Blue Collar Blu-ray Review

Blu-ray Video Presentation Review for "Blue Collar"

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, "Blue Collar" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber in an impressive 1080p transfer. This release utilizes the same remaster as the 2018 Region-B edition from Indicator/Powerhouse Films, yet it is free from some of the common flaws of older Universal masters, such as excessive sharpness and contrast boosting, and problematic depth. Nevertheless, the transfer shows certain limitations. Darker indoor scenes suffer from suboptimal shadow definition and occasionally noisy grain, with depth struggling in these sequences. However, the overall density levels are commendable, particularly in well-lit scenes where the image shines without digital enhancements, maintaining the film's organic qualities.

The color scheme of the Blu-ray is stable and nicely saturated, although improvements could be made specifically in the dark areas where blacks do not reach their true depth. Image stability is remarkable, free from distracting debris, noticeable damage, or warped frames. Minor age-related speckling is present but not intrusive. Well-lit scenes demonstrate a good sense of depth and dimension while maintaining filmic grain that enhances the viewing experience. Despite the native resolution limits and a few imperfections, this 40-year-old film boasts a solid, natural-looking image. This overall high-quality presentation makes it an excellent transfer for a film that has not undergone extensive restoration efforts over the years.

The Blu-ray release of "Blue Collar" is anchored by a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, providing a robust and clear audio experience. Throughout the film, particularly during the high-energy sequences such as the opening credits and scenes on the assembly line, the soundscape is dynamic and engaging. The machinery, tools, and air pistons create a vivid auditory backdrop that never overshadows the dialogue. This clarity extends to quieter moments, where subtle environmental sounds enhance intimate scenes, like the encounter between Zeke and an IRS agent, ensuring that even minimalistic sound design contributes to a full and active soundfield.

Despite minor instances of dynamic unevenness, particularly during bar footage and larger crowd scenes, these moments align with the original soundtrack's inherent qualities. The mix manages to maintain clarity, depth, and overall stability, with minimal need for user adjustment. Age-related artifacts like hiss or pops are notably absent, demonstrating the meticulous care put into the audio presentation. The optional English SDH subtitles further support accessibility without compromising the immersive auditory experience. Overall, this audio track exemplifies a high-quality restoration effort that respects the film's original sound design while delivering a satisfying modern playback experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Blue Collar" may not be packed with extras, but it offers high-quality content that will be valued by fans and cinephiles alike. The standout feature is the archival audio commentary from Paul Schrader and critic Maitland McDonagh, a holdover from the Starz/Anchor Bay DVD release, providing a candid and insightful perspective into the film's production and Schrader's experiences. While the selection of additional trailers from Kino Lorber invites viewers to explore more titles in the catalog, the inclusion of the original U.S. trailer enriches this disc further.

Extras included on this disc:

• Trailer: Original U.S. trailer for "Blue Collar."
• Commentary: Archival audio commentary featuring Paul Schrader and Maitland McDonagh.
• Report to the Commissioner: Trailer.
• Across 110th Street: Trailer.
• The Border: Trailer.
• City of Industry: Trailer.

Paul Schrader's "Blue Collar" (1978) film arrives on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber, featuring an original trailer and archival audio commentary by Paul Schrader and critic Maitland McDonagh. This directorial debut meticulously dissects the socio-political landscape that devastated Detroit’s auto industry, targeting big unions and their fraudulent leadership. The narrative centers on Zeke (Richard Pryor), Jerry (Harvey Keitel), and Smokey (Yaphet Kotto), beleaguered autoworkers whose desperation drives them to a risky plan to rob their union office, only to inadvertently uncover deeper corruption.

"Blue Collar" is a gritty exposé of systemic corruption and identity politics within the 1970s Rust Belt. Schrader offers a potent commentary on the mechanisms that preserve the status quo, showing how unions, while initially protective, also cage workers within unyielding bureaucracies. The film critiques these entities as not just complicit, but actively harmful in their pursuit for control, mirroring broader societal themes. The characters' bitter struggle for survival amidst overwhelming pressures is compellingly portrayed with raw, palpable emotion, underscoring Schrader’s pointed observations about division and exploitation.

The performances are robust and authentic, with Richard Pryor, Harvey Keitel, and Yaphet Kotto bringing depth and nuance to their roles. Their interactions convincingly illustrate the tension between camaraderie and self-preservation. As the narrative progresses, the aftermath of their failed heist delves into how corruption metastasizes, turning friends into adversaries and highlighting the pervading disillusionment among laborers. Though some may argue Schrader’s portrayal is somewhat one-dimensional in attributing Detroit’s decline solely to union malfeasance, the film’s effectiveness lies in its unflinching realism and its critical look at power dynamics within American industrial labor.

Paul Schrader's "Blue Collar" offers an incisive and unvarnished look into the struggles of America's working class. This compelling drama, featuring extraordinary performances from Richard Pryor, Harvey Keitel, and Yaphet Kotto, delves into the lives of three factory workers who conspire to rob their union office, only to find themselves entangled in a web of corruption and betrayal. Schrader expertly captures the desperation and disillusionment that were prevalent among industrial workers in the 1970s, making "Blue Collar" a poignant and timely reflection on socio-economic disparity.

Kino Lorber Studio Classics' Blu-ray release of "Blue Collar" is a commendable effort that preserves the film's gritty aesthetic while delivering a clear and satisfying visual experience. Although the video transfer stems from an older source, it holds up well, with solid detail and authenticity that reflect the film’s raw atmosphere. The audio mix is robust, enhancing the film’s gripping narrative and dynamic performances. Additionally, the inclusion of an archival audio commentary provides valuable insights and makes this edition a must-have for aficionados of Schrader’s work and classic American cinema.

Currently, "Blue Collar" is perhaps the most relevant political film to come out of the '70s because it correctly identifies all of the key factors that, more than four decades ago, initiated the destruction of large parts of America's Heartland. However, what is truly remarkable about this film is that, perhaps somewhat unintentionally, it also points a finger at the ideological hypocrites that willingly directed the destruction while pretending to defend the interests of those who suffered the most. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.