Little Shop of Horrors Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Little Shop of Horrors," as shot by cinematographer Robert Paynter, is a marvel in video quality that brings to life the diverse visual palette of the film. Paynter, known for his collaborations with John Landis and director Frank Oz, showcases his expertise in balancing the murky, grim aesthetics of Skid Row against the vibrant hues of the girl group trio, Audrey II's flamboyant colors, and the dreamy pastels of Audrey's suburban visions. Warner’s 1080p, AVC-encoded transfer does justice to this visual feast, offering a level of detail so refined that the film feels contemporaneous to its 1986 release, despite the analog source and in-camera effects. The preservation of film grain enhances this authenticity, ensuring a visual experience that's both nostalgic and striking.

Colors on this Blu-ray pop with a fervor that honors the original vision, with the saturation levels carefully modulated to accentuate the film's dynamic shifts—from the dreary alleys of Skid Row to the outrageous spectacle of Audrey II. The meticulous attention to black levels and shadow details particularly stands out in scenes featuring Audrey dressed in her dark ensembles, providing a depth and contrast that adds to the character's allure. Moreover, the grotesque interior of Audrey II is presented with such clarity and detail that it underscores the practical effects’ effectiveness, contributing to the alien plant's unsettling charm.

Noteworthy is the technical finesse applied to this transfer, which avoids modern pitfalls such as unnecessary digital noise reduction or artificial sharpening. This restraint respects the original filmic texture, allowing for an image free from compression artifacts and maintaining a crisp yet authentic appearance that film purists and casual viewers alike can appreciate. The Blu-ray of "Little Shop of Horrors" stands as a testament to the care taken in preserving cinematic history while embracing the benefits of modern video technology.

The audio presentation of "Little Shop of Horrors" on Blu-ray is notably enhanced by its originally intended 70mm 6-track mix, providing a sonic experience that is both lush and meticulously detailed. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack excels in delivering tight, focused bass that serves as a robust backbone for Bob Gaudio's intricate instrumental arrangements. These are rendered with such crispness and clarity that even those familiar with the film's theatrical sound will find new details to appreciate. This is a mix where the technical prowess of the audio restoration shines, ensuring that every musical nuance and vocal intricacy is foregrounded, allowing for an immersive experience that rivals the quality of live theater.

Surround effects in this audio mix are applied judiciously, reserved for moments where they can have the most impactful narrative contribution, such as the enveloping rainfall during the title song or the thunderclaps that heighten tension at key plot points. These surround elements do more than simply add to the atmosphere; they support the musical score in a way that ensures it fully occupies the auditory space of the viewer. This strategic use of the surround channels complements the stereo field, making for an audibly engaging environment without overwhelming the listener.

Dialogue and vocals across this Blu-ray release confirm the care taken in preserving audio fidelity. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track maintains a consistency in clarity throughout, including within the seamlessly integrated director's cut ending. This preservation of audio quality across all elements of the mix underscores the commitment to an authentic restoration. Viewers can expect an experience where every line, lyric, and instrumental flourish is delivered with precision, contributing to a comprehensive celebration of the film's auditory artistry.

The Blu-ray edition of "Little Shop of Horrors" enriches the classic with a well-curated selection of extras that bring new life and understanding to the film's production and evolution. Most notably, this edition presents the infamous original ending in full color, a significant addition that contrasts sharply with its absence in earlier DVD releases due to producer David Geffen's intervention. Accompanying this are insightful commentaries by director Frank Oz, who shares behind-the-scenes details, especially on the technical challenges and creative decisions made during filming. Unique to this release is "Frank Oz and Little Shop of Horrors: The Director's Cut," a documentary offering an in-depth look at the original visuals and the audience's reaction leading to the ending’s reshoot. Further, the collection maintains historical continuity by including extras from the 1998 DVD, sans two TV spots, enhancing the appreciation for both the film’s legacy and its restoration process.

