DeepStar Six Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "DeepStar Six" is sourced from an older master, reflecting both its strengths and limitations. Featuring a 1080p resolution, the transfer presents mostly pleasing close-ups and darker, panoramic shots with satisfactory density levels. However, the limitations of an older master become evident through the less impressive delineation and depth in well-lit scenes, occasionally resulting in blown-out highlights. The grain, while not digitally manipulated, does not match the stability of newer 2K/4K masters. Primaries and supporting nuances sometimes appear anemic, affecting the overall visual vibrancy. Image stability is commendable with negligible large debris or frame damage.

Despite some gritty elements suggesting the possible use of a slight sharpening filter, the transfer maintains image consistency and avoids halo artifacts. The grain replication is managed well, ensuring a consistent portrayal of the film's source material. The color palette predominantly features steel and rust tones, enhancing the intended gray overcast aesthetic of "DeepStar Six." Multi-colored buttons within the set design receive adequate saturation, although flesh tones appear appropriately dry due to the environmental context.

Detail retention is impressive, particularly in facial features, costuming, makeup, and production design, highlighting the contrasting budget allocations within various sets. Colors perform admirably with notable primary pop, especially blues, reds, and yellows reflecting the aquatic setting and practical effects. Black levels achieve good depth, though effects shots can occasionally flatten. Despite minor edge enhancement creating a crunchy texture in lines at times, the overall integrity of elements remains intact without significant wear and tear. This Kino Lorber release boasts a decent, sometimes good technical presentation that could greatly benefit from a comprehensive 2K/4K remaster for a more organic and visually stunning experience.

The Blu-ray release of "DeepStar Six" features a robust English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, supported by optional English SDH subtitles. The sound design meets expectations with a stable low end and a clear, healthy upper register that preserves the integrity of the dialog. While the stereo track is commendable for its balance and occasional directionality, it would have truly benefited from a 5.1 surround sound upgrade to open up the action sequences more effectively. Nevertheless, the track remains clean, free from damage or noise artifacts, providing a seamless listening experience grounded in clarity and stability.

The soundtrack excels in delivering Henry Manfredini's impressive score, which reaches its full potential in the PCM stereo format. The horns and bass line are crisp and dynamic, reflecting no fidelity loss. The audio landscape is meticulously detailed, with spatial front soundstage effects such as dripping water and electrical sparks enhancing the overall atmosphere. For those with DTS Neural:X functionality on their receivers, the mix showcases an added dimension of punch during action scenes. Dialogue maintains clarity throughout, without becoming lost amid the more intense sequences. The track delivers mood and atmosphere effectively, encapsulating the claustrophobic vibes of the various sets. Manfredini's score skillfully balances moodiness with horror elements, reminiscent yet distinct from his work on the "Friday the 13th" series.

In essence, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track on this Blu-ray release does an admirable job, though a 5.1 mix could introduce even more immersive improvements. The mix provides clear directionality and clean dialogue critical for a satisfying audio experience, complemented by a well-preserved, powerful score that enhances the film’s narrative depth.

The Blu Ray extras for "DeepStar Six" offer a comprehensive blend of archival and newly produced content, catering to both die-hard fans and those newly introduced to this cult classic. The collection is meticulously assembled, featuring two audio commentaries that provide contrasting tones, from the lively reminiscences of director Sean S. Cunningham and visual effects supervisor James Isaac, to the more jovial yet insightful discussion with writers Lewis Abernathy and Geof Miller. The isolated score with composer Harry Manfredini delivers detailed insights into the film’s music, enhanced by interspersed score segments. The new interviews, particularly "From the Deep" and "The Survivors," add depth with personal anecdotes and technical details, while Kane Hodder’s "Water Damage" offers a unique perspective on stunt coordination. Archival content such as the vintage trailers, TV spots, image gallery, and original EPK rounds out this robust and engaging bonus package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Vintage trailer for DeepStar Six.
• TV Spot: Vintage TV spot for DeepStar Six.
• Image Gallery: Production and promotional stills set to music.
• Original EPK: Press kit with cast and crew interview clips.
• Behind the Scenes Featurette: Raw shooting footage.
• Extended Vintage Interview Clips: Additional interviews from the EPK material.
• Water Damage: Interview with stunt coordinator Kane Hodder.
• The Survivors: Interviews with actors Greg Evigan and Nancy Everhard.
• From the Deep: Interviews with special effects/make-up team.
• Isolated Score/Commentary: Audio commentary by composer Harry Manfredini with isolated score.
• Audio Commentary One: Screenwriters Lewis Abernathy and Geoff Miller discuss production history and styling.
• Audio Commentary Two: Director Sean S. Cunningham and visual effects supervisor James Isaac recall filmmaking experiences.
• Cover: Reversible cover with vintage poster art.

