Drum Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image of "Drum," with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, presents a pleasing visual experience, albeit with some minor blemishes like occasional scratches. Print damage is minimal and doesn't disrupt the viewing. The 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 encoded transfer injects additional detail and depth, enhancing the overall quality. Fine details shine, particularly in close-ups showcasing facial features and clothing textures, although wider shots exhibit softness, causing some loss of detail and texture. Managed grain and decent sharpness reflect a careful balancing act that maintains a natural look for the aged cinematography.

Shadow detail is notably commendable, sustaining clarity during evening sequences. The contrast is predominantly high, delivering pronounced edges and solid shadows without plunging into complete darkness. A few scenes could benefit from inkier black levels, but these are exceptions rather than the rule. White levels remain stable, avoiding an overheated or blown-out appearance. The color palette is refreshed, bringing out vibrant hues such as the lush greenery in daylight scenes and the vivid reds of blood and fire, adding to the visual richness. This Blu-ray transfer, while not exceptional, offers a significant improvement, with an engaging mix of clarity, color vibrancy, and depth that enhances the film’s visual appeal.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Drum" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix that skillfully handles the basics without any distortion, though the sound track noticeably retains its age, lacking modern crispness. Dialogue exchanges are satisfactorily maintained, encapsulating the film's myriad accents and levels of aggression effectively, with no loss of clarity even during heightened violence. Significantly, the musical score is presented prominently, carrying substantial emotional weight and often invigorating the film in surprising ways. The music is clear and distinct with excellent depth and occasional impactful bass.

However, the balance between the score and dialogue isn't consistently managed. The music occasionally overshadows the dialogue, leading to softer voices during action-packed sequences or the climactic battle. This imbalance sometimes results in shrill or tinny vocal presentations, detracting from the overall sound quality. Ambient noises aren't predominant throughout, but specific sequences, particularly party scenes and the climactic conflict, offer greater depth and a touch of atmosphere that revitalizes the auditory experience.

Overall, while the mix doesn't fully immerse the viewer, it adequately protects the group dynamic and atmospheric elements integral to the film's narrative. The audio presentation remains effective with minimal distortion and supportive scoring, though improvements in balancing could enhance the overall impact.

The Blu-ray extras for "Drum" provide a deep and multifaceted look into the production and behind-the-scenes dynamics of the film. Director Steve Carver delivers an insightful audio commentary, rich with anecdotal information, particularly emphasizing Norton's interactions and relationships with his co-stars. Carver also touches on his own experience inheriting the project from Burt Kennedy, adding layers of context to the production history, although he tends to sidestep discussions on the thematic elements. In addition to Carver’s commentary, the disc includes a theatrical trailer that offers a nostalgic glimpse into the film's original presentation.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Steve Carver: Features insightful anecdotes, especially about Norton’s relationship with the cast and production inheritance from Burt Kennedy.
• Original Theatrical Trailer: A brief yet nostalgic look at the film's original marketing.

"Drum" (1976), directed by Steven Carver, is a sequel to the 1975 exploitation hit "Mandingo," and it aims to replicate the provocative elements that characterized its predecessor. From the outset, the film bombards the audience with a rapid recap of previous events, setting an intense tone that persists throughout its duration. It's brimming with raw, intense scenes of sex and violence, alongside a barrage of racial slurs that showcase its shamelessly feral nature. However, the ambition to evoke deeper emotional responses falls flat, leaving behind a melodramatic façade that tends to feel over-the-top and repetitive as the narrative progresses.

The narrative centers on Drum, portrayed by athlete-turned-actor Ken Norton. Unfortunately, Norton’s performance lacks depth, making it hard for audiences to form an emotional connection with his character. The cast indulges in exaggerated portrayals, sharply dividing the vicious slave owners and their victims. Warren Oates and John Colicos bring campy humor to their roles, often chewing up scenery with their over-the-top performances, which delivers much-needed levity to the otherwise heavy subject matter. Meanwhile, Yaphet Kotto steps in as Blaise, instilling some genuine emotional intensity with his heartfelt portrayal, although his character arc, like many others in the film, remains underdeveloped.

Despite its intentions to shock and provoke through relentless exploitation, "Drum" suffers from a distinct lack of compelling narrative arcs. Carver’s focus on Norton as the central figure results in several unresolved plot threads that contribute to a sense of aimlessness. While vivid scenes of sex and violence saturate the run-time of 98 minutes and keep viewer interest for a while, these elements grow stale without a meaningful story. Ultimately, "Drum" fails to rise above being more than a mere successor to "Mandingo," instead presenting itself as a camp-laden pastiche lacking substantial artistic or narrative merit.

"Drum," a film that delves into the barbaric practices of plantation owners and the survival instincts of its protagonist, strikes a chord when it maintains focus on raw human behavior. Warren Oates delivers a compelling performance as Hammond, embodying the brutality of the era. The film attempts to elevate itself to a literary experience filled with character-driven tragedy, yet it falls short and is best categorized as a B-movie. Its influence on Quentin Tarantino's "Django Unchained" is unmistakable, from thematic elements to narrative structure.

Despite fulfilling its exploitation genre expectations, "Drum" lacks narrative depth and artistic finesse that could have elevated it beyond mere B-movie status. The performances, while intriguing, are stifled by a screenplay that offers limited development for its characters, most notably squandering the potential of Pam Grier. For enthusiasts of Tarantino's work or those interested in the evolution of cinematic motifs, "Drum" provides some historical interest. The Blu-ray edition enhances the experience with above-average image and sound quality, as well as insightful director's commentary.

In conclusion, while "Drum" may not reach the heights of critical or artistic acclaim, it serves as a worthwhile examination for fans of exploitation cinema and Tarantino influences. The film's Blu-ray release provides a technically sound viewing experience, making it worthy of consideration for those interested in this niche genre.