White Lightning Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "White Lightning" is commendable, offering a 1080p/AVC-MPEG-4 encoded transfer with an aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The transfer captures a significant amount of fine detail, particularly on facial close-ups, where the texture and natural skin tones are preserved well. Colors are rendered in strong, natural hues, bringing the rural landscapes and period costumes to life—greens and browns of the landscape stand out alongside the varying shades of blue in Gator’s clothing. However, during low-lit scenes, the contrast tends to struggle slightly, though blacks remain accessible and whites are generally solid.

While the film grain maintains a comfortable and filmic presence, the print does exhibit some speckling, debris, and occasional dirt and scratches, particularly noticeable during the opening credits. Despite these minor issues, the image remains largely clean for the duration of the movie. Depth is captured effectively throughout, and no noticeable digital artifacts detract from the overall viewing experience. The cinematography, although erratic at times, is handled well by the transfer, allowing the viewer to engage fully with the gritty, atmospheric visuals of "White Lightning".

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix of "White Lightning" provides a robust listening experience, emphasizing clear and crisp dialogue with only a minor presence of hiss. The sound mix ensures that speech is consistently understandable, enhancing the viewing experience. The score by Charles Bernstein is particularly noteworthy, delivering an authentic southern feel and demonstrating a nice balance with the on-screen performances. The instrumental clarity is impressive, with each instrument identifiable in the arrangement, which pays homage to various genres.

The track also excels in its portrayal of environmental sounds and action sequences. Outdoor atmospherics are seamlessly integrated into the mix, adding a layer of immersion. The dynamic range is commendable, especially during high-energy scenes involving squealing tires and police sirens on the high end, while engines provide a satisfying low rumble. This creates a tangible sense of movement across the soundfield, despite the inherent limitations of a 2.0 Mono setup. Overall, "White Lightning" offers a well-balanced sound experience that effectively supports both the film’s dialogue and its ambient sounds.

The Blu-ray extras for "White Lightning" offer a rich insight into the film's production and behind-the-scenes stories, making it essential viewing for fans and cinephiles alike. A standout feature is Back to the Bayou: Part 1, where Burt Reynolds not only delves into the movie’s lore but also shares interesting behind-the-scenes anecdotes, such as Steven Spielberg's near-involvement with the film. His reflections provide both charm and depth, especially discussing the unexpected box office success in northern states and his thoughts on his co-stars. The inclusion of two versions of the theatrical trailer, one in HD and another in SD, offers a nostalgic look back at how the film was originally marketed. These extras provide a comprehensive and engaging overview that adds significant value to the Blu-ray experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Back to the Bayou: Part 1: Burt Reynolds discusses the history of "White Lightning" and shares personal anecdotes.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer in HD.
• Trailer: The original promotional trailer in SD.

Burt Reynolds cements his screen presence as the quintessential Southern hero in 1973's "White Lightning,” a gripping revenge tale set against the Arkansas backdrop. Directed by Joseph Sargent and written by William Norton, the film excels in its first hour, laying a strong foundation of fury and setting the stage for a sequence of car chases and confrontations. Reynolds embodies Bobby “Gator” McKlusky, a vengeful moonshiner who seeks justice for his murdered brother, showcasing an intoxicating blend of charm and masculinity that makes him a magnetic lead. The film's enthralling start gives way to punchy action sequences that see Reynolds skilfully navigating through dangerous terrain.

Behind the scenes, the real unsung hero of "White Lightning" is Hal Needham, the second-unit director responsible for its standout car chase sequences. Needham’s expertise injects a thrilling surge of high-octane action, with vehicles speeding through town streets, rural roads, and even launching skyward in stunt-laden escapades. These action scenes are electrifying and maintain a level of intensity that complements Reynolds’s rugged on-screen charisma. The combination of Gator’s wily escapades, including his knack for charming women and clashing with foes, positions him as a backwoods James Bond figure, adding layers to the film’s appeal.

William Norton’s script deftly amplifies tension with clever plot devices that see Gator walking a tightrope of deceit and danger. Notable plot twists and taut interactions keep the narrative engaging as Gator infiltrates Sheriff J.C. Conners’s operations while facing scrutiny from all sides. This blend of tightly executed stunts and compelling storytelling elevates "White Lightning" above typical genre conventions, resulting in a film that continues to captivate audiences through its thrilling action and strong performances.

"White Lightning" on Blu-ray provides a nostalgic ride for fans of Burt Reynolds, particularly those who enjoy his iconic image of roaring through small-town America in high-speed chases. While the movie doesn't always maintain the emotional intensity suggested in its opening, it compensates with exhilarating action sequences that climax with impressive car stunts. The storyline, which touches on moonshine distribution and tax evasion, sometimes feels secondary to the high-octane thrills provided by Reynolds’s charismatic performance and the film's capacity to "tear up nature and smash cars."

The Blu-ray release offers a satisfactory HD presentation, capturing the rugged charm of the film. Enhancing the package is a new featurette with Reynolds that provides an insightful look into the film's creation and his role. Although brief, this extra leaves viewers yearning for more behind-the-scenes content. The transfer quality, while adequate, maintains a level of authenticity to the '70s aesthetic, preserving the gritty visuals that fans expect.

In conclusion, "White Lightning" on Blu-ray is a must-have for Burt Reynolds aficionados and enthusiasts of vintage car chase films. Despite its occasional narrative lapses, the energy and charisma of Reynolds, paired with the exhilarating action sequences, make it a worthwhile addition to any collection. Recommended for an evening of nostalgic entertainment.