Videodrome Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, David Cronenberg's Videodrome arrives on Blu-ray in a high-definition digital transfer supervised by cinematographer Mark Irwin and approved by Cronenberg himself. This 1080p transfer was created from a 35mm interpositive using a Spirit Datacine and involved extensive manual cleanup to remove thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, and flicker using the MTI's DRS and Pixel Farm's PFClean systems. Some mild digital noise reduction was applied through Digital Vision's DVNR system to preserve grain while enhancing clarity and detail.

The transfer delivers pleasing fine object details with satisfactory clarity. The majority of close-ups exhibit considerable depth and improved detail compared to Criterion’s previous DVD release. Contrast levels are enhanced, revealing intricate details in settings from Max's apartment to The Cathode Ray Mission. While mild edge-enhancement and light halo effects are intermittently noticeable, they do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. The fine grain structure has been preserved, giving the presentation a natural, film-like quality that ensures an organic look.

The color palette, consistent with the film’s tone, is on the grimier side but displays energetic and vibrant primaries. Black levels are largely accurate with only occasional weakness in certain scenes, while shadow delineation in low-lit interiors remains outstanding. With no significant stability issues or large damage marks noted, the superb clarity and resolution of this Blu-ray transfer are remarkable, especially for a nearly 30-year-old film. Overall, Videodrome on Blu-ray offers a first-class visual experience that outpaces previous home video releases and is sure to delight cult fans.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Videodrome" features a solitary English LPCM 1.0 track, meticulously remastered from the original 35mm magnetic tracks. Criterion has ensured that the monaural soundtrack delivers a solid auditory experience, free from audio distortions or dropouts. The dialog is crisp, clean, stable, and exceptionally easy to follow. The mix exhibits a clear and precise balance with Howard Shore's music score, adding depth and fluidity to the overall sound.

Despite the inherent limitations of dynamic amplitude in an LPCM 1.0 track, the audio remains engaging and immersive. The soundtrack's vocalization is distinct, with mild ambient effects that are both clear and precise from start to finish. The track's acoustical presence and fidelity provide a wide and welcoming soundstage, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Although it lacks intense bass moments, the lower frequencies still contribute effectively to certain scenes.

In summary, "Videodrome's" high-resolution LPCM mono track is a well-executed example of effective remastering, preserving the film's original auditory nuances while enhancing clarity and detail. This audio presentation is a remarkably fitting accompaniment to David Cronenberg's iconic body-horror classic, ensuring an engaging and distortion-free experience for both new viewers and long-time fans.

The extras on the Blu-ray release of "Videodrome" provide a comprehensive and engaging look behind the scenes of this iconic David Cronenberg film. The collection includes audio commentaries by key figures such as Cronenberg and cinematographer Mark Irwin, offering an in-depth discussion on production challenges, casting, and story analysis. Additional features like "Forging the New Flesh" delve into the groundbreaking visual effects with insightful interviews from crew members including Rick Baker and James Woods. The diverse set of materials ranging from roundtable discussions to archival footage enriches the viewer's understanding of the creative processes involved. Such a robust compilation not only caters to avid fans but also serves as an informative resource for newcomers exploring Cronenberg’s surreal vision.

Extras included in this disc:

• Camera: A short film by David Cronenberg exploring themes of aging and death.
• Forging the New Flesh: Documentary on the visual effects with crew interviews.
• Effects Men: Audio piece featuring Rick Baker and Michael Lennick discussing their collaboration.
• Bootleg Video: Three short video sequences used in "Videodrome".
• Effects Visual Essay: Stills collection from the film’s production.
• Fear on Film: Roundtable discussion with prominent directors.
• Marketing: Includes various trailers and a vintage EPK segment.
• Gallery: Collection of promo materials and production stills.

David Cronenberg's "Videodrome" is an audacious exploration of the intersection between technology and the human psyche. James Woods delivers a compelling performance as Max Renn, a morally ambiguous TV executive who ventures into dangerous territory by exploring an illicit broadcast known as Videodrome. Incorporating a layered narrative, Cronenberg fuses surrealism with stark realism, creating an unsettling vision of dehumanization and media manipulation. Deborah Harry adds depth as Nicki Brand, whose erotic presence blurs the lines between reality and hallucination. The film is buttressed by Rick Baker's groundbreaking special effects, which are as disturbing as they are intricate, visually articulating Cronenberg’s themes.

A technical marvel, "Videodrome" transforms abstract fears about technology into tangible horror. The narrative navigates through Renn’s descent into madness, questioning the reliability of his perceptions. Cronenberg's clever use of grotesque visual metaphors underscores his philosophical musings on reality and illusion. Bianca O'Blivion, played by Sonja Smits, symbolizes a cryptic salvation from the technological abyss, introducing "The Cathode Ray," a conceptually loaded mission statement. The film also provocatively critiques modernity; its portrayal of parasitic technology was ahead of its time, foreshadowing today's anxieties about media-induced reality distortion.

"Videodrome" is not only a critique but a prophetic vision. The synergy between narrative content and visual execution solidifies its standing in the body-horror genre while providing a deep commentary on the evolving relationship between humanity and technology. The movie is as much about the terror of physical transformation as it is about the ideological warfare conducted through media channels, capturing a future where video screens are extensions of human flesh. Criterion's Blu-ray edition preserves this harrowing vision with pristine clarity, making it an essential piece for both film enthusiasts and scholars interested in the psychological impact of media technologies.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of David Cronenberg's "Videodrome" offers a masterful presentation of this cult classic, renowned for its blend of surrealism and sci-fi horror. The film features stellar performances from James Woods and Deborah Harry, capturing the bizarre and graphic journey of a television producer delving into hallucinatory nightmares. The transfer to Blu-ray boasts excellent picture quality, preserving the film’s unique visual style with sharp clarity and depth, while the audio presentation enhances the unsettling atmosphere with precision.

This Blu-ray edition shines not only in its A/V quality but also through its extensive supplemental features. A highlight is the engaging audio commentary by David Cronenberg and Mark Irwin, which provides profound insights into the film’s production and thematic undertones. In addition to this, the bonus content offers a thorough exploration of the film’s intricate visual effects and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, making it an invaluable resource for both die-hard fans and first-time viewers alike.

In conclusion, Criterion's "Videodrome" Blu-ray is an essential acquisition for any film enthusiast’s collection. Its astounding A/V presentation, combined with a wealth of insightful extras, cements its status as one of the finest Blu-ray releases available. With each viewing, one can uncover new layers to this genre-defying classic. Highly recommended for those seeking a deep dive into Cronenberg’s visionary world.