Blades Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Blades" delivers a commendable visual experience, encapsulating the charm of its unique setting with an AVC encoded image in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Sourced from a new 2K scan of the original camera negative, the film presents an array of vibrant colors, notably on the golf course where lush greens are striking against the subtle autumnal backdrops. The costuming choices favor bright primaries, with skintones appearing predominantly natural, though slight reddish hues are noticeable in brighter outdoor scenes. The fine, film-like grain enhances the atmosphere without detracting from crisp details such as facial textures and fibrous clothing materials. The source material is in generally good condition, though occasional light scratches and specks are evident.

Interior and exterior shots both exhibit strong detail delineation, from the nuanced dimensions of the golf course to the meticulously rendered clothing textures. The country club interiors are invitingly depicted with acute attention to detail in elements like bar labels and decor. Black levels maintain depth, preserving inky shadows during suspenseful nighttime sequences, which are particularly effective in accentuating the film’s thematic tones. Notably, detail retention during darker scenes remains impressive, achieving clarity even during climactic moments involving the ominous lawn mower.

Overall, this release provides a robust high-definition upgrade from previous DVD versions, making it a worthy addition to home video collections. The care taken in presenting the visual elements ensures that both new audiences and long-time fans can fully appreciate the film's atmospheric quirks and comedic horror nuances.

The "Blades" 2.0 DTS-HD MA audio presentation delivers a solid performance with some notable characteristics that enhance the viewing experience. The sound mix maintains clear and clean dialogue, avoiding issues of hiss or pop, which supports an accessible audio narrative. Group activities such as tournament events and hunting parties are rendered with clarity, allowing for a dynamic experience even if some volume fluctuations occur. Synth scoring cues, while retaining a cheezy touch, provide a heavier low-end presence that successfully deepens suspense sequences, presenting an appreciable audio depth.

Despite the overall balance that allows dialogue, effects, and music to coalesce effectively, certain scenes, especially Deke’s interrogation sequence, exhibit a tendency to run hot. This results in quality loss due to levels topping out, indicating a specific area where the mix could benefit from further refinement. The sound effects are directed with precision, integrating horror elements alongside the thematic golf swings seamlessly. Although the production does not always utilize state-of-the-art equipment, the results are still par for what one can expect; it remains competent in delivering a coherent auditory experience.

In summary, "Blades" provides an engaging 2.0 DTS-HD MA audio track that, while not without its inconsistencies, presents a respectable balance suited for the film's thematic elements. The sound design captures the essence of both horror and the golf course context effectively, ensuring that each component is distinct yet harmonized within the overall sonic landscape.

The Blu-ray release of "Blades" offers a concise selection of extras that provide in-depth insights into the film's production. The audio commentary by director Thomas R. Rondinella and writer William R. Pace is informative, revealing creative decisions and challenges faced during filming, such as the imaginative workaround for the malfunctioning killer lawnmower. The featurette, "Fore! Warning: The Making of Blades," chronicles the development from screenplay to release, with engaging anecdotes from key players about filming at Beerworld and the influence of "Jaws" on the script, culminating in an amusing discussion on potential sequels. Although the disc lacks extensive extra features, the included content sufficiently enriches the main viewing experience for both casual viewers and dedicated fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insightful discussion featuring director Thomas R. Rondinella and writer William R. Pace.
• Fore! Warning: The Making of 'Blades': Interviews detailing writing, production struggles, and release.
• Still Gallery: Behind-the-scenes photos and premiere images.

"Blades" ambitiously transforms the fearsome premise of an unstoppable killing machine from the ocean to the unlikely setting of a golf course, where a murderous lawnmower wreaks havoc. Directors Thomas R. Rondinella and co-writer William R. Pace reimagine the iconic "Jaws" formula, infusing it with a peculiar blend of horror and comedic elements akin to a National Lampoon production. The film cleverly utilizes the open environment and daylight of a golf course to craft a distinctive genre energy, mixing gruesome murders with lighthearted golf tournament antics. While Rondinella's intention to parody "Jaws" is clear, the narrative often teeters awkwardly between satire and sincerity, hampering its comedic potential.

Set at the Tall Grass Country Club, the story revolves around Roy (Robert North), a once-promising pro golfer turned club pro, and Kelly (Victoria Scott), an ambitious employee overlooked for the same position. Their dynamic is strained further complicating efforts to halt the chaotic events triggered by the lawnmower menace. As bodies begin to pile up, including the film's opening scene victims whose severed arms serve as a satire signal, the trio—reminiscent of "Jaws" characters—come together with Deke (Jeremy Whelan), a determined ex-greenskeeper. The film methodically introduces these elements with moments of humor, juxtaposed against violent scenes that offer more gore than typically expected in a spoof.

However, "Blades" struggles with tonal consistency. Initial acts present an amusing "Caddyshack"-esque atmosphere, punctuated by golf jokes and character tension, while the third act shifts dramatically into a more serious pursuit of the malevolent lawnmower. This tonal dissonance creates an unbalanced viewing experience, though it may still entertain with its unexpected gore and effective practical effects. Despite its flaws, "Blades" charms with its campiness and remains an intriguing homage to its aquatic predecessor, making it a curiously engaging watch for fans of horror-comedy hybrids.

"Blades" delivers a spirited yet uneven homage to "Jaws," setting the stage for carnage on an unlikely golf course backdrop. The film's strength lies in its commitment to the absurd premise—transforming a serene country club into a hunting ground for a rogue lawnmower. The narrative channels the energy of Spielberg's classic while infusing its own brand of humor akin to a "Caddyshack" sequel. However, the film occasionally struggles to maintain its momentum, particularly when transitioning to the climactic pursuit, leaving some of its comedic insanity underutilized. Despite these hiccups, the film is supported by lively camerawork and performances that successfully embrace its campy roots.

The Blu-Ray release by Vinegar Syndrome adds value with a robust audio/visual presentation that captures the film's quirky essence. The disc's special features delve into the making of this cult comedy, providing fans with insights into its low-budget charm and creative process. These additions enrich the viewing experience, making it more appealing for both genre enthusiasts and newcomers curious about this offbeat narrative.

In conclusion, "Blades" shines with its unique blend of humor and horror, though it occasionally falters in pacing. This Blu-Ray edition enhances the film's accessibility and appeal with a solid A/V package and supplementary content. It's a recommendable choice for those who appreciate quirky B-movies and wish to see "Jaws" reimagined in the most unexpected of settings: a golf course.