The Last Starfighter Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video's presentation of "The Last Starfighter" on Blu-ray is a remarkable upgrade from the previous Universal release. Utilizing a meticulous 4K scan of the original 35mm camera negative, Arrow has provided a much clearer and more detailed viewing experience. Presented in its original aspect ratio of 2.35:1 with AVC encoded 1080p, this version retains a filmic grain structure that was missing in the earlier release. The contrast between live-action and CGI elements is more discernible, highlighting both the well-preserved makeup work and set designs, despite occasional digital anomalies and slight aliasing in the CGI.

The color palette has a slightly warmer tone compared to the older Universal version, contributing to a more organic visual feel. While some minor nicks and scratches persist, they are minimal and do not detract from the overall improvement. The retention of grain ensures that fine details, shadows, and colors are faithfully replicated, avoiding the overly smoothed appearance caused by excessive DNR in previous releases. Exceptional sharpness and detail levels are evident, particularly in facial definitions and exterior shots, solidifying this as a definitive edition for fans.

Overall, Arrow’s restoration offers an infinitely sharper and more vibrant picture, while maintaining the integrity of the original film elements. Although certain compositing effects and imperfections remain due to their source limitations, this new Blu-ray presents "The Last Starfighter" in possibly the best form it will ever appear on home video, making it an essential addition for enthusiasts of this cult classic.

The audio presentation of "The Last Starfighter" Blu-ray offers an impressive range of options tailored to different listening preferences: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, DTS-HD Master Audio 4.1, and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Each of these tracks manages to deliver high fidelity, although they present subtle differences in soundstage engagement and low-end response. Dialogue clarity and Craig Safan’s score consistently resonate strongly across all formats, with the 5.1 and 4.1 mixes creating a more expansive auditory experience compared to the 2.0 track.

While surround engagement is noted as immersive, it isn’t overly aggressive, maintaining a balance that keeps the auditory experience consistent with the movie’s tonal aesthetics. The 5.1 mix offers slightly improved discrete channel separation, yet the overall enhancement over the 4.1 mix is marginal. Ambient effects and environmental sounds are well-executed, including notable elements like the rhythmic hum of Xur’s command center. Explosive effects could benefit from more intensity, although engine rumbles are effectively incorporated into the surround mixes.

The fidelity of the tracks is commendable, with no significant issues like distortion or dropouts, making this Blu-ray release perhaps the best auditory experience for this film to date. Optional English subtitles add accessibility without detracting from audio clarity, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging home viewing experience.

The Blu-ray release of "The Last Starfighter" comes packed with a robust array of extras that deeply explore the film’s production and legacy. The collection includes insightful interviews, such as Catherine Mary Stewart revisiting her role, and composer Craig Safan discussing his hybrid orchestral and electronic score. Special effects supervisor Kevin Pike provides an illuminating look at the groundbreaking CGI, while arcade game collector Estil Vance delves into the film's iconic game. Sci-fi author Greg Bear reflects on Digital Productions, the company behind the film's CGI. The set also offers two extensive making-of featurettes and several engaging image galleries. Additionally, there are three different audio commentaries enriching the viewer's understanding of the film. This comprehensive suite of extras truly offers fans a deep and engaging dive into "The Last Starfighter."

Extras included in this disc:

• Maggie’s Memories: Interview with Catherine Mary Stewart.
• Into the Starscape: Interview with composer Craig Safan.
• Incredible Odds: Interview with screenwriter Jonathan Betuel.
• Interstellar Hit Beast: Special effects analysis by Kevin Pike.
• Excalibur Test: Exploration of Digital Productions by Greg Bear.
• Greetings Starfighter!: Insights on the arcade game by Estil Vance.
• Heroes of the Screen: Archival making-of featurette.
• Crossing the Frontier: Extended making-of featurette.
• Image Galleries: Featuring various aspects of the film’s production.
• Theatrical Trailer
• Teaser Trailer
• Audio Commentary: With Lance Guest and Jackson Guest.
• Audio Commentary: With Nick Castle and Ron Cobb.
• Audio Commentary: With Mike White.

"The Last Starfighter" stands as an archetype of the '80s adolescent male fantasy, fulfilling every young gamer's dream of becoming a galactic hero. Centered on Alex Rogan (Lance Guest), a teenager living in a small trailer park in Southern California who excels at the Starfighter arcade game, the plot cleverly hinges on the revelation that his gaming skills are a covert test. This sets the stage for Alex's recruitment by Centauri (Robert Preston) to join an interstellar battle. While derivative in borrowing elements from "Star Wars" and other iconic '80s films, Jonathan Betuel’s script adds unique dimensions such as Arthurian legend references. Despite its derivative nature, director Nick Castle manages to create a fresh and engaging narrative that revels in its B-movie status.

Technically pioneering, "The Last Starfighter" was one of the first movies to extensively employ CGI, marking a significant departure from traditional models and effects. The digital effects, while dated by today's standards, carry a nostalgic charm and serve as a precursor to modern CGI. Notable firsts include the depiction of space battles and the innovative design of spacecraft, embodying the imagination possible for tech enthusiasts of that era. The use of CGI allowed for more dynamic interstellar combat scenes that were revolutionary at the time.

Lance Guest delivers a commendable performance as Alex, portraying both the reluctant hero and his android counterpart with earnestness. Robert Preston brings a delightful charisma to Centauri, reminiscent of his role in "The Music Man." Supporting roles by Dan O’Herlihy as Grig and Catherine Mary Stewart as Maggie add depth to the ensemble cast. The inclusion of cultural tropes from the decade and imaginative sci-fi elements has led to "The Last Starfighter" enduring as a cult classic. Despite some narrative clichés, it’s lauded not just for its engaging storyline but also for its trailblazing use of CGI in Hollywood filmmaking.

"The Last Starfighter," often regarded as a quintessential 1980s adolescent fantasy, delivers a clever and wildly entertaining spectacle that holds up well despite its age. The film, though not lauded for unparalleled originality, remains an enjoyable, nostalgic thrill ride that significantly contributed to the early use of CGI in cinema.

Arrow's new Blu-ray release establishes itself as the definitive edition, easily surpassing the previous Universal release. This edition boasts an impressive high-definition transfer that revitalizes the viewing experience with exceptional clarity and detail. The supplementary content is robust, offering a wealth of both new and vintage special features that will delight any fan of the film.

Though “The Last Starfighter” may vary in appeal depending on individual fondness for the genre, Arrow’s meticulous restoration work ensures that this release is an essential upgrade for enthusiasts. Very highly recommended.