Cat People Blu-ray Review

"Cat People" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Scream Factory, featuring an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The transfer offers a balanced color palette, with accurate and saturated hues that enhance the film's stylistic approach. Daylight outdoor sequences benefit significantly, showcasing excellent detailing that brings out the nuances in the scenery. However, it's worth noting that night scenes, while aided by strong contrast, can appear slightly faded and exhibit average shadow delineation. Furthermore, the digital noise reduction employed is quite aggressive; evidence of grain is scarce unless the image is paused. This leads to a presentation that lacks the naturally filmic texture some aficionados might expect.

While the transfer does shine in specific moments such as the pool scene with Annette O’Toole, other parts are less impressive with minor utilization of artificial sharpening causing occasional ringing around edges. Such instances are more detectable against the film's dynamic lighting schemes, particularly in sequences with extreme color grading by Schrader and DP John Bailey. Despite these inconsistencies, Scream Factory's rendition is commendable for translating the film's stylish aesthetic onto Blu-ray with evident care. Compared to previous releases, like its HD DVD counterpart, this Blu-ray offers a modest improvement in overall quality but remains similar in the broader spectrum of fidelity and visual clarity.

The Blu-ray release of "Cat People" offers two main audio options: an original stereo track and a surround mix, both presented in DTS-HD Master Audio. The 5.1 surround mix significantly benefits Giorgio Moroder's synth-heavy score, delivering a rich and full soundstage that enhances the film's immersive qualities. Foley effects, such as leopard roars, are directionally positioned, adding depth. Dialogues remain clear and precise throughout, and the fidelity is consistently excellent.

The original stereo track, presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, aims to stay true to the original sound design but comes off as a mixed bag, according to reviews. Some appreciated its loud and booming effects which maintained clarity and definition. However, others noted its shortcomings, citing it as harsh, overly bright, and suffering from tightly constrained mid-range and exaggerated bass. This uneven balance detracts from the overall listening experience.

While both tracks have their merits, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround mix generally receives higher praise for its better dynamic range and engaging immersive quality. It provides a greater sense of presence and imaging despite being front-heavy and remaining true to the original design. In contrast, the 2.0 track, though preferred by some for its louder output, fails to convincingly replicate the original soundtrack's more nuanced elements. Ultimately, the 5.1 mix is frequently regarded as the stronger option for those seeking an enhanced auditory experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Cat People" offers an impressive range of extras that enhance the viewing experience by providing in-depth insights into the film’s production and its reception. The disc includes a series of interviews with the cast and crew, offering personal anecdotes and reflections on their work, all presented in high definition. Notable contributors include Nastassja Kinski, Annette O'Toole, John Heard, Malcolm McDowell, director Paul Schrader, and composer Giorgio Moroder, among others. Additionally, viewers will find a collection of production and promotional stills, including lobby cards and poster art, along with the original theatrical trailer and a nostalgic TV spot. The package further benefits from a reversible cover featuring the film’s original theatrical poster art.

Extras included in this disc:

• Nastassja Kinski Interview: Actress discusses her role and experiences (5:56).
• Annette O'Toole Interview: Insights from Annette on the production (8:25).
• John Heard Interview: John reflects on his character and the film (6:12).
• Malcolm McDowell Interview: Malcolm provides his perspective on the project (7:35).
• Lynn Lowry Interview: Lynn shares her memories of working on the film (5:53).
• Giorgio Moroder Interview: Composer discusses creating the score (5:32).
• Paul Schrader Interview: Director’s comprehensive take on making the film (9:13).
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional preview (2:18).
• TV Spot: Nostalgic commercial (0:31).
• Photo Gallery: Collection of 112 promotional images and inserts.
• Production Art and Posters: 31 images of lobby cards, posters, and sketches.

Paul Schrader's 1982 film "Cat People" reimagines the 1942 classic horror with bold and lurid styling, transforming it from understated suggestion to explicit sensuality. It diverges from Val Lewton's original by embracing far more overt depictions of sexuality, centralized through Irena Gallier (Nastassja Kinski) and her disturbing bond with her brother Paul (Malcolm McDowell). Schrader peppers the film with scenes heavy on erotic undertones, intrinsic to the revised mythos where incestuous relationships act as a bizarre cure for the otherwise fatal transformation into leopards induced by extrafamilial intercourse.

The modern take includes New Orleans as a moody backdrop, accentuated by Giorgio Moroder’s atmospheric synthesizer-heavy score and stylish cinematography. Schrader crafts a film that is visually arresting but occasionally hampered by its convoluted narrative and laughable mythology. Kinski commands screen presence, undergoing a notable psychological metamorphosis, while McDowell's performance as Paul exudes sinister charm. John Heard, Annette O'Toole, and Ed Begley Jr. round out a competent supporting cast, navigating roles constrained by somewhat underwritten scripts.

"Cat People" stands out for its arresting visual and auditory style, including memorable set pieces and an evocative score that amplifies the film’s erotic horror elements. However, its attempt at blending myth with explicit content can stretch believability and occasionally undercut its promise. Still, as a cult classic, Schrader’s "Cat People" offers an intriguing mix of sexuality, horror, and stylish production design that retains a unique place in 1980s cinema.

Paul Schrader's 1982 remake of "Cat People," starring Nastassja Kinski, stands as a stylistic and atmospheric cult fantasy thriller that delves into primal urges intertwined with sexual themes. Despite its attempts to reimagine Val Lewton's 1942 classic, the film frequently ventures into melodramatic territory. What sets it apart is the mesmerizing cinematography that captures Kinski’s alluring presence. This seems to be the film's primary selling point, maintaining its appeal and relevance over the years.

Scream Factory's Collector’s Edition Blu-ray boasts commendable audio quality and an array of insightful interviews that enrich the viewing experience. Unfortunately, it falls short with the video transfer, which appears dated and potentially ported from previous releases rather than being newly remastered. While the visual limitations may disappoint some purists, the package remains an attractive acquisition for devoted fans thanks to the supplementary content.

In conclusion, "Cat People" is an intriguing yet flawed reboot that visually captivates but lacks the dramatic intensity of its predecessor. The Blu-ray release, while hindered by an outdated video transfer, is bolstered by robust audio and engaging extras, making it a worthwhile addition for collectors despite its imperfections.