Stunt Rock Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Stunt Rock," presented by Kino Lorber, offers a significant visual upgrade through a 4K restoration, originally conducted by Umbrella Entertainment. The disc is encoded in MPEG-4 AVC and presented in a 1080p transfer framed at an aspect ratio of 2.39:1. This meticulous restoration leverages a 4K scan of the film’s interpositive, captured on 35 mm film using Todd-AO 35 cameras with anamorphic lenses by Robert Primes. While some minor blemishes like white specs and density fluctuations during archival footage are present, they are minor distractions from an otherwise compelling visual experience.

The restoration enhances Stunt Rock's visual elements to a level that surpasses that of any prior releases. The color palette is notably rich, with a wide array of hues that hold particular prominence in concert scenes. The vividness of greens, reds, and blues within cityscapes bolster the film's aesthetic appeal. Moreover, black levels are robust, delivering convincing shadow details that complement the film’s depth. Some areas have minor softness due to original optical effects or grain, but these elements appear organic, maintaining the film's authenticity.

Overall, "Stunt Rock" demonstrates marked improvements in image stability and detail, compared to previous DVD versions. While isolated imperfections remain, such as occasional scratches and speckling, they do not significantly detract from the viewing experience. This Blu-ray release offers a visually enriched presentation that delivers the film’s dynamic stunt sequences and vibrant scenes with impressive clarity and color fidelity, reinstating its classic charm for modern audiences. Be aware this is a Region-A locked release requiring compatible playback equipment.

The "Stunt Rock" Blu-ray features a single audio track, delivered in English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, with the inclusion of optional English SDH subtitles that appear within the image frame. The soundtrack is largely faithful to the film's original 4-track stereo release, but it now presents as a track that borders more closely on mono. The stereo effect is subtle and requires attentive listening to detect, which may not satisfy purists expecting a richer stereo fidelity.

Dialogue remains mostly intelligible throughout despite the inherent inconsistencies introduced by archival and raw footage, with occasional sibilance adding minimal disruption. These fluctuations do not result in severe spikes or drops in dynamic range, which helps maintain clarity. However, due to the chaotic production nature, dialogue does not consistently take precedence, impacting the seamless experience for the audience.

The audio quality of sound effects and the accompanying score does periodically venture into distortion, especially during vigorous scenes, nudging the needles into the red. Despite this, the audio presentation achieves an overall respectable level of fidelity given its source materials. The track lacks consistency, often reflecting the vintage nature of its components but remains technically competent within its limitations.

The extras on the "Stunt Rock" Blu-ray offer an in-depth exploration of the film's creation and legacy, guided by passionate insights from key contributors. The audio commentary, featuring director Brian Trenchard-Smith, Grant Page, and Margaret Trenchard-Smith, elevates appreciation for the film by sharing intimate details and context of its filming and reception. "The Ultimate Rush" interviews, conducted via Skype/Zoom, capture heartfelt recollections and highlight the thrill of stunts and the band Sorcery's influence. Archival interviews with Brian Trenchard-Smith delve into his collaboration with Grant Page, celebrating Page's extraordinary stunt prowess. The inclusion of Sorcery's audio tracks enriches the soundtrack experience, while the digitally recreated HD trailer revives the film’s promotional aesthetics. Collectively, these extras provide a comprehensive and engaging bonus content package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Insightful commentary from Brian and Margaret Trenchard-Smith, and Grant Page.
• The Ultimate Rush: Interview with Brian and Margaret Trenchard-Smith discussing the film's making.
• Not Quite Hollywood: Interviews: Separate archival interviews with Brian Trenchard-Smith and Grant Page.
• Interview: Collaborative insights from Brian Trenchard-Smith, Smokey Huff, Marky Fink, and Richard Blackburn.
• Audio Tracks: Four audio-only tracks by Sorcery.
• Trailer: Remastered original trailer in HD.

Brian Trenchard-Smith's 1978 film Stunt Rock is a compelling amalgam of rock music and high-octane, death-defying stunts, captured with an audacity that only Australian stuntman Grant Page could embody. Released by Kino Lorber on Blu-ray, this edition includes a plethora of supplemental materials: director’s commentary, interviews with cast and crew, and tracks from the original soundtrack. The narrative is region A-locked and can be enjoyed in English with optional SDH subtitles.

Grant Page's jaw-dropping escapades are the film's centerpiece. Among these is a scene originally filmed for Mad Dog Morgan (1976) where Page sets himself ablaze and leaps off a jagged rock, illustrating the raw danger paralleling the narrative's chaotic energy. Another memorable act includes a high-speed car crash, exacerbated by flames engulfing Page, which unfolds in slow motion—allowing viewers to witness the significant but real injuries sustained. The authenticity added by these stunts brings a surreal edge to the viewer’s experience. The daring sequence where Page slides across a rope between skyscrapers, pausing to converse with a love interest ten stories up, intensifies the audience's visceral response, graphically underscoring the fragility of life teetering on the brink.

Modelled subtly after Lasse Hallstrom's ABBA: The Movie, this film integrates Page’s impressive stunt work around the fantasy-themed rock band Sorcery. The film’s charm lies as much in its chaotic concert energy as in its exploration of fear and courage, deftly narrated by Page. Through his philosophical insights into overcoming fear—a protective mechanism of the mind—Page reveals an intelligence and composure counterbalancing his seemingly reckless physical feats. Stunt Rock holds a unique place in cinematic history as an adrenalized "rockumentary," standing apart thanks to its explosive blend of live music and breathtaking stunts. The film's provocatively candid opening cautionary note warns viewers against imitating its dangerous stunts—undoubtedly wise counsel given the feats on display.

"Stunt Rock" on Blu-Ray delivers an exhilarating cinematic experience that straddles the line between pulse-pounding action and audacious spectacle. The film, centered around stuntman Grant Page, showcases thrilling stunts that defy modern safety standards, highlighting Page's mastery in fear management and offering insights into the professional discipline behind his daring feats. The restoration by Umbrella Entertainment, presented by Kino Lorber, elevates the visual quality to a stunning 4K resolution, enhancing the vibrant action sequences that define the film. Although the bonus features in Kino's release lag slightly behind its Umbrella counterpart, having this remarkable film accessible in HD for stateside audiences is a welcome addition.

From its gripping trailer alone, "Stunt Rock" promises—and delivers—a non-stop ride of adrenalized entertainment. The allure lies not just in its stunts but in its seamless blend of rock music and cinematic bravado, which artfully constructs an experience rather than just a narrative film. Each scene is meticulously crafted to capture the viewer’s attention, making it difficult to divert one's eyes, even during the film’s most intense moments.

In conclusion, "Stunt Rock" offers an intense yet enjoyable viewing journey that defies conventional cinematic boundaries, thanks mainly to Grant Page's fearless stunts. Kino Lorber’s Blu-Ray release, with its high-definition restoration and assortment of bonus features, is a highly recommended acquisition for fans of thrilling cinema. Despite minor shortcomings regarding extra content, this release stands out as an essential addition to any film enthusiast's collection, celebrating the daring feats that have become legendary in the annals of stunt performance.