Terminal Velocity Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 2.40:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, and granted a 1080p transfer, Terminal Velocity arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber. While sourced from an older master, the transfer remains fundamentally robust. The master is free of digital corrections and maintains an organic appearance, with strong density levels that hold up well on a large screen. Age-related imperfections are absent, endorsing its healthiness. However, the age of the master shows minor yet noteworthy limitations. In panoramic shots, background details could benefit from better definition, and shadow details in darker scenes could be more refined.

Kino Lorber’s new release surpasses Mill Creek's 2012 barebones Blu-ray, primarily due to higher bitrates and more vivid colors. The overall image appears sharper, although some scenes remain inherently soft, likely due to the original source material. Black levels see a significant improvement with no noticeable banding or crushing, enhancing the cinematic experience considerably. While a modern master could deliver a finer grain structure and enhanced nuance in various frames, the current master proves commendably strong with very minimal drawbacks.

Overall, Kino’s new encode delivers a marked improvement over any previous releases, ensuring a visually compelling presentation of Terminal Velocity on Blu-ray. Though slight improvements could be made with a modern master, this release stands as a substantial upgrade boasting vivid colors, a sharper image, and better-defined black levels.

The audio presentation of "Terminal Velocity" on Blu-ray offers two primary tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, alongside optional English SDH subtitles. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track shines, delivering a robust and engaging experience, particularly during the film's numerous action sequences. The separation, dynamic stability, and balance of this track are exemplary. The sound design leverages the surround channels effectively, providing pronounced environmental effects and clearly articulated dialogue.

A notable observation is the difference in bitrate between Kino’s and Mill Creek’s versions of the DTS-HD MA 5.1 track, with Kino’s being encoded at a significantly lower bitrate. Despite this disparity, the fidelity and dynamic range remain excellent. The track features impactful use of surrounds and LFE during explosive moments and gunplay, enhancing the overall intensity of these scenes. The skydiving sequences are particularly well-represented by the atmospheric effects, adding to the immersive experience.

Overall, while there may be no marked improvement from previous DVD editions due to lack of comparative analysis, the current DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track of "Terminal Velocity" on the Blu-ray release stands out for its strong performance and thorough execution. From dynamic explosions and detailed environmental effects to clear dialogue, it provides an exhilarating auditory experience that complements the high-octane nature of the film.

The extras included in the Blu-ray release of "Terminal Velocity" provide a diverse array of insights and additional content that enrich the viewing experience. The highlight is an audio commentary by Bryan Reesman, a seasoned entertainment journalist and author, who delves deeply into Charlie Sheen's career, the film's production nuances, and action cinema trends of the late '80s and '90s, making it a must-listen for fans and cinephiles alike. This commentary offers an extensive look at the film's background and industry context, demonstrating Reesman's expertise. The disc also includes a vintage trailer for "Terminal Velocity" in standard definition and an assortment of trailers for other films, adding nostalgic value and broader industry perspective.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Vintage trailer for "Terminal Velocity," not subtitled.
• Commentary: In-depth analysis by Bryan Reesman covering film production and industry insights.
• Additional Trailers: Includes trailers for "No Man’s Land," "Aces: Iron Eagle III," "Fire Birds," "Bat 21," "Playing God," "City of Industry," and "Retroactive."

Deran Sarafian's Terminal Velocity (1994) hits Blu-ray with Kino Lorber's release, including vintage trailers and an exclusive audio commentary by entertainment journalist Bryan Reesman. Charlie Sheen stars as Ditch Brodie, a skydiving instructor whose life takes an unexpected turn when a routine jump ends in disaster—or does it? Nastassja Kinski's Chris Morrow catalyzes a wild chase involving the Russian mafia, government agents, and high-risk aerial stunts. James Gandolfini delivers an engaging performance, layering the film with unpredictable energy reminiscent of his later role in The Sopranos.

This film should be approached with a light-hearted mindset. The plot by David Twohy, known for works like The Fugitive and Riddick films, may have its inconsistencies, but it compensates with nonstop, adrenaline-fueled action scenes and a good sense of humor. The script allows the characters to pass through implausible situations that are held together by the film’s witty tone and exhilarating set pieces. The juxtaposition of Sheen's sharp delivery with Kinski’s enigmatic presence creates a dynamic chemistry, while Christopher McDonald's over-the-top portrayal adds a humorous layer despite being somewhat miscast.

The filming techniques used by Oliver Wood bring the action sequences to life with sleek and polished editing, often making the cinematography appear more elaborate than it is. The action scenes, especially the skydiving sequences, are particularly noteworthy and well-executed, capturing the high-stakes, thrill-ride atmosphere that defines Terminal Velocity. While the film may not rank among the top action films of the 1990s, it stands out for its originality and engaging performances, offering an entertaining escape full of excitement and suspense.

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release of "Terminal Velocity" represents a notable step up from previous home video editions, particularly the Mill Creek release. This upgrade, sourced from an older but commendable master, ensures that the high-octane action sequences are presented with improved clarity. The film itself, despite being a box office disappointment upon its theatrical release in 1994, holds up as a competent action thriller. Charlie Sheen's performance may not have been enough to save it from critical drubbing at the time, but it offers enough adrenaline-pumping moments to merit a re-evaluation.

The most significant enhancement in this release is the inclusion of an exclusive new audio commentary by entertainment journalist and author Bryan Reesman. According to various reviews, this commentary is one of the best recorded for a Kino Lorber release, providing rich insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that enhance viewer appreciation for the film. The Blu-ray also boasts superior picture quality over previous versions, ensuring that fans and newcomers alike can enjoy a visually engaging experience.

In conclusion, Kino Lorber’s release of "Terminal Velocity" provides both technical improvements and valuable additional content, making it a worthwhile purchase for action movie aficionados. While the film may have been unjustly sidelined during its original release, this Blu-ray offers a renewed opportunity to appreciate its merits. Highly recommended for those who enjoy high-energy thrill rides.