Gremlins 2: The New Batch Blu-ray Review

Warner Bros. presents "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" in a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer that is a noticeable step up from its predecessor, particularly in terms of clarity and color presentation. The visual feast of gremlin chaos is rendered through a palette of loud, lively colors—vivid reds, vibrant greens, and deep, sinister blacks stand out, enriching the viewing experience. Although contrast tends to be slightly lower than optimal, leading to a somewhat dull appearance, it remains strong and consistent, ensuring that the film maintains its atmospheric look. Detailing is impressive across the board; from Gizmo's soft fur to the grotesque textures of the Gremlins' reptilian skin, every element is finely resolved, allowing viewers to appreciate the intricacies of the creature effects and human characters alike.

The film's cinematography, courtesy of John Hora, leans towards darker tones, which sometimes results in the heavier shadows obscuring finer details. Despite this, shadow delineation is generally satisfying, contributing to the depth and three-dimensionality of the image. Black levels are stable, though they often appear murky, somewhat muddying the film's visual clarity. A mild grain structure is preserved throughout, enhancing the cinematic quality of the presentation without overwhelming it with noise or grit.

Artifacts such as banding, aliasing, and artifacting are conspicuously absent in this release, making for a clean and stable viewing experience that honors Dante's directorial vision and Hora's cinematography. While some visual effects show their age and limitations in clarity—the result of the era's technology rather than the transfer itself—the overall video quality of "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" on Blu-ray represents a commendable effort by Warner Bros., striking a balance between preserving the film's original aesthetic and delivering a vibrant high-definition experience.

Warner's DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track for "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" on Blu-ray offers an auditory experience that is both engaging and entertaining, peppered with a touch of controlled mayhem. The soundtrack accomplishes a fine blend of clarity and lively sound design, ensuring that every piece of dialogue, be it panicked human speech, the sing-song of Mogwai, or the cacophony of Gremlin voices, is delivered with clear, prioritized preciseness. While the LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) channel demonstrates a robust presence, enhancing the auditory experience with a solid foundation for the chaos inflicted by explosions, gunshots, and creature antics, it stops short of overwhelming power, striking a balance that suits the film’s tone perfectly. Directional audio effects and Jerry Goldsmith’s iconic score are skillfully integrated, not dominating but rather enriching the soundscape with a playful and enveloping atmosphere.

On the technical side, some minor issues with the audio presentation are noted, particularly concerning the handling of higher frequencies which tend to peak and emit a brightness, especially conspicuous during action-packed scenes accompanied by Goldsmith's lively score. However, these moments are few and do not significantly detract from an otherwise well-balanced dynamic range that remains mostly clean and expansive throughout. The bass performance stands out in its effectiveness, adding depth at key moments such as the Gremlin's organ play, while the front soundstage impresses with its width and the precise placement of vocals that anchor the auditory experience firmly at the center of the screen.

The rear channels, though less consistently active, contribute valuable depth to the overall sound field with discreet effects and commendable directionality, particularly highlighted during sequences featuring the Electric Gremlin. These elements come together to craft a satisfying audio experience for "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" on Blu-ray. Despite showing signs of its age and certain sonic imperfections, the lossless mix manages to capture and convey the film’s frenetic energy and peculiar charm, making it a commendable effort for a horror comedy now over two decades old.

The Blu-Ray extra presentation of "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" offers a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look into the sequel's unique making and amplified antics. The audio commentary, led by Director Joe Dante with contributions from writer Charlie Haas, producer Michael Finnell, and actor Zach Galligan, dives deep into the creative processes, highlighting the sequel's deviation into more satirical territory compared to its predecessor. Through a blend of anecdotes and technical insights, this feature sheds light on the challenges and innovations in special effects and character development. Additionally, a mixture of original and newly accessible content—including the "Making Of" mockumentary, deleted scenes with optional commentary, a gag reel, and an alternate home video sequence—provides both humor and a glimpse of what could have been. The inclusion of the original theatrical trailer rounds out a set that will delight both new fans and Gremlins aficionados alike, notwithstanding some content like the gag reel that may not hit the mark for everyone.

