Cohen and Tate Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Cohen and Tate," provided by Shout! Factory, boasts a commendable AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. For those familiar solely with the film's broadcast version or the recent MGM MOD DVD, this high-definition upgrade will be a notable improvement. The presentation offers richer color saturation and significantly enhanced fine object detail. It is worth noting that there are inherent limitations due to the film’s nocturnal settings, particularly within car scenes. These moments exhibit moderate to significant crush issues, where dark elements like hair blend into the shadows, detracting from overall clarity. Nevertheless, sequences with better lighting, notably the farmhouse opening, display excellent clarity and precision.

The encode is characterized by a thin, consistent layer of grain that enhances the filmic quality, albeit with occasional episodes of slightly heavier grain. Though certain scenes appear softer or blurrier than others—likely intrinsic to the original cinematography—the majority of the film benefits from revealing fine object and textural details, especially in close-ups. The contrast is effectively handled, delivering a vivid image that serves night scenes well by presenting accurately rendered blacks with commendable shadow detail. While the color palette remains somewhat constrained, the colors that do appear are bold and well-saturated, contributing to a visually solid effort. Overall, despite some limitations, this Blu-ray release marks the best home video representation of this underrated film to date.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Cohen and Tate" offers two robust audio options: the original DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and a more expansive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix. The film's dialogue-heavy nature and settings within confined spaces, like a car, benefit from the clarity and precision of the 2.0 stereo option. This mix prioritizes vocals effectively, providing exceptional clarity for character interactions and preserving the film's original intent. Background noises and discrete effects are subtly present, contributing to a mildly broadened soundstage without overshadowing the dialogue. However, the 2.0 mix does have limitations, such as a somewhat flat mid-range and a noticeable lack of low-end punch.

In contrast, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix offers a more immersive experience, especially during key set pieces. This mix opens up the audio landscape significantly without feeling artificial, enhancing scenes with well-placed foley effects and a more dynamic range. Notably, the climactic smack-down scene and the opening farmhouse sequence benefit from this surround mix, offering a deeper sense of immersion and impactful low-end augmentation. Dialogue remains clear and well-articulated in the 5.1 mix, ensuring that the essential character-driven aspects are preserved while still providing a richer auditory experience through enhanced score presence and expanded ambient effects.

Overall, both the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and 5.1 mixes serve distinct purposes and cater to different listener preferences. While the 2.0 mix stays true to the original design with clear dialogue prioritization, the 5.1 mix enriches the viewing experience with its broader soundstage and immersive qualities, making "Cohen and Tate" an engaging auditory experience regardless of your choice.

The extras for the "Cohen and Tate" Blu-ray are compelling and insightful, providing an in-depth look at both the production and the thought process behind the film. The key highlight is the commentary by writer/director Eric Red, who offers a nuanced perspective on the film's commercial performance, his artistic influences, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. The supplementary featurette, "A Look Back at Cohen & Tate," features interviews with key contributors, including the cinematographer and co-stars, despite its puzzling anamorphically squeezed film clips. Additional features such as deleted scenes, a still gallery, and the theatrical trailer further enrich the viewer's understanding and appreciation of this cinematic piece.

Extras included in this disc:

• A Look Back at Cohen & Tate: A retrospective with interviews from cast and crew.
• Commentary with Writer/Director Eric Red: Insightful commentary focusing on inspirations and production details.
• Deleted Scenes: Original scenes cut from the final edit.
• Still Gallery: Collection of behind-the-scenes images.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer for the film.

"Cohen and Tate" stands out as an intriguing yet fluctuating thriller by writer-director Eric Red. The film, inspired by O. Henry's "The Ransom of Red Chief," is reimagined as a modern crime tale. Roy Scheider and Adam Baldwin take on the titular roles as seasoned hitman Cohen and unhinged newcomer Tate. They are tasked with transporting a young boy, Travis (Harley Cross), who witnessed a mob hit. Travis proves to be a cunning adversary, maneuvering the hitmen against each other as they traverse desolate roads.

The narrative unfolds primarily within the claustrophobic confines of their car, heightening tension. The juxtaposition of Cohen's methodical composure against Tate's erratic violence is both a strength and a flaw. This dynamic keeps viewers on edge, as evidenced in suspenseful scenes like the police checkpoint sequence. Yet, this imbalance leads to moments where Tate's irrational antics become more grating than tense.

While the film boasts strong performances, especially from Scheider, it struggles to maintain a consistent tone. The intended mix of road movie and thriller sometimes falters, leading to uneven pacing. The interplay between the characters provides suspense, but the repetitiveness of their confrontations can grow wearisome. Despite its promising premise and occasional high points, "Cohen and Tate" ultimately feels like a road trip with its fair share of scenic highlights and mundane stretches.

"Cohen and Tate" is an intriguing yet somewhat flawed crime thriller that oscillates between moments of genuine suspense and periods of contrived predictability. Roy Scheider's portrayal of the cold and calculating Cohen anchors the film with a reserved performance that effectively counterbalances Adam Baldwin’s energetically unhinged Tate. The dynamic between the two leads reaches a high point in the third act, where strained relationships explode into a gripping and well-choreographed climax. Despite its strengths, the movie struggles with maintaining its momentum, turning what could have been an electrifying road movie into an occasionally exhausting experience for viewers.

The Blu-ray release of "Cohen and Tate" delivers a commendable technical presentation. The video quality is sharp, preserving the film's gritty aesthetic, while the audio offers clarity that heightens the suspenseful moments. The bonus materials offer some additional context and insights but are not particularly groundbreaking. Collectors and fans nostalgic for this cult classic will appreciate the overall package, though it may be less enticing to casual viewers who might prefer to rent it first.

In conclusion, "Cohen and Tate" shines primarily due to its lead performances and intense third act but falters with uneven pacing. The Blu-ray edition enhances the viewing experience with solid audiovisuals and adequate supplementary content. While it comes recommended, especially for fans of the genre or actors, others might find it more suitable as a one-time rental.