WarGames Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "WarGames" showcases the work of the late cinematographer William A. Fraker (known for "Bullitt" and "Rosemary's Baby") in a meticulous 1080p, AVC-encoded presentation. Maintaining the style Fraker was renowned for, the transfer exhibits delicate detail, textured imagery, and low-contrast hues that authentically reflect the original 1983 theatrical presentation. This approach ensures that scenes such as the wide shots of the Crystal Palace command center benefit from deep, intricate details, allowing individual elements like people at desks and maps on monitors to stand out clearly. Another noteworthy moment is the scene where Professor Falken lands in a helicopter, where even the pilot's figure is distinctly discernible—an enhancement over previous home video versions.

The 1.85:1 aspect ratio and MPEG-4 AVC encoding faithfully reproduce the original film’s aesthetics. The image is sharp yet avoids excessive digital noise reduction (DNR), preserving the natural grain that contributes to an authentic viewing experience without being obtrusive. Notably, there is no evidence of high frequency filtering, artificial sharpening, or compression errors, underscoring the high quality of the transfer. Overall, this Blu-ray release retains the original cinematic experience while offering clarity and definition that likely surpass what audiences witnessed in theaters during its initial release. This faithful rendering simultaneously respects the film's vintage look while updating it for modern high-definition screens.

The audio presentation of the "WarGames" Blu-ray, rendered in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, maintains the integrity and finesse of the original 70mm six-track sound mix. The film's audio engineering, previously nominated for an Oscar, stands out with its robust bass extension, evident in the prologue’s missile pre-launch sequence. The climax at Crystal Palace reveals deep, resonant tones during computer-simulated missile strikes, showcasing the high-quality soundscaping. Notably, Arthur B. Rubinstein's electronically playful score benefits from exceptional stereo separation, vividly bouncing between left and right channels while ensuring dialogue clarity throughout.

The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track conveys immersive, detailed audio that significantly enhances the viewing experience, particularly during pivotal scenes at NORAD and parts of the musical soundtrack, such as the opening Video Fever sequence where David Lightman is introduced. Additionally, the Blu-ray offers audio options in DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 for French, Italian, Dutch, and Spanish, with a broad range of subtitle options including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, German, Italian, Dutch, and Polish for the hearing impaired. This comprehensive package ensures both the fidelity of the original mix and an inclusive viewing experience for diverse audiences.

The Blu-ray of WarGames features an array of engaging extras, almost entirely ported from the 25th Anniversary Edition DVD, yet offering no new additions. Fans will appreciate the comprehensive and informative audio commentary by director John Badham and writers Lawrence Lasker and Walter Parkes, initially recorded in 1998. Highlighting the intricate production history, the "Loading WarGames" documentary delivers a detailed retrospective including contributions from Martin Brest, Matthew Broderick, and other key figures. The "Attack of the Hackers" segment explores the 1980s hacker culture, featuring insights from experts like Richard A. Clarke. Additionally, "Inside NORAD: Cold War Fortress" provides a fascinating look at the real-life military installation that inspired the film’s iconic Crystal Palace. While the short "Tic Tac Toe: A True Story" offers a humorous sketch on the game, some might find it less engaging. The original theatrical trailer appears in HD albeit without any restoration.

Extras included in this disc:

Commentary by Director John Badham and Writers Walter Parkes and Lawrence Lasker: Insightful commentary with vivid production recollections.

Loading WarGames: Retrospective documentary on the film’s troubled production history.

Attack of the Hackers: Overview of 1980s hacker culture with expert insights.

Inside NORAD: Cold War Fortress: Tour and history of the Cheyenne Mountain facility.

Tic Tac Toe: A True Story: Mock history of the game featuring film nods.

Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer in HD, with visible dirt and defects.

WarGames remains a fascinating and entertaining reflection of Cold War-era anxieties and the evolving relationship between humans and technology. The film captures the pervasive nuclear paranoia of the '50s and '60s, transitioning into the more muted but persistent concerns of the '80s. Opening with a compelling prologue featuring John Spencer and Michael Madsen as military officers unable to launch a simulated missile strike, WarGames sets the stage for a narrative driven by the tension between human reluctance and technological determinism. Matthew Broderick shines as David Lightman, a technologically adept yet academically underachieving teenager who inadvertently hacks into a top-secret government computer, setting off a chain of events that threatens global annihilation.

David's interaction with the War Operation Plan Response (WOPR) computer, programmed for continuous war games to determine optimal nuclear strategies, introduces both the central conflict of the film and its ironic heart. Despite its reliance on an artificial intelligence system sophisticated enough to blur the lines between game and reality, the movie never loses its sense of humor or its human touch. The inclusion of characters like Dabney Coleman's government computer expert, Barry Corbin's exasperated General Behringer, and Ally Sheedy's Jennifer adds layers of both tension and comic relief, ensuring that the film maintains its engaging tone throughout.

Directed by John Badham and written by Lawrence Lasker and Walter Parkes, WarGames masterfully balances its portrayal of technological marvels with moments of genuine emotional resonance. The film's accuracy may falter for modern viewers familiar with contemporary computing capabilities, but its core message about the futility of nuclear war remains powerfully relevant. The nuanced performances, particularly from Broderick and Sheedy, combined with the astute blend of suspense and humor, ensure WarGames' status as a timeless classic. The Blu-ray presentation solidifies its place in cinematic history, offering a period piece that underscores humanity’s enduring struggle with technology and war.

Review of WarGames Blu-Ray Release:

The "WarGames" Blu-Ray release delivers an engaging and nostalgic trip back to the early 80s with its intelligent techno-thriller narrative. The restoration and transfer are commendable, providing a sharp and vibrant visual experience that breathes new life into this classic film. The high-definition video quality is impressive, showcasing meticulous attention to detail in the transfer process, resulting in crystal clear images and well-balanced colors. Furthermore, the DTS-HD Master Audio track ensures an immersive audio experience, enhancing both dialogue clarity and the impact of sound effects.

This release is complemented by a series of worthwhile extras, including an insightful commentary track, retrospective featurettes, and engaging interviews that provide historical context and behind-the-scenes perspectives. The packaging is also notable for its care, presenting the film in a collector’s worthy casing that will appeal to long-time fans as well as new viewers. Additionally, the Blu-Ray set provides excellent value for money given its affordable price point, making it an appealing option for both enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with the film.

WarGames is a superior entertainment, and it has remained so even as both the underlying technology and geopolitics have been completely transformed. As with many pop movies, the real attraction is wish fulfillment. One can only dream that a couple of plucky teenagers and a really smart computer are all it would take to show the world's leaders the error of their ways. Highly recommended.