D.O.A. Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "D.O.A.: A Right of Passage" by the MVD Rewind Collection is executed with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.32:1 aspect ratio. Given the original 16mm source material and numerous low-light conditions such as dark club interiors, the detail levels are understandably inconsistent. While fine details occasionally reach a passable clarity, they often lean towards being fuzzy, reflecting the inherent limitations of the original footage. The color palette generally holds up well, although there is a minor issue with blacks taking on an oily sheen in certain scenes. Importantly, the transfer appears free from any undue digital processing, preserving the film's raw punk aesthetic which is supported by visible wear and damage, including persistent scratches.

The authenticity of the presentation aligns well with the film’s gritty punk ethos. However, it’s worth noting that the variable detail levels and sporadic fuzziness may not meet the expectations of viewers accustomed to more pristine Blu-ray transfers. The overall experience remains true to its original format, retaining an unpolished charm that fans of the genre may appreciate. Despite these imperfections, the transfer serves to enhance the film's authentic atmosphere, reinforcing its place within punk culture visual storytelling.

The Blu Ray of "D.O.A." presents an LPCM 2.0 mono mix, reflecting the original 1980s soundscape with both its charms and imperfections. The soundtrack captures the raw, unfiltered energy of the period, with slight but discernible distortion during intense musical segments. These instances of distortion are not overly problematic and align with the era's aesthetics. Meanwhile, dialogue-heavy segments such as the talking heads sequences remain clear, ensuring that critical information is conveyed without significant auditory issues.

Incorporating burnt-in subtitles in vibrant, crayon-like colors adds to the film’s rebellious punk aura while serving a practical purpose. Lyrics from the Sex Pistols' tracks are particular highlights, as the lack of clear enunciation in the performance is mitigated by these colorful overlays. This thoughtful addition ensures that viewers can fully appreciate the provocative nature of the lyrics, preserving the film’s intent and historical significance.

The Blu-Ray extras for "D.O.A." deliver an outstanding array of content, further enhancing the viewing experience. The centerpiece, "Dead on Arrival: The Punk Documentary That Almost Never Was," is a comprehensive retrospective featuring archival and contemporary interviews with key figures of the punk movement, invaluable to both new and seasoned viewers. The inclusion of high-definition image galleries and multiple trailers, including one for "Attack of the Killer Tomatoes," enriches the package. Additionally, fans will appreciate the thoughtfully included poster and insert booklet featuring essays and stills. Each feature has been carefully curated to provide insightful context and additional historical value, making this collection a must-have for enthusiasts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Dead on Arrival: The Punk Documentary That Almost Never Was: A detailed retrospective with interviews and archival footage.
• Image Gallery: High-definition still images.
• D.O.A.: A Rite of Passage Trailer: Official trailer with "rite" spelling.
• Attack of the Killer Tomatoes: Preview trailer for an upcoming MVD Rewind label release.
• Poster and Insert Booklet: Features essays and archival stills.

"D.O.A.: A Right of Passage" is an enthralling documentary that immerses viewers in the chaotic essence of the 1970s punk rock movement. Using visceral imagery and raw, unfiltered footage, the film captures the Sex Pistols' tumultuous United States tour in 1978—a tour that notoriously ended in the band's dissolution. Director Lech Kowalski effectively evokes the volatile energy of punk rock through candid backstage moments and incisive interviews, most memorably featuring Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen. These segments provide a vivid snapshot of an era defined by its rebellion against mainstream societal norms and expectations.

The film stands out for its almost aggressive tendency to provoke and challenge, mirroring the punk movement's inherently anarchic spirit. The candid and sometimes chaotic footage offers a deeply authentic look at the Sex Pistols and other punk bands, presenting not just their music but also their philosophies and influence on youth culture. The documentary also dives into the perspectives of fans and other contemporaries, creating a comprehensive tapestry of opinions that underscores the cultural rift of the time. Kowalski's directorial approach allows audiences to experience the raw energy and undiluted reality of the punk scene, full of tumult and defiance.

While "D.O.A.: A Right of Passage" may not provide the clear-eyed objectivity that time affords, like Julien Temple's "The Filth and the Fury," it offers a compelling and immediate sense of being amidst a groundbreaking cultural movement. With its evocative documentation of youthful rebellion and its almost anthropological attention to detail, this documentary serves as an indispensable record of a pivotal moment in music history. Rough, rowdy, and provocatively honest, "D.O.A.: A Right of Passage" is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the raw power and unbridled chaos that defined punk rock's formative years.

"D.O.A.: A Right of Passage" is an essential viewing experience for any punk rock aficionado and offers a visceral dive into the chaotic world of the late '70s punk scene. Featuring rare and riveting performances from the likes of the Sex Pistols, Rich Kids, Generation X, and X-Ray Spex, the film provides an unfiltered glimpse into a cultural movement fraught with rebellious fervor and self-destruction. The MVD Rewind Collection's Blu-ray release ensures that this seminal documentary receives a deserving presentation, although it does come with some inherent technical limitations due to the age and nature of the original footage.

The Blu-ray edition, while not perfect, navigates these limitations effectively and preserves the raw energy and historical importance of the documentary. Highlights include the intensely absorbing, yet unsettling interview attempts with Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen, encapsulating the tumultuous lifestyle that characterized much of the punk era. Despite occasional audiovisual inconsistencies, the authenticity of the film remains intact, thanks in large part to MVD Rewind Collection’s meticulous handling of this underground classic.

There was a great old radio and, later, television series with the inimitable Edward R. Murrow called You Are There, which sought to recreate iconic historical moments for its listeners and/or viewers. "D.O.A.: A Right of Passage" is indeed like being thrust into the maelstrom of an epochal moment in the punk rock scene, and it's probably not for the timid as a result. It's often a bit disturbing, just in terms of the personalities at play, but it's incessantly fascinating and provides a real window into some of the forces which would ultimately bring an end not just to the movement itself, but to some of the lives of the people involved. There are some inherent technical limitations to this presentation, but the historic importance of the footage far outweighs any qualms in my personal estimation. MVD Rewind Collection is a really interesting new player on the scene, and this first release augurs well for them. Recommended.