The Big Bus Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original 2.35:1 Panavision aspect ratio, "The Big Bus" Blu-ray release delivers an exceptional 1080p transfer using the MPEG-4 AVC codec. This new Blu-ray edition from Kino Lorber benefits from a meticulous 4K restoration conducted by Paramount Pictures. The transfer exhibits remarkable sharpness and clarity, bringing the vibrant, bold colors typical of the mid-1970s production design to life with striking intensity. The fidelity to the original filmic texture ensures that the viewing experience remains immersive and true to the period aesthetic, allowing the intricate patterns and colors to shine on screen.

The restored master offers profound delineation, clarity, and depth, aligning closely with the quality one might expect from a native 4K presentation. Image stability is robust, as no digital corrections are apparent, enhancing the film's authentic look. While a few darker scenes might be perfected in a native 4K format, the overall quality is outstanding, with excellent density levels and well-balanced primary colors. The grading has been expertly handled to create a nuanced visual experience, making "The Big Bus" something of a visual treat, particularly when viewed on a larger display. This release requires a Region-A or Region-Free Blu-ray player for access.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray release of "The Big Bus" stands as a testament to the effective application of modern restoration techniques on classic film elements, offering an intensely gratifying viewing experience that blends historical authenticity with enhanced visual quality.

The Blu-ray release of "The Big Bus" presents two standard audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, with optional English SDH subtitles fittingly placed within the image frame. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track stands out by significantly amplifying the dynamic music score and enhancing action sequences with its immersive soundstage. Paramount Pictures' effort in remastering is evident through this track's robust and vibrant audio quality, ensuring an engaging auditory experience.

Conversely, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo surround mix provides a more subdued yet cohesive sound environment. While the 5.1 mix occasionally suffers from phasing issues within the music track, the 2.0 mix excels in maintaining a balanced integration of David Shire's musical compositions and sound effects. However, dialogue can occasionally be slightly underpowered against the lush acoustic backdrop; despite this, the track delivers clarity and focus in spoken content, resulting in a consistently satisfactory listening experience for viewers preferring a less expansive sound domain.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Big Bus" offer an engaging retrospective on this cult classic film. The exclusive new audio commentary features critics Howard S. Berger and Nathaniel Thompson in an insightful discussion, covering the film’s unique blend of humor and satire, as well as its production nuances and reception. Their conversation, while rich in detail about the creation of the colossal vehicle in the film, also meanders through topics related to other comedic and disaster films of the era, providing a broader cinematic context. Additionally, the disc includes vintage materials such as a theatrical trailer and TV spots sourced from VHS, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the original marketing efforts for "The Big Bus." The collection is instrumental for fans and film historians, providing valuable insights and entertainment.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: A vintage U.S. trailer for "The Big Bus," sourced from VHS.
• TV Spots: A couple of vintage TV spots for the film, sourced from VHS.
• Commentary: A detailed audio commentary by film historians Howard S. Berger and Nathaniel Thompson.

"The Big Bus" (1976), directed by James Frawley and now available on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber, promises a journey of both laughs and mishaps akin to the famed "Airplane!" but with its own distinct identity. The movie centers around the Cyclops, a peculiar nuclear-powered bus, complete with extravagant amenities like a bowling alley, pool, and bar, as it embarks on its maiden voyage from New York to Denver. The crew and passengers comprise a classic ensemble cast, reminiscent of disaster films from the 1960s and 1970s, each character embroiled in personal subplots that cleverly mimic past cinematic trends.

While the film offers a unique setup and showcases impressive visuals reflective of the era’s big-budget endeavors, its comedic execution misses the mark compared to its more famous successor, "Airplane!". The screenplay by Fred Freeman and Lawrence J. Cohen employs a familiar template by introducing various character archetypes facing catastrophic circumstances, but it falters in delivering consistently humorous content. Despite scattered moments of brilliance, largely attributed to individual performances by talents such as Joseph Bologna and John Beck, much of the humor feels unfocused or overextended, resulting in an uneven comedic rhythm.

Notable for its real-life titular vehicle crafted with precision by Paramount at a substantial cost, "The Big Bus" seeks to entertain with its outlandish concept and comedic potential. The film’s attempt at satire, punctuated by technical marvels, engages viewers with sporadic success. However, it struggles to maintain momentum due to a reliance on stretched comedic set pieces and underutilized talent. This Blu-ray release brings fresh appreciation for the visual spectacle while offering commentary that enriches understanding, even as it underscores the limitations in comedic impact when compared to its peers in the disaster spoof genre.

The Blu-ray release of "The Big Bus" by Kino Lorber is a noteworthy enhancement for home video enthusiasts. This remastered edition presents the film in a pristine 4K restoration courtesy of Paramount Pictures, preserving both visual and audio fidelity with exceptional clarity. The film, a disaster movie spoof directed by James Frawley, oscillates between hits and misses, delivering plenty of comedic moments capitalized by its ensemble of familiar faces from films and television. While the over-the-top plot offers ample laughs, it occasionally fails to deliver consistently.

Technically, the new Blu-ray truly excels, standing as one of the finest restorations licensed to Kino Lorber. The picture quality maintains refined detail and depth throughout, showcasing the film in an unparalleled visual presentation for this medium. The audio track complements this with a well-rendered balance that enriches the overall viewing experience, making it accessible for both new viewers and longtime fans hoping for a definitive version.

In conclusion, if you have been anticipating a high-quality release of "The Big Bus," this Blu-ray satisfies that need comprehensively. While the comedic elements may not resonate with everyone, the technical prowess of this release undeniably does. It's important to note its Region-A locking for audiences across the Atlantic. Overall, this release comes highly recommended for those desiring a blend of classic humor with cutting-edge restoration technology.