Strange Behavior Blu-ray Review

Severin Films' Blu-ray of "Strange Behavior" presents the film with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Sourced from the original camera negative, the transfer exhibits a notable yellowish tint affecting the overall presentation. This tint results in a somewhat dull and aged appearance, impacting the contrast levels and making much of the film seem lackluster. While colors are generally rendered nicely, the viewing experience is occasionally marred by minimal damage and inconsistency in sharpness and clarity. Some scenes offer excellent detail and definition, while others appear softer, almost out of focus. These inconsistencies point to the film's low-budget origins but still detract from an otherwise solid transfer.

In terms of detail retention, fine lines, facial features, clothing, and building exteriors are well-defined and showcase good HD detailing. The color accuracy and saturation are generally well-maintained, with blacks appearing accurate except for occasional resolution drops leading to mild crush in darker scenes. Despite the noted issues, including some old and faded elements, the overall video quality remains consistent from start to finish. This results in a transfer that remains watchable and clear enough to offer a somewhat pleasing high-definition viewing experience—albeit one that could have benefited from more meticulous restoration efforts.

Overall, while the Blu-ray release of "Strange Behavior" shows the film's age and budgetary constraints, it still offers a decent visual presentation for those looking to revisit this indie horror film in HD.

The audio presentation of "Strange Behavior" on Blu-ray largely adheres to faithful reproduction via its DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track, though it presents several noticeable quirks. The dialogue, prioritized centrally, is typically clear and maintains appreciable fidelity. However, multiple instances of awkward sound and music edits disrupt the overall experience. Additionally, there are noticeable ambient variations that seem attributable to ADR processes. These issues could potentially be inherent to the original source material, as suggested by the reviewer's hunch.

Despite the clean and distortion-free nature of the soundtrack, it falls somewhat flat in scope and dynamic range. Background elements are clear but lack notable depth or bass presence, and the eerie electro-synth score by Tangerine Dream comes off as subdued and listless. The overall soundfield lacks presence, rendering the mix fairly uniform and even in mid-range without any significant low-end impact. While audiophiles might find the track a tad underwhelming, it maintains a passable quality for an average high-resolution audio experience.

The Blu Ray release of "Strange Behavior" comes packed with a commendable array of extras, providing a rich retrospective look at the film’s production and music. Highlighting this collection are two audio commentaries. The first, with director Michael Laughlin, conducted via Skype, offers sporadic insights and can meander at times. Conversely, the second commentary is more engaging, featuring co-writer Bill Condon and actors Dan Shor and Dey Young, who share entertaining anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. Fans will particularly enjoy the interview with special makeup effects artist Craig Reardon, who humorously discusses his lo-fi effects work on the film. An isolated music track showcasing Tangerine Dream's score is also included, along with U.S. and International trailers.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Michael Laughlin: Varying insights recorded via Skype.
• Audio Commentary with Co-Writer Bill Condon and Actors Dan Shor and Dey Young: Engaging chat with personal anecdotes.
• Isolated Music Track: Tangerine Dream’s score in Dolby Digital Mono.
• The Effects of Strange Behavior: Entertaining interview with Craig Reardon.
• U.S. Trailer
• International Trailer

"Strange Behavior," known internationally as "Dead Kids," invites viewers into its peculiar blend of 80s slasher tropes and B-movie sci-fi sensibilities. The film opens with a somewhat awkward sequence involving a silhouetted knife-wielding teenager. The segment, critiqued even by writer Bill Condon himself, signals a blend of horror and mystery that sets the tone for this enigmatic storyline. Acclaimed actors Louise Fletcher and Bill Condon lend their prestige to this odd narrative, while the film’s distinctly New Zealand landscapes purport to represent a Chicago suburb. Tangerine Dream's eerie score adds a unique, if slightly out of place, flavor to the proceedings.

As the plot unfolds, we follow local sheriff John Brady (Michael Murphy) as he investigates a string of odd murders, which he believes are related to the mysterious experiments of Dr. Le Sange. Brady's quest intertwines with that of his son, Pete (Dan Shor), who unwittingly participates in these sinister scientific tests. Amidst scant murders and bizarre occurrences—such as a killer donning a Tor Johnson mask—the film meanders without delivering substantial tension or horror.

The concept undoubtedly had potential; however, "Dead Kids" often fails to live up to it. The direction by Michael Laughlin lacks the verve or irony that might have energized this throwback to 1950s horror. This lack of self-awareness results in a sluggish narrative despite moments intended to shock or thrill—most notably a chilling yet ineffective brainwashing scene. The movie picks up isolated creepy moments, yet they are too fleeting and unexplored, leaving the audience more perplexed than frightened.

Evidently designed as part of a trilogy, "Strange Behavior" delivers an uneven experience that hints at a richer subtext but ultimately remains listless and underwhelming. Contrast this with its sequel "Strange Invaders," which embraces its campiness more fully—and you'll find "Strange Behavior" reflects untapped potential rather than realized suspense.

"Strange Behavior," also known as "Dead Kids," attempts to blend the slasher genre with elements of 1950s sci-fi B-movies. Directed by Michael Laughlin and featuring contributions from talents such as Bill Condon and Oscar-winner Louise Fletcher, the film unfortunately falls short of its potential. Despite its intriguing premise, the execution is often lackluster, failing to deliver genuine scares or humor. The low budget is evident in the special effects, with wizard Craig Reardon unable to adequately conceal plot twists that aim for surprise but are instead palpably obvious from early on.

The Blu-ray release of "Strange Behavior" showcases a presentation that could be described as serviceable yet far from pristine. While the picture quality remains relatively strong, it bears the marks of its age, and the audio presentation does not meet contemporary standards, often lacking the depth and clarity expected. However, the inclusion of new supplemental features adds value to this edition, making it an intriguing option for collectors and enthusiasts of cult horror cinema despite its other deficiencies.

In conclusion, "Strange Behavior" contains interesting elements both in front of and behind the camera, but does not manage to harness them into a compelling experience. The Blu-ray offers enough to merit consideration for dedicated fans of obscure cult films, but casual viewers may find it largely disappointing and unremarkable.