Ravage Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Ravage" offers a visual presentation that reflects its shot-on-video origins, utilizing an AVC encoded image with a 1.33:1 aspect ratio presented in 1080p. Sourced from the original VHS, the overall picture quality is expectedly fuzzy, lacking significant fine detail but effectively maintaining general frame element identification. While colors tend to appear flat, they benefit from the film’s period fashion elements that imbue the presentation with more dynamic hues, particularly noticeable in reds and blues during action sequences. Delineation services hold steady, though some detail is lost in heavier segments.

The transfer comes with a decent condition source, highlighted by minor visible damages but offering improved image quality and compression compared to prior releases, notably the 2002 DVD from Sub Rosa. Black levels, although deep, may cause challenges in visibility during nighttime scenes and interiors due to their tendency to obscure detail. This Blu-ray edition, released by Saturn’s Core, represents the most superior quality currently available, showing a significant enhancement over previous versions.

A noteworthy feature of this release includes the “Director’s Cut,” which subtly integrates edits within shootout scenes and computer-generated enhancements to blood squib effects. These modifications are subtly executed, ensuring they do not overtly disrupt the viewing experience unless closely scrutinized against the original cut. The disc also accommodates access to the original version of the film via special features, providing an 82-minute viewing option that avid fans may find valuable for comparative analysis. Overall, despite its limitations inherent from original source material, this Blu-ray offers a competent and engaging presentation of "Ravage."

The audio presentation of "Ravage" on Blu-ray is a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix. Dialogue clarity is consistently maintained, ensuring that exchanges remain comprehensible despite the occasional sync issues and uneven on-set audio. Notably, large set pieces sometimes cause dialogue to echo, though this does not significantly detract from the overall experience. Synth-heavy scoring effectively heightens suspense and is complemented by strategic use of rock tracks that signal villainous appearances or enhance bloody effects.

Sound effects within "Ravage" are distinct and impactful, delivering a visceral audio experience. The feature is characterized by sharp gunfire positioned prominently in the soundstage, contributing to intense action sequences. The creative use of bizarre warping effects adds an auditory layer that deepens the film's ominous tone, while gunshots thump solidly, heightening the tension during prolonged shootouts. English subtitles are provided, offering additional accessibility.

The Blu-ray extras for "Ravage" provide an extensive and immersive behind-the-scenes experience that is essential for fans of the film. With engaging and detailed content, these extras delve into the creation process with a focus on technical nuances. The multiple audio commentaries offer varied perspectives from the director, writers, and crew, enhancing the viewing experience with insightful discussions about filmmaking challenges and creative decisions. The release includes a fascinating feature-length documentary, "The Year of 'Ravage'," which captures the labor-intensive year-long production process with substantial attention to practical effects like squib construction. Accompanying this are humorous outtakes, an extensive photo gallery, an intriguing short film, and a comparative feature analyzing digital changes made over the years. These features together provide a comprehensive look at the film's history and artistic evolution.

Extras included in this disc:

• Original VHS Version of Ravage: The original film version with multiple commentary options.
• Commentary #1: Features co-writer/director Ronnie Sortor.
• Commentary #2: Features Sortor and crew members Dan Rowland, Frank Alexander, Mike Smith, and Todd Reynolds.
• Commentary #3: Features Ronnie Sortor and co-producer Byron Blakey.
• The Year of 'Ravage': A documentary detailing the year-long production process.
• Outtake Reel: Compilation of mistakes and bloopers.
• Photo Gallery: Behind-the-scenes images and media covers.
• Transient Error: A short film by Byron Blakey.
• 1997 vs. 2022: A comparison of digital changes through the years.
• Original Trailer: The initial promotional trailer for "Ravage."
• Final Cut Trailer: The trailer for the revised cut.

"Ravage" ambitiously endeavors to capture the essence of a gritty Hollywood thriller through shot-on-video technology, guided by co-writer/director Ronnie Sortor. This revenge tale follows the path of criminal psychologist Gregory, who embarks on a vengeful mission after his family falls victim to a maniacal killer, Charles. While Sortor channels a Michael Mann-esque energy, he struggles to elevate "Ravage" beyond its evident amateur framework and constrained resources. The narrative occasionally ventures into convoluted territory but remains a showcase for violence, with a focus on gunplay and blood effects that sometimes verge on parody.

The film maintains an engaging, action-oriented flow with impressively staged set pieces despite its budgetary limitations. It succeeds in delivering some intense action sequences without frequently faltering, making it akin to a fervent homage from a budget-conscious Hong Kong action fan. The weaknesses of "Ravage" emerge in its shallow exploration of Charles’ criminal network and in a storyline that intermittently loses momentum. Performances vary, with Dan Rowland providing a commendable portrayal of the villain, while leads Mark Brazeale and Dina Harris deliver more subdued performances. The film’s aesthetic avoids the typical SOV pitfalls by choosing diverse and engaging locations over mundane settings.

"Ravage" chiefly aims to entertain and engage audiences who relish low-budget, blood-soaked thrillers. Technically, it stands out with well-conceived action sequences and careful editing of complex scenes. While it does not break new ground in the genre, its determination to captivate through relentless action ensures its place as an enjoyable SOV feature. Its visceral portrayal of vengeance may appeal primarily to fans who appreciate the earnest efforts of micro-budget filmmaking to deliver high-octane excitement.

"Ravage" on Blu-ray offers an attempt at an engaging fusion of revenge themes with action-driven sequences. The film's low-budget origins are apparent, highlighted by its shot-on-video (SOV) constraints such as inconsistent lighting and the often disorienting nature of handheld camerawork. These technical limitations are a hurdle for its intent to generate excitement or evoke deep emotional responses. Despite the challenges, the narrative bravely explores the raw emotional turbulence associated with rage and revenge.

Performances in "Ravage" can at times seem awkward due to underwhelming dialogue and lackluster staging. However, these elements do not overshadow the ambition exhibited by the production team, who aim to deliver a compelling thriller. The action sequences, while not groundbreaking in sophistication, are executed with a level of confidence that may satisfy fans of genre classics like Hong Kong action films and psycho killer stories. For viewers who approach with moderate expectations, the film provides some entertainment value.

The Blu-ray release from Saturn’s Core comes with a commendable audio-visual quality considering the film's inherent technical shortcomings. Fans of SOV productions will appreciate the array of supplementary materials included, such as commentaries and featurettes, which enhance the viewing experience by offering deeper insights into the film's creation process.

In conclusion, "Ravage" effectively presents a modest contribution to its genre, constrained by SOV limitations yet striving to entertain through earnest storytelling and dynamic, albeit uncomplicated, action. While lacking in polish or depth, it may appeal to specific audience segments seeking nostalgia or an understanding of grassroots filmmaking efforts.