The Jerk Blu-ray Review

Shout Factory’s 40th anniversary Blu-ray release of "The Jerk" delivers a substantial video presentation upgrade. The previous Universal release was riddled with egregious digital noise reduction (DNR), speckles, and an overall waxy appearance that was subpar. In stark contrast, the new Shout Factory transfer benefits from a meticulously crafted 2K remaster. While it does not entirely eliminate the occasional speck and moderate grain roughness, the film now boasts significantly enhanced colors and a more organic grain structure. The previously dull and grayish hues are now replaced with vibrant and consistent color grading that breathes new life into the film.

The 1080p transfer in 1.85:1 aspect ratio reveals marked improvements in image sharpness and detail levels. Although not flawless, the new scan eradicates the issues of edge enhancement and other compression anomalies seen in older versions. The print is commendably cleaned of debris and scratches, leaving only minor speckling that is barely noticeable. Brightness and black levels generally maintain consistency; while not achieving absolute inky blacks, the depth created in darker scenes is appreciable without overwhelming grain popping. This balance provides a visually satisfying aesthetic representative of late '70s film stock.

Color saturation stands out, especially in scenes with rich and diverse palettes. Carnival scenes, as well as the vibrant settings following Navin’s rise in wealth, showcase ample primary colors like reds and blues that remain true and striking without appearing over-saturated. Skin tones are healthy and realistic, contributing to an overall pleasing viewing experience. Despite some remaining nitpicks regarding clarity and depth, this release is undoubtedly the definitive version for fans seeking a vastly improved home video experience of "The Jerk."

"The Jerk" on Blu-ray is presented with DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and 2.0 tracks, catering to diverse audio preferences. The 5.1 mix, likely propagated from the previous Universal release, serves well enough for a dialogue-heavy comedy but falls short of creating an immersive experience. Front-end dialogue is clear and clean, while the minimally utilized rear soundstage offers little in terms of surround activity or LFE. Essentially, the 5.1 mix operates more like a 3.0 track with satisfactory ambient material handled by the stereo channels.

Conversely, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 stereo mix delivers a more natural sound that aligns more authentically with the original film's presentation. Though the separation is barely noticeable, the stereo mix effectively captures the whimsical score and goofy dialogue, conveying them with clarity and precision. The 2.0 track may not provide the expansiveness of the 5.1 mix but is arguably the more robust option, offering balanced levels and requiring no additional monitoring adjustments. Overall, while neither track is groundbreaking, they adequately support the film’s comedic elements in a manner befitting its vintage appeal.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Jerk" are thoughtfully curated, providing splendid insights and entertainment for fans and film enthusiasts. The standout feature is the engaging conversation between Steve Martin and Carl Reiner, which delves into the making of the film and its significance in their careers. The discussion with writers Michael Elias and Carl Gottlieb adds depth by exploring the foundation of the movie’s comedy. Additionally, the tutorial on "You Belong to Me" offers a delightful musical interlude, while the quirky "The Lost Film Strips of Father Carlos Las Vegas de Cordova" provides an amusing glimpse into eccentric scenes. The inclusion of various trailers and radio spots rounds out this well-executed package.

Extras included in this disc:

• A Conversation with Steve Martin and Carl Reiner: Insightful dialogue on their careers and the film.
• A Conversation with Writers Michael Elias and Carl Gottlieb: Engaging discussion on the script's development.
• Learn How to Play Tonight You Belong To Me: Ukulele tutorial.
• The Lost Film Strips of Father Carols Las Vegas De Cordova: Humorous archival footage.
• Teaser Trailer: Brief promotional piece.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original movie trailer.
• Exhibitor's Trailer: Marketing trailer.
• Radio Spots: Collection of audio advertisements.

Steve Martin’s "The Jerk" remains one of his most polarizing films. It's a comedic venture that mixes absurdity with biting social commentary. Martin stars as Navin R. Johnson, an endearingly naive character raised by poor Black parents in the South, who sets off on a whimsical journey to find his place in the world. His adventures are a series of lucky and unlucky events, from gas station hijinks to carnival romances. The film is structured around flashbacks, beginning at Navin's low point and unraveling his rise and fall in a rich tapestry of slapstick and satire. The narrative's inane and politically incorrect elements juxtapose foolishness with sharp humor, showcasing Martin's knack for physical comedy.

Originally released in 1979, "The Jerk" represents a unique clash of stand-up comedy spirit and film storytelling. It treads a delicate line with its provocatively un-PC humor that might not sit well with today's more sensitive audiences. Nevertheless, Martin's portrayal of Navin is a masterful display of physical comedy and dumb luck. From "the phonebooks are here!" sequence to narrowly escaping a sniper, the film offers a litany of scenes that are as surreal as they are hilariously memorable. The supporting cast, including Bernadette Peters and M. Emmet Walsh, enhance the comedic depth with performances that perfectly complement Martin’s zany antics.

"The Jerk" artfully stitches together chaotic sequences into a coherent rags-to-riches-to-rags narrative. It culminates with Navin's family reaping success through an improbably fortunate soybean investment. The film cleverly maintains a satirical edge without losing its heartwarming essence, wrapping up with a poignant message about familial bonds and the pursuit of happiness. Steve Martin's effervescent energy and the film’s unrestrained comic tone ensure "The Jerk" remains a pivotal work in his storied career, forever cherished by fans for its brave, albeit controversial, humor. As eventually celebrated with a fitting Blu-ray release, this classic continues to invite audiences to laugh at its unapologetic goofiness and brilliant comedic timing.

Shout Factory's new 40th Anniversary Edition of "The Jerk" represents a significant upgrade over previous releases, notably the lackluster Universal disc. This edition not only enhances the visual quality substantially but also introduces a redefined stereo audio mix in DTS-HD MA 5.1 and DTS-HD MA 2.0. Viewers can expect clearer images with better color grading, although a few minor issues persist. Complemented by a series of insightful interviews, particularly a memorable 26-minute session featuring Steve Martin and Carl Reiner, the anniversary release includes engaging bonus content that sheds light on the creative process behind this iconic comedy.

The film itself is a definitive piece of comedic absurdity, marking Steve Martin's first starring role and spotlighting his unique brand of humor. Directed by Carl Reiner, "The Jerk" expertly balances stupidity with genuine hilarity, creating a timeless classic that remains entertaining even after multiple viewings. The plot's simple, absurd premise allows for a broad range of slapstick and clever visual gags, and Martin's performance brings heart to the relentless silliness. Accompanied by a stellar cast including Bernadette Peters and M. Emmet Walsh, the film showcases a rare combination of affectionate storytelling wrapped in farcical comedy.

In conclusion, Shout Factory’s Blu-ray release is a must-have for fans of "The Jerk". The enhanced audiovisual quality and excellent supplementary material make this edition an exceptional upgrade. Despite minor imperfections, it stands out as the definitive home media version of Steve Martin's seminal comedy. Whether you cherish the film as a nostalgic favorite or are discovering it anew, this edition is highly recommended.