Warning Shot Blu-ray Review

"Warning Shot" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber, presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC. Utilizing a 1080p transfer sourced from a Paramount master, it matches previous releases in terms of visual quality. While there is room for improvement in clarity, grain exposure, and color depth with a potential 4K restoration, the present transfer exhibits commendable filmic qualities. The retention of natural grain structure adds authenticity to the viewing experience, with no distracting debris or frame imperfections noted. Some nicks and blemishes may be observed, but they do not detract from the overall visual presentation.

The transfer pays homage to Joseph Biroc’s vibrant cinematography, capturing rich blacks that enhance nocturnal scenes and avoiding excessive blooming in bright areas. The color palette remains engaging, with vibrant reds, sunny yellows, and lush greens providing visual interest throughout, particularly during scenes towards '60s fashion themes. Skin tones are consistently rendered, showcasing realistic close-up details. Despite mild speckling, these minor imperfections are not significant enough to distract from the cinematic presentation, maintaining the rendered quality of the movie.

Overall, this Blu-ray release offers a faithful representation of the film as initially captured for television and adapted for theatrical feature. Although enhancements are possible, the 1080p transfer effectively conveys the essence and intricacies of Biroc's work. The film is divided into 8 chapters and remains region-A locked, necessitating appropriate playback equipment for viewing. This presentation maintains solid technical fidelity while delivering an engaging viewing experience.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Warning Shot" is characterized by a singular English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track, with optional English SDH subtitles. This lossless track effectively manages the vibrant 1960s jazz score composed by Jerry Goldsmith, augmenting the atmospheric tension inherent in the film. Dialogue is consistently clear and stable, and the technical prowess ensures there are no notable audio anomalies such as hiss, pops, or crackle, which often affect films from this era.

When compared to the LPCM 2.0 mono track from the Imprint Blu-ray, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 delivers an equally robust auditory experience. It features a wide dynamic range that captures the full spectrum of Goldsmith's musical highs and lows without distortion. Sound elements, such as gunshots, physical confrontations, and telephonic rings, are rendered with precision, underpinning the thriller’s narrative with sonic clarity.

Furthermore, the audio mix smartly integrates dialogue and sound effects with Goldsmith's lively background score, displaying a professionalism that belies its budgetary constraints. Despite being a talk-heavy thriller, the sound mix adeptly supports the film's more dynamic moments, maintaining its audio integrity throughout. The presentation is seamless, making this track a fitting complement to the on-screen drama.

The Blu-ray release of "Warning Shot" includes an engaging audio commentary featuring film historians Steve Mitchell and Howard S. Berger. Their dialogue is a mix of enthusiasm and critical analysis, offering valuable insights into the film's stylistic and historical contexts. Despite occasional off-the-cuff remarks and minor gaps in knowledge, their lively exchanges delve into the film's blending of Hollywood classicism and modern styles, enriching the viewing experience. While some comparisons made to European giallo are debatable, the commentary effectively highlights the film’s unique characteristics and cultural references.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: A dynamic analysis by historians Steve Mitchell and Howard S. Berger, exploring the film's stylistic identity.
• Kino Trailers: A collection of trailers for KLSC releases such as Masquerade, The Thomas Crown Affair, and more.

Buzz Kulik's "Warning Shot" is a captivating 1967 police thriller that defies conventional film noir aesthetics by presenting its gripping narrative in vibrant color. Released on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber, the film offers a unique intersection of suspense and stylistic flair, highlighted by Joseph Biroc's innovative cinematography. Kulik's direction channels the same ambitions as Don Siegel's "The Killers," eschewing traditional noir themes of shadow and light to create a distinct ambience reflective of 1960s television projects adapted for the big screen. Jerry Goldsmith's groovy, jazz-driven score complements the film’s visual style, infusing each scene with a psychedelic undertone.

"Warning Shot" centers on LA detective Tom Valens, played by the haunting David Janssen, who becomes embroiled in a legal and moral quagmire after shooting a man during a high-stakes pursuit. Accused of manslaughter when the alleged weapon is nowhere to be found, Valens thrusts himself into an intense investigation to clear his name. The narrative probes into then-contemporary issues such as police brutality and PTSD, resonating with modern concerns about law enforcement. Aided by a superb cast—featuring Ed Begley, Keenan Wynn, and Stefanie Powers—the film unravels layers of deceit and societal scrutiny in Valens’ quest for vindication.

While "Warning Shot" retains typical police procedural elements, its narrative complexities are elevated by Mann Rubin's screenplay, based on Whit Masterson’s novel. The film's mid-20th century authenticity is enriched through carefully crafted performances and a tapestry of character-driven subplots, from Elliot Parker’s compelling widow portrayal to Lillian Gish’s heartfelt role as a diabetic patient. Despite its vintage roots, "Warning Shot" remains a culturally relevant exploration of justice and identity, captured in high-definition on this latest Blu-ray release. Critics Howard S. Berger and Steve Mitchell contribute an insightful audio commentary that expands on the film's thematic resonance beyond its noir affiliations.

Buzz Kulik's "Warning Shot" straddles the line between a captivating period crime thriller and a stylish neo-noir precursor. With its roots firmly planted in the visual styles hatched during the early 1960s, it serves as a prototype for later LA Noir films. While not universally acknowledged as a classic within its genre, "Warning Shot" still provides substantial entertainment value through its lead performance and vintage aesthetic. Its enduring charm lies in a seamless blend of mystery and star-studded appearances that echo through the decades.

The Kino Lorber Blu-ray edition replicates the Imprint Films' previous release, maintaining identical video and audio transfers alongside an engaging commentary track. This consistency ensures that you can expect a high-quality viewing experience, capturing the retro undertones without sacrificing clarity or sound fidelity. While some may find its pacing languorous, fans and first-time viewers alike will appreciate the technical presentation that respects the film’s original style.

In conclusion, "Warning Shot" is an enjoyable addition to any connoisseur's collection, particularly for aficionados of early stylish crime thrillers that helped shape contemporary noir subgenres. Its purchase is especially enticing with similar gems like "The Killers" and "P.J." for a rounded exploration of the era's cinematic inspirations. Given its enduring visual flair and compelling narrative threads, it comes highly recommended for both seasoned collectors and newcomers seeking vintage thrills without taking the purse-breaking path.