Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins" by Kino Lorber presents the film in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and delivered in 1080p. This release is based on an older master provided by MGM, which has previously seen use in editions from Arrow Video and Twilight Time. The positives include an organic visual appearance free from overt digital artifacts, maintaining a certain vintage charm. Despite this, the video presentation exhibits limitations indicative of its age, such as loose grain and a lack of depth, particularly apparent in indoor and nighttime scenes where grain can turn noisy, affecting delineation.

Colors in the transfer offer reasonable fidelity, though the existing master struggles with saturation balance, and blacks in darker scenes sometimes appear overly crushing, impacting shadow detail. Though image stability is generally maintained without egregious physical blemishes or frame damage, the overall softness in wildlands beside modern standards highlights the pressing need for a new scan, ideally from the original camera negative. A notable point is that this release carries a Region-A lock, necessitating compatible hardware for playback.

While the Blu-ray benefits from a higher average bit rate than previous releases, expanding the transfer's dynamic range marginally, core issues persist. It results in restrained detail enhancement and only a modest improvement in color vibrancy and skin tone representation. The presentation quality remains respectable but dated, leaving fans hopeful for a future 4K release or full restoration to revitalize this cult classic's visual integrity. Overall, while functional for current home viewing standards, this release does not fully capitalize on advancements in mastering technology.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins" features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. This lossless track revitalizes the film’s soundscape, leaving it feeling fresh and contemporaneous. The standout attribute is the separation of audio elements, offering clear dialogue alongside a robust support for Craig Safan’s score. Explosions and gunfire resonate with unexpected power, delivering an engaging auditory experience. This attention to detail grants the track a satisfactory dynamic range, although a modernization via a 5.1 remix could provide enhanced spatial dynamics.

Despite some cosmetic opportunities to refine the mid-to-upper registers, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix remains solidly constructed. The track successfully balances audio fidelity and directional sound, leveraging subtle pans and low-end activity to create an immersive auditory environment. This consistency is further highlighted in comparisons with past releases, such as the identical offering from Twilight Time, confirming no significant alterations in quality or composition. For those who value a clear and impactful soundtrack, this release effectively delivers and sustains the adventurous spirit of the film.

The Blu-ray extras for "Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins" offer a comprehensive insight into the film's production and conceptual journey, notably through varied featurettes crafted by Ballyhoo Motion Pictures. The exclusive audio commentary by producers Larry Spiegel and Judy Goldstein delivers an engaging recount of the filming process, delving into its Mexican locales and the creative vision of director Guy Hamilton. The series of archival programs provides an extensive narrative through voices like actor Joel Grey and production designer Jackson De Govia. Notably, these programs meticulously explore facets from writing to production design, showcasing the rich stylistic choices impacting the film’s distinctive appearance. The technical composition of its soundtrack is another highlight, with composer Craig Safan discussing thematic elements. Supplementary materials enhance this package with a theatrical trailer, a radio spot, and a detailed stills gallery offering a visual history enriching the film’s legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: In-depth discussion of the film’s making by Larry Spiegel and Judy Goldstein.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original Orion Pictures trailer.
• Radio Spot: Vintage U.S. broadcast advertisement.
• Stills and Promotional Gallery: Collection of archival production and publicity materials.
• Created, the Destroyer: Writing Remo Williams: Examination of the film’s literary origins.
• Unarmed and Dangerous: Producing Remo Williams: Insights into the production evolution.
• Secrets of Sinanju: Training Remo Williams: Actor Joel Grey on character portrayal.
• Balance of Power: Designing Remo Williams: Production design challenges discussed.
• Assassin's Tune: Composing Remo Williams: Soundtrack development insights.

Guy Hamilton's "Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins" is a 1985 film that attempts to blend action, humor, and espionage into a cohesive narrative but invariably stumbles in its execution. Newly available on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber, the film draws from The Destroyer book series, featuring Fred Ward as the titular character. A New York cop turned secret agent, Remo is trained by the enigmatic and eccentric Korean master, Chiun, played by Joel Grey. While Grey delivers a notable performance despite the problematic makeup choices reflective of the era, Fred Ward's portrayal is charismatic, embodying the blue-collar spy with charisma and humor. However, the film's attempt at melding an origin story with a traditional spy thriller lacks finesse and is arguably a parody of more successful contemporaries like Sydney Pollack’s and Alan J. Pakula’s classics.

Cinematically, the movie diverges from the stylish flair of its director’s previous work on Bond films. Cinematographer Andrew Laszlo provides competent lensing but fails to replicate the aesthetic mastery seen in his work with Walter Hill. The action sequences remain somewhat entertaining for their nostalgic value, embracing the spectacle of 80s action films, albeit hindered by choppy editing and over-the-top choreography. Craig Safan’s soundtrack adds a level of excitement, particularly during key set-piece scenes such as those involving the iconic Statue of Liberty.

Despite its shortcomings, "Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins" retains a degree of cult appeal, thanks to its lead performances and adventurous spirit. The film’s aspirations for franchise potential are evident but unmet due to a clunky plot and cultural missteps. It remains an artifact of its time—appreciated by those with sentimental ties or an interest in 80s cinema curiosities. However, it is also suggestive of what could have been achieved with revised direction and culturally respectful advancements in character development and plot intricacies.

The Blu-ray release of Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins from Kino Lorber presents this 80s action cult classic with a solid package of archival bonus features. However, it is clear that this release is not sourced from a new master, as it maintains the quality of an earlier MGM release. The film aimed to emulate the grandeur of Guy Hamilton’s James Bond films but fell short of this ambition, performing modestly at the box office. Despite these shortcomings, over time it has gained a following as a minor genre classic, appreciated by many for its goofy charm characteristic of the era.

Notable omissions from Kino Lorber's release include several features from previous editions, such as an audio commentary by film historians and various documentaries and featurettes, which might be disappointing for completists. Those familiar with Twilight Time's limited release will find the audiovisual presentation unchanged, with almost identical bonus content. The absence of the isolated score track could be a particular letdown for those seeking a comprehensive collection of the film’s materials.

Ultimately, while Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins did not achieve its intended blockbuster status, it offers entertainment through its charismatic performances by Fred Ward and Joel Grey, and its inventive stunt work executed before the age of CGI. For those with nostalgic affection or appreciation for 80s action films, adding this Blu-ray to your collection is worthwhile. However, if you already own the Twilight Time release, this edition offers minimal incentives for a double dip.