Top Squad Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Inspector Wears Skirts" features a commendable AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, stemming from a new 2K restoration of the original negatives. The video quality excels with a consistent grain structure that enhances the sharpness and clarity, revealing fine textures and abundant details, particularly noticeable in outdoor scenes. The palette is vibrant, with blues and reds exhibiting strong vibrancy while maintaining overall realism. Despite the occasional inconsistency, including some fuzzy spots and curious color timing variations, the transfer remains visually appealing without major damage. The grain resolves naturally, contributing to an overall engaging and high-quality image.

Contrast is well maintained throughout the film, with solid and stable black levels achieving a satisfying depth, though they occasionally fall short of absolute precision. Brightness levels are pleasingly vivid, infusing the film with life and energy. A standout sequence takes place in a roller rink, where overhead lights display in vivid, rich colors that add to the visual experience. Additionally, flesh tones demonstrate exceptional accuracy, which contributes to the film's appealing and realistic look. Overall, while some technical issues are present, the video presentation offers a robust cinematic experience that enhances the film's lively and energetic character.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Top Squad" is characterized by its use of LPCM 2.0 Mono tracks available in both Cantonese and English options, reflecting a common approach for Hong Kong action films from that era. The Cantonese track offers a marginally broader high-end presence, although this comes with some background hiss, possibly making it sound slightly more vibrant compared to the English option. Both versions deliver dialogue, effects, and the film's score consistently without evident disruptions, though the inherent limitations of mono tracks are notable.

However, deficiencies typical of period-specific Hong Kong cinema are present, with the original Cantonese track exhibiting puffy and occasionally noisy dialogue that detracts from the overall clarity. The score tends to be thin and struggles to establish a significant audio footprint, emphasizing the limited dynamic range found in such mono setups. Despite these constraints, the inclusion of optional English subtitles ensures accessibility for diverse audiences and maintains engagement with the film's unique cultural and stylistic nuances.

In summary, while retaining the anticipated auditory constraints of its time, the "Top Squad" audio presentation effectively delivers a clear rendition of its cinematic elements within the constraints of its LPCM 2.0 Mono format. Both linguistic tracks uphold the film’s dialogue and score competently, albeit with room for improvement in dynamic range and clarity that could potentially enhance the viewing experience.

The Blu Ray release of "Top Squad" offers an impressive array of supplemental materials that provide an in-depth exploration of the film. The standout feature is the audio commentary by Frank Djeng, which offers insightful observations. The interviews are particularly compelling, with Cynthia Rothrock candidly reflecting on her role in "Shooting Her Shot", and Director Wellson Chin sharing his creative process in "The Director Wears Pants". Additionally, viewers can appreciate the nostalgic charm of the English opening and closing titles, as well as trailers for both Hong Kong and English audiences. A stills gallery further enriches the visual experience, while thoughtful packaging elements such as a detailed insert booklet and a fold-out double-sided poster add to the collector's appeal.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Frank Djeng: Insightful observations.
• Shooting Her Shot: Interview with Cynthia Rothrock.
• The Director Wears Pants: Interview with director Wellson Chin.
• Top Squad English Opening and Closing Titles: Nostalgic charm.
• Hong Kong Trailer: Original promotional glimpse.
• English Trailer: Promotional glimpse for English audiences.
• Stills Gallery: Visual highlights.

"The Inspector Wears Skirts," known in some regions as "Top Squad," tackles the enduring popularity of Hong Kong action cinema while infusing elements of comedy and romance. Despite its initial resemblance to franchises like "Charlie's Angels," it draws more directly from "Police Academy," aiming for humor interspersed with thrilling action sequences. The film enlists the star power of Jackie Chan and Raymond Chow behind the scenes, though its on-screen dynamics rely heavily on Sibelle Hu and Cynthia Rothrock. Rothrock, despite limited screen time largely restricted to pivotal bookended scenes, manages to leave an impression with her tactical prowess and martial arts choreography, albeit her involvement seems somewhat retrofitted into the production.

The film ambitiously attempts to critique both action and romantic comedy genres from a feminist lens. However, not all comedic elements effectively translate across cultural boundaries or time periods, with some humor skirting dangerously close to dated sexism. Despite this, the film succeeds in delivering two major action sequences featuring impressive stunt work and choreography that frames Rothrock and Hu at their physical best. The narrative focuses on the personal development and training of an all-female police squad, dubbed SKIRTS, seen through their bonding experiences and occasional corny, if amusing, scenes such as a roller skating musical number.

The middle chapters of the film suffer from a diluted focus among a sprawling cast where individual characteristics often blend into a homogenous portrayal of gender stereotypes. The film attempts to subvert genre conventions but frequently falls back on them, evidenced by the inclusion of contrived romantic escapades and a disjointed plot structure lacking clear direction. The climactic action necessitates the team defending a jewelry heist during a fashion show—a move that reads more as pandering than feminist embracement—leaving an underlying tension between the film's progressive intentions and its reliance on gender clichés as storytelling crutches.

"Top Squad", also known as "The Inspector Wears Skirts", is a vibrant blend of action and light-hearted comedy, although it occasionally falls short in balancing both elements consistently. The film features several compelling fight scenes that demonstrate excellent choreography and dynamic execution, ensuring these sequences stand out as highlights. While the humor may not universally resonate, particularly outside of its Hong Kong origin, it still manages to land a few genuinely amusing moments.

The Blu-ray release of "Top Squad" offers solid technical merits, boasting clear audio and crisp video quality that enhances the viewing experience. Although the humor sometimes misses the mark due to cultural nuances, the narrative spins an engaging feminist tale that remains entertaining throughout. The technical presentation is commendable, capturing the film's vibrant visuals and dynamic soundscapes adeptly, which can significantly enrich one's immersion in the movie world.

Supplementary materials accompanying the Blu-ray are noteworthy. They present an intriguing glimpse into the film's production and contextual background, adding value to the package for collectors and cinephiles alike. Collectible non-disc items enhance the overall offering, providing enticing incentives for purchase alongside the movie itself.

In conclusion, while "The Inspector Wears Skirts" may have benefited from more consistent action and humor, it compensates with stellar fight scenes and enjoyable comedic moments. This Blu-ray release delivers robust technical attributes complemented by engaging extras. It appeals to those interested in martial arts cinema with a comedic twist, making it a solid addition to any film collection.