The Long Kiss Goodnight 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "The Long Kiss Goodnight" by Arrow Films delivers a substantial visual enhancement that upholds the rich texture of the original 35mm negative. The restoration features a 2160p HEVC/H.265 encoded transfer in the film's original 2.39:1 aspect ratio, now upgraded with HDR10 and Dolby Vision, approved by director Renny Harlin. Sharp resolution and finely resolved grain lend an organic quality, with the colors and contrast providing a vibrant update while maintaining the film's 90s-era aesthetic. Rich hues like Mitch’s yellow and green clothes and bright primaries are notably spectacular.

Despite a few minor visual defects—such as fleeting blurry vertical lines during the Whitman encounter scene—the overall presentation remains remarkably clean. The restoration overcomes previous issues of banding, ringing, or color oversaturation seen in older releases, offering a sharper, more vivid image throughout. Black levels maintain a depth that enhances the dynamic range of scenes, particularly during nighttime sequences. Some brief noise is noted, such as during cloud and helicopter scenes, though these are minimal distractions.

The remastered edition offers a sharpness that accentuates Guillermo Navarro's cinematography, revealing exquisite detail in elements like clothing textures and facial features. While fiercely defined, the enhanced clarity does expose certain practical effects and miniatures, notably in action-packed sequences like the climactic bridge scene. Nonetheless, the presentation is largely unblemished by print damage and authentically captures the film’s desired artistic intents, marking it as the definitive home video release for fans of the movie.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray audio presentation of "The Long Kiss Goodnight" provides a compelling selection of options designed to enhance the viewing experience. Listeners can choose between DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, and the newly created Dolby Atmos, which functions as a modern-day upgrade from the original SDDS track. The Dolby Atmos track, in particular, introduces an object-based 3D soundscape, delivering an immersive auditory experience that includes verticality in its sound design. Helicopters soar overhead, and environmental sounds swirl around listeners, creating a sense of being right in the middle of the action. Dialogue is consistently clean and clear across each track, ensuring no loss of narrative clarity.

The DTS-HD MA selections offer a dynamic alternative, with the 5.1 track delivering punchy, explosive audio perfect for action sequences. These tracks cater to those who favor a more forceful auditory punch, offering dazzling moments with explosions, gunfire, and high-speed chases. The DTS tracks are louder and maintain an impressive impact, immersing viewers through its clarity and forceful LFE channels.

The decision between the audio options largely depends on personal preference; while the DTS-HD MA tracks deliver with their impactful heft during action scenes, the Dolby Atmos offers a smoother, subtly different experience with enhanced surround presence. Both options excel without distortion or audible defects, presenting high-fidelity audio experiences worth commendation. Arrow Films successfully allows audiences to enjoy these soundtracks in bespoke ways, ultimately enriching the overall viewing experience of this high-octane thriller. Optional English subtitles are available across options.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Long Kiss Goodnight" by Arrow Films offers an extensive selection of extras spread across two discs, presenting a robust collection for enthusiasts. The first disc includes brand new audio commentaries from film critics Walter Chaw, Drusilla Adeline, and Joshua Conkel, complemented by a theatrical trailer and an image gallery with over 300 stills. The second disc is jam-packed with newly filmed interviews with key production figures and actors, alongside insightful visual essays exploring themes such as gender roles and dual identities. Fans can also enjoy deleted scenes, promotional interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage. The package is adorned with original and newly commissioned artwork, a collector's booklet containing new writings, a quirky postcard, and a nostalgic "Thin Ice" sticker, reflecting Arrow’s commitment to an enriched home release experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Walter Chaw: Brand new audio commentary.
• Commentary by Drusilla Adeline and Joshua Conkel: New commentary from the Bloodhaus podcast hosts.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer in high definition.
• Image Gallery: Collection of stills from the film.
• Girl Interrupted: Interview with actress Yvonne Zima.
• Symphony of Destruction: Interview with stunt coordinator Steve Davidson.
• Long Live the New Flesh: Interview with makeup artist Gordon J. Smith.
• Amnesia Chick: Visual essay by film scholar Josh Nelson.
• The Mirror Crack’d: Visual essay by multiple historians.
• A Woman’s World: Visual essay by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas.
• Deleted Scenes: Previously unseen in prior editions.
• Promotional Interviews: Archival interviews with the cast and crew.
• Making Of: Archive featurette.
• Behind the Scenes: Archive candid footage.

"The Long Kiss Goodnight" is a powerhouse action-thriller from director Renny Harlin, marked by a sharp, electric script from Shane Black. Black, known for his knack for crafting witty dialogue, lends a vibrancy to the film that transforms it into an ode to thrilling action laced with humor. Harlin, despite a career with more misses than hits, excels here alongside Geena Davis and Samuel L. Jackson. The film follows Davis's suburban teacher-turned-assassin, a role she embraces with finesse, adding depth to a movie driven by practical stunts and dynamic set pieces reminiscent of 90s action cinema. Jackson's performance, resonant with his iconic style, enhances the narrative's absurd yet entertaining charm.

In a departure from modern CGI-reliant productions, the visceral spectacle in "The Long Kiss Goodnight" is palpable. This film encapsulates the nostalgic subgenre of real-time action sequences, where hand-to-hand combat and explosive set-pieces are the norm. Davis and Jackson's engaging performances anchor the film, adding credibility to its implausible events. Brian Cox and Craig Bierko also contribute noteworthy performances, adding layers to the storyline with personas that balance comedy and menace.

Despite a few dated elements like occasional misogynistic overtones and plot holes that become apparent upon scrutiny, the film's enduring allure is its blend of high-octane thrills and memorable one-liners. Its unique blend of government intrigue and domestic drama set against a holiday backdrop offers a refreshingly unjaded viewing experience that’s rare in contemporary cinema. The movie stands as a testament to 1990s action filmmaking, bringing together an electric performance and script that ensure its status as a cult favorite and underscore Harlin and Black’s impact on the genre.

Arrow’s 4K UHD Blu-ray release of The Long Kiss Goodnight stands as an exemplary revival of this iconic 1990s action film. Directed by Renny Harlin and scripted by Shane Black, the film features a stellar showcase by Geena Davis and is celebrated for its blend of explosive stunts, thriller elements, and unexpected humor. The new 4K transfer, equipped with Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos audio, elevates the visual and auditory experience, delivering an unparalleled home viewing experience. This release revitalizes a previously underrated classic, showcasing an almost cartoonish joy amidst its darker themes, all while remaining fresh and entertaining without the prevalent cynicism found in contemporary films.

Technical enhancements by Arrow are commendable, offering multiple audio options and a rich selection of bonus materials which include behind-the-scenes features that give fans insight into this cult classic. The inclusion of harmonious supplements on a second Blu-ray caters comprehensively to both longtime aficionados and new viewers. The remarkable clarity and depth provided by the new format allow the film's dynamic action sequences and memorable dialogues to resonate powerfully, reestablishing The Long Kiss Goodnight as a significant entry in the action genre.

In conclusion, Arrow once again delivers a home video release that not only preserves but celebrates The Long Kiss Goodnight’s legacy. Its release is a testament to their ability to breathe new life into classic films by providing state-of-the-art video quality and intricate audio enhancements. This edition is an essential acquisition for both dedicated fans and action enthusiasts eager for top-tier entertainment driven by Shane Black's signature scriptwriting style.