MaXXXine Blu-ray Review

"MaXXXine" on Blu-ray delivers a visually immersive experience, meticulously captured and crafted to evoke the gritty aesthetic of the mid-80s VHS era. Presented in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer, this release is a testament to Ti West and cinematographer Eliot Rockett's commitment to stylistic authenticity. Utilizing both Red and Sony cameras, finished at 4K resolution, this Blu-ray offers a distinctive grainy texture that mirrors the look of vintage film prints more than negatives. While the intentionally grainy texture occasionally reveals noise, especially against steam or during banding instances, the overall effect is both nostalgically immersive and engagingly detailed. The shadow detail is commendable, though the 4K UHD version marginally enhances it.

The color palette further intensifies the retro ambiance, with deliberate yellow undertones that contrast with striking blue nighttime scenes and dramatic red showdowns. This tonal choice, aligning with the VHS aesthetic, complements the era-specific stylization. Scenes exhibiting fulsome detail levels, despite challenging shooting conditions like dim lighting, highlight the skillful post-production work by Company 3. The film's look diverges significantly from West's previous films "X" and "Pearl," utilizing vintage cameras for a seamless integration of de-focus affects and intentional image degradation to simulate authentic period visuals.

Overall, while not designed as demo material in conventional sense, this Blu-ray edition of "MaXXXine" excels in delivering a visually satisfactory experience that honors its intended retro qualities. It stands out as a compelling option for viewers seeking an authentic VHS vibe rather than ultra-modern clarity, adhering closely to its creative vision.

The Dolby Atmos track of the "MaXXXine" Blu-ray provides an immersive audio experience that evokes the bustling and unruly atmosphere of mid-eighties Los Angeles. The mix is skillfully balanced to incorporate subtle ambient sounds alongside more prevalent auditory cues, creating an auditory backdrop that complements the film's emotional landscape. Tyler Bates' resonant score enriches the soundstage with well-placed side and rear channel distribution, delivering a robust low-end presence. Dialogue is consistently clean and articulate, with particular note of the crisp rendition of Maxine's distinct southern drawl.

Although the Atmos track is relatively restrained, it adeptly utilizes sporadic ceiling speaker effects to enhance key scenes, such as the dynamic helicopter flyovers and a vibrantly portrayed thunderstorm. These elements activate all channels to their full potential, providing a dynamic soundscape that aligns with the visual storytelling. Despite its reserved nature, the track supports the period setting effectively, maintaining a front-focused approach that echoes classic Dolby Stereo mixes of the era.

Audio options include English Dolby Atmos, English 2.0 Descriptive Audio, and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, catering to a range of listener preferences. Optional English SDH and Spanish subtitles further enhance accessibility. While not the most extravagant Atmos mix, its nuanced execution captures the essence of the film's era and narrative, providing an engaging auditory layer to accompany Eliot Rockett's evocative cinematography.

The Blu-ray extras for "MaXXXine" offer a well-rounded, if somewhat superficial, exploration of the film's production. The mix includes standard EPK-style featurettes that integrate on-set interviews with the principal cast, such as Mia Goth and Kevin Bacon, alongside the creative team. While some segments fall into promotional territory, they provide valuable insight into the film's unique late-80s atmosphere, particularly through the use of period-appropriate cinematography. Notably absent from these segments but present in a more comprehensive piece is Ti West, who engages in an extended Q&A, offering deeper reflections on his creative process. The technical aspects are lightly touched upon, specifically focusing on special effects and thematic undertones. Although these extras do not delve deeply into the filmmaking craft, they do add context to the final product.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Belly of the Beast: Profiles actress Mia Goth with interviews.
• XXX Marks the Spot: Focuses on capturing the mid-80s vibe.
• Hollywood is a Killer: Examines special effects in kill scenes.
• Q & A with Director Ti West: A comprehensive director's session.
• Teaser Trailer: Promotional preview.
• Theatrical Trailer: Full theatrical promo.

"MaXXXine," the latest chapter in Ti West's unconventional trilogy, takes viewers on a vivid journey through 1980s Los Angeles, echoing the series' thematic preoccupations with ambition and the adult film industry. Mia Goth's portrayal of Maxine Minx remains compelling, capturing the character's relentless pursuit of fame. Originating from a seemingly serendipitous decision to expand on the films "X" and "Pearl," this installment explores Maxine's attempt to transition from adult films to mainstream cinema amidst the chaos of involvement in the Night Stalker murders. The narrative cleverly intertwines a giallo-esque mystery with broader thematic elements, like trial and fame in show business.

Goth reprises her role with intensity, effectively drawing parallels between Maxine and her antagonist Pearl. This continuity offers an intricate examination of dual personas striving for stardom against a backdrop of societal fascination with sex and violence. Though West’s spontaneous storytelling approach introduces inconsistencies, it also crafts unique connections that enhance the narrative's depth. The visual style captures the era authentically, using stylistic tools like aspect ratio shifts to echo past motifs in the trilogy.

With fascinating performances from supporting actors, notably Kevin Bacon as detective John Labat, "MaXXXine" provides a fitting crescendo to the seemingly improvised saga. While its exaggerated plot elements may verge on pretense, they amplify the series' core themes, delivering a rich tapestry of narrative prowess. Despite some predictable elements, the film ultimately succeeds as a genre piece while underscoring societal fixations even at the risk of incoherence. As a denouement to the trilogy, it adroitly encapsulates Maxine's odyssey without eschewing absurdity, further advancing West’s exploration of timeless human desires and their consequences.

"MaXXXine" arrives as a compelling conclusion to Ti West's trilogy, deftly showcasing the series' captivating blend of grit and exploitation. While it stirs debate over its cohesive narrative as a trilogy, the film excels in bringing visceral entertainment and highlighting Mia Goth's outstanding performance. The Blu-ray delivers impressive technical quality in both video and audio, though discerning viewers with 4K setups might find the UHD version preferable.

Despite its somewhat ephemeral themes wrapped around the allure of fame and fortune, "MaXXXine" solidly bookends the trilogy alongside "X" and "Pearl." The supplemental features, while limited, provide enjoyable content with teasers, trailers, and a promotional reel for other A24 titles. The included Q&A session offers additional insight, slightly surpassing extras from "X" or "Pearl." Although future releases from A24 may offer enhanced packaging, the current Lionsgate release on Blu-ray supplements this cinematic journey sufficiently without extravagant frills.

In conclusion, the film, although not a traditional trilogy installment, manages to enthrall with its dynamic storytelling and superior technical merits. While purists might hold out for an extensive collector's edition, the Blu-ray serves as a satisfactory conclusion for fans eager to complete their Ti West collection. Given its top-notch presentation and engaging extras, this installment is recommendable for enthusiasts of unique cinematic experiences.