Blast Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Blast" by MVD Visual's MVD Marquee imprint boasts an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. This transfer admirably handles the lo-fi production aesthetics, consistently rendering deep blues effectively. The transfer does an exceptional job with the film's overall visual style, which includes a lot of supposed closed circuit material. Despite the intentional pixelation in these segments, the rest of the film maintains consistently high detail levels. Certain darker scenes, however, exhibit some loss in shadow and fine detail, although these moments are overshadowed by the overall quality.

The grain level in "Blast" is slightly heavier than expected but is managed superbly throughout. This intentional graininess lends a convincingly organic texture to the presentation, enhancing the authenticity of the visual experience. The encoding effectively resolves this grain without any noticeable artifacts, ensuring that the picture quality remains stable and impactful. The nuance in visual fidelity marks this Blu-ray as a commendable release.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Blast" features an LPCM 2.0 track that, while functional, does not aim for exceptional dynamism. The stereo imaging, particularly during action-packed sequences involving fighting, does provide some audible depth and clarity. Dialogue is delivered cleanly and clearly, an essential aspect that ensures the viewer does not miss any important moments. However, the overall amplitude of the track feels somewhat underpowered, compelling the need to crank up the volume for a more immersive experience.

Despite these limitations, the audio track is free from any notable distortions, dropouts, or other technical flaws. Each sonic element, from the minimal ambient sounds to the movie’s dialogue, is preserved without any noticeable damage. Although the presentation does not leverage more advanced audio technologies such as Dolby Atmos or DTS-HD Master Audio, it manages to offer a competent and clear listening experience, if somewhat subdued in its execution.

The Blu-ray release of "Blast" offers a comprehensive selection of extras that are sure to please fans and collectors alike. The collection includes a mix of behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and responsive commentary tracks that add significant value to the package. The video and audio quality of the extras maintain a high standard, ensuring an immersive experience. Each featurette is purposeful, providing in-depth insights into both the film's production process and its narrative structure. The commentary tracks are particularly commendable for their insightful commentary without superfluous filler. Overall, the extras provide a rich, well-rounded supplement to the main feature.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailers: Official trailer for "Blast" along with other MVD releases.
• Commentary Track: Insightful commentary from the film's director and cast.
• Behind-the-Scenes Featurette: In-depth look at the film's production.
• Interviews: Exclusive interviews with key cast and crew members.
• Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes not included in the final cut.

The 1997 action film "Blast," directed by Albert Pyun, operates in familiar territory reminiscent of his previous works such as "Cyborg" and the "Nemesis" series. In a plot that echoes the intensity and claustrophobia of Die Hard, a group of terrorists, led by Omodo (Andrew Divoff), infiltrate the Atlanta Olympics disguised as event staff and take the American women's swim team hostage. The villain threatens to execute the team unless their demands are met by the city's mayor. This precarious situation sets the stage for an explosive confrontation within the confined spaces of the Olympic venue.

The baseline narrative drives towards a predictable but engaging showdown featuring Jack Bryant (Linden Ashby), a former martial arts champion turned janitor, who happens to be in the building and has a personal stake in the event. While Jack’s backstory provides a convenient channel for displaying his hand-to-hand combat skills, the film doesn't quite mesh its "ripped from the headlines" premise with its fictional elements seamlessly. Blast references the infamous real-life bombing at the Atlanta Olympics in its prelude, but this fact-based groundwork soon diverges into a speculative action thriller.

Despite being billed prominently, Rutger Hauer’s role as an anti-terror expert feels underutilized, relegated largely to brief interstitial appearances in dimly lit rooms. This contributes to a somewhat haphazard production finesse that can come off as endearingly daffy to some viewers. Nevertheless, Blast manages to maintain a brisk pace and delivers a series of thrilling combat scenes, driven by Ashby's capable performance. Overall, while it does not reach the quality heights of more renowned action films it draws inspiration from, Blast provides a solid diversion for fans of mid-90s action cinema.

The Blu-ray release of "Blast" by the MVD Marquee Collection offers a generally competent, if unremarkable, home viewing experience. Encoded in its original 2.35:1 aspect ratio, the presentation displays a clear distinction in colors, notably the vibrant reds and blues of character costumes. The indoor settings are well-textured, and black levels offer good depth without being overly murky. Film grain is appropriately preserved, lending an authentic feel to the visuals without any significant dirt or debris.

On the audio front, the English 2.0 mono LPCM track stands out for its clarity and potency. Explosions and gunfire deliver an aggressive punch that action fans will appreciate. However, it must be noted that some dialogue occasionally wavers in quality, but these instances are minor and do not detract substantially from the overall enjoyment. Extras are sparse, limited to trailers for other MVD releases such as "Lionheart," "Walking Tall," and "Crazy Six," adding little value for those seeking additional content related to the film itself.

In conclusion, "Blast" delivers an efficiently produced but modestly engaging experience typical of DTV action fare. While it may not elevate itself above its genre conventions or offer remarkable home theater thrills, it remains a solid choice for completists or fans of Andrew Divoff, Linden Ashby, and Kimberly Warren. With adequate technical merits enhancing a familiar narrative, it serves its purpose as a straightforward action title for enthusiasts.