Reform School Girls Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Reform School Girls" on Blu-ray, utilizing an AVC encoded image and a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, exemplifies a commendable step forward in home media quality. Sourced from a 2K scan of the original 35mm interpositive, the visual detail, while occasionally soft, presents defined textures, notably in the character's skin details. The film retains a genuine cinematic feel with a significant yet consistent grain structure. Although there is occasional speckling and minor scratches, these imperfections are negligible during full-motion playback, enhancing the clean overall appearance.

Cinematographer Howard Wexler’s work provides dimensionality to both school interiors and exteriors, with the aesthetic being honored in this Blu-ray release. The costuming and school decor leverage distinct color primaries which are well-preserved in the transfer. The distinction in color handling is notable, yielding vibrant visuals with accurate skintones. Additionally, the delineation throughout varied scenes remains satisfactory without compression artifacts due to the high bit rate used.

The condition of the source material is notably good, although there is an acknowledged dropped frame during the sequence with Williams driving a bus at 1:27:30. Despite this minor issue, the inclusion of numerous extras on the Blu-ray does not compromise the primary video presentation. Overall, black levels, contrast, and color fidelity are finely calibrated, establishing this release as superior to previous home video formats.

The audio presentation of the "Reform School Girls" Blu-ray is delivered via a 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio mix. Despite being marketed as a stereo soundtrack, it essentially functions as a mono experience, with music and effects predominantly concentrated in the center channel. However, listeners may notice slight audio bleed into the left, right, and surround channels, suggesting a processed mimicry of a surround sound environment rather than a true two-channel mono or stereo configuration. This unique auditory presentation maintains the film's vivid rock mood by offering louder sound presence and precise instrumental delineation for its soundtrack selections, effectively preserving the intended atmosphere.

Dialogue clarity is achieved to a reasonable degree, accommodating the film's dynamic performances and bustling school setting without noticeable distortion. However, some viewers might find the dialogue a touch hollow, accompanied by excessive sibilance that might detract for those with discerning ears. Additionally, the score by Dan Siegel benefits from decent low-end extension, enhancing both the background music and various interspersed songs throughout the movie.

Ultimately, this mix endeavors to balance between clarity and atmospheric richness. While it occasionally falls short of delivering true fidelity in channel separation expected from distinct stereo tracks, it competently aligns dialogue and music to support the soundtrack's thematic elements. Optional English subtitles are available, aiding in comprehension where slight audio imperfections might arise. Such technical quirks aside, the presentation successfully maintains the energy and tone that define the audio backdrop of "Reform School Girls."

The extras on the "Reform School Girls" Blu-ray offer an engaging exploration into both the filmmaking process and cultural significance of this 1986 cult classic. The two commentaries are notably insightful, with one featuring writer/director Tom DeSimone, moderated by humorist Martin Lewis, offering a jovial dive into the production nuances and creative decisions. The second commentary, presented by film historian Elizabeth Purchell, delivers a thorough contextual analysis of the film's impact. The making-of segments are richly detailed, covering aspects from casting anecdotes to cinematography choices, and analyzing the film’s appeal across audiences. Noteworthy are interviews with film superfans and behind-the-scenes players, adding layers to the movie's legacy. The discussions also examine Wendy O. Williams' unique contributions and Pat Ast's legacy, enhancing the viewer's appreciation of the talent involved.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Tom DeSimone: Features Martin Lewis as moderator, offering behind-the-scenes insights.

• Commentary by Elizabeth Purchell: Provides a contextual analysis of the film.

• So Young, So Bad, So What: A detailed making-of featurette in multiple parts.

• Namby Pamby: Part 2 of making-of, focusing on casting stories.

• Blue Moonlight: Part 3 of making-of, discussing cinematography.

• Break the Establishment: Part 4 of making-of, exploring production challenges.

• Pat Ast: Superstar: An interview detailing Pat Ast’s career and contributions.

• Ode to Wendy: A piece appreciating Wendy O. Williams.

• Women Behind Bars: Video footage from the related theatrical play.

• Theatrical Trailers: Two trailers for promotional context.

Tom DeSimone's "Reform School Girls" merges elements of satire and camp within the women-in-prison genre, delivering a vivid exploration of institutional chaos and juvenile delinquency. As a comedic take on the grim backdrop typically associated with such films, the movie emphasizes over-the-top performances and theatrical homage. It strategically balances exploitation and comedy, creating a unique cinematographic experience that caters to cult film enthusiasts. Characters like Jenny, played by Linda Carol, embody the archetypal newcomer navigating through the brutality and corruption of Pridemore Juvenile Facility. Her struggle is intensified by powerful antagonistic forces such as Edna (Pat Ast) and Charlie (Wendy O. Williams), who contribute persuasive, albeit exaggerated, performances that define the film's appeal.

The narrative centers on Jenny's attempts to escape Pridemore, encountering resistance from inmates and authority figures who thrive on power dynamics. The inclusion of more sensitive storylines, such as Lisa’s background of abuse, offers depth amidst the otherwise theatrical chaos. Layered within its comedic and parodic tone is a whisper of genuine emotion, which ultimately is overshadowed by the film’s commitment to an R-rated spectacle filled with provocative sequences typical of its genre origins.

Although conceived as a potential cult classic by DeSimone and brought to fruition under New World Pictures, some original ambitions—like filming in black-and-white—were tempered during production. This resulted in a final product that embraces humorous excess without fully abandoning dramatic tension. DeSimone acknowledges the intricacies of genre conventions while crafting a fantasy space with aged actors in teen roles, ensuring that "Reform School Girls" has all the makings of an intended cult phenomenon, albeit one that falls short of its full subversive potential.

The Blu-ray release of "Reform School Girls" from Vinegar Syndrome presents a vibrant restoration that elevates the film's visual appeal. Though the movie's ambitious camp narrative struggles with consistent delivery, it does contain robust performances, particularly from Sybil Danning as Warden Sutter and Wendy O. Williams. Unfortunately, Danning is underutilized, leaving much of the scene-stealing to Williams. Despite periodic lapses where the screenplay loses its momentum, the film remains engaging through its audacious set pieces and chaotic energy, drawing viewers into the unconventional narrative of women in prison.

The disc itself is a commendable offering, bustling with a slew of intriguing extras that enrich the viewing experience. Vinegar Syndrome's commitment to quality shines through, as audio-visual enhancements showcase the film’s aesthetics like never before. Even for those not enamored with the film, the supplementary content offers valuable context and behind-the-scenes insights, allowing for a deeper understanding of this cult classic. The extras serve as an educational complement, revealing the creative processes and challenges faced by the filmmakers.

In conclusion, while "Reform School Girls" might not fully achieve its camp classic ambitions, its moments of intensity and madness ensure it remains a point of interest for genre enthusiasts. This Blu-ray edition is a worthwhile acquisition for fans and cinephiles alike, with supplemental materials offering a comprehensive look at an iconic piece of exploitation cinema. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to this peculiar narrative world, the release offers enough merit to warrant attention, despite its narrative shortcomings.