Repo Man Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Blu-ray release of "Repo Man" presents an impressive 1080p transfer, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, and framed at 1.78:1. Supervised by transfer expert Lee Kline and colorist Joe Gawler, this high-definition transfer was created from the original camera negative with meticulous care, employing an ARRISCAN film scanner at 2K resolution. The comprehensive digital restoration process involved the removal of thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, splices, and warps using MTI's DRS, while Image Systems' Phoenix was utilized for refining minor dirt, grain, noise reduction, flicker, and jitter. The transfer is darker than the UK release by Eureka Entertainment, featuring richer and better-saturated greens, browns, blues, and grays.

The Criterion transfer excels in image depth, particularly in close-up shots where the richness of light and dark contrasts offers a superior viewing experience. Grain is consistently visible throughout, providing a realistic filmic texture without introducing problematic noise. The absence of large damage marks, debris, cuts, or warps ensures a stable and enjoyable visual presentation. The high-definition clarity is notable, especially in daytime scenes where textures in clothing, cars, and Los Angeles' architecture are vividly distinct. Nighttime sequences maintain superb shadow detail and balanced contrast, with deep blacks and clean, bright whites.

For fans of this cult sci-fi comedy, Criterion's release is a significant step up from previous home video editions. The superior compression and color accuracy ensure an animated and energetic viewing experience that retains the gritty nature of Robby Müller's cinematography. This Blu-ray transfer stands as the definitive version, making it a must-own for collectors.

The audio presentation of the "Repo Man" Blu-ray features an English LPCM 1.0 track that offers a faithful and engaging experience for this cult classic. Utilizing the original 35mm DME magnetic soundtrack, the uncompressed PCM mono track exhibits strong depth, fluidity, and a broad range of nuanced dynamics. While it does not push the limits of modern audio systems, its organic sound quality is remarkable and greatly enhances the viewing experience. Optional English SDH subtitles are available as well, ensuring accessibility for all viewers.

The dialog throughout is crystal-clear, stable, and easy to follow, with no dropouts or distortions reported. The acoustical presence is exceptional, perfectly centered yet expansive, contributing to a rich audio environment. The dynamic range is surprisingly extensive for a mono track, handling loud, screeching noises and mid-level sounds with precision. Additionally, the mid-bass presence is robust, especially around scenes involving the Chevy Malibu, giving notable weight to the film's audio design.

Finally, the excellent soundtrack receives a noticeable boost, further amplifying the film’s unique atmosphere. This lossless mix mirrors its Master of Cinema counterpart from the U.K., providing a thoroughly immersive audio experience that will satisfy both new viewers and long-time fans alike.

The Blu-ray disc extras for "Repo Man" create a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the film's unique production history, cultural impact, and enduring legacy. Highlights include an insightful commentary track featuring director Alex Cox and key figures from the film’s production, and a fascinating TV version of the movie with deleted scenes and comedic overdubs. Additional features delve into behind-the-scenes stories, cast interviews, an overview of the influential soundtrack, and thought-provoking reflections from industry icons like Harry Dean Stanton and Iggy Pop. This collection offers an enriching viewing experience for dedicated fans and newcomers alike, showcasing the film's indelible mark on punk culture and cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Engaging discussion with Alex Cox, Michael Nesmith, and cast members.
• The TV Version: Rare re-edited version with deleted scenes.
• Repossessed: Reflective interviews with the director and producers.
• The Missing Scenes: Dialogue on deleted scenes featuring Alex Cox and Michael Nesmith.
• Harry Zen Stanton: Actor Harry Dean Stanton discusses his life philosophy.
• Plate O' Shrimp: Interviews focusing on the punk themes and soundtrack.
• Iggy Pop: Musician Iggy Pop discusses his contributions to the film's soundtrack.
• The Secret Truths of Repo Man: Hilarious critical analysis with imaginative conspiracies.
• Trailers: Original film trailers in HD.

Alex Cox's 1984 film "Repo Man" deftly combines elements of science fiction, punk rock ethos, and social satire. The narrative follows Otto (Emilio Estevez), a young punk who becomes a repo man under the mentorship of the grizzled Bud (Harry Dean Stanton). The unconventional plot introduces UFO conspiracy theories, extraterrestrial phenomena, and government agents, all chasing after a mysterious 1964 Chevy Malibu. This car has alien-like properties that transform it into an object of obsession for various eccentric characters, adding layers of unpredictability and surreal humor.

The characters serve as conduits for Cox's incisive critiques of American society during the Reagan era. Estevez adeptly portrays Otto's existential disillusionment, while Stanton's Bud offers cynical yet oddly poignant commentaries on the state of the world. These interactions highlight a broader theme: the absurdity of perceived autonomy within a system that paradoxically enslaves its believers. The socio-political undertones are enriched by the juxtaposition of Otto's rebellion against punk lifestyle ideals and his integration into the rigid structure of repo work.

Technically, "Repo Man" is a hodgepodge of offbeat absurdity, brought to life by its low-budget production values and idiosyncratic directorial choices. Its unique visual style and punk-infused soundtrack featuring Iggy Pop, Suicidal Tendencies, and Black Flag, further underscore the film’s irreverent tone. The Blu-ray release from Criterion adorns this cult classic with insightful supplements, including interviews with key figures like Iggy Pop and Harry Dean Stanton, audio commentary by Alex Cox, and deleted scenes. An illustrated booklet with essays and production history adds depth to the viewing experience. This edition ensures that Cox's eccentric vision remains vibrant and accessible to both new viewers and long-time fans.

Alex Cox's 1984 cult classic, 'Repo Man,' features an intriguing blend of punk rock, sci-fi, and social satire that captures the essence of the era. Starring Harry Dean Stanton and Emilio Estevez, this film delivers a bizarre yet brilliant commentary on modernity, infusing dead aliens, government conspiracies, and the repo business into a hilariously weird narrative. The Criterion Collection's Blu-ray release of 'Repo Man' offers an exceptional audio and video presentation, preserving the film's gritty aesthetic while enhancing its visual and auditory impact.

The supplemental content included with this Blu-ray is impressive and extensive. It features an engaging audio commentary with director Alex Cox, executive producer Michael Nesmith, casting director Victoria Thomas, and actors Sy Richardson, Zander Schloss, and Del Zamora. Additionally, newly conducted interviews with cast members and musicians such as Dick Rude, Olivia Barash, Miguel Sandoval, Iggy Pop, and Key Morris further enrich the offering. The set also includes deleted scenes, theatrical trailers, and a roundtable discussion about the film’s production. A particularly entertaining extra is the conversation between Harry Dean Stanton and Peter McCarthy. This release also includes Cox’s “cleaned-up” TV version of the film and a 68-page booklet featuring an essay by critic Sam McPheeters, an illustrated production history by Cox, and a 1987 interview with a real-life repo man.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray of 'Repo Man' is an exemplary release that will likely become a favorite among many collectors this year. The film's restoration is impressive, and the abundance of high-quality bonus features, including a new video interview with Iggy Pop, makes it an indispensable addition for fans of the film or cult cinema in general. This release is VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.