Hornets' Nest Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the "Hornets' Nest" Blu-ray, encoded in AVC with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, balances its historical context with high-definition integrity. Despite displaying some age-related artifacts such as minor scratches and speckling, these issues are minor and do not disrupt the viewing experience significantly. The presence of fine film grain ensures a filmic quality that supports detail retention, particularly notable in the close-ups where facial textures and age distinctions are cleanly rendered. Colors exhibit a slight fade; however, outdoor greenery retains its vibrancy and military uniforms deliver more radiant reds. Skintones are slightly exaggerated, maintaining an appropriate visual consistency.

Detail levels throughout the transfer are laudable, with every individual component down to Robert Hudson's intricate 70s mustache being distinctly visible. The lush Italian landscape, along with wooded areas and local architectural elements, is showcased impressively. Yet, the video quality does see minor degradations during night scenes due to some contrast boosting and occasional crushing of black levels. Though there is slight edge enhancement and some late third-act print wear, these factors do not significantly detract from the high-definition experience offered.

Performance in daylight sequences is particularly commendable, delivering considerable depth and substantial black levels. The overall delineation remains intact with secure blacks that avoid excessive solidification during low-lit encounters. While the day-for-night photography introduces some inconsistencies, they are not attributed to the transfer itself. Overall, this Blu-ray offering for a catalogue release proves to be a technical achievement, providing an impressive visual experience with minimal imperfections.

The Blu-ray release of "Hornets' Nest" features a DTS-HD 2.0 audio mix that provides an overall competent auditory experience. Dialogue remains intelligible throughout, with clear exchanges even during high-temper scenes, although the range can sometimes feel subdued. The audio track maintains a consistent midrange without severe spikes or drop-offs, ensuring listeners don’t need to adjust the volume constantly. Explosions and gunfire are effectively rendered, though at times they may sound more exaggerated than realistic. Ambient effects help maintain presence and immersive atmospherics, even capturing the subtleties of military maneuvers and combat nuances.

However, the audio presentation has its limitations. While dialogue clarity is praiseworthy, scoring has a modest profile, lending support without standing out remarkably. Gunshots, although clear, occasionally resemble firecrackers more than realistic sounds, and imaging throughout the audio track remains relatively flat. There’s limited channel movement which might feel somewhat restrictive in dynamism for viewers seeking a multi-dimensional soundscape. Nevertheless, the track’s balanced levels and crystallized dialogue make it a suitable accompaniment for the film’s overall tone and pacing.

In conclusion, while the DTS-HD 2.0 audio track may not achieve intricate detail or groundbreaking depth, it provides a serviceable and clear listening experience for "Hornets' Nest". Atmospherics and combat particulars are captured effectively, delivering an engaging level of immersion appropriate for the film's narrative intensity.

The Blu-ray extras for "Hornets' Nest" offer a commendable array of supplementary content that enhances the viewer's understanding and appreciation of the film. These features are thoughtfully curated and presented in high-definition (HD), though one trailer in standard definition (SD) exhibits noticeable degradation. The standout is the Hornet's Nest Trailer, which effectively teases the film as a youthful take on 'The Dirty Dozen.' Other notable trailers include The Train Trailer, despite its rough condition, it still captivates and entices viewers to revisit the classic, and the The Secret Invasion Trailer, a personal favorite that showcases Roger Corman's distinctive style. Collectively, these extras provide valuable historical context and entertainment.

Extras included in this disc:

• Hornet's Nest Trailer: A solid trailer that sets the movie up as some sort of version of 'The Dirty Dozen' starring kids.
• The Train Trailer: This trailer is in really rough shape, but it makes one want to watch the film again.
• The Secret Invasion Trailer: Lovingly presented trailer for Roger Corman's gem.

"Hornets' Nest," directed by Phil Karlson and starring Rock Hudson, blends action and psychological tension in a World War II setting. The film centers on Turner (Hudson), a lone surviving U.S. paratrooper, and his unlikely alliance with a group of Italian orphans led by the vengeful Aldo (Mark Colleano). Turner is charged with a critical mission to destroy a dam of strategic importance before German forces can thwart advancing allied troops. The film’s script oscillates between being a high-octane war movie and a somber exploration of trauma and revenge, delivering moments of breathtaking action intertwined with scenes that resonate on an emotional level.

The young cast delivers noteworthy performances, with Mark Colleano's portrayal of Aldo standing out, though his fervent delivery occasionally pushes the character into melodrama. Rock Hudson's commanding presence lends the film its necessary gravitas, anchoring its blend of exploitation and serious war narrative. The morally complex relationship between Turner and Aldo forms the story's backbone, juxtaposing Turner's military pragmatism against Aldo's raw thirst for vengeance. Sylva Koscina as Bianca, a captured German nurse, adds another layer of tension, though her character's frequent mistreatment reflects outdated and uncomfortable cinematic trends of the 1970s.

The climactic battle sequence is a highlight, showcasing impressive coordination and impactful choreography. Ennio Morricone’s score elevates the film, weaving a haunting yet thrilling audio tapestry that complements both the action-packed and introspective moments. Despite some narrative flaws and over-the-top characterizations, "Hornets' Nest" is ultimately an engaging action thriller that succeeds in blending rousing entertainment with a deeper commentary on the impacts of war. While its approach to certain characters may feel dated, the film remains a compelling snapshot of its era and genre.

"Hornets' Nest" offers a gripping wartime narrative, delivering ample tension and a compelling story of revenge and military strategy. Its wide-open locations are utilized to great effect as the action transitions across various countryside settings. The film thrives on its conflict and moral ambiguity, particularly after its intense opening sequence. While Joseph Colleano's exaggerated performance may detract from the drama with an over-the-top portrayal and awkward accent, the movie overall settles into an engaging rhythm that deviates entertainingly from standard war film formulas.

The content pushes boundaries, almost teetering on exploitation, with its brisk action sequences and the controversial depiction of child soldiers combating Nazis. While not without flaws, the movie manages to remain thoroughly entertaining. Kino Lorber's Blu-ray presentation stands out with a commendable picture transfer and robust audio quality. Although the extras are minimal, the quality of the main feature warrants a viewing. The film’s campy elements may appeal to some more than others, providing a polarizing but intriguing cinematic experience.

In conclusion, "Hornets' Nest" impressively balances drama and action with an unconventional take on wartime narratives. Its technical excellence in Blu-ray format enhances the viewing experience, despite a few narrative and performance shortcomings. For those interested in a unique war film with a mix of tension and moral complexity, this Blu-ray edition merits serious consideration.