Super Troopers Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Super Troopers" is delivered in the original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, aligning well with the filmmakers' vision and offering a quality high-definition experience. Viewers will find that the transfer shines in close-up shots, revealing a satisfying amount of detail in facial textures, clothing, and background objects. However, consistency varies, with the visual sharpness fluctuating between excellent and merely average across scenes. Notably, the issue of edge enhancement, while reduced compared to the DVD, persists and manifests as minor halos around certain objects. This doesn't markedly degrade the image quality but is a point of note for the discerning viewer. Colors are rendered naturally with a pleasing saturation level that compliments the film's aesthetic, and flesh tones are particularly noteworthy for their realism.

Despite not reaching the pinnacle of what current high-definition offerings can achieve, especially when compared to newer, big-budget films, this 1080p transfer holds its ground well. The Blu-ray disc presents an image mostly free from noise, although some grain is observable in darker scenes, not detracting significantly from the viewing experience. Image softness and a lack of depth are occasional drawbacks, highlighting some limitations in the detail and clarity of certain scenes. Nonetheless, the video quality generally maintains a refined level of detail, evident in various settings from the interior of a car to cluttered diner tables, enhanced by well-represented black levels and flesh tones.

"Super Troopers" benefits from a Blu-ray presentation that meets expectations for fans and newcomers alike. While instances of edge enhancement and a variable sharpness level mark slight imperfections, these do not overly detract from an otherwise commendable visual presentation. The color palette is vibrant and accurately mirrors the intended look of the film, complementing the overall cinematic experience. Although the night scenes and dark sequences miss some opportunities for deeper blacks and more pronounced depth, they are compensated with adequate dynamic range and detail retention, ensuring that the film's visual charm is preserved on this home media release.

The audio presentation of "Super Troopers" on Blu-ray, equipped with Fox's DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix, delivers a solid if not groundbreaking auditory experience. Throughout the film, dialogue emerges strong and clear, standing out against a backdrop of well-executed music and sound effects that possess a satisfying punch without becoming overbearing. The soundstage is effectively utilized, dispersing effects across channels to create a sense of immersion, albeit not to an extent seen in more action-oriented films. Notable moments, such as the distinct rumble of a diesel motor, are crisply reproduced, testifying to the track's ability to handle both the subtle and the robust with equal aptness.

While the mix champions clarity and balance, it notably leans towards the front channels, leaving the surround sound and subwoofer components somewhat underutilized. This orientation doesn't detract from the viewing experience but rather highlights the mix's prioritization of dialogue and direct sound effects over a more enveloping surround strategy. As a result, the audio track is commendable for its clear prioritization and execution of vital audio elements, aligning well with the comedic nature of the film.

In sum, the Blu-ray audio for "Super Troopers" finds its strength in its straightforward, vibrant presentation of dialogue and primary sound elements, achieving a level of quality that, while not exceptional by the standards of more dynamic and action-heavy films, is perfectly suited for the genre it accompanies. The mix may not exploit the full potential of a high-end home theater setup, especially in terms of surround sound and subwoofer engagement, but it nonetheless offers a pleasing and competent audio experience for viewers. The inclusion of subtitles in multiple languages further enhances accessibility, ensuring a broader range of audience can enjoy the film's audiovisual offering.

The Blu-ray edition of "Super Troopers" is equipped with an abundant array of extras that are sure to gratify its fan base. The highlights include three distinctive commentaries, offering insights from the Broken Lizard team both in traditional audio format and an innovative picture-in-picture mode, bringing a unique, interactive viewing experience. Notably engaging is the PiP commentary, where the team members provide humorous and technical insights against a visual backdrop, creating a more direct connection with the audience. Equally captivating is the "Stupor Troopers: The Drinking Game," which promises an interactive engagement by setting trivia challenges and drinking cues, albeit with restricted playback controls. The package is further enriched by an assortment of outtakes and extended scenes, alongside a peculiar featurette styled as a pseudo-documentary, providing a whimsical exploration of the film's characters and their adventures. Additional contents include a concise documentary on the film's promotional road trip and trailers, both for "Super Troopers" itself and a selection of other Fox movies, presented in varying resolutions.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Jay Chandrasekhar & Erik Stolhanske: In-depth discussion from the director and co-star.
• Commentary by Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme & Paul Soter: Another layer of commentary from the remaining Broken Lizard members.
• PiP Commentary: An exclusive Blu-ray feature offering a visual commentary experience.
• Stupor Troopers: The Drinking Game: An interactive game with trivia and drinking prompts.
• Outtake Reel & 12 Extended Scenes + Alternate Ending: Available with optional commentary.
• Featurette: In Character Interviews and Faux Documentary: A mockumentary-style dive into the characters' lives.
• Road Trip News Wrap: A brief documentary on the film's promotional journey.
• Theatrical Trailers – A & B: Promotional trailers for the film.
• Fox on Blu-ray Previews: Previews for other Fox titles in high definition.

