Jason X Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Jason X" on the Shout! Factory Blu-Ray disc offers a mixed bag in terms of visual quality. The picture, while clear, lacks the sharpness seen in other films of the series. The filtering applied introduces a slightly unnatural grain and an overall softness. Detail retention is commendable, particularly visible in close-ups of Jason's mask and the high-tech elements of the set design. However, there is a noticeable flatness in texture, especially during motion sequences where smearing becomes evident due to low pass filtering, a remnant from earlier Blu-Ray days. Black levels are solid but shadow detail tends to suffer from black crush, losing dimension. Print damage is minimal, making for a pleasant viewing experience despite these limitations.

Color timing in "Jason X" adheres to a steely and futuristic palette, with grays and blacks dominant at the beginning, gradually leading to softer and more varied tones as the film progresses. The contrast is particularly notable in scenes featuring �ber Jason, where his silvery and black motif stands out against the darker environment. Skin tones are processed with a heavy flesh tone that veers towards an elevated orange but remains within acceptable bounds. Primary colors such as blues and reds are vibrant and help elevate the overall visual aesthetic. Although not a new scan or transfer, this release manages to balance color saturation well, lending a consistent and engaging look throughout the film. Minor white clipping occurs, but it is significantly less impactful than the pervasive dark elements.

The audio presentation of "Jason X" on Blu-ray comes with both 2.0 and 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio lossless soundtracks, providing robust and dynamic listening experiences. The 2.0 stereo configuration boasts louder and more forceful opening title music. However, the 5.1 track significantly enhances clarity, low-end response, and spatial dynamics by utilizing the back channels effectively, especially during action scenes. The surround sound channels deliver high-energy music and effects, with gunfire and crashes prominent in the soundscape. The 5.1 track excels in sequences such as Kay-Em's battle with Jason, where spatial detailing elevates the immersive experience.

Both audio options present clear and well-prioritized dialogue. In the 2.0 configuration, the material images firmly at the center, mimicking a central speaker presence, while the 5.1 track naturally uses the designated center channel for dialogue. Alarms, bullets, and heavy crashes are distinct and convincing in both formats, yet the 5.1 configuration offers a more refined sense of spatiality and realism.

While both tracks are aggressive and enveloping, the 5.1 format undoubtedly provides a superior auditory experience through discrete channel usage and dynamic range. This is evident in scenes where alarms blare through multiple speakers and spaceships transition fluidly across the sound field. Though the audio presentation may feel slightly dated compared to modern blockbusters, it still delivers an energetic and chaotic atmosphere that enhances the film's action-packed sequences effectively, particularly when compared to the stereo track's impressive yet limited scope.

The Blu-ray release of "Jason X" offers a comprehensive selection of extras, providing deep insights into the film's production and legacy. Kane Hodder opens the disc with a humorous threat in the brief introduction. There are two audio commentaries; a new one by writer Todd Farmer and author Peter M. Bracke, and another featuring director Jim Isaac, producer Noel Cunningham, and Farmer. "Outta Space: The Making of Jason X" discusses various production aspects, while "In Space No One Can Hear You Scream" delves into Todd Farmer's retrospective thoughts. Actress Kristi Angus shares her experience in "Kristi Is a Headbanger." Sean S. Cunningham provides context on both "Jason Goes to Hell" and "Jason X." Vintage interviews and raw behind-the-scenes footage, as well as promotional materials like trailers and TV spots, enrich the offering.

Extras included in this disc:

• Introduction: Actor Kane Hodder's amusing threat.
• Audio Commentary: Writer Todd Farmer and author Peter M. Bracke.
• Audio Commentary: Director Jim Isaac, writer Todd Farmer, and producer Noel Cunningham.
• Outta Space: The Making of Jason X: In-depth discussions on film production.
• In Space No One Can Hear You Scream: Interview with Todd Farmer.
• Kristi Is a Headbanger: Interview with actress Kristi Angus.
• Jason Rebooted: Sean S. Cunningham on "Jason Goes to Hell" and "Jason X".
• Club Reel: Film clips set to high-energy music.
• Vintage Interviews: Extensive cast and crew insights.
• Behind-the-Scenes Footage: Fly-on-the-wall making-of footage.
• Electronic Press Kit: Raw set footage and brief interviews.
• Theatrical Trailers: Collection of promotional trailers.
• TV Spots: Upscaled TV advertisements.
• Still Gallery: Automated or manual image gallery.
• Posters and Behind-the-Scenes Gallery: Global promotional material.

