Futureworld Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Futureworld" from Shout! Factory features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Given the film’s modest budgeting and its historical lack of widespread acclaim, it appears the preservation efforts over the years have been minimal, resulting in some unavoidable imperfections. The transfer exhibits periodic damage including blemishes and minor scratches. Colors have notably faded, with skin tones occasionally trending towards an undesirable brownish hue. Furthermore, the overall image tends to be on the softer side, with midrange and wide shots sometimes appearing slightly fuzzy. Despite these issues, the grain remains visible, especially pronounced in scenes with optical effects.

While this rendition of "Futureworld" undoubtedly represents the best it has looked on home video to date, its age is evident in the picture quality. There are pervasive scratches, dirt, and other defects that mar the presentation throughout. Although some scenes fare better in high definition, many suffer from a washed-out appearance lacking the sharpness and detail one anticipates in a 1080p transfer. Black levels throughout the film are problematic, often obscuring finer details in darker scenes. On a positive note, despite the inconsistencies, colors and skin tones are largely well-balanced, and the film maintains a consistent film-like aesthetic with a considerable yet non-intrusive grain presence. Compared to the “Westworld” Blu-ray handled by Warner Bros., this transfer is relatively average by high-definition standards, but still capable of providing an enjoyable viewing experience.

The audio presentation of “Futureworld” on Blu Ray boasts a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix that impresses despite the film's age. Fidelity is robust, ensuring that dialogue, effects, and the musical score are cleanly rendered and well-prioritized. Although the stereo separation is not particularly extensive and dialogue often emits from both channels simultaneously, the mix remains full and clear. This results in a sound quality that is free from the common damage issues typically associated with older films.

This DTS-HD Master Audio Stereo track does not offer extensive immersion or activity, yet it maintains a solid delivery. The balance of dialogue and musical soundtrack is commendable, providing a harmonious blend that avoids the separation issues noted in the audio tracks of similar period films like "Westworld." The track is devoid of distracting elements such as popping or hissing, which frequently plague older cinematic releases. Additionally, English subtitles are available for accessibility.

Overall, the audio fidelity and balance in “Futureworld” provide a satisfactory auditory experience that stands out as a testament to the format’s capabilities, making it a notable feature of this Blu Ray release.

The Blu-ray edition of "Futureworld" from Shout Factory features a solid collection of extras that enrich the viewing experience. The high-definition bonus content is exclusively available on this release, providing a comprehensive look into the film's production and promotional history. Each supplement is meticulously preserved and presented in high definition, enhancing their value for enthusiasts and collectors alike. The stills gallery is particularly noteworthy for showcasing some remarkable production design art, offering a deeper appreciation of the film's creative process. While the extras are brief, they are distinctly organized and maintained, providing a well-rounded retrospective on this classic title.

Extras included in this disc:

Trailer: Brief promotional clip for the movie.

Radio Spots: Collection of audio advertisements used for promoting the movie on the radio.

Stills Gallery: A visual gallery including notable production design art.

"Futureworld," the 1976 sequel to Michael Crichton's iconic "Westworld," endeavors to expand on the original's concept of a technologically advanced theme park. Directed without Crichton's involvement, the film traverses familiar territory but with diminished innovation. Reporters Chuck Browning (Peter Fonda) and Tracy Ballard (Blythe Danner) are invited to Delos' rejuvenated parks including the titular Futureworld, as well as Medieval World and Roman World, amidst the company’s attempt at image rehabilitation. However, the reporters uncover malevolent uses for the advanced robotics, with robots having taken full control, a concept that strips away the novelty and ingenuity of the original's core conceit.

Performance-wise, Fonda and Danner exhibit strong chemistry, providing a measure of charm to an otherwise tepid narrative. The filmmakers attempt to infuse the plot with intrigue and tension, particularly through Chuck's suspicion following an informant’s murder, but the climax and its implications of robot-human replacements lack the sinister allure seen in Ira Levin's "The Stepford Wives." Additionally, Yul Brynner's cameo as the Gunslinger feels contrived and superficial, failing to contribute meaningfully to the narrative. Cinematically, "Futureworld" suffers from a low-budget ambiance common in American International Productions, leading it to resonate more as a drive-in feature than a theatrical heavyweight.

Technically, "Futureworld" on Blu-ray offers standard visual and audio presentation suited for home viewing. The Blu-ray includes minimal supplemental features and packaging nuances such as reversible cover art showcasing the Gunslinger. Despite the disc's straightforward menu and navigational simplicity, it underscores that while "Futureworld" may occasionally spark nostalgia and provide adequate home entertainment, it pales in comparison to the inventive spectacle that "Westworld" delivered in its seminal debut.

Futureworld" attempts to build on the foundation laid by its predecessor, "Westworld," but falls short in several significant areas. While the movie's ambition to expand the narrative rather than merely replicate it is commendable, it suffers from a relatively meager budget and lackluster production quality that leaves it looking dated. The performances are serviceable, yet the cast appears disengaged, hinting at a shared sentiment among the actors that they would rather be elsewhere. The Blu-ray release does not do much to ameliorate these shortcomings, with video quality that is disappointingly problematic, though the audio remains quite solid.

Despite its flaws, "Futureworld" does manage to provide some points of interest. The chemistry between the leads offers a modicum of engagement, and for fans of Blythe Danner, this film offers a rare chance to see her in a leading role, even if she doesn't get the full opportunity to shine. Technically inclined viewers might enjoy scrutinizing its attempt at futuristic concepts, albeit delivered through decidedly outdated special effects. While it may not be an ideal follow-up for those looking for the groundbreaking impact of Michael Crichton's sharper narratives, it does offer a nostalgic glimpse into past sci-fi filmmaking.

In conclusion, "Futureworld" stands as a curious yet ultimately flawed sequel that will likely appeal more to die-hard fans of 1970s sci-fi cinema or those specifically interested in Blythe Danner's career. Its predictability and dated execution make it hard to recommend for purchase, but its ambitious attempt to expand the original's storyline could warrant a rental for curious viewers. As always, those seeking a compelling tale about rogue technology would be better served revisiting "Jurassic Park.