The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" from Shout Select provides a robust visual experience with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the original 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The transfer delivers excellent definition and resolution, giving it a filmic quality complemented by a fine layer of grain. Detail levels, grain structure, and color temperature are closely comparable to the Region B Arrow Video release, offering an engaging look that showcases the film in its best possible quality. Black levels are solid and deep, and there is minimal crushing with excellent shadow details. The colors are vibrant yet natural, with bright primary hues and rejuvenated secondary tones that enhance the visual appeal of the film's costumes and special effects.

While the source material has not undergone a complete remastering, it has aged remarkably well, resulting in a high-quality 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode. Minor issues such as occasional white specks, light flecks of dirt, and faint vertical lines do appear but are mostly confined to scene transitions and special effects sequences. These imperfections are forgivable and may even add to the nostalgic charm of the film. The background information is distinct, facial complexions are healthy and detailed, and intricate textures such as clothing and buildings are clearly visible.

Overall, the Shout Select Blu-ray transfer for "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" does justice to this cult classic, making it a worthwhile addition for fans. The engaging visual fidelity, balanced contrast, and dynamic color reproduction mark this as the best home video presentation of the film to date.

The audio presentation for the Blu-ray of "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" offers two DTS-HD Master Audio options: a 5.1 surround sound and a 2.0 stereo mix. The 5.1 mix is designed to replicate the original 70mm blow-up's 6-track presentation, generating a vibrant and immersive audio experience. Michael Boddicker's synthesizer-heavy score spreads effectively into the surround channels, creating an engaging soundfield enhanced by notable panning effects and occasional robust low-frequency extension (LFE). Despite this, some users might find that the volume level is slightly lower than typical, which can make the track seem somewhat thinned out and impacts the bass presence.

On the other hand, the 2.0 stereo mix adheres closely to the original design seen in 35mm presentations, providing a more authentic audio experience. This mix offers excellent channel separation, leading to a fuller and more naturally spaced soundscape. Dialogue prioritization is highly effective, ensuring crystal-clear vocal reproduction. The dynamic range of the stereo mix is extensive, with detailed clarity during louder action sequences providing a robust auditory impact. Boddicker's whimsical score is given prominent distinction and separation across the stereo channels, delivering convincing movement and a heftier bass response that enhances the overall listening experience.

Both tracks handle ambient effects well, but the stereo mix is noted for its comprehensive background activity and balanced imaging. The surround mix offers good clarity across mid-range frequencies with ambient effects subtly extended to side speakers, though it remains somewhat front-focused. While audiophiles seeking an authentic auditory recreation might prefer the stereo option, both tracks are well-engineered to satisfy fans of this cult classic film.

The Extras of the Blu-ray edition of "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" offer a comprehensive and insightful look into the film’s production, release, and cult status. Amongst its extensive offerings, the highlight is the "Into the 8th Dimension" documentary, a substantial 2-hour feature that delves deeply into pre-production, casting, special effects, and the film’s enduring legacy through numerous interviews with the cast and crew. Additionally, two insightful audio commentaries are provided: one by Director W.D. Richter and Writer Earl Mac Rauch, which shares technical insights despite occasional lulls, and another by Michael and Denise Okuda of 'Star Trek' fame, offering engaging fan-centric commentary. The supplementary DVD includes a variety of vintage features such as a "Buckaroo Banzai Declassified" featurette, an alternate opening featuring Jamie Lee Curtis, and more.

Extras included in this disc:

• Into the 8th Dimension: An in-depth documentary exploring all aspects of the film's production and legacy.
• Audio Commentary with Director W.D. Richter and Writer Earl Mac Rauch: Detailed production insights.
• Audio Commentary with Michael and Denise Okuda: Fan-based anecdotes and trivia.
• Buckaroo Banzai Declassified Featurette: Vintage interviews and production insights.
• Alternate Opening: Scene featuring Jamie Lee Curtis.
• New Jet Car Trailer: Faux commercial for the movie's car.
• Deleted Scenes: Fourteen deleted scenes.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer for the movie.

"The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension," directed by W.D. Richter and starring Peter Weller, stands as an emblematic cult classic from the 1980s. The film, though initially a commercial disappointment, has garnered a dedicated following due to its unique blend of science fiction, adventure, and comedy. Weller’s portrayal of Buckaroo Banzai—a neurosurgeon, physicist, and rock star—grounds the film's chaotic storyline with a sense of intellectual gravitas. Weller, well-known for his role in "RoboCop," is supported by a cast of notable actors including John Lithgow, Ellen Barkin, Jeff Goldblum, and Christopher Lloyd.

The plot is nothing short of a wild ride: Buckaroo’s successful test of the Oscillation Overthruster propels him into the 8th dimension, releasing the sinister Red Lectroids led by Dr. Emilio Lizardo (a brilliantly unhinged Lithgow). The film tosses its audience headfirst into a cascade of eccentric characters and bizarre scenarios, beginning with a high-tech, dimension-crossing car and culminating in a frantic battle to save Earth from an alien invasion. The film's narrative elasticity might be confounding for those expecting a more structured storyline, yet its sheer creativity and audacity are its greatest strengths.

Richter's direction, drawing inspiration from pulp magazines and serial adventures like Flash Gordon, offers a screwball atmosphere replete with vibrant 80s aesthetics—turned collars, pastel colors, and Members Only jackets—that contrast sharply with the sartorial blandness of the Lectroids. The production design is inventive and the musical score injects energy into every sequence. Though “Buckaroo Banzai” often veers into the realm of absurdity, it remains a thoroughly engaging film for those willing to embrace its eccentric charm and breakneck pace.

"The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" is a quintessential 1984 sci-fi comedy that has transcended its initial box office failure to achieve cult classic status. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Peter Weller, John Lithgow, Jeff Goldblum, Ellen Barkin, and Christopher Lloyd, the film is an eccentric blend of quirky characters and outlandishly imaginative scenarios. Drawing inspiration from the tradition of Saturday afternoon film serials, this offbeat production remains endearing to those with a skewed sense of humor. Despite its narrative peculiarities and occasional narrative overreach, the film offers a sly and self-aware brand of humor that rewards attentive viewing.

The latest Blu-ray release from Shout! Factory represents an excellent upgrade in both audio and video quality compared to previous editions. This Shout Select release boasts strong technical merits, enhancing the overall viewing experience for new fans and seasoned enthusiasts alike. The package also comes replete with a variety of special features, including a documentary that stands out as a significant addition. This release not only covers the same ground as the 2002 DVD but also adds a substantial amount of new content, providing a comprehensive look at the film's unique universe.

In conclusion, "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" is a film that defies conventional categorization. With its eclectic mix of humor and science fiction elements, it offers something for those who appreciate its idiosyncratic charm and complexity. This new Blu-ray edition from Shout! Factory is highly recommended, especially for viewers with a taste for the absurd and those who treasure cult classics. Technical merits are strong, and with a wealth of new and previously released supplements, this release is an outstanding addition to any collection.