Kalifornia Blu-ray Review
Collector's Edition
Score: 65
from 4 reviewers
Review Date:
Kalifornia's Shout Select Blu-ray Collector’s Edition offers solid A/V quality, great performances, and a few new extras, but the upgrade hinges on additional features.
Disc Release Date
DTS-HD MA
Video: 73
**"Kalifornia's Blu-ray review highlights a solid, if dated, 1080p transfer with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and MPEG-4 AVC encoding. Notable details include a washed-out neo-noir look, robust colors with some red emphasis, and occasional soft or dark scenes. While not a modern 4K scan, it maintains strong detail and texture."**
Audio: 63
Shout Factory's release of 'Kalifornia' features DTS-HD MA 5.1 and 2.0 tracks for both the theatrical and unrated cuts, offering solid audio that is front-heavy with clear dialogue, limited surround presence, and mild bass. Though not as robust as MGM's previous release, the tracks remain effective and well-balanced.
Extra: 48
The "Kalifornia" Collector's Edition Blu-ray offers substantial bonus content, including a valuable new interview with Dominic Sena discussing his career and film creation process, alongside an unrated and theatrical version, original featurette, 90s-styled cast interviews, and trailers. While lacking in sheer quantity, the quality of insights makes the extras notable.
Movie: 73
Kalifornia offers a thrilling ride, blending true crime intrigue with stellar performances, notably Brad Pitt’s riveting portrayal of the unhinged Early Grayce and David Duchovny’s intellectual Brian. Although it takes a while to kick into high gear, the film delivers grim satisfaction, marred only by an overreliance on narration.
Video: 73
Kalifornia's Blu-ray release under Shout Select offers a transfer that remains respectful to the source material, though it shows its age compared to current transfer technology. Utilizing MPEG-4 AVC encoding and maintaining the film’s original 2.35:1 aspect ratio at a resolution of 1080p, both the Theatrical and Unrated Cuts likely derive from the same elements as the 2010 release. While elements are well-preserved, offering a filmic quality, the master isn’t as sharp as it could be with more modern 2K or 4K scans. The encode is generally solid, but the print displays occasional specks and a slightly washed-out look. Grain levels are consistent, and detail is fairly robust in close-ups, though establishing shots and darker scenes can appear softer.
Colors are portrayed with a respectable fidelity considering the Neo-Noir stylized approach characterized by shifting monochromatic and earthy palettes. Notable sequences include warm tones during gun scenes and reds vividly detailing the film's visceral elements. Blacks exhibit some variability, appearing rich in certain frames but dipping into dark browns in others, with no significant crushing. The film maintains depth and dimension, though there are moments where scenes appear flatter, especially under smoky conditions. Colors bloom strikingly in night scenes contrasted with neon lighting, showcasing a comprehensive palette.
Despite lacking any remastering, the video bitrate is commendable with the Unrated version averaging 36,000 kbps and the theatrical cut close at 35,000 kbps. Noise and artifact issues are minimal, ensuring a smooth viewing experience. Movement is consistently natural and clear without motion distortion. Flesh tones stay natural with a hint of warmth, effectively preserving facial textures and details in medium and close-up shots. This Blu-ray edition of Kalifornia ultimately remains a strong offering for enthusiasts, though contemporary home video standards could further elevate its presentation.
Audio: 63
Shout Factory's Blu-ray release of "Kalifornia" provides robust audio options for both the theatrical and unrated cuts, offering DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround remix and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo tracks. Both tracks are consistent, though notably front-heavy, functioning more like a 3.1 mix, where the dialogue, score, and effects primarily emanate from the front speakers. The surround channels contribute minimal ambiance, with occasional highlights during more dynamic sequences such as key car crashes or the film's climatic action scenes. Low-frequency effects (LFE) are present but restrained, offering subtle enhancement primarily during significant events like car crashes or musical peaks.
From a technical standpoint, the audio presentation demonstrates clear and well-balanced dialogue throughout, maintaining clarity even amidst more intense auditory moments. Specifically, sounds such as gunfire, car engines, and subtle ambient noises like wind or background chatter are effectively reproduced. Though the surround sound experience is somewhat limited, with intermittent activation of the rear channels adding mild atmospheric details, it remains functional and effective. The stereo tracks similarly hold their ground, albeit lacking the spatial depth and expansive feel that the 5.1 mix can offer.
