Best Defense Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Best Defense" is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, utilizing a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoding. This edition benefits from a meticulously crafted new 4K master prepared by Paramount Pictures, delivering visuals with remarkable clarity, depth, and precision. The exceptional nature of the transfer is evident in its outstanding delineation and the impressive stability of the image, which is free from any noticeable artifacts or imperfections such as debris or cuts. The visual grading captures the period aesthetic effectively, enhancing the viewing experience with an authentic cinematic feel.

Shot on 35 mm color film using Panaflex cameras and lenses by Panavision and finished photochemically, the film's original look is preserved and enhanced by the new HD master derived from the 4K scan of the original camera negative. The transfer showcases a pristine image quality with no visible flaws, maintaining sharp picture quality throughout. The color palette displays a rich variation from earthy browns and deep greens to vibrant primary colors, offering dynamic visuals that cater to the film's thematic elements. Despite some minor room for optimization in grain management, the overall presentation remains highly satisfactory and immersive.

In summary, this Blu-ray release achieves a high standard in terms of visual fidelity, preserving the film's original appearance while enhancing its clarity and depth. The attention to the detail in grading and stabilization contributes to an engaging viewing experience without any distracting digital interventions. While it is designed for Region-A playback, those with compatible setups will appreciate the effort invested in creating this high-quality transfer.

The audio presentation of the "Best Defense" Blu-ray features a standard English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles for accessibility. This track delivers a noteworthy auditory experience characterized by its clear and distinct dialogue, ensuring that conversations remain intelligible and sharp throughout the film. The sound effects contribute to a highly engaging auditory backdrop, highlighted by sequences involving Eddie Murphy's tank. The dynamic intensity when the tank fires is particularly impressive, showcasing vibrant explosions and immersive effects without any observable encoding anomalies.

The soundtrack further enriches the film’s auditory landscape with its crisp clarity, especially notable during action scenes where tanks traverse rough terrains or unleash destruction. Such elements are augmented by sound effects that vividly capture the chaos of missiles firing and objects breaking within the tank. Accompanying these effects, the music adds a layer of depth through decent dynamic contrasts, enhancing the overall listening experience. Even though scenes with Dudley Moore might lack similar explosive action, they maintain exceptional audio stability that supports clear and engaging dialogue.

Overall, this DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track not only elevates scenes laden with action such as tanks destroying structures and causing mayhem but also ensures that quieter moments are underscored with precision and clarity. This combination of dynamic soundscapes and distinct dialogue provides an engaging experience without any technical faults or disruptions.

The Blu-Ray release of "Best Defense" includes engaging extras that explore the film’s troubled production and casting challenges. Notably, the Audio Commentary features screenwriter/producer Alan Spencer and critic Justin Humphreys, offering a candid discussion of the studio dynamics, Eddie Murphy’s strategic casting, and Dudley Moore’s rise to prominence. It sheds light on the mismanagement issues and the resulting narrative disjointedness, focusing on how Murphy’s scenes were incorporated to boost commercial appeal despite the film primarily featuring Moore. The commentary underscores the studio’s misguided marketing strategy and illuminates the film’s deviation from Robert Grossbach’s dark, satirical novel. It also acknowledges the significant contributions of behind-the-scenes talent. Additionally, a Trailer for "Best Defense," a classic marketing artifact, is included to give viewers a taste of the film's promotional angle.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Comprehensive political and production insights by Alan Spencer and Justin Humphreys.
• Trailer: Vintage U.S. trailer in English (3 min).

"Best Defense" has been a subject of cinematic analysis for its intriguing production choices and resulting narrative flaws. The Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber offers insightful supplemental content including commentary by Alan Spencer and Justin Humphreys. While the film faced obvious challenges during its initial production, resulting in mixed success at the box office, it remains a fascinating case study in filmmaking decisions. The narrative struggles with abrupt transitions and poorly integrated additional scenes featuring Eddie Murphy, which detract from Dudley Moore's comedic rhythm. Moore's energetic performance, driven by a classic comedic style, is frequently disrupted by Murphy's inconsistent improv attempts, highlighting the dissonance in the film's overall execution.

Central to "Best Defense" is Dudley Moore’s character, an accidental disruptor embroiled in a story laden with comedic potential. Though the film includes strong performances from its supporting cast, including actors like George Dzundza and Kate Capshaw, it misses its mark due to poor narrative cohesion. The decision to insert new material with Murphy, intended to capitalize on his burgeoning stardom, instead muddles the storyline further. This synthesis of disparate film elements ultimately dilutes its comic intent, yet it remains apparent that genuine moments of humor exist amidst the chaos.

While "Best Defense" does not reach its full narrative potential, elements of its comedic framework suggest that a more focused direction could have salvaged its reception. The juxtaposition of Moore’s meticulous humor with Murphy’s sporadic improvisation underscores the challenges of integrating differing comedic styles without sacrificing coherence. Consequently, when viewed through this lens, "Best Defense" serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of maintaining a clear creative vision, especially when attempting to straddle both established and emerging comedic talent.

The Blu-ray release of "Best Defense" by Kino Lorber offers a visually striking presentation, sourced from a pristine 4K master courtesy of Paramount Pictures. Despite the film's troubled past and mixed reception, this release is technically impressive, showcasing strong detailing and vibrant colors that enhance the comedic antics of Dudley Moore's character. Moore's performance, as expected, delivers consistent humor, albeit within a narrative that lacks coherent structure due primarily to disjointed editing and ill-fitting additions of Eddie Murphy’s scenes. Murphy, though a prominent star at the time, appears for only 15 minutes, billed as a "Strategic Guest Star," in an effort seen by many as an afterthought to capitalize on his fame.

Critical reception to the film has been largely negative, with many attributing its shortcomings to studio interventions and mismanagement. The original novel by Robert Grossbach was darkly satirical, but the film suffered from a forced adaptation, reflecting misguided attempts to integrate happier endings. This tonal inconsistency, coupled with unnecessary military satire in Murphy's sequences, diluted the impact of Moore’s humorous portrayal.

In conclusion, "Best Defense" is not devoid of merit, especially for fans of Dudley Moore who can appreciate his characteristic comedic flair amidst the chaos. While it is regarded as a mismanaged effort rather than an outright failure, its cinematic flaws are evident. The Blu-ray's high-quality transfer is commendable and offers a refined visual experience that enhances its viewing appeal. Despite its rocky narrative approach, this release holds value for completists or those curious about this peculiar comedic amalgamation. RECOMMENDED.