Hardware Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Hardware" is a testament to the meticulous work done on video quality, especially given its low-budget origins and approaching 20th anniversary. Utilizing the AVC codec at an average bitrate of 22Mbps, this 1080p transfer demonstrates remarkable clarity. Intricate details such as the wires in Jill's metallic art and the textures on Dylan McDermott's unshaven face are impressively defined. The film, mostly set during night scenes, maintains a consistent visual sharpness, allowing viewers to clearly witness the menacing actions of the MARK-13 robot. A standout scene towards the end features a sudden shift from dark to bright lighting, showcasing the proficiency of the color reproduction.

Black levels in the transfer contribute significantly to a sense of depth, with contrast aiding in differentiating various shades in low-lit scenes. While most scenes display excellent shadow detail, there are a few segments where weak contrast affects shadow precision. These instances, however, are limited and do not detract notably from the overall quality. It is worth noting that the film features noticeable grain throughout much of its runtime, aligning with its gritty, post-apocalyptic aesthetic. This grain enhances the texture and atmosphere rather than distracting from it, countering ongoing debates regarding the use of DNR and film grain.

In essence, "Hardware" on Blu-ray delivers a visually engaging experience rooted in its faithful representation of the original material. The high level of detail and effective use of color and contrast ensure a captivating viewing experience despite occasional minor imperfections.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Hardware" is proficient, yet it leaves room for improvement, especially concerning the decision to use a lossy Dolby Digital 5.1 track. While understandable, considering Severin’s status as a smaller studio in the high-definition market, it is slightly disappointing that the full potential of Blu-ray's audio capabilities remains untapped here. Nonetheless, the Dolby Digital 5.1 mix offers a nostalgic blend of musical elements, featuring tracks by Iggy Pop, Motorhead, Ministry, and a synth-heavy score reminiscent of Vangelis. This diverse soundtrack enhances the film’s intensity, effectively oscillating between tranquil and highly charged sequences.

On a technical level, the audio track demonstrates a commendable balance and dynamic range. Surround separation is particularly noteworthy in scenes requiring heightened auditory engagement, such as those featuring the ominous MARK-13 robot. The visceral sound effects—saw blades ripping through metal and sparks igniting from severed wires—are detailed and immersive, providing an authentic auditory experience. Dialogue is clear and well-prioritized amidst the action, ensuring that viewers do not miss critical plot points, while the musical numbers are crisp despite the limitations of lossy compression. Overall, while this Dolby Digital 5.1 track is competent and engaging, the potential for an exceptional lossless mix remains an unfulfilled opportunity.

The Blu-ray extras for "Hardware" provide a comprehensive and insightful look into the film's production and its creative backbone, Richard Stanley. The standout featurette, "No Flesh Shall Be Spared," offers nearly an hour's worth of interviews with key contributors, shedding light on the film’s intricate production history. Supplementary content includes Stanley's early Super-8 film "Incidents in an Expanding Universe" and his youthful short "Rites of Passage," both highlighting his nascent storytelling talent. Also notable is "The Sea of Perdition," a peculiar yet engaging short about a cosmonaut stranded on Mars. The disc also includes a discussion on the elusive sequel, "Hardware 2," accompanied by deleted and extended scenes from Stanley's personal archive. The package is rounded out with a high-definition trailer, rough vintage footage, and an audio commentary from Stanley himself, providing a thorough and immersive experience for both fans and newcomers.

Extras included in this disc:

• No Flesh Shall Be Spared: Featurette with interviews and production insights.
• Incidents in an Expanding Universe: Richard Stanley's Super-8 film.
• Rites of Passage: Early short film by Richard Stanley.
• The Sea of Perdition: Short film about a stranded cosmonaut on Mars.
• Richard Stanley on Hardware 2: Discussion on the sequel's legal battle and themes.
• Deleted and Extended Scenes: Personal archives from Richard Stanley.
• High-Definition Trailer (Germany): Promotional segment.
• Vintage Promotional Segment: Rough VHS footage.
• Audio Commentary: Insightful track by Richard Stanley.

