Missing in Action Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Missing in Action" boasts a commendable 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer, showcasing the film in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The transfer reveals a significant improvement over previous formats, bringing out details that would have otherwise remained unnoticed. The remastering process has been executed with an eye toward authenticity, avoiding any heavy-handed de-noising or artificial edge enhancements that doomed many earlier transfers. The natural grain structure is preserved, evident yet not overpowering, contributing to an authentic vintage feel without sacrificing clarity. Facial textures and the jungle's dense foliage are reproduced with strong definition, reinforcing the film's gritty essence.

Color reproduction is another strong point in this transfer. Bold greens and reds dominate the visual palette, perfectly capturing the lush jungle settings and explosive action sequences. The consistency of these colors remains high, offering vibrant yet natural hues throughout. The contrast is generally well-managed, though there are slight instances of brightness flickering that are noticeable but not disruptive. Blacks are deep enough to add a layer of realism to the nighttime scenes, with shadow details being clearly discernible. The print itself is in remarkably good condition, free from scratches, stains, and any significant white specks.

In summary, this Blu-ray release effectively breathes new life into the mid-1980s B-movie action classic "Missing in Action." While certain limitations inherent to the original film stock and equipment remain, the upgrade to high-definition reveals a level of detail and color fidelity that is likely to please both die-hard Chuck Norris fans and casual viewers alike.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Missing in Action" stays true to its original design with a DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 soundtrack, delivering a solid if unspectacular audio experience. Dialogue remains crisp and high in the mix, ensuring the clarity of Chuck Norris's lines, although some voices can occasionally sound rounded and heavy in the mid-range. The soundtrack does a commendable job preserving the essence of the original mono mix, retaining both warmth and presence which is crucial for the film's atmospheric 1980s setting. Noteworthy are the Bangkok street scenes where an engaging synth-meets-orchestral score shines, adding a nostalgic and energetic layer to the audio experience.

However, the explosions and action sequences reveal some limitations of the mono track. While gunshots have a satisfying pop, other effects, particularly explosions, can feel thin and lack the deeper bass one might expect from a war movie. Sound effects are adequate but largely unremarkable, though they manage to fill and move across the screen effectively. Despite occasional imperfections, such as indistinct mumbled words during dialogue-heavy scenes or wimpy bass responses amidst heavy action, the overall audio quality doesn’t detract significantly from the film's enjoyment. The Blu-ray disc also offers a range of dubs in DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0, including French, Italian, German, and Catalan, further broadening its accessibility and appeal.

The extras section of the "Missing in Action" Blu-ray is notably sparse, featuring only a singular supplement. This extra, the film's original theatrical trailer, is presented in high definition, allowing for a high-quality nostalgia trip to the era of its release. While the inclusion of the trailer is a standard addition for many Blu-ray releases, the lack of additional behind-the-scenes content or interviews may disappoint fans seeking a deeper dive into the film’s production and legacy. Nevertheless, the high-definition presentation of the trailer offers a crisp and clear viewing experience for enthusiasts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: High-definition presentation of the original movie trailer.

"Missing in Action," produced by B-movie masters Cannon Films, is a quintessential '80s action film that mirrors the era's proclivity for hyper-masculine, patriotic narratives. Directed by Joseph Zito, the movie stars Chuck Norris as Colonel James Braddock, an archetypal lone warrior who ventures back to Vietnam to rescue POWs. While it's a thrilling concept, the execution veers into unintentional comedy—one might compare it to watching "Tropic Thunder" stripped of humor. The outlandish plot and Norris's indomitable hero archetype, complete with his signature chest hair and unyielding stoicism, render the film a cult classic of so-bad-it's-good cinema.

A notable aspect of "Missing in Action" is its peculiar production history. It was filmed simultaneously with its prequel, yet released out of chronological order due to producers' belief in its superior market appeal. The film's structure suffers from this decision, with excessive time spent on setup before delivering the promised action. The narrative meanders through diplomatic subplots and painfully slow development, culminating in a predictably bombastic but hollow climax. The action scenes, laden with slow-motion gunfights and grandiose explosions, lack originality and fail to rise above cliché.

Despite its myriad flaws, "Missing in Action" encapsulates an era where exaggerated patriotism and revenge fantasies captivated audiences disillusioned by Vietnam War failings. The film holds a certain nostalgic charm, albeit for its campiness rather than craftsmanship. The portrayal of the Vietnamese as one-dimensional villains and the ludicrous invincibility of Braddock underscores the film's dated and often problematic nature. Nevertheless, for fans of Norris and '80s B-action flicks, it delivers sporadic entertainment bolstered by its sheer audacity and cultural context—though it's more likely to incite laughter than awe in contemporary viewers.

Missing in Action is an exceptionally dumb movie—a B-level Rambo ripoff at best—but there's no doubt that it has its cult fans. Whether they love it genuinely, ironically, or with a guilty pleasure glee is another matter entirely, but regardless, Chuck Norris apologists of all stripes should be happy with this Blu-ray upgrade, which more than adequately updates the film's home video presentation for the high definition era. There are no special features on the disc beyond a theatrical trailer, but it's not like this is a high-priced title. Do note that the release is currently a Walmart exclusive, but it should arrive at other retailers later this year.

Starring Chuck Norris as the indelible Col. James Braddock, 'Missing in Action' comes with several flaws, most notably its negative portrayal of Asian people and feeling very much like a cheap imitation of 'Rambo.' But if we can overlook those things, we find an amusing, cliché-ridden B-movie actioner that delivers just as many laughs as its serious overtones of machismo. The Blu-ray arrives with great-looking video and good audio, but the special features are sadly missing in action (pun dumbly intended). Fans will be happy with the purchase nonetheless and others will want to give it a rent first.

Review:

"Missing in Action," starring Chuck Norris as Col. James Braddock, stands out as a B-level action flick reminiscent of Rambo but carries its own unique cult following. Whether appreciated earnestly or ironically, this Blu-ray edition will undoubtedly satisfy Chuck Norris fans. The video and audio quality have been satisfactorily upgraded for high-definition standards, providing a much-needed facelift from previous home video releases.

However, it's important to highlight the film's several notable flaws. Its portrayal of Asian people is unquestionably problematic, and certain elements come off as cheap imitations of better-known action movies. Nevertheless, the film offers a blend of amusement and cliché-ridden machismo that can entertain and generate laughs as much as induce eye rolls.

Despite the lack of special features beyond a theatrical trailer, this Blu-ray release remains appealing. As a Walmart exclusive initially, it promises broader availability later. Fans will likely appreciate this upgrade, while newcomers might consider renting before committing to a purchase."

Conclusion:

"While "Missing in Action" may not be an artistic triumph and certainly contains elements worth critiquing, this Blu-ray release offers a definitive experience for enthusiasts of over-the-top 80s action fare. It solidifies itself within the library of Chuck Norris appreciators and curious viewers alike."