Colors Blu-ray Review

Shout Select brings the 80s action drama "Colors" to life on Blu-ray with an AVC-encoded BD-50 release. Presented in its original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1, the encode averages a solid video bitrate of 30993 kbps and a total bitrate of 34.50 mbps. Notably, this release exceeds previous versions, including the UK BD-50, with improvements in authoring and compression. The transfer, however, is not entirely free of blemishes; white speckles and minor debris are evident during the Orion Pictures logo and main titles. Despite these imperfections, the picture quality markedly improves after the first reel. Grain is variable but enhanced resolution is apparent in exterior day-lit scenes. Skin tones appear natural, with satisfactory albeit not extraordinary detail.

In terms of video aesthetics, the Blu-ray transfer holds up well overall. The 1080p resolution offers a faithful, vibrant representation of the film that accentuates its vintage 80s palette. Although certain sequences from extended footage reveal their age through blurriness and reduced clarity, most of the 1.85:1 image maintains bright contrast and crisp whites, which rejuvenates the visual appeal. The film exhibits a consistent layer of natural grain throughout, reinforcing its filmic quality. Fine lines and details are distinguishable, and facial complexions show pores and minor blemishes. Black levels, while not perfect, remain accurate and detailed, particularly in shadows. Color reproduction is mostly natural, with certain reds and blues standing out more vividly.

Additional technical refinements are evident in Shout's handling of previously excised scenes from the international cut. These scenes were cleaned up from earlier UK presentations and restored to widescreen format. Depth is commendable, especially for interior shots, allowing for a cinematic feel without jitter or blur. Clothing and dark sequences face some detail retention challenges but avoid extensive crushing. Overall, this Blu-ray release offers an attractive presentation that brings "Colors" to its best visual state yet, satisfying both casual viewers and discerning videophiles alike. Optional English subtitles are included for added accessibility.

The "Colors" Blu-ray audio presentation by Shout Factory is distinctly articulated through a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, which surpasses previous releases in terms of technical specs and overall execution. Specifically, the 24-bit recording at 1704 kbps notably outperforms Second Sight's version that offered LPCM 2.0 at 1536 kbps (16-bit). Herbie Hancock’s keyboard-based score, which complements the film suitably despite its repetitive nature, utilizes the center and front channels effectively. Notably, during the end credits, Ice-T's eponymous track envelops the viewer as it shifts to the surround channels, contributing to an overall engaging audio experience.

However, it is important to highlight that while the mid-range frequencies exhibit appreciable clarity and distinction, some issues arise during the loudest action-packed segments where clipping and excessive brightness occasionally occur. Despite these minor drawbacks, the stereo sound design remains well-balanced with notable separation, maintaining a broad and immersive soundstage. The low-frequency extension is robust enough to add presence and depth to various musical selections without overshadowing dialogue. Conversations in the film are rendered with precision; the clean, crisp diction ensures ease of understanding throughout the film.

Moreover, the dynamic range of the track is impressive, seamlessly transitioning between Foley sounds, such as footsteps and gunfire, and the impactful musical pieces that define several scenes. The ambiance created within various sequences also sustains a realistic and engrossing atmosphere. This compelling 2.0 track showcases Shout Factory's commitment to delivering high-quality audio experiences, making it tough to ask for much more given the format’s inherent limitations.

The Blu-ray extras for "Colors" provide a deep dive into the film's background, featuring detailed interviews and historical context that enhance the viewing experience. "Cry of Alarm: An Interview with Screenwriter Michael Schiffer" offers an exhaustive examination of the story's genesis, development, and enduring relevance. Schiffer's first-hand accounts and meticulous research, including ride-alongs with gang units, make for captivating content. In "Cops & Robbers: An Interview with Technical Advisor/LAPD Gang Division Dennis Fanning," viewers gain valuable insights into real-life events and policing techniques that were pivotal in shaping the film's authenticity. Fanning shares personal anecdotes and professional experiences that bring a critical layer of realism to the portrayal of gang dynamics. Additionally, the original theatrical trailer provides a nostalgic glimpse into the film’s promotional material, and the Easter Egg contains extra tidbits from Schiffer’s interview, further enriching the disc’s content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Cry of Alarm: An enlightening conversation with screenwriter Michael Schiffer.
• Cops & Robbers: Interview with LAPD Gang Division technical advisor Dennis Fanning.
• Original Theatrical Trailer: Orion's trailer for "Colors."
• Easter Egg: Additional interview snippets with Schiffer.

Dennis Hopper's 1988 film "Colors" is a visceral, unflinching exploration of the gang violence and urban decay that pervaded Los Angeles. With a screenplay penned by Michael Schiffer, the narrative centers around seasoned street cop Bob Hodges (Robert Duvall) and his brash young partner Danny McGavin (Sean Penn) as they navigate the treacherous terrain of LA's volatile neighborhoods under the LAPD’s C.R.A.S.H. unit. The stark contrast between Hodges' methodical approach and McGavin's aggressive tactics underscores the broader ideological debate on law enforcement methods during the era. Hopper, in his fourth directorial outing, brings a raw energy to Schiffer's script, augmented by Haskell Wexler's detached yet evocative cinematography which portrays the gang-ridden streets with a curiously emotionless lens.

The film’s narrative intricacy is bolstered by a robust cast, featuring notable performances from Don Cheadle as Rocket, Glenn Plummer as High Top, and Maria Conchita Alonso as Louisa Gomez. The tension between McGavin and Hodges is palpable and drives the plot's core conflict, enhanced by Hopper’s direction which strips away glamor to reveal the gritty day-to-day of gang control operations. The extended cut offers deeper dives into secondary characters like Frog, a charismatic senior gang leader played by Trinidad Silva, though it arguably places an unbalanced focus on the Bloods over the Crips. This shift dovetails with McGavin's complicated romantic entanglement with Gomez, adding personal stakes to his professional endeavors.

The soundtrack of "Colors," featuring prominent hip-hop artists like Ice-T and Big Daddy Kane, provides an authentic sonic backdrop to the film’s urban setting. While Hopper's depiction of gang life predates iconic hood films such as "Boyz n the Hood" and "Menace II Society," its impact is undeniable. Despite criticisms regarding a somewhat aimless narrative structure and Penn's polarizing portrayal of McGavin, "Colors" stands as a pioneering cinematic document of its time—a hard-edged chronicle that prompts reflection on both its past context and its persistent relevance in contemporary discussions of urban violence and policing.

The Blu-ray release of "Colors," starring Sean Penn and Robert Duvall, provides a valuable revisit to Dennis Hopper's directorial effort that paints a vivid picture of inner-city gang violence. Capturing the raw intensity and the complexities of this issue, the transfer is commendable for a film approaching its 30th anniversary. The visuals are sharp albeit aged, and the audio, while generally robust, does present minor deficiencies. Cinematographer Haskell Wexler's work is retained well, offering a visually engaging experience that holds up against modern expectations.

In terms of additional content, Shout! Select’s Blu-ray is complemented by features ported over from Second Sight's release, which enriches the overall package. These extras, alongside the inclusion of the MGM trailer, provide a deeper context for both new viewers and long-time fans. While the set may lack extensive new material, it maintains a solid offering that is sure to pique the interest of collectors and cinephiles alike.

In conclusion, "Colors" is already a very good film and the additional footage helps make modest improvements in character development. Although not a frame-by-frame restoration, the transfer for "Colors" looks quite sharp. Shout! has also ported over bonus materials from Second Sight's disc and retained the trailer from MGM's DVD. Fans of Hopper, Duvall, Penn, and cinematographer Haskell Wexler will want to indulge in this package. Highly recommended.