In the realm of sci-fi/horror cinema, 1990’s "Hardware" stands out as a visceral and engaging entry, directed by Richard Stanley. The plot centers on Moses (Dylan McDermott), who buys a bag of robotic scrap parts during a scavenging expedition in a post-apocalyptic world. When he gifts these parts to his ex-girlfriend Jill (Stacey Travis), an artist, she unwittingly reassembles a deadly robot intent on a gruesome killing spree within her apartment. Stanley masterfully transforms this simplistic premise into an intense cinematic experience, peppered with unique characters and symbolic undertones. Despite the robot’s sluggish movements and limited geographic span within the film, the tension remains palpable due to the script’s clever narrative choices.

The film excels not in outright technical innovation but in its thematic depth and atmospheric tone. There’s an intriguing layer of political and religious subtext that adds complexity to what could have been a straightforward gore-fest. The robot’s name, M.A.R.K. 13, alludes to biblical prophecy, creating an eerie allegorical dimension that adds to its chilling presence. Additionally, the filmmakers’ adept use of a minimal budget results in meticulously detailed sets that belie the film's financial constraints, effectively drawing viewers into its dystopian milieu.

Acting performances are commendable, particularly Stacey Travis as Jill, who breaks away from mere eye-candy tropes to emerge as a resilient heroine reminiscent of Sigourney Weaver’s role in "Alien." Dylan McDermott brings an adequate intensity to his role, while supporting actors like William Hootkins imbue their characters with memorable quirks that enrich the storyline. Cameos such as Iggy Pop as radio personality Angry Bob further enhance the film’s eclectic charm. Despite its age and modest special effects, "Hardware" remains a compelling watch for those intrigued by the darker intersections of sci-fi and horror genres.

Severin's Blu-ray release of "Hardware" offers fans an exceptional revival of Richard Stanley's cult classic. The film, originally destined to be a cult favorite, showcases a downbeat, dystopian setting teeming with practical effects. It also features the intriguing casting of rock icons such as Iggy Pop and Lemmy, further cementing its legendary status. Severin’s high-quality presentation does justice to the movie’s gritty aesthetic, bringing out the detailed textures and vivid colors of the post-apocalyptic world. The transfer ensures that both long-time devotees and new viewers can fully appreciate the film’s unique visual style.

In terms of audio, this release does not disappoint. The mix is well-balanced, capturing the film's rhythmic soundscape and enhancing its immersive qualities. Dialogue clarity remains consistent even amid the film's frequent moments of chaos, and the soundtrack pulses with visceral intensity. The supplementary materials are an added bonus, featuring insightful commentaries and interviews that deepen our understanding of both the director’s vision and the cultural impact of "Hardware." These features make the package robust and worthwhile for any collector or enthusiast.

Despite its strong points, it’s important to acknowledge that "Hardware" caters to a niche audience. The film is laden with gore, snippets of nudity, pervasive sexual language, and unconventional robotic appendages that might not sit well with everyone. This content means that it will appeal only to a small segment of the viewing public. For fans of cult classics who relish this kind of edgy science fiction, "Hardware" is an unmissable experience. However, others might want to approach this release with cautious optimism and consider renting before committing to a purchase.

Despite my enjoyment of the film, "Hardware" will only appeal to a small segment of the overall viewing public. With plenty of gore, snippets of nudity, pervasive sexual language (vulgar), and a robot with an oddly phallic appendage, the film is far from tame. However, for anyone who's not repulsed by the idea of watching a film with those descriptors proudly attached, there's no reason to pass up the opportunity to give this a spin on an upcoming Saturday night with your friends (just make sure you share the same taste in cinema). For anyone else, approach this release with cautious optimism and consider a rental rather than a purchase.