Ultimately, the provided audio mixes serve their purpose well, ensuring intelligibility and dynamic presence where it accounts most. While perhaps not as immersive as some might prefer, they deliver a competent, engaging auditory experience tailored to the film's thematic needs. Optional English SDH subtitles are accessible across all formats for added convenience.
Extra: 48
The Blu-ray extras for "Kalifornia" provide a thorough insight into the production and legacy of the film. The highlight is a new interview with director Dominic Sena, offering deep dives into his filmmaking journey and early collaborations. While most bonus materials are vintage behind-the-scenes content and original interviews, they still provide substantial context and nostalgia, though additional commentary tracks would have been appreciated.
Extras included in this disc:
- Interview With Director Dominic Sena: Detailed discussion about the making of the film and Sena's early career.
- Original Featurette: A 90s era Electronic Press Kit providing a brief overview of the production.
- Cast Interviews: Vintage interviews with Brad Pitt and Juliette Lewis from the film's release period.
- Trailers & TV Spots: A collection of promotional material in various formats.
Movie: 73
"Kalifornia" offers a gripping and gritty entry in the serial killer thriller genre, anchored by standout performances and a tense, slow-burn narrative. The movie follows Brian Kessler (David Duchovny) and his photographer girlfriend Carrie Laughlin (Michelle Forbes) as they embark on a cross-country journey to document infamous murder sites for Brian's new book on serial killers. To offset their costs, they take on a couple of hitchhikers, the unassuming yet deeply disturbed Early Grayce (Brad Pitt) and his loyal but simple-minded girlfriend Adele Corners (Juliette Lewis). As the journey progresses, Early's violent tendencies inexorably rise to the surface, dragging both couples into a harrowing nightmare.
Brad Pitt delivers a career-defining performance as Early Grayce, fully shedding his pretty-boy image with a portrayal that veers from articulate menace to explosive psychopathy. His transformation into a hayseed psychopath is unsettlingly convincing, with mannerisms and accent so immersive that viewers might find themselves disbelieving it’s Pitt at all. Juliette Lewis plays the submissive Adele with poignant vulnerability, her naivety starkly contrasting with Early’s malevolence. Meanwhile, Duchovny is compelling as the oblivious writer whose intellectual fascination with crime blinds him to the very real danger in his backseat. Michelle Forbes holds her own as Carrie, the voice of reason amidst growing chaos, though her character's sophistication is sometimes marred by stereotypical yuppie traits.
Director Dominic Sena meticulously paces the film, building tension with deliberate slowness before unleashing explosive, visceral violence in the latter half. However, this measured approach results in a somewhat sluggish first hour, dominated by voice-overs and character setup. While this style prolongs suspense, it can feel excessive at times and slightly detracts from the film’s overall impact. Yet, once Early’s psychopathy comes into full view, "Kalifornia" ramps up to an unrelenting and electrifying climax that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Mixing elements of road movies with dark noir traditions, "Kalifornia" remains a compelling study in character and an unsettling exploration of human darkness.
Total: 65
"Kalifornia" finds itself an intriguing mix of old-fashioned noir and modern thriller, weaving a narrative that’s both warped and compelling. Stand-out performances by Brad Pitt, David Duchovny, and Juliette Lewis anchor the film, making it a noteworthy entry in Dominic Sena's directorial career. While the film initially struggled in theatres, its reception has vastly improved on the small screen, with strong rental sales and avid home video interest. This Shout Factory Collector’s Edition effectively packages both the Unrated and Theatrical cuts, supplemented by a rich array of new and archival bonus materials.
The technical presentation includes a 2.35:1 AVC aspect ratio and English DTS-HD MA audio tracks in both 5.1 and 2.0, ensuring the visual and auditory experience remains robust despite the film’s age. Subtitles are available in English SDH. While the Blu-ray does not feature a new 4K scan, the image quality holds up well, and the sound design continues to impress. Bonus features such as director interviews and insightful extras enrich the offering, although some enthusiasts may find them somewhat lacking.
In conclusion, Shout! Factory’s release of "Kalifornia" on Blu-ray stands as the definitive domestic version to date. Though existing owners of the previous editions may not rush to upgrade due to the high price point, this edition's comprehensive special features and inclusion of multiple cuts make it a valuable consideration for aficionados. As a blend of solid film-making and a substantial yet somewhat familiar Blu-ray package, "Kalifornia" remains highly recommended for thriller enthusiasts and collectors alike.
