Logan's Run Blu-ray Review

"Logan's Run" steps into the Blu-ray scene with a commendable 1080p, 2.40:1 transfer that reveals both its vintage charm and its technical limitations. Shot with TODD-AO anamorphic lenses, the film displays slightly blurred peripheries and a lack of immediate object sharpness, characteristics inherent to the original production rather than flaws of the transfer. Color reproduction is notably improved over previous releases, bringing vibrancy to the greens, oranges, and reds, though the palette remains understated compared to contemporary films. Black levels are generally satisfying, providing good contrast especially in scenes involving the Sandmen, though occasional fluctuations occur due to visual effects integration.

The transfer maintains a grainy appearance throughout, with grain density increasing during FX-heavy scenes. Notably, there is no evidence of Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) or excessive sharpening, preserving the film's authentic texture. Detail levels have been enhanced significantly; the greenish tints on muzzle flashes, the texture on costumes, and the sculptural intricacies in FX shots like those in Box's ice cavern all sharpen the visual experience. However, elements like matte lines and wires in the Carrousel sequence are now more discernible. Minor issues such as gate float wobble are present but do not significantly detract from the viewing experience.

Three-dimensionality is subtly present, particularly in travelogue scenes outside the city domes. While some vertical lines and minimal print damage can be detected, these imperfections hardly overshadow the overall presentation. Despite its inherent limitations, this Blu-ray release offers a faithful reproduction that significantly surpasses previous home video versions, making "Logan's Run" look remarkably decent for a film of its era.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Logan's Run" is a complex tapestry, anchored by its Dolby TrueHD 5.1 mix. Listeners are treated to an astonishingly clear reproduction of Jerry Goldsmith's remarkable score, which stands out as the most prominent and enduring aspect of the soundtrack. The electronic sounds and synth-derived effects inherent in the composition are rendered with excellent fidelity, providing an immersive and room-enveloping experience. Dialogue remains consistently crisp, although the occasional extended panning across the front soundstage might surprise some viewers—it lends an authentically spatial dimension but can also seem somewhat detached from the on-screen action.

Despite the many highlights, some elements of the audio track exhibit inconsistencies. For instance, certain effects, such as the exuberant crowd applause during the Carrousel sequence, suffer from a lack of clarity—coming across as muffled and overly loud at reference volume. Similarly, the track’s tendency to push some sound effects to exaggerated levels can be distracting, detracting from the overall coherence. Nevertheless, the surround channels are utilized effectively during key moments, such as the overhead model shots of the dome, contributing depth and dimension to the auditory experience.

In conclusion, while the Dolby TrueHD mix for "Logan's Run" isn't free from flaws—namely occasional shrill crowd noises and some unnatural spread of sound effects—it remains a solid effort. This track does justice to Goldsmith's score and maintains much of its original impact despite the passage of time. While it may fall short of contemporary lossless surround sound standards, it succeeds admirably in bringing a rich and reverberant experience that fans of the film will surely appreciate.

The Blu-ray release of "Logan’s Run" offers a succinct yet informative selection of extras that will delight longtime fans of the film. While it lacks new features, it retains valuable content from prior releases. The highlight is an engaging audio commentary from director Michael Anderson, actor Michael York, and costume designer Bill Thomas, each recorded separately. Their discussions cover various aspects of the production, such as the film's design, visual effects, and Anderson's directorial choices. The trio shares memorable anecdotes, providing a rich historical context for the film. Despite its brevity, the vintage featurette "A Look Into the 23rd Century" offers a nostalgic glimpse into the film's vision of the future. The collection rounds out with the original theatrical trailer. While lacking substantial new content, these extras provide meaningful insights into the making of this cult classic.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director Michael Anderson, actor Michael York, and costume designer Bill Thomas separately recorded, discussing production insights.
• A Look Into the 23rd Century: A vintage promotional feature highlighting the film’s futuristic vision.
• Trailer: The original theatrical trailer in standard definition.

"Logan's Run," directed by Michael Anderson, stands as a significant marker in the realm of science fiction cinema, despite its dated visual effects and simplistic storytelling. Premiering just a year before the game-changing "Star Wars," this 1976 film won a Special Achievement Oscar for its visual effects, which were considered groundbreaking at the time. The film is set in a futuristic, post-apocalyptic 23rd century where humanity resides in a hedonistic domed city. Here, society maintains balance by terminating citizens on their 30th birthday through the ritualistic event known as Carrousel. This concept, alongside an underground movement symbolized by the Ankh, forms the crux of the narrative as Logan 5 (Michael York) becomes disillusioned with the system he once served.

In terms of aesthetics, "Logan's Run" is a blend of opulent, retro-futuristic set pieces and costumes that evoke both admiration and nostalgia. The sterile interiors of the domed city, combined with the miniature model work, underscore the film's thematic juxtaposition of societal order versus individual freedom. While Jerry Goldsmith's score adds a layer of grandiosity and menace to the film, the special effects—though award-winning—struggle under high-definition scrutiny, rendering some scenes visibly dated.

The film's philosophical underpinning revolves around themes of hedonism, conformity, and societal control versus personal liberty. Despite its occasional sluggish pacing and occasionally simplistic dramatics, "Logan's Run" remains a thought-provoking piece that continues to resonate with science fiction aficionados. Its exploration of utopian versus dystopian ideals, portrayed through the journey of Logan and Jessica outside the dome, presents a timeless commentary on human desires and social constructs. The Blu-ray release does justice to this classic, preserving its original audio elements and delivering a vibrant TrueHD track that elevates both the score and the narrative tension.

Warner Brothers' Blu-ray release of "Logan’s Run" serves as a fitting rebirth of the classic science fiction film, preserving the unique charm of its original 1976 release. Although it may not match the visual and auditory prowess of modern blockbusters, this edition successfully retains the film's nostalgic essence. In terms of picture quality, this Blu-ray transfer stays true to the source material, avoiding excessive digital enhancements. However, viewers should be aware of minor inconsistencies and occasional flaws in the visual presentation.

The audio elements present a mixed bag; while the soundtrack is generally well-balanced and clear, certain moments suffer from slight unevenness. This discrepancy is notable but doesn't detract significantly from the overall experience. A more extensive suite of special features could have enhanced this release, as the current offerings are somewhat limited and only moderately engaging.

Despite these minor technical imperfections, "Logan’s Run" on Blu-ray stands as a solid recommendation for fans of vintage science fiction. The film provides an intriguing snapshot of the genre before the seismic shift brought by "Star Wars," and its campy allure still holds entertainment value today. This release won't necessarily satisfy those seeking pristine modern visuals and soundscapes, but it offers a faithful and enjoyable homage to a beloved sci-fi classic.

In conclusion, Warner Brothers' Blu-ray release of "Logan's Run" is a commendable effort that balances nostalgic fidelity with faithful reproduction. While not without its flaws, it remains an essential addition to the collection of any science fiction aficionado or fan of classic cinema. This version ensures that "Logan's Run" continues to captivate new audiences, making it a recommended purchase despite its few shortcomings.