Missing in Action Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Missing in Action" presents a marked improvement over previous editions, leveraging a new 4K master derived from the original camera negative. This 1080p, MPEG-4 AVC encoded transfer retains the original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, ensuring an authentic visual experience. The release excels in delineation, clarity, and depth, making use of the 4K master to provide stunning results, particularly when upscaled on larger screens. The improvements are most noticeable in color saturation, where lush jungle greens and vivid skin tones emerge brightly, devoid of ashy characters seen in previous releases. This enhancement extends to primaries, offering rich reds, yellows, and blues that rejuvenate the film's aesthetic.

While overwhelmingly positive, the transfer isn't without minor issues. The presentation occasionally suffers from black crush in darker scenes and native density fluctuations. These issues, recurring in recent Kino Lorber releases, could benefit from encoding optimizations to further enhance grain visibility and stabilize color consistency. Notwithstanding these slight imperfections, image stability remains superb, with considerable reductions in film speckling and damage clearly evident. Consequently, despite some residual blemishes, the visuals feel robustly organic and true to the film's intended look.

This edition positions itself as a definitive representation of "Missing in Action" for home viewing. Although it requires a Region-A or Region-Free player due to being a Region-A locked Blu-ray, those who access it will find the reinvigorated videography a welcome update over its predecessors. The outcome ensures the film's visuals now possess an engaging vibrancy and clarity, enhancing the viewer's immersion into this action classic.

The audio presentation of "Missing in Action" on Blu-ray features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, which serves as a testament to the film's 1980s origins. This soundtrack is characteristically frontloaded and delivers an aggressive sound profile, packed with plenty of explosions, gunfire, and loud effects that contribute to an energetic auditory experience. The quality of dialogue is commendable; it is consistently clear and sharp, making it easy for viewers to follow the action. While the soundtrack packs a punch during high-action moments, it also succeeds in maintaining a palpable atmosphere during quieter interludes, such as the press conference sequence.

Despite its strengths, there are areas where the audio mix might underwhelm certain expectations. The dynamic contrasts of the soundtrack can appear somewhat uneven at times, potentially affecting the consistency of the audio experience. Although the mix is effective overall, some elements like explosions and gunfire occasionally possess an overpowered and canned quality. This suggests that while the soundtrack is adequate, it lacks the robust and polished finish often associated with productions from more renowned Hollywood studios.

Overall, "Missing in Action" provides a solid audio experience in line with its genre and era. With its healthy upper range and engaging mix, the Blu-ray's DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track offers an authentic representation of 1980s action cinema audio—delivering clear dialogue alongside energetic scenes without disregarding atmospheric elements during less intense moments.

The Blu-ray edition of "Missing in Action" offers a concise set of extras that provide deep insights into the film's production and historical context. This collection primarily re-utilizes content from Shout Factory's 2017 Collector's Edition, yet remains valuable for fans and film historians alike. The audio commentary by director Joseph Zito, moderated by Michael Felsher, is particularly engaging, detailing the film's production challenges in the Philippines and anecdotes involving Chuck Norris and Cannon Films. The interview with screenwriter James Bruner is equally informative, delving into his transition to screenwriting, collaboration with Norris, and background on the Vietnam-centric narrative. Although light, the extras successfully enhance the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director Joseph Zito shares production insights.
• Interview with Screenwriter James Bruner: Discusses screenwriting journey and film conception.
• Trailer: Remastered original trailer for "Missing in Action".
• KLSC Trailer Gallery: Collection of related trailers.

"Missing in Action," directed by Joseph Zito, has been revisited with a Blu-ray release from Kino Lorber, which spotlights the film’s quintessential 1980s action style fueled by Chuck Norris' portrayal of Colonel James Braddock. Set against the backdrop of post-Vietnam war politics, the narrative follows Braddock's rogue mission to verify the existence of American POWs in Vietnam. Although faced with criticism for its fantastical elements and lack of realism, the film embodies the archetypal Cannon Films ethos—prioritizing gripping action sequences over story plausibility.

The charismatic yet divisive presence of Chuck Norris drives the film with unwavering zeal, typifying the outraged patriot archetype. Critics have raised concerns over Norris being the sole major onscreen presence, yet his dedicated performance renders the improbable storyline engaging. Particularly telling is the film's ability to convincingly frame Norris' emotive struggle as a former POW, effectively reflecting genuine themes of personal fury and unresolved warfare grievances. The action varies from meticulously orchestrated to erratic, yet captures the required adrenaline to sell its rescue narrative.

Produced amidst heated debates over missing American soldiers, "Missing in Action" also mirrors political sensitivities through its overt display of militarized prowess synonymous with Reagan-era cinema. The film’s brazen and unsophisticated depiction of Vietnamese characters aligns with Cannon’s notorious style but may be perceived differently by modern audiences. Additionally, viewers might draw comparisons to "Rambo: First Blood Part II," given both projects originated from similar concept pitches aimed at predominating the action genre at the time. As a standalone piece, the film encapsulates the quintessential essence of 1980s action thrillers, making it a nostalgic draw for fans who relish over-the-top heroics and feverish sequences typical of its era.

The Blu-ray release of "Missing in Action" from Kino Lorber stands out as an appealing addition for any classic action film enthusiast, particularly those with an affinity for Chuck Norris's work. Derived from a pristine 4K master, the visual quality boasts exceptional clarity that enhances the viewing experience. The film maintains its explosive, chaotic combat sequences, which are quintessential of the era's action cinema, characterized by vigorous jingoism and a flavor of wild, unapologetically rugged rescues reflective of untamed military missions. The inclusion of insightful programs featuring director Joseph Zito and screenwriter James Bruner adds significant value, offering perspectives on the film’s creation that can intrigue both casual viewers and dedicated cinephiles.

Plotwise, "Missing in Action" successfully captures the commercial zeitgeist of the 80s, despite being hurriedly produced to compete with other similar films. Chuck Norris delivers a staunch portrayal of Colonel James Braddock, grounding the admittedly exaggerated narrative with a performance that turns implausible scenes into captivating pseudo-realism. The film’s underlying outlandishness is mitigated by its thematic nod to unassertive U.S. government actions, allowing viewers to ponder the bounds of plausibility while being thoroughly entertained. It simultaneously mirrors and caricatures the real-life echoing stories from veterans, instilling a unique blend of comedic kitsch and genuine suspense.

Isn't it ironic how some of the true stories about outraged war vets that went back to Afghanistan to save Americans and allies left behind turned out to be much wilder than the one told in "Missing in Action"? Contrary to prior critiques, the film gets numerous aspects right, with Norris convincingly portraying Braddock. The tangled, sometimes ridiculous action sequences are perfectly in line with the rogue mission narrative. This Blu-ray release proves indispensable for enthusiasts of explosive 80s cinema. Highly recommended.