Extras included in this disc:

• Frank Oz and Little Shop of Horrors: The Director’s Cut: Oz and effects artist Richard Conway discuss the visual development of the original ending and the decision to reshoot it.
• A Story of Little Shop of Horrors: A documentary featuring interviews with key figures involved in the film's history.
• Commentary with Director Frank Oz: Detailed account of the technical challenges and creative decisions in adapting the musical for the big screen.
• Director's Cut Ending with Commentary by Frank Oz: A separate feature presenting Oz's commentary on the alternate ending.
• Outtakes and Deleted Scenes: Includes an optional commentary by Oz, offering insights into the gag reel shown at the cast party.
• Trailers: A collection of original trailers for the film.
• Digibook: Contains extensive information on the production and cast, along with a personal message from Frank Oz regarding the restored ending.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Little Shop of Horrors" offers a remarkable dive into both the evolution and execution of this cult classic turned Broadway hit, finally manifesting as a beloved film. At its heart, the story of Seymour and Audrey's hapless romance amidst the surreal backdrop of a man-eating plant from outer space, Audrey II, perfectly intertwines Howard Ashman's biting satire with Alan Menken's musically diverse palette. Their collaborative genius breathes life into a piece that expertly satirizes a myriad of cultural and genre conventions, all the while delivering a moving, if unconventional, love story. The film adaptation, directed by Frank Oz, is heralded for its fidelity to the stage production, encapsulated in this Director's Cut edition, allowing audiences to truly appreciate the detailed craftsmanship that went into bridging the gap between stage and screen.

The narrative prowess of Ashman is matched only by Menken’s composition, which skilfully plays upon various musical styles to emphasize the emotional and thematic undercurrents of the film. The transition from stage to screen was executed with meticulous attention to maintaining the intimate charm of the original, despite scaling up for a cinematic audience. The re-introduction of the film's original, darker ending in this Director’s Cut presents viewers with the creators' unfiltered vision, showcasing an audacious departure from conventional storytelling that was decades ahead of its time. This choice not only underlines the creative risks taken but also allows for a richer understanding of the film's thematic depth.

Technical aspects of this Blu-ray marvel highlight its incredible visual and auditory restoration, enabling a new generation to experience the film’s unique blend of horror, comedy, and romance in unparalleled quality. The detailed puppetry work behind Audrey II and the meticulous set designs are particularly enhanced, underscoring the film's innovative approach to practical effects. Moreover, the inclusion of cut songs and scenes presents a fuller picture of the creative journey behind "Little Shop of Horrors," making this edition a comprehensive tribute to Ashman and Menken's iconic work. Through this Blu-ray release, Warner and Frank Oz not only honor the legacy of "Little Shop of Horrors" but also ensure its place in the annals of musical theatre and cinema history.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Little Shop of Horrors" stands as a testament to Frank Oz's directorial prowess and the unforgettable performances that have made this film a cult classic. The high-definition transfer breathes new life into the vibrant sets and intricate puppetry work, ensuring that the carnivorous antics of Audrey II look more menacing than ever. The audio mix is equally commendable, perfectly balancing the memorable songs with dialogue and the menacing undertones of the man-eating plant's growth, offering an immersive viewing experience.

Steve Martin's portrayal of Orin Scrivello is, without a doubt, a highlight of the film, his performance remains unparalleled, capturing the essence of the sadistic dentist with such vigor that it almost overshadows the stage versions. Ellen Greene as Audrey transcends the screen, her performance not only definitive but also imbued with a raw emotion that studio enhancements simply can't replicate. Furthermore, Bill Murray's addition as the masochistic dental patient Arthur Denton adds a layer of quirky humor unique to Oz's adaptation, showcasing his ability to enhance the narrative with memorable characters.

In conclusion, "Little Shop of Horrors" on Blu-ray not only celebrates the artistry and energy of the original theatrical release but also enhances it, providing a richer, more detailed experience. With stellar performances that have become the benchmark for these characters, and a presentation that highlights both the visual and auditory elements with great care, this release is highly recommended. It encapsulates an iconic piece of cinematic history, making it an essential addition to any collector's library, ensuring that Oz's vision continues to enthrall audiences for generations to come.