White Line Fever Blu-ray Review

Mill Creek Entertainment's Blu-ray release of "White Line Fever" presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, delivers a 1080p transfer that exhibits both strengths and evident flaws. The video transfer seems to stem from an older Sony master, leading to mixed results. While the facial details are crisp and the location cinematography of Utah is well-defined, the overall presentation is undermined by noticeable compression artifacts and fluctuating contrast levels. This inconsistency is particularly evident in bright scenes, where digital noise and slightly elevated contrast detract from the viewing experience.

In comparison to the Swiss release from Explosive Media, this version shows minor but clear differences. Although the Swiss disc suffers from improper gamma settings, it tends to maintain a more natural, organic look, which can be particularly appealing on larger screens or projection setups. The Mill Creek edition offers slightly better encoding, yet the enhanced sharpness in select segments gives an unnatural edge that can be distracting. Additionally, the use of a dustier print, albeit mostly free from deep scratches and gate weave, affects the visual clarity and consistency.

Overall, while the Mill Creek Blu-ray of "White Line Fever" brings out the film’s color vibrancy—showcasing strong primaries and rich textures—it fails to surpass the older Swiss release in delivering a fully cohesive and artifact-free presentation. Enhanced close-up details and vivid colors are positives, but factors such as compressive artifacting and black level deficiencies render this release somewhat inferior for those seeking a more authentic visual rendition.

The audio presentation of the "White Line Fever" Blu-ray features a single standard track, presented in English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 (48kHz, 24-bit). Optional English SDH subtitles are also available for the main feature. Notably, there are no technical issues to report with this lossless audio track, which maintains the same characteristics evident in previous releases of the film. While a potential new master by Sony might bring slight dynamic and balance enhancements, these would be purely cosmetic and marginal at best.

The DTS-HD mono track delivers a robust and organic mix. Although one explosion slightly pushes the treble boundary, the rest of the soundtrack remains clear and engaging. The country music soundtrack complements the film well, providing a smooth low-end and sharp, intelligible lyrics. Dialogue clarity is maintained throughout, with sound quality that matches the expectations for a film from this period.

The Blu-ray release of "White Line Fever" notably lacks any extras, failing to offer additional features that might enhance the viewing experience beyond the main film. The absence of behind-the-scenes content, interviews, or commentaries is particularly disappointing for enthusiasts who seek a deeper dive into the movie's production and legacy. This omission aligns with the retro aesthetic of the VHS throwback slipcover but leaves much to be desired in terms of supplementary material.

Extras included in this disc: None: This Blu-ray release contains no additional features or bonus content.

"White Line Fever" (1975), directed by Jonathan Kaplan, is a gripping tale that melds elements of the classical Western with the rugged lifestyle of American truckers. The film presents Jan-Michael Vincent as Carrol Jo Hummer, a determined ex-Air Force pilot turned independent trucker who challenges the corrupt corporate powers controlling the trucking industry in Arizona. Hummer's refusal to engage in illegal activities for shady business partners leads to violent confrontations, capturing the gritty essence of '70s action films. This narrative methodically layers traditional Western motifs with a modern backdrop, creating a unique cinematic experience where the protagonist’s big rig replaces the cowboy’s horse.

The film meticulously constructs its conflict, reminiscent of works by directors like Sam Peckinpah and Howard Hawks, accentuating themes of rebellion against oppressive systems. Kaplan's strategic use of seasoned actors such as Slim Pickens, L.Q. Jones, and R.G. Armstrong deepens the film's authentic Western flavor. The action sequences maintain a high level of realism, enhanced by the engaging performance of its cast and the persistent tension that underscores Hummer's fight against systemic injustice.

Despite its occasional lapses into hokey tropes and caricatured depictions of good versus evil, "White Line Fever" effectively capitalizes on the viewer's sympathies for the underdog. The film’s socio-economic critiques resonate strongly with its audience, reflecting mid-1970s concerns about corporate greed and economic disparity. The climactic act of Hummer driving his truck through a corporate logo serves as a powerful symbol of defiance against corrupt authorities. Overall, "White Line Fever" stands as an early cinematic examination of wealth inequality, resonating with viewers through its simplistic yet impactful portrayal of the American struggle for justice and survival.

White Line Fever receives a Blu-ray release from Mill Creek Entertainment sourced from an older master previously used by Explosive Media for their Swiss release. The transfer quality remains relatively consistent, though some viewers may notice different technical presentations between the two versions. While the Mill Creek release provides a commendable visual experience, it may lack some of the refinement seen in other recent restorations. However, it still manages to capture the essence of the 1970s in its raw and gritty cinematography.

Jonathan Kaplan’s direction in White Line Fever offers an American 'kitchen-sink' vibe that sets it apart from similar films of its genre. The film features compelling performances, notably from Jan-Michael Vincent, who plays the determined protagonist standing up against corruption and exploitation. Additionally, seasoned actors like L.Q. Jones, Slim Pickens, and R.G. Armstrong deliver strong supporting roles, enriching the narrative depth.

In conclusion, Mill Creek Entertainment's release of White Line Fever caters well to fans of the genre despite being derived from an older master. The casual, yet impactful presentation works to the film’s advantage, making it a practical option for 1970s cinema enthusiasts. However, those seeking superior visual fidelity and engaging bonus features may still prefer the Swiss release by Explosive Media. Whether or not Michael Cimino drew inspiration from this film for Year of the Dragon, both share a strong thematic backbone centered on relentless individual missions rooted in classic Americana.