Hoax Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image (2.38:1 aspect ratio) of "Hoax" expertly captures the expansive outdoor scenes, offering a crisp, clean view that makes nature an integral part of the narrative. Filmed using RED cameras, the 1080P video presentation boasts impressive definition and stark clarity. The cinematography highlights Colorado’s scenic aerial shots, with bright primary colors and deep greenery adding significant visual heft. Textural details are meticulously presented in costume design and facial features, while skintones appear natural. The 2.39:1 presentation exudes depth and dimensionality, ensuring that the exterior scenes possess immense levels of detail and texture.

Despite its low-budget origins, the video quality is almost flawless, reflecting the filmmakers' best intentions. Shadow delineation and black levels in darker scenes are finely rendered, contributing to a superior visual experience. However, one of the few technical drawbacks is the AVC encode, which sometimes leads to banding and posterization during low-lit encounters, thereby introducing some errant noise. Fortunately, these instances are minor and do not significantly detract from the overall viewing experience. In summary, "Hoax" delivers a highly commendable video presentation that stands tall among its peers.

The 5.1 Dolby Digital sound mix of "Hoax" offers a comfortable and engaging listening experience, with a particular focus on clear, crisp dialogue exchanges that effectively capture the film's tension and performance nuances. The soundtrack, composed by genre veteran Alan Howarth, delivers deep and sharp scoring with precise synth elements that heighten the suspense. While the surrounds are generally satisfactory, offering naturalistic atmospherics that stay active throughout, the low-end frequencies are not heavily taxed, though some rumble is present during scenes of violence and transportation.

Epic Pictures, via its Dread label, has opted not to include lossless audio for "Hoax" on Blu-ray, providing only a 5.1 Dolby Digital track for the primary soundtrack and a secondary 2.0 Dolby Digital option. The mix demonstrates adequate channel separation, moderate rear activity, and fine dynamics, resulting in a serviceable audio experience. While the dialogue and sound design are both intelligible and decent, the score remains the standout audio feature. Additionally, the Blu-ray includes optional English SDH and Spanish subtitles in a stark yellow font, consistently placed within the 2.39:1 aspect ratio presentation.

The Blu-ray edition of "Hoax" offers a robust selection of extras, enhancing the viewing experience with insightful content. The disc includes two comprehensive commentaries; one featuring the director of photography Scott Park, production designer Chris Canfield, and co-writers Robert Davis and Matt Allen which is engaging and informative, and another by cast members Ben Browder and Cheryl Texiera providing a different perspective on the film. Additionally, the disc comprises eleven High Definition featurettes that present in-depth interviews with the main cast and crew, offering detailed insights into the movie's production process. The package is rounded off with reversible cover art and two trailers.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary #1: Director of photography Scott Park, production designer Chris Canfield, co-writers Robert Davis and Matt Allen.
• Commentary #2: Cast members Ben Browder and Cheryl Texiera.
• Hoax Overview: Overview of the film.
• Bigfoot: Examination of Bigfoot themes.
• Cheryl Texiera: Interview with Cheryl Texiera.
• Ben Browder: Interview with Ben Browder.
• Brian Thompson: Interview with Brian Thompson.
• Shoshana Bush: Interview with Shoshana Bush.
• Hutch Dano: Interview with Hutch Dano.
• Max Decker: Interview with Max Decker.
• Made in Colorado: Feature on filming in Colorado.
• Adrienne Barbeau: Interview with Adrienne Barbeau.
• Alan Howarth: Interview with composer Alan Howarth.
• Trailer #1
• Trailer #2

In "Hoax," co-writer/director Matt Allen delves into the mystique of Bigfoot, crafting a film that balances adventure and horror with a touch of satirical humor. Invoking the spirit of John Carpenter, Allen orchestrates a team of experts venturing into the Colorado wilderness in search of the elusive creature, only to uncover more peril than they anticipated. While the pacing might be slow for some, the film’s conversational approach allows character development amidst the tension. Performances from genre stalwarts like Brian Thompson, Ben Browder, and Adrienne Barbeau are competent and contribute significantly to the engaging ensemble dynamic.

The film's uneven tone, oscillating between humor and horror, adds a unique charm. From a grisly opening sequence featuring hapless college students to the reality show parody elements, "Hoax" combines familiar horror conventions with inventive storytelling. Composer Alan Howarth’s sinister synth score enhances the eerie atmosphere, paying homage to classic Carpenter soundscapes. Despite its modest budget, Allen’s effective use of Colorado’s hauntingly beautiful landscapes and practical effects maintains an immersive atmosphere that supports the movie’s suspenseful narrative.

"Hoax" is both a tribute to and a playful critique of genre clichés and reality television, capitalizing on its veteran cast to navigate its b-movie roots with flair. While the film could benefit from more consistent action sequences, its strength lies in character interactions and a building sense of dread that culminates in a satisfying climax. For fans of low-budget horror thrillers, "Hoax" delivers an intriguing mix of thrills, humor, and nostalgia-driven chills.

"Hoax" delivers an ambitious blend of horror genres centered around the ever-elusive Bigfoot myth. Allen and co-writer Scott Park make concerted efforts to subvert audience expectations by frequently shifting subgenres, thus keeping viewers on their toes. This technique helps maintain a semblance of freshness, although the pacing occasionally falters, reminding audiences of the film's limitations in sustaining suspense.

The film benefits from a proficient cast that skillfully navigates the narrative, providing consistent engagement even when the script wavers. Familiar horror elements are woven seamlessly into the storytelling, creating a pastiche that feels both recognizable and entertaining for genre enthusiasts. The craftsmanship behind "Hoax" exhibits an understanding of detective work staples critical to Bigfoot folklore enthusiasts, potentially heightening enjoyment for fans of cryptid-themed stories.

In conclusion, "Hoax" may not achieve an explosive impact but compensates with its thoughtful subgenre transitions and engaging performances. While it sometimes drags, it ultimately offers a worthwhile experience for those intrigued by Bigfoot legend and horror familiarity.