AV Nirvana review by Michael ScottRead review here
Video: 80
There’s a few specks and flecks of debris on the print, and there is a slightly washed out look to the film....
Audio: 70
LFE is mild, coming through with the opening car crash, as well as a few other times with the music, but otherwise content to withdraw for a majority of the films run time....
Extras: 70
NEW An interview with director Dominic Sena • NEW Also includes The Theatrical Cut – available for the first time on Blu-ray • Original Featurette • Cast Interviews •...
Movie: 70
Kalifornia falls into the latter category as Pitt goes us probably his most isnane performance to date, playing Early Grayce, a nasty, greasy, hayseed psychopath hitching a ride with his girlfriend from...
Total: 70
It’s a solid film, and a solid collector’s edition from Shout Factory, but the upgradability of the disc will solely depend on whether those new special features are something you want to checkout, otherwise...
Blu-ray.com review by Dr. Stephen LarsonRead review here
Video: 80
Film critic Eleanor Ringel of The Atlanta Journal Constitution characterized the aesthetic as "grunge visuals" and this description applies to the trailer park scenes and Early in Screenshot #s 18-19....
Audio: 70
Though not technically as robust as MGM's DTS-HD MA 5.1 (3565 kbps), Shout's tracks sound similar....
Extras: 60
DISC ONE: UNRATED VERSION Unrated Cut (1:58:15, 1080p) NEW Interview With Director Dominic Sena (24:36, 1080p) Original Featurette (5:22, 1080i/upconversion to HD)...
Movie: 80
But the main weakness is the overabundant voice-over narration delivered by Brian in a self-philosophizing way that while often too generalized, also gives some things away early on....
Total: 80
A strong case can be made that this is Brad Pitt's finest performance and should be reason enough to get either the MGM combo pack or this two-disc set from Shout Select....
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 80
While my memories of the first Blu-ray release of Kalifornia are admittedly a bit hazy, I'd have to wager that the 1080p 2.35:1 transfers supplied for both the Theatrical and Unrated Cuts were likely culled...
Audio: 80
I don't really have that strong of an opinion because they're basically doing the same workload as the 5.1 mix just with fewer channels....
Extras: 20
Bonus features may not be the most robust assortment, mostly old behind the scenes material, but the new Dominic Sena interview is pretty great as he gets to discuss the making of the film as well as his...
Movie: 80
While I wasn't always a fan of his, Kalifornia was the film that proved to me the man had impressive range and could deliver a creepy character when he was allowed to just go full out....
Total: 60
This early 90s thriller about a pair of yuppies writing a book about serial killers unknowingly traveling with a killer and his girlfriend still holds up remarkably for a film aging over 25 years....
Why So Blu?Read review here
Video: 80
but interiors and nighttime scenes really show the film has a lot to offer in its color palette on display.;Flesh Tones: Skin tones are natural with just a hair of warmth and consistent from scene to scene...
Audio: 60
Surround Sound Presentation: As mentioned, this is a more front heavy track, there are some nice touches from the rear channels at times....
Extras: 50
Kalifornia – Collector’s Edition is a 2-Blu-ray disc set that features reversible cover art....
Movie: 70
People mainly talk Brad Pitt in this movie, (Maybe I have a thing for bajorans) but Forbes is possibly the best performer with a handle on her role here....
Total: 60
For the right price this is a handy upgrade, but the current high price might not have many itching to pull the purchase trigger....
Director: Dominic Sena
Actors: Brad Pitt, Juliette Lewis, Kathy Larson
PlotBrian, a journalist researching a book on serial killers, embarks on a cross-country journey to California with his girlfriend, Carrie, a photographer. To share expenses, they place an ad for travel companions and find Early Grayce and his childlike girlfriend, Adele. The group sets off in Carrie's car, and as they drive through small towns and visit crime scenes, Brian and Carrie seek material for their book while documenting their experiences. Early initially seems like an ordinary, rough-around-the-edges guy, but his unpredictable nature and odd behavior gradually disturb Brian and Carrie.
As the trip progresses, unsettling events begin to unfold. Early's instability and violent tendencies become increasingly evident. Brian and Carrie start to realize that they may have invited more than they bargained for into their lives. Tensions rise and the dynamic within the group shifts dramatically. The road trip, which began as an adventure for literary research, turns into a precarious situation full of suspense and danger.
Writers: Stephen Levy, Tim Metcalfe
Release Date: 03 Sep 1993
Runtime: 117 min
Rating: R
Country: United States
Language: English