The Cannonball Run Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Cannonball Run" offers a solid 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 transfer, framed in a 1.78:1 widescreen aspect ratio. Initially, the opening title sequence, produced using older techniques involving color mattes and optical printers, displays noticeable grain and film dirt. However, beyond these titles, the video quality improves significantly. A fine layer of film grain provides a natural look without overpowering the image. Some Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) has been applied, but it successfully enhances the high-definition image without erasing facial features or degrading details.

The vibrant color palette is one of the standout features of this transfer. Skies maintain a consistent deep blue, skin tones are warm, and the myriad paint jobs on the vehicles appear freshly minted and eye-catching. Barbeau and Buckman's spandex outfits display vivid reds and purples that leap off the screen. Overall, the sharpness is generally good, although it fluctuates slightly throughout the film, particularly during second-unit shots against open landscapes.

Contrast is healthily maintained, delivering deep blacks in night scenes and sufficient shadow detail for evening encounters. While some instances of edge enhancement and mild DNR result in a slightly waxy appearance at times, particularly on Burt Reynolds, these are relatively minor distractions. The print is impressively clean with minimal detection of scratches and blotches. Whether examining close-ups that reveal fine facial details or broader scenes that capture the gleam on every vehicle, fans of "The Cannonball Run" will find this Blu-ray transfer a commendable effort that surpasses many expectations for a catalog title from this era.

The audio presentation of "The Cannonball Run" on Blu Ray features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround mix that ultimately leaves much to be desired. This track is adequate but falls short compared to other remixes in this category. The majority of the sonic activity is concentrated in the front soundstage, with dialogue clarity being somewhat disappointing and lacking the depth and crispness that one would expect. Surround sound effects such as cheering, bar room ambience, and revving engines come across as disjointed and fail to create an immersive experience. Similarly, the subwoofer output is notably lacking, which is a significant shortcoming considering the film's heavy reliance on car engine noises.

Despite its shortcomings, the mix manages to maintain a controlled chaos aligning with the film's comedic and action-packed sequences. Dialogue is kept primarily frontal with cartoon accents and overlapping exchanges adequately clarified. However, the audio performance offers little in terms of dimensionality, with dramatic and group sequences sounding distinctly flat. Automobile action, while rowdier in nature, lacks the dynamic low-end punch needed to effectively convey crashes and explosions. Directional activity is virtually absent, rendering the car chases far less thrilling than they should be. The soundtrack and score cuts fit into the overall soundscape but do so without any notable robustness.

Ultimately, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track feels like a re-mixed stereo master rather than a fully realized surround sound experience. While it accomplishes the basic audio requirements for the film, it fails to deliver a truly engaging or immersive auditory experience. The inadequacies in dialogue clarity, surround sound effects, and low-end frequency output leave this audio presentation feeling forced and unnatural.

The Blu-ray edition of "The Cannonball Run" includes an insightful audio commentary track featuring director Hal Needham and producer Albert Ruddy. The commentary provides a mix of engaging anecdotes and technical insights, offering fans behind-the-scenes details about filming and casting processes. Particularly notable is Needham's revelation about participating in the real Cannonball race, which parallels an event depicted in the movie. While Ruddy often reminisces fondly about the cast and production, Needham focuses on the logistical challenges and innovative techniques that brought the film to life. This commentary stands out for its blend of humor, nostalgia, and industry expertise, maintaining an appealing balance throughout.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director Hal Needham and producer Albert Ruddy share their experiences on the making of the film, including filming techniques and personal anecdotes from the real Cannonball race.

The Cannonball Run, a 1981 comedic classic, races onto American Region A locked Blu-ray with a solid 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 transfer framed in a widescreen 1.78:1 aspect ratio. This release impresses with vibrant, well-saturated colors, deep blue skies, and notably healthy skin tones. The picture maintains a thin layer of film grain, which adds a touch of nostalgic authenticity. Despite its age, the print is generally clean, exhibiting minimal defects. Audio-wise, the DTS-HD MA 5.1 track appears to be a remix from the stereo original, offering clear dialogue but lacking immersive depth and significant subwoofer presence. As for extras, the sole bonus feature is an engaging commentary from director Hal Needham and producer Albert Ruddy, which offers valuable insights into the movie's production.

The plot, if one can call it that, is more an excuse for zany antics than a structured narrative. Directed by Hal Needham and starring Burt Reynolds among an ensemble of stars including Dom DeLuise, Roger Moore, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Farrah Fawcett, The Cannonball Run is a chaotic romp from Connecticut to California. Each competitor brings unique flavor to the race: Jackie Chan drives a high-tech Japanese car, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. pose as priests in a Ferrari, and Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman exploit their zip-up spandex suits to charm their way out of tickets. These characters’ antics provide the lion's share of the hilarity, although some jokes have aged poorly by today's standards.

The film's appeal largely hinges on one's tolerance for slapstick comedy and 80s nostalgia. There's no complex storyline; the film relies heavily on the charm of its stars and offbeat humor that oscillates between charmingly dated and questionably juvenile. Whether seen as endearing or indulgent, The Cannonball Run delivers its madcap comedy in bursts of high-energy sketches rather than a cohesive storyline. Needham’s relaxed directorial control allows the actors to riff off one another freely, ensuring that even when laughs aren't guaranteed, entertainment is. Fans of classic screwball comedies will find this Blu-ray edition a nostalgic trip worth taking.

"The Cannonball Run" on Blu Ray delivers a mixed experience that will resonate differently depending on individual tastes. The film itself is a lively yet disjointed comedy, marked by numerous celebrity cameos and an abundance of 1980s charm. The humor, which heavily relies on racial stereotypes and slapstick antics, might be considered offensive by today's standards. However, its lack of seriousness and embrace of silliness provides a layer of nostalgic entertainment for those who appreciate the carefree absurdity reminiscent of that era. Directors should be credited for assembling such an eclectic cast despite the chaotic and often unfocused nature of the film.

From a technical perspective, the Blu Ray release offers good video quality, presenting the movie in remarkably clear and vivid detail. Unfortunately, the audio does not perform as well, offering an underwhelming experience that lacks the depth and clarity found in more modern releases. Nonetheless, the upgraded visuals alone are enough to make this version noteworthy for fans and collectors.

In conclusion, "The Cannonball Run" on Blu Ray is a polarizing choice—appealing to those with a fondness for 80s comedy and an interest in seeing this film in upgraded picture quality. While its humor may not hold up to contemporary scrutiny and the audio might disappoint audiophiles, there's an undeniable charm in its carefree execution and star-studded ensemble, offering a trip down memory lane to simpler cinematic times.