Red Dawn Blu-ray Review

Shout Select's Blu-ray release of "Red Dawn" endeavors to be the definitive high-definition version of this iconic World-War-III-themed film. However, this edition ultimately falls short due to recycling the same master used for the 2012 MGM Blu-ray release. The transfer is a mixed bag; it retains a satisfactory MPEG-4 AVC encoding at 1080p resolution and adheres faithfully to the original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. However, a closer examination reveals several technical deficiencies. While compression is somewhat inferior, averaging a bitrate of 27998 kbps compared to MGM’s 32696 kbps, the entire video bitrate for Shout stands at 33.58 mbps vs. MGM's superior 41.70 mbps. A barrage of white speckles and debris pepper the screen noticeably, especially during reel changes and transitional shots. Although the coarse grain structure is preserved, requiring more exhaustive color correction and blemish removal, new restoration would be highly beneficial.

The video quality varies considerably across the different scenes, from quite good and colorful to dark and noisy, affecting facial features—sometimes appearing natural while at other moments presenting a glossy, waxed look. Outdoor daytime action sequences manage to showcase an acceptable depth, and the overall image maintains sufficient smoothness with minimal blurring or jittering, providing a reasonably cinematic experience. However, black levels are overly deep, causing details to disappear into shadows, and a consistent graininess pervades darker scenes.

Despite the natural color reproduction with occasional pops of green and red, and some notably strong oranges in fire and lamplight scenes, the consistency of flesh tones and finer facial details in close-ups is commendable. Yet, medium shots tend to look smoother than desired. Dirt, debris, and occasional artifacts persist throughout the film, demanding a more comprehensive cleanup. Overall, Shout Select's edition warrants a new scan from the original negatives to truly enhance the presentation quality to the level it deserves.

The audio presentation of the "Red Dawn" Blu-ray from Shout Select is a notable improvement over its previous MGM release. It features both a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround (2024 kbps) and the original DTS-HD Master Audio Stereo (1590 kbps), compared to MGM's sole 5.1 remix with an average bitrate of 1578 kbps. The audio mix from composer Basil Poledouris offers excellent directionality and dynamic range, particularly during the main titles and various action sequences involving RPG firearms, gun turrets, and grenades, which effectively utilize the surround channels. English dialogue is mostly clear, although it lacks the crispness found in modern releases. Optional English SDH subtitles are included for the main feature.

While the 5.1 mix is a carryover from earlier versions, it is well-rendered given the age of the movie, handling explosions and low-frequency effects with precision, although the impact can feel somewhat pedestrian. Gunfire and other directional sound effects travel seamlessly across speakers, enhancing the immersive experience. However, dialogue reproduction could use improvement; voices are loud but somewhat muffled, lacking the precision expected from a lossless format. Despite these limitations, the audio track remains serviceable and offers a satisfactory listening experience for fans of the film.

Additionally, Shout Select includes an English 2.0 DTS-HD MA mix, providing an alternative that some may prefer over the more immersive 5.1 surround option. While the overall soundstage is primarily front-focused with light use of surrounds for atmosphere, the addition of this stereo track offers versatility for different listening preferences. In conclusion, the audio advancements in this Blu-ray release make it a worthwhile upgrade for enthusiasts who value sound quality.

The Blu-ray extras for "Red Dawn" offer a solid blend of insightful retrospectives and production featurettes, albeit lacking participation from some key cast members. The standout addition is the new retrospective documentary, "A Look Back at Red Dawn," featuring fresh interviews with Doug Toby, casting director Jane Jenkins, production designer Jackson DeGovia, and editor Thom Noble. Although it misses some major players due to various reasons, it attempts to fill those gaps through engaging discussions about the film’s production and legacy. The previously available featurettes, such as "Red Dawn Rising" and "Training for WWIII," are included in standard definition but remain rich in behind-the-scenes content. The packaging also provides a visual treat with reversible artwork featuring the film's original poster.

Extras included in this disc:

• A Look Back at Red Dawn: Reflections and stories from key figures about the making of the film.
• Red Dawn Rising: Director John Milius and stars discuss the film.
• Building the Red Menace: Insight into the weaponry used on set.
• Training for WWIII: Cast and crew on military action preparation.
• WWIII Comes to Town: Explores the filming location in Las Vegas, New Mexico.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original trailer for the film.

"Red Dawn," directed by John Milius, remains a quintessential reflection of 1980s Cold War paranoia while offering a high-octane, guerrilla warfare narrative. The film's depiction of a Soviet-led invasion of a small Colorado town encapsulated the palpable fear of nuclear war that pervaded the era. This scenario is starkly introduced as Soviet paratroopers land, triggering chaos and violence, propelling a group of high school athletes, led by Patrick Swayze's Jed Eckert, into the wilderness to wage a resolute resistance. The ensemble cast—featuring burgeoning talents like Charlie Sheen, C. Thomas Howell, Lea Thompson, and Jennifer Grey—immerses themselves in their roles, bringing vigour to this speculative conflict.

Milius's screenplay interweaves overtones of Reagan-era foreign policy sentiments, underscored by references such as Robert's Star Wars cap, alluding to the Strategic Defense Initiative. Jed's leadership exemplifies the rugged, individualistic hero archetype celebrated during Reagan's presidency. The film doesn't shy from controversy, presenting a polarized view of Latin American involvement and framing the conflict with an air of propagandistic tension. Powerful scenes, such as the heartbreaking reeducation camp encounter between the Eckert brothers and their father, poignantly underscore the familial and ideological struggles during wartime.

Despite some narrative implausibilities—such as the unheralded arrival of Soviet forces—"Red Dawn" thrives on its raw emotional and action-driven appeal. The portrayal of young fighters grappling with loss amidst brutal skirmishes ensures a captivating watch. Although criticized for its one-dimensional representation of Latin Americans and an overly simplistic dichotomy of good versus evil, the film succeeds as both a thrilling war-time action piece and a cultural artifact reflecting its time. Whether analyzed deeply for its political undercurrents or enjoyed as a vintage action saga, "Red Dawn" steadfastly engages and entertains.

Shout! Factory’s release of "Red Dawn" on Blu-ray is a mixed bag for fans of this classic 80s action/war film. Sporting flag-waving patriotism and a unique premise, "Red Dawn" remains fun and entertaining over three decades later. The transfer and audio, unfortunately, remain largely unchanged from prior releases, bringing some dated visuals and sound qualities. This may disappoint fans hoping for a fresh 2K scan or significant cleanup of dirt and debris.

The main attraction here is an extensive new documentary, which offers over an hour of retrospective interviews. This featurette adds value, especially for hardcore fans who crave additional behind-the-scenes insights. However, for those who already own the MGM Blu-ray edition, the decision to upgrade hinges primarily on this new content. Shout! Factory has made an effort with the resources available, yet the enhancements are minimal outside the documentary.

In summary, "Red Dawn" on Blu-ray from Shout! Factory is a viable option for those who do not own previous versions or are new collectors of the film. If the MGM edition is already in your collection and you desire the new interviews, it might be wise to wait for a price drop below $15. The movie itself continues to deliver solid entertainment value, but this release stops short of being definitive. RECOMMENDED with qualifiers.