Let It Ride Blu-ray Review

Presented in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray release of "Let It Ride" by Via Vision Entertainment delivers a 1080p transfer sourced from an older master provided by Paramount Pictures. While the film exhibits some age, the current presentation offers a convincing visual experience. The primary strength lies in the absence of problematic digital manipulation, maintaining a pleasing grain structure that contributes to a film-like appearance. Close-ups deliver excellent resolution and detail, while some panoramic shots also hold up well, though sequences with restricted lighting, especially bar scenes, suffer from reduced delineation and depth.

The color accuracy is stable throughout, with secondary hues being nicely saturated; reds and blues appear particularly vibrant. Despite the age of the master, image stability is commendable with minimal dirt spots and white flecks, ensuring a clean viewing experience. Though contrast levels generally offer great visibility of background details, there are instances of mild blooming and posterization during specific indoor scenes. Blacks remain passable but sometimes present as murky shadows. Fine lines and textural details are well-defined for the most part. A modern 4K master would certainly improve saturation levels, shadow nuances, and highlights.

This Region-Free Blu-ray release effectively captures the essence of "Let It Ride," despite its age-related constraints. While areas with delicate shadow nuances and better color saturation would benefit from a more robust encode, the age of the master remains evident in select scenes. Overall, this presentation stays true to its source material and provides an engaging viewing experience for fans of this 32-year-old comedy gem.

The Blu-ray release of "Let It Ride" offers two primary audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English LPCM 2.0, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is notably front-heavy, consistent with its original Dolby stereo roots. It produces an engaging soundstage with excellent fidelity and clear acoustics. The mid-range is expansive and richly detailed, showcasing strong channel separation and precise vocal prioritization. However, the low-end remains subdued, primarily providing depth to music and action sequences rather than dominating the audio experience. Despite the minimal rear activity, this track faithfully enhances the presentation of this classic film.

The LPCM 2.0 stereo option is also available and proves to be a strong alternative. While it may not offer the multi-dimensional soundstage of the 5.1 track, it is clean and stable, maintaining a good dynamic range without age-related imperfections. That said, it occasionally comes across as 'thin,' a limitation that a contemporary remix could potentially alleviate. Overall, both audio tracks provide distinct listening experiences that complement the film exceptionally well, despite their individual nuances.

The Blu-Ray release of "Let It Ride" includes a comprehensive and engaging array of new and exclusive extras that enhance the viewing experience significantly. The highlight is "The Finish Line," where director Joe Pytka provides insightful commentary on how the studio mishandled his film, his experiences working with Richard Dreyfuss, and more, making it indispensable for fans. Additionally, the deleted scenes sourced from the director's workprint offer a rare glimpse into what could have been, while Scott Harrison's audio commentary enriches the film's background and context. These thoughtfully curated extras provide a well-rounded perspective on the movie's production and legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insightful session with film historian Scott Harrison on the film’s background and reception.
• The Finish Line: Director Joe Pytka discusses the studio's mishandling of the film and key production details.
• Deleted Scenes: Collection from the director’s workprint offering alternate takes.
• Trailer: Vintage trailer for "Let It Ride."

Joe Pytka's Let It Ride (1989) is an immensely entertaining comedy about a habitual gambler’s extraordinarily lucky day at the racetracks. Richard Dreyfuss delivers a standout performance as Jay Trotter, a middle-aged cab driver whose gambling addiction threatens to implode his life and marriage with Pam, played by Teri Garr. The strong comedic undertones, combined with the evolving portrayal of a bar filled with hopeless gamblers, provides a juxtaposed tableau to Trotter's astounding winning streak. Pytka's direction immerses us in the anxiety-filled atmosphere of the racetrack and smoke-infested bar through sharp character dynamics and mounting tension.

However, it should be noted that the film we see is not entirely what Pytka envisioned. He indicated in an exclusive interview for this release that crucial footage, especially scenes depicting Jay's recovery, was removed by the studio. Despite these edits, the film feels complete, and the rhythm aligns well with the evolution of its characters. The film thrives on its supporting cast, including a witty performance by Jennifer Tilly, and a soundtrack featuring music by Giorgio Moroder and classic tunes by artists such as Don Gibson and Huey Piano Smith.

While not a critical darling upon its release, Let It Ride distinguishes itself as a hidden gem with cult status. The narrative’s pace quickens as Jay bets his winnings on subsequent races, keeping viewers on edge and engrossed in his nail-biting journey. Ultimately, this BD release by Via Vision Entertainment is a must-see for connoisseurs of offbeat comedies, complete with supplemental features such as deleted scenes and a new audio commentary. It's a thrilling ride that deserves greater recognition for its heartfelt humor and standout performances.

"Let It Ride," based on Jay Cronley's novel "Good Vibes," emerges as an undervalued gem of comedic cinema. The film follows Richard Dreyfuss' compelling portrayal of a habitual gambler experiencing an extraordinarily lucky day at the racetrack. Flanked by performances from Terri Garr, David Johansen, and Jennifer Tilly, the film presents a humorous yet poignant look at hope and misfortune in the gambling world. Despite its weak performance during the initial release, "Let It Ride" has stood the test of time as a cult classic.

The Blu-ray release by Via Vision Entertainment is sourced from an older, yet respectable HD master supplied by Paramount Pictures. The visual quality, while slightly dated, maintains the film's charm and essence. Coupled with a satisfactory DTS-HD audio track, the presentation ensures an engaging viewing experience. Of particular note are the newly included special features, specifically a new program featuring Joe Pytka, which adds valuable insights into the film's production and vision.

It is pretty clear that Paramount mishandled "Let It Ride" and in its current form, it is simply not the film Joe Pytka had envisioned. However, I am going to respectfully disagree with Pytka and state that it is still a great film. Perhaps there are a few areas that could have been expanded, as Pytka describes, but I am unconvinced that there is room for sizeable improvements. Everything clicks really well in it, which is why while I was viewing it I kept thinking that it is a close relative of "Glengarry Glen Ross." Obviously, it emphasizes humor instead of brutal competitiveness, but its theatrical quality as well as the manner in which Richard Dreyfuss and the rest of the stars shine are just as effective. Via Vision Entertainment's release is sourced from an older but good master that was supplied by Paramount Pictures and features a very nice exclusive new program with Pytka. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.