snaps, and promotional art.

The 1996 adaptation of Stephen King's "Thinner" remains a curious entry in his cinematic pantheon, blending elements of horror and dark comedy. Directed by Tom Holland, the film explores the surreal horror of an obese lawyer, Billy Halleck, cursed to lose weight at an uncontrollable pace following a fatal accident involving a Romani woman. Despite its potential for a visually compelling body horror narrative, the film diverges from subtlety, leaning heavily into exaggerated humor that dilutes the suspense. Critics have pointed out the subpar makeup work hindering Robert John Burke's transformation from an overweight lawyer to an emaciated figure, ultimately leaving the film in a state of visual incongruence.

Character performances partially redeem "Thinner," with Burke delivering a spirited portrayal of Billy Halleck. He transitions seamlessly between bemusement and desperation under layers of prosthetics, capturing Billy's existential dread with some success. Meanwhile, Michael Constantine's turn as the vengeful gypsy patriarch is notably memorable, capitalizing on both menace and theatricality. Joe Mantegna offers a contrasting foil as the mobster Richie Ginelli, providing moments of levity amidst the chaos.

Despite its shortcomings, "Thinner" finds its place among King's adaptations as more entertaining than terrifying. While not achieving the prestige of works like "Misery" or "The Shawshank Redemption," nor faltering like "The Dark Tower," it stands as an embodiment of middle-tier King adaptations with an infectious energy reminiscent of Holland's prior successes in horror-comedy. The divergence from the Richard Bachman novel raises questions about adaptation fidelity; however, Holland's efforts to cater to both literary loyalists and general audiences present a challenging balancing act that ultimately skews towards entertainment rather than horror precision.

"Thinner" presents an intriguing glimpse into dark comedy and horror, offering a unique blend of Stephen King's narrative style. Tom Holland’s direction dances a fine line between absurdity and eeriness, successfully amplifying the bizarre aspects of the storyline. Robert John Burke anchors the film with a captivating performance, despite the sometimes clunky execution of special effects like the fat suits, which occasionally detract from the immersive experience. The film thrives on its quirky charm rather than delivering heavy-hitting thrills, establishing itself more as a whimsical tale of dark fantasy than a spine-chilling horror.

On its latest Blu-ray release by Scream Factory, "Thinner" benefits from perceptible improvements over previous editions. The video quality shows slight enhancements, attributed to a superior remaster compared to Olive Films' earlier presentation, although both are commendable. Audio options are robust with DTS-HD MA 5.1 and 2.0 tracks, creating an engaging sound environment that complements the film’s eclectic nature. Additionally, the array of new and archival bonus features enriches the overall package, making it an appealing acquisition for aficionados of King’s adaptations.

In conclusion, while "Thinner" may not stand with the giants in Stephen King's cinematic canon, it remains an enjoyable ride for its unabashedly playful tone. Despite some shortcomings in realistic visual effects and deeper thematic explorations, the Blu-ray release elevates the experience through technical upgrades and rewarding extras. For those collecting King’s oeuvre or seeking an entertaining 90s nostalgia trip, this edition is a recommended option.