Society Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of Brian Yuzna's "Society," encoded via MPEG-4 AVC and boasting a 2K restoration, delivers a commendable visual experience despite the inherent limitations of the original source material. The 1.78:1 image retains a film-like texture with consistent and evenly distributed grain, free from unnecessary digital interference or unsightly sharpening corrections. Colors, while reflective of the late 80s penchant for bright, over-saturated visuals, are well-saturated and stable. Specific scenes, such as the infamous final “shunting” sequence, leverage this garish color palette to highlight details and textures effectively. However, the film's inherently gaudy aesthetic can present a somewhat dated and flat appearance, characteristic of its low-budget production and quick-shoot style.

Contrast levels and black levels are generally solid, contributing to good depth in layered scenes. Close-up shots notably excel in clarity, rendering facial features with impressive detail. Panoramic shots maintain fluidity and smooth edges without any overt digital scrubbing. However, viewers might notice some imperfections such as diagonal banding during outdoor sequences and occasional wave-like effects or stripes that trace back to the original cinematography, not digital mishaps. Minimal dirt and debris remain visible, preserving an organic and pleasingly authentic cinematic look overall.

In summary, while the Blu-ray transfer for "Society" may not dramatically redefine its visual appeal, it does offer a welcome and respectable improvement over previous editions. Enthusiasts of this quirky cult classic will appreciate the balanced grain and color fidelity, while new viewers should understand the aesthetic constraints tied to Yuzna's specific visual style from the neon-splashed late 80s.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release for "Society" on LPCM 2.0 is decidedly mixed in quality. The infamous “shunt” sequence stands out, exhibiting a high level of auditory detail that captures every gruesome sinew-pop, ligament stretch, and flesh-shred with ghastly clarity. This scene delivers an immersive and uncomfortably vivid experience. However, beyond this notorious segment, the soundtrack lacks dynamics and depth. Everyday dialogue is strained and flattened, the whimsical classical compositions in the score feel muted and uninspiring, and ambient sounds are subdued. Essentially, outside of its most grotesque moments, the film’s audio design does little to impress.

Phil Davies and Mark Ryder's soundtrack, while benefiting from the improved fidelity of the lossless track, still has noticeable shortcomings. There is good overall depth in select parts, but significant improvement is needed for scenes such as Bill's speech and the climactic orgy sequence. The dialog, although stable and clean without any artifacts like pops or cracks, generally requires a substantial volume boost to achieve an enjoyably clear listening level. Ultimately, while the LPCM 2.0 track handles individual sound effects capably and avoids any digital distortions, it does lack the dynamic range and clarity expected in a high-quality Blu-ray release.

Arrow’s Blu-Ray release of "Society" boasts an impressive array of extras that dive deep into the film's production, special effects, and cultural impact. Highlights include a brand new audio commentary by director Brian Yuzna, who intricately discusses various filmmaking techniques and the movie's unique stylistic elements. The disc also offers several featurettes, including interviews with stars Billy Warlock and Devin DeVasquez, and special effects artists like Screaming Mad George. Additionally, the inclusion of a 2014 Q&A session with Yuzna and an archival interview from the Society premiere add invaluable historical context. The limited edition packaging is meticulously designed, featuring artwork by Nick Percival and a collector’s booklet with insights from critic Alan Jones.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: In-depth discussion by director Brian Yuzna.
• Governor of Society: Brian Yuzna on his career and the making of Society.
• Masters of the Hunt: Interviews with principal cast members.
• Champion of the Shunt: Special effects team discussing their work.
• 2014 Q&A with Yuzna: Insights from the Celluloid Screams Festival.
• Brian Yuzna in Conversation: Archival interview from the world premiere.
• 'Persecution Mania' Music Video: By Screaming Mad George.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer.
• Collector's Booklet: Featuring new writing by Alan Jones, with archive visuals.
• Society: Party Animal (Limited Edition Exclusive): The official comic sequel.

Brian Yuzna’s "Society" (1989) is a deliciously subversive horror satire that skillfully blends black comedy and social commentary within the framework of excessive body-horror. At its core, the narrative follows young Bill Whitney (Billy Warlock), an affluent Beverly Hills resident increasingly paranoid about his family's sinister activities. His suspicions are piqued by bizarre recordings from his sister's “coming out” party and unnerving incidents around him. As his mistrust solidifies, he discovers the horrifying truth behind the glamorous facade of his neighborhood. The film’s culmination is a visceral and surreal climax showcasing the exceptional special effects work of artists like Screaming Mad George and Nick Benson.

The film’s execution, however, is somewhat uneven. Initially, “Society” mimics a conventional thriller as Bill navigates through a seemingly normal yet discomfiting high-society life. It is in this part where Warlock’s portrayal, while charming, lacks depth. The supporting cast, including Devin DeVasquez and Patrice Jennings, contributes with varied success — their performances often overshadowed by their physical appeal rather than acting prowess. Yet, it is in the latter half that the film shifts gears dramatically. The surreal horror, opulent special effects, and grotesque imagery—a true hallmark of Yuzna's work—elevate the narrative to a nightmarish crescendo.

“Society” is ultimately an ambitious critique on class disparities wrapped in an icky, thrilling package. The societal criticism, though occasionally leaning into clichés about affluent disconnect, provides a backdrop for Yuzna's real star: the audacious practical effects. The practical effects team, including names like Guy Himber and Christopher Bergschneider, ensures that the climactic scenes are both revolting and mesmerizing in equal measure. While the film may falter in pacing and narrative balance, its unique premise and extraordinary visual spectacle offer a compelling, if unsettling, viewing experience.

Brian Yuzna's "Society" is a notorious piece of 80s body horror that showcases his extravagant style and proclivity for grotesque special effects. Drawing from his experience working with gory maestro Stuart Gordon, Yuzna's directorial debut stands as a quintessential example of latex and gross-out horror that define the era. Although the film, with its audacious themes of suburban conformity and class disparity, employs a muffled Cronenbergian approach to flesh warping, it retains a surreal charm. The performances may be subpar, typifying 80s popcorn horror's crassness and comedic touches, but for those who relish inventive prosthetics and animatronics, "Society" remains a joy.

Arrow Video's 2K restoration of "Society" on Blu-ray represents the film in its optimal form. Though it doesn’t reach the pristine heights of some of Arrow’s other vintage restorations and reveals its production era’s technological limitations, the transfer is significantly better than previous home video releases. The extras are abundant and exceptional, including the comic sequel "Society: Party Animal", reproduced in full. This package solidifies Arrow's Blu-ray edition as an essential acquisition for body-horror aficionados.

In conclusion, "Society", while not universally palatable due to its grotesque nature and overtly cheesy execution, delivers a unique blend of gross-out horror with underlying socio-political commentary. Arrow Video’s comprehensive Blu-ray release, enriched with high-definition restoration and copious bonus material, makes it an indispensable collection for genre fans. The film’s practical effects, though dated, still impress and invoke that distinct, squirm-inducing unease intrinsic to classic transformations—a fitting tribute to Yuzna’s boundary-pushing vision.