White of the Eye Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "White of the Eye" by Scream Factory, utilizing an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.83:1 aspect ratio, offers a fascinating visual experience. Derived from a 2K transfer of the original 35mm negative, the release showcases Arrow Video's meticulous effort, previously utilized for their UK release. The resulting image quality is notable given the film's low budget and its 1986 production. Director Donald Cammell’s use of diverse stylistic choices, such as the bleach bypass process, contributes to fluctuating sharpness, grain, and clarity throughout the film. These fluctuations, while faithful to the director's vision, introduce occasional compression anomalies. Viewers may notice macroblocking in the credits and yellowish or multicolored edges amid heavier grain, typical of some Shout! releases.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the transfer shines with rich and vibrant colors that elevate the viewing experience significantly, especially during flashback sequences where high-contrast blues create a striking and eerie atmosphere. Regular sequences exhibit a dream-like haze, aligning with Cammell's artistic intent. Although this can result in slight pinkish shifts in flesh tones and contrasty visuals, it does not detract from the overall impact. Fine film grain remains intact, and detail levels are outstanding—with clear visibility of facial features, costuming intricacies, and the Arizona desert landscape. For aficionados of finely tuned film restorations, this Blu-ray transfer is an impressive rendition that mirrors its theatrical look to a remarkable degree.

"White of the Eye" presents a compelling auditory experience with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 tracks. The 5.1 surround track is recommended for those with compatible home theater setups, as it offers a more forceful and immersive soundscape compared to the 2.0 stereo track. The sound design is noteworthy, featuring mood-evoking elements such as Mark Knopfler-esque guitar cues and a unique score composed by Nick Mason of Pink Floyd and Rick Fenn of 10cc. These music pieces contribute significantly to the film's atmosphere, enriching the viewing experience with their depth and tonal richness.

The sound mixing, especially during the film's first murder sequence, is executed with precision, accentuating various auditory elements like the smashing of kitchen items to elevate the scene's intensity. Dialogue is rendered with impeccable clarity and remains well-prioritized throughout the movie, ensuring that viewers do not miss any crucial lines. The film's overall sound design does an excellent job of immersing the audience without overwhelming them, utilizing sound effects that, while authentic, also lend an otherworldly feel particularly effective during pivotal scenes and the climax.

In essence, "White of the Eye" succeeds in crafting a hypnotic auditory environment that draws viewers deeper into its narrative world. The DTS-HD MA 2.0 track holds its own with strong auditory marks, maintaining a balance between engaging sound effects and clear dialogue. However, the DTS-HD MA 5.1 track is the definitive choice for an enriched and immersive audio experience, making the most of the film’s complex sound design and captivating score.

The Blu Ray release of "White of the Eye" offers an extensive array of extras that will certainly delight fans and cinephiles alike. The technical depth and scholarly approach to these features provide valuable insights into the filmmaking process and the enigmatic director, Donald Cammell. Among the highlights is the engaging interview with cinematographer Larry McConkey, who elaborates on the unique shooting techniques and on-set dynamics, contrasting with a comprehensive career overview by actor Alan Rosenberg. Sam Umland's commentary, while detailed in its scholastic approach, might feel slightly stiff but compensates with its rich background information. Overall, this collection of extras successfully enhances the viewer's understanding of the film's intricate production process and the artistic vision behind it.

Extras included in this disc:

• Into the White with Larry McConkey: Interview on techniques and on-set dynamics.
• Into the Vortex with Alan Rosenberg: Actor's career insight and set experience.
• Eye of the Detective with Art Evans: Actor discusses simultaneous shoots and role.
• Deleted Scenes with Commentary by Sam Umland: Insightful commentary over missing audio scenes.
• Alternate Credits Sequence: Slight variation in the credit music.
• Bleach Bypass Sequences: Raw footage before applying bleach bypass technique.
• Audio Commentary: Scholarly track by Sam Umland discussing thematic aspects and production details.

'White of the Eye' skillfully weaves traditional serial killer tropes into a riveting psychological thriller with a distinctive visual style. Set against the backdrop of Tucson, Arizona, the narrative revolves around Paul White (David Keith), a high-end audio installation expert who becomes the prime suspect in a series of brutal murders targeting wealthy women. Detective Charles Mendoza (Art Evans) investigates the increasingly suspicious activities of Paul, whose work as a sound system technician places him at multiple crime scenes. Through the intricate interplay of flashbacks and present-day events, the film unveils the complicated relationships between Paul, his wife Joan (Cathy Moriarty), and her former lover Mike De Santos (Alan Rosenberg), adding depth to the unfolding mystery.

The movie adopts a structurally compelling approach, resembling psychological thrillers like Roman Polanski’s 'Knife in the Water.' It excels in building tension through its chaotic yet deliberate editing style, using heavy filtering and bleach bypass techniques to create an eerie atmosphere. The dichotomy between straightforward police procedural elements and more convoluted emotional subtext enriches the narrative, even though it occasionally struggles to balance these components seamlessly. Director Donald Cammell, known for his unique vision, delivers a haunting take on a seemingly conventional story, anchored by strong performances from the lead actors. David Keith’s portrayal of the enigmatic Paul keeps viewers engrossed, while Cathy Moriarty’s nuanced performance as Joan adds an unexpected layer of suspense to the film.

The latter part of 'White of the Eye' takes a more intense turn as it focuses on Joan's role in the drama, aligning with the source material that emphasized her perspective. The film's crescendo is gratifyingly personal, culminating in a tense finale that intertwines the fates of its central characters. Despite some writing inconsistencies, Cammell’s direction ensures that the narrative remains engaging and brisk, bolstered by ingeniously staged murder scenes and commendable acting. This intricate balance of psychological depth and visual flair makes 'White of the Eye' a captivating entry in the thriller genre.

"White of the Eye" offers a compelling experience, presenting a distinct visual style that stands out within the mid-80s thriller genre. Directed by Donald Cammell, the film captures a palpable mood through its unique cinematography and solid performances, despite the screenplay’s occasional preposterousness. The final act's foray into the Grand Guignol may not resonate with everyone, but it underscores Cammell's ambitious approach and distinctive execution. This Blu-ray release represents the film excellently, featuring an impressive new 2K HD transfer that revitalizes its visual appeal.

The technical prowess of this Blu-ray edition extends beyond the 2K transfer, with a robust DTS-HD MA stereo track enhancing the auditory experience. This ensures that viewers are fully immersed in the unsettling atmosphere of "White of the Eye." The audio and visual quality are complemented by a wealth of engaging extras that provide deeper insights into the production and legacy of the film. These supplements are well-curated and offer substantial value, making the Blu-ray release not just a viewing experience but a comprehensive exploration of the film's context and significance.

In conclusion, while "White of the Eye" might not achieve universal acclaim, especially with its grandiose finale, it remains a visually striking and ambitious curio within its genre. The Blu-ray edition is highly recommended for its superior technical restoration and enriching supplementary content. It's a rewarding addition for cinephiles and enthusiasts of mid-80s thrillers.