Extras included in this disc:
Audio Commentary: Insightful discussion with the director, writer, producer, and lead actor.
The Making of Gremlins 2: The New Batch: A brief mockumentary featuring cast insights.
Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary: A collection of scenes removed from the final cut.
Gag Reel: A compilation of outtakes and bloopers.
Alternate Home Video Sequence: Unique content designed for the home video release.
Theatrical Trailer: The film's original promotional preview.

Gremlins 2: The New Batch" stands as a formidable sequel that wildly diverges from its predecessor, embarking on a zanier, more satirical journey. Director Joe Dante delivers a piece that both critiques and revels in the absurdity of sequels and corporate greed, utilizing a blend of manic humor and self-referential jabs. This is vividly seen as the narrative transports the chaos from the small town of Kingston Falls to the corporate labyrinths of Manhattan, notably within the advanced Clamp Enterprises skyscraper. The film's audacious deviation from the first installment's dark comedy to a more Looney Tunes-esque anarchy encapsulates Dante's unabashed commentary on the film industry and sequel culture. The introduction of new Gremlins, including the articulate Brain and the comical Greta, alongside the return of Gizmo and human protagonists Billy and Kate, amplifies the sequel's larger scale while maintaining a semblance of familiarity.

Technically, "Gremlins 2" enhances its A/V presentation, amplifying the viewer’s experience with vivid imagery and sound that surpasses its predecessor. It skillfully balances a fine line between homage and parody, as seen through its eclectic mix of creatures—ranging from spider-legged to bat-winged Gremlins—and its clever nods to pop culture and cinema, including an amusing interlude featuring Hulk Hogan. Despite its departure from the original’s more sinister overtones, the sequel never loses Dante's characteristic wit, employing a barrage of late-'80s pop culture references and bizarre visual gags that cement its place as a unique entity in the annals of Hollywood sequels.

The film’s capacity to mock itself and its industry, while also delivering a barrage of memorable moments and characters, underscores Dante's creative autonomy and his critique on sequels and merchandising. "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" might stray far from its roots but does so with a boldness that’s both commendable and entertaining. Its blend of horror, comedy, and satire secured by Dante’s direction and the innovative special effects work, not only makes for a distinctive cinematic experience but also reflects on the sequel phenomenon with acerbic wit and inventiveness.

Gremlins 2: The New Batch remains a polarizing sequel amidst film aficionados and critics alike, maintaining its status as an eccentric, underappreciated gem in the pantheon of movie sequels. Its transition to Blu-ray has been met with commendation, primarily for its exemplary video quality that significantly surpasses its DVD predecessor, providing a clear, vibrant viewing experience that breathes new life into the film's elaborate sets and creature effects. Coupled with a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound track, the auditory experience complements the visual, delivering clarity and depth to both dialogue and the chaotic symphony of gremlin antics. However, it's noted that while the audio-visual upgrades are impressive, they don't necessarily elevate the overall impact of the film itself beyond its original charm and wit.

The Blu-ray release boasts an assortment of special features, though mostly recycled from previous DVD releases, lacking substantial new material for die-hard fans or newcomers seeking in-depth explorations into the film's production or legacy. Noteworthy among the extras is an alternate home video sequence which offers a nostalgic nod that complements the film’s satirical edge on media and consumerism. This aspect mirrors the film’s own commentary on sequels and corporate America, tying in the physical media’s presentation to the movie's thematic undercurrents.

In conclusion, Warner’s Blu-ray release of "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" stands as a must-have for enthusiasts and collectors aiming to experience the movie in its most technically refined form to date. While it does not redefine the original film's reception or its place in cinematic history, it offers an enhanced revisit to the chaotic world of the gremlins with visual and auditory improvements that highlight Joe Dante's visionary sequel. The special features, albeit outdated, still serve as a modest compliment to the main attraction. This release solidifies "Gremlins 2" as an essential part of a comprehensive Blu-ray collection, particularly for those fond of the franchise’s unique blend of humor, horror, and satirical commentary.