"Jason X," released on Blu-ray by Scream Factory via Shout! Factory, presents a decent 1080p transfer and two lossless audio options. This edition also includes a treasure trove of new supplementary materials and maintains the extras from Warner Brothers' previous disc in their 2013 collection. It's part of the exclusive, limited Friday the 13th Collection, offering all twelve films featuring Jason Voorhees plus two bonus discs. However, note that there's a known audio glitch in one shot. Information for obtaining a replacement disc to rectify this issue is provided by Shout! Factory.

In the movie, Jason Voorhees (Kane Hodder) is captured by black ops for experimentation due to his regenerative tissue and inhuman strength. He escapes, slaughtering his captors, except Rowan LaFontaine (Lexa Doig), who traps him in a cryogenic chamber. She gets critically injured but ends up preserved in suspended animation like Jason. Four centuries later, they are discovered by an expedition team, bringing Rowan back to life with advanced surgery; Jason, assumed dead, awakens and goes on a killing spree, targeting futuristic humanity and becoming even more lethal.

"Jason X" boldly ventures into space, drawing comparisons to other series like "Critters 4" and "Leprechaun 4." While the plot is absurd, the film's self-referential humor shines, echoing the tone of "Jason Lives." Iconic kills such as a frozen face smash and a satirical nod to "The New Blood’s" sleeping bag scene stand out. The film also daringly tackles themes like catastrophic climate change, mad science, and ruthless capitalism. However, it still retains familiar Friday the 13th elements—gruesome deaths, arrogant foes, and even a duel with an android (Lisa Ryder), demonstrating an escalation fitting for the franchise. Though critically flawed, "Jason X" revels in its camp value and absurdity, proving somewhat entertaining as it dives into the space horror void.

Jason X may not be high art, but it's a return to the classic Friday the 13th style, refreshed and reenergized with a new setting and a new Jason (at least in the third act). In one of the supplements, the franchise is compared to a Big Mac, and that's what audiences get here: something familiar, comfortable, expected, and safe. It's a fun movie and it would be nice to see the franchise return with more inventive ideas wrapped around the classic concept. Shout!'s Blu-ray delivers stable video and quality audio along with a massive assortment of new extras. Recommended!

Knowingly stupid, Jason X takes a few opportunities to embrace what it is, but then falls into a rut where it takes this scenario seriously.

Jason X is a mixed bag of pure entertainment and missed opportunities. While the film boasts an ambitious setting and some truly enjoyable moments, it often straddles the line between self-awareness and unnecessary seriousness. The constant shift in tone can be jarring, but it doesn't overshadow the fun of seeing Jason Voorhees unleashed in a futuristic setting.

The Blu-ray release from Shout! Factory is commendable for its technical prowess. The video quality is stable and presents the film's special effects with clarity, while the audio is robust, enhancing both the thrilling sequences and the quieter moments. The real highlight of this release, however, is the wealth of new extras which provide deep insights into the film's production and legacy.

Despite its flaws, Jason X manages to deliver a familiar and satisfying experience for fans of the franchise. The movie's genuine attempts at humor and its willingness to experiment with the classic formula make it an interesting addition to the series. As an overall package, Shout! Factory's Blu-ray set is a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts looking to revisit this unique chapter in Jason's saga.

Conclusively, Jason X exemplifies a nostalgic yet fresh take on the Friday the 13th franchise. Its blend of familiar tropes and novel ideas, alongside Shout! Factory’s exceptional Blu-ray treatment, makes it an enjoyable ride for fans. Given its stable video and quality audio, coupled with extensive extras, this release stands out as a recommended addition to any collection.