Lost Boys: The Tribe Blu-ray Review

The 1080p transfer of "Lost Boys: The Tribe" is executed in a widescreen 2.40:1 aspect ratio, offering a minimal yet noteworthy cinematic quality. Across several scenes, a metallic and grain-like texture becomes apparent, creating an overly sharpened and gritty feel. The visual presentation suffers from noticeable grain, with detail fluctuating between above-average and soft, occasionally obscuring finer elements. Faces, clothing, and random objects often hold up fairly well, but the occasional softness detracts from the overall experience. Colors are predominantly well-balanced, though instances of over-saturation introduce additional noise and inconsistency.

The dark cinematography of "Lost Boys: The Tribe" further contributes to its visual challenges. Black levels waver significantly, oscillating between excessively dark—resulting in black crush—and slightly pale, which can obscure foreground details. The contrast skews toward the hot side, which momentarily provides depth but ultimately falls short due to compounded issues such as edge enhancement, jaggies, and motion artifacts. Background blocking contributes a subtle but present chunkiness to some shots. Despite these drawbacks, the transfer remains mostly stable and relatively free from severe compression issues or heavy-handed post-processing.

In summary, while "Lost Boys: The Tribe" manages occasional moments of visual adequacy, the overall transfer is marred by significant grain, inconsistent blacks, and over-saturated colors. This results in a presentation that, despite its potential for cinematic depth, falls short of higher Blu-ray standards and may disappoint discerning viewers and videophiles alike.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray of "Lost Boys: The Tribe" is delivered through an English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround (640kbps) track. While the missing lossless option is a disappointment, the available lossy track offers a solid performance. The soundtrack utilizes every speaker effectively, providing a certain fidelity to the film's environment and action sequences. The music, especially the rock tune during the opening credits, benefits from an engaging energy and adequate detailing as it flows through all five channels.

Dialogue clarity remains centered and consistent throughout, though it's burdened with noticeable ADR, particularly affecting Angus Sutherland's performance. The surround channels gracefully handle a broad spectrum of environmental sounds from natural seaside elements to indoor/outdoor party dynamics, contributing to a believable soundscape. The low end, while somewhat imprecise and less defined than ideal, injects sufficient punch where necessary, maintaining overall listener satisfaction. Dynamic range is slightly restricted, lacking the spaciousness one might expect from higher-quality source material. Despite these limitations, Warner Brothers' Dolby Digital 5.1 mix delivers a proficient and serviceable audio experience fitting for this direct-to-video release.

The Blu-ray of "Lost Boys: The Tribe" offers a limited selection of extra features that, while varied, are presented predominantly in 480p/i/MPEG-2 video quality. Key highlights include 'Action Junkies,' a short featurette focusing on the film's extreme stunts and action scenes, and 'Edgar Frog’s Guide to Coming Back Alive,' where Corey Feldman awkwardly discusses vampire-fighting tools in-character. Additionally, two alternate endings provide a glimpse of omitted scenes featuring original Frog Brother Jamison Newlander and extra screen time for the Coreys' reunion. The disc also includes a set of music videos, with one being a remix of the classic "Cry Little Sister" by G Tom Mac, and three tracks by Yeah Whatever.

Extras included in this disc:

• Action Junkies: Brief look at the film's action sequences and stunts.
• Edgar Frog’s Guide to Coming Back Alive: Corey Feldman discusses vampire-fighting tools.
• Alternate Endings: Two alternative conclusions featuring additional footage of key characters.
• Cry Little Sister by G Tom Mac: Music video remix of the original theme song.
• Music Videos by Yeah Whatever: Includes "Downfall," "Hell is Full," and "It's Over Now."

Lost Boys: The Tribe" struggles to recapture the charm and unique style of its 1987 predecessor, falling short in several significant areas. Although it includes a few commendable performances and nods to the original film, it ultimately serves as an inferior re-imagining. The plot, revolving around siblings Chris and Nicole Emmerson (Tad Hilgenbrink and Autumn Reeser) facing off against a new vampire threat led by Shane Powers (Angus Sutherland), feels derivative and uninspired. While the narrative attempts to inject some fresh energy into the franchise, it does so with less charismatic characters and a straightforward story that lacks the compelling depth of its forerunner.

A major letdown is the film's atmosphere and setting. Where Joel Schumacher's Santa Carla was full of life and character, Luna Bay appears bland and lifeless. This lack of immersive world-building makes it difficult for viewers to become absorbed in the film. The production design does little to evoke interest or excitement, underscoring the movie’s low-budget sensibilities. Additionally, the increased gore, typically reserved for films like "Saw" and "Hostel," feels like an unnecessary ploy to distract from the weak storyline.

One redeeming feature is Corey Feldman’s return as Edgar Frog. His performance is imbued with a sense of energy and genuine enthusiasm that pays homage to his role in the original film. However, Feldman's presence alone cannot save "The Tribe" from its ill-conceived script and poor execution. The reunion with Corey Haim, relegated to a brief appearance during the end credits, adds little value and feels disjointed. This lack of coherence, along with uninspired dialogue and subpar performances from the supporting cast, contributes further to the overall mediocrity of "Lost Boys: The Tribe.

"Lost Boys: The Tribe," as a follow-up to the cult classic "The Lost Boys," holds minimal merit while presenting itself as an unnecessary continuation. The filmmakers seemingly relied on the inherent fanbase of the original and the popularity of vampire-themed content to secure its audience, but unfortunately, it falls short in revitalizing interest in the franchise. Its production values are fair, and the involvement of Corey Feldman as Edgar Frog adds a touch of nostalgia. However, the film's narrative and overall execution do little to differentiate it from a sea of forgettable direct-to-video sequels.

The Blu-ray release of "Lost Boys: The Tribe" is marred by mixed technical elements. While the video quality is disappointingly lackluster, showing imperfections that undermine the viewing experience, the audio quality fares slightly better, providing a decent auditory experience but failing to fully capitalize on high-definition potential. Additionally, the Blu-ray extras are sparse and fail to add substantial value to the purchase or rental decision, leaving the package wanting in terms of compelling content beyond the main feature.

Ultimately, "Lost Boys: The Tribe" is a mediocre sequel that neither offends nor excites. It exists comfortably within the realm of mediocrity, satisfying neither die-hard fans nor capturing new audiences with its uninspired approach. Warner Brothers’ effort yields a technically underwhelming product that’s best approached with tempered expectations. For those alone seeking some nostalgic indulgence or mild amusement in vampire tropes, it may be worth a rental; otherwise, it is likely one to skip.