Sean S. Cunningham's "DeepStar Six" (1989), released on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber, is an intriguing entry into the underwater monster genre that combines elements from iconic films like "The Abyss" and "Alien." The film centers around a U.S. Navy underwater base tasked with assembling a massive rocket silo on the ocean floor. The narrative takes a thrilling turn when an uncharted cavern is blasted open, unleashing a deadly creature that disrupts the mission and poses a lethal threat to the crew. This sets the stage for a series of technical and emotional challenges that keep the suspense palpable.

The production values of "DeepStar Six" are notably high, with impressive set designs and special effects that, while not groundbreaking, effectively capture the sense of underwater peril. The second half of the film excels in its detailed portrayal of the deteriorating main station, showcasing meticulous emphasis on realism that enhances the viewing experience. Despite being a product of its time, particularly with some dated technical jargon, the film's realistic depiction of underwater mechanics adds a layer of authenticity to the chaos that ensues.

The cast, including Greg Evigan and Nancy Everhard, deliver commendable performances, maintaining strong chemistry that drives the film’s emotional core. Miguel Ferrer's portrayal of Snyder stands out for his intense and memorable performance, adding depth to the ensemble cast. While some characters adhere to typical archetypes, the atmosphere created by constant underwater threats compensates for any narrative thinness.

Despite criticisms about its derivative nature and some less-than-stellar special effects, "DeepStar Six" carves out its niche with solid direction and pacing. The film builds suspense through well-timed reveals of the creature and a series of escalating disasters that culminate in a gripping climax. Although not reaching the iconic status of its inspirations, "DeepStar Six" remains an enjoyable and competent underwater thriller.

"DeepStar Six" emerges as a nostalgic yet engaging underwater creature feature that combines elements of disaster and sci-fi genres. Directed by Sean S. Cunningham, the film boasts a solid cast and promising visuals despite its limited budget and somewhat lacking story depth. The creature effects and action sequences are undeniably ambitious, with gratuitous bloodshed when the monster makes its much-anticipated appearance. The ingenuity and effort put into making the film appear grander than its means are commendable, lending it a charm that keeps genre enthusiasts coming back.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "DeepStar Six" is a treat for collectors and fans alike, finally delivering the extras-laden edition this cult classic deserves. Sourced from an older yet decent master provided by StudioCanal, the A/V presentation holds up well, enhancing the viewing experience with clarity and vibrancy. Moreover, the selection of new and archival bonus features adds significant value, offering insights and deep dives into the making of the film that enrich the overall appreciation of this 1989 gem.

All of the mom-and-pop video stores that I used to visit had big posters of "DeepStar Six." It was one of those genre films the owners simply loved to promote. I have always had a soft spot for it and absolutely cannot even begin to agree that it is the copycat some old reviews have described. I get a "Hardware" vibe from it, but as you know well by now, it fits somewhere between "Leviathan" and "Deep Rising." Kino Lorber’s release is sourced from an old but rather decent master that was supplied by StudioCanal. It also features a big selection of exclusive new and archival bonus features. Highly recommended.