"Super Troopers," the inaugural cinematic offering from the comedy troupe Broken Lizard, emerges as a quintessential blend of over-the-top antics and cunning humor, reminiscent of the comedic legacy of Mel Brooks, Bill Murray, and the contemporary edge of Sacha Baron Cohen. Set against the backdrop of Spurbury, Vermont, this film unapologetically navigates through the lives of five Vermont State Troopers, whose mundane existence patrolling a 50-mile stretch of highway is hilariously upended by their own elaborate pranks and the lurking threat of their precinct's shutdown. Their comedic exploits, from maple syrup guzzling contests to bulletproof jockstrap testing, underscore an underlying narrative of territorial rivalry with local police and an unexpected dive into crime-solving that propels the film beyond mere slapstick.

The dynamic within the Broken Lizard team—Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, and Erik Stolhanske—serves as the crux of the film's success, both in front of and behind the camera. Their collaborative effort in scriptwriting and character portrayal, under Chandrasekhar’s direction, balances visual gags with strategic wit, ensuring no comedic avenue is left unexplored. Although criticized for its thin plot at the time of release, "Super Troopers" has since matured into a cult classic within the Comedy genre, a testament to its enduring appeal across generational divides and a showcase of the troupe's potential despite subsequent cinematic endeavors.

The Blu-ray presentation elevates "Super Troopers" from its modest indie roots to a celebrated niche in comedy filmography, offering a polished visual experience that complements its comedic finesse. Behind-the-scenes anecdotes revealed through extras amplify the film’s charm, granting audiences a deeper connection to the offbeat camaraderie and creative ingenuity that powered its journey from a Sundance feature to a beloved emblem of low-brow comedy. Amidst an era where comedic cinema often feels derivative, "Super Troopers" stands out for its originality, replay value, and unyielding commitment to unrefined humor and narrative eccentricity.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Super Troopers" marries technical excellence with unabashed comedic genius, finding its strength in a detailed visual and auditory enhancement that breathes new life into an already beloved comedy. With playback tested across a range of high-end equipment including the JVC DLA-RS1x 1080p High Definition Front Projector, Oppo 970HD, and Panasonic DMP-BD55K, among others, the film's vibrant palette and sharp sound are showcased with remarkable clarity. The roster of devices, from the Sony PlayStation 3 to the Denon AVR 5308CI THX Ultra 2 Preamp/Video Processor, ensures a comprehensive audio-visual experience. Additionally, special features such as the picture-in-picture commentary and the Blu-ray exclusive drinking game not only complement the film's replay value but enhance viewer engagement through innovative interactive elements.

The technical prowess of the presentation is matched by the film's comedic achievements. "Super Troopers" has been celebrated for its eclectic blend of humor and the Broken Lizard team's unique touch in crafting a cohesive and entertaining cinematic experience. This Blu-ray edition brings forth a superior audiovisual quality that surpasses the standard definition DVD version, though it may not reach the reference quality some aficionados seek. Nonetheless, it excels in providing a definitive version of the film, enriched with additional content that appeals to both new audiences and dedicated fans.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray release of "Super Troopers" stands out as a must-have for those who appreciate the finer nuances of comedy paired with high-definition film presentation. Though it may not be classified as a classic in the conventional sense, its moments of comedic brilliance shine brighter with the enhanced video and audio quality offered by this edition. With valuable additions like the Blu-ray exclusive features, it promises an engaging and entertaining viewing experience that warrants its inclusion in any comedy lover's collection.