Fire Birds Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the “Fire Birds” Blu-ray, released by Kino Lorber, provides a mixed viewing experience that largely echoes the previous Mill Creek release from 2015. Both versions utilize an older master, yielding shortcomings in visual quality. Key issues include persistent softness, making fine detail elusive and texture definition a struggle. Facial surfaces show superficial creasing, costume textures are somewhat tangible, and war machines exhibit a basic sense of their steely nature. While outdoor sequences, such as desert chases and mountainous terrain, offer acceptable depth and color vibrancy, the interiors, particularly those inside the Apache helicopters, showcase a reasonable range of hues from panel lighting to costume decorations.

However, various technical flaws remain evident. The 1.85:1 1080p transfer struggles with fluctuating detail levels, inconsistent grain that appears chunky and somewhat blocky, DNR (Digital Noise Reduction) artifacts, and unstable black levels. Indoor shots display significant flatness and dullness, with frequent evidence of smoothing that detracts from the viewing experience. The colors can be pleasing in outdoor scenes but often fall flat in more complex sequences. Skin tones generally appear natural but occasionally exhibit a slight ruddy push. Despite these issues, there are still moments of clarity, particularly in close-ups and medium shots set outdoors on the military base. Unfortunately, the overall image remains subpar, further compromised by mild speckling and other minor source-related imperfections.

In summary, while there are fleeting instances of visual adequacy, the consistent technical shortcomings and lack of a new scan or remaster prevent this presentation from fully realizing its potential. Fans of the film will find that although some scenes manage to pass muster, the overall visual quality remains disappointing.

The Kino Lorber Blu-ray release of "Fire Birds" significantly elevates the auditory experience by offering two superior audio tracks: a 5.1 DTS-HD MA mix and a 2.0 DTS-HD MA mix, both miles ahead of Mill Creek's inadequate 2.0 Dolby Digital offering. The 5.1 DTS-HD MA mix is particularly noteworthy, delivering crisp and clear dialogue that captures even the subtlest acting quirks and jargon-heavy military exchanges with precision. While the surround sound usage in the mix misses the opportunity for directional sweeping with the helicopters, it still provides an appealing circular feel. The sound effects are remarkably sharp and snappy, identifying bullet hits and whirring rotors with admirable clarity, and while the low-end frequencies lack precision, they offer a steady rumble during explosions and roaring engines.

Complementing the robust 5.1 mix, the 2.0 DTS-HD MA track also performs commendably, offering perhaps a more organic and balanced sound experience. The overall improvement in dialog clarity is immediately apparent in both tracks, replacing the flat and tinny exchanges of the previous release with vibrant and clear conversations. Helicopter scenes filled with zipping rotors and gunfire benefit greatly, providing an immersive audiovisual treat. David Newman's scoring is enhanced as well, adding zest and dimension to the overall mix. Both tracks exhibit strong performance, showcasing impressive presence and punch; however, the 5.1 mix slightly edges out with its expansive soundscape and atmospherics, making it a preferred choice for a more immersive experience. Nevertheless, the 2.0 track remains equally compelling with its aggressive and impactful delivery.

The supplemental material for the Blu-ray release of "Fire Birds" delivers a respectable array of features, significantly enhancing the content previously available. The Audio Commentary by director David Green showcases extensive insights into the film's production, including specific scene anecdotes and intriguing stories, rendering it an informative experience despite not being the most riveting commentary ever. Additionally, the collection of trailers spans several formats and lengths, displaying a mix of standard definition and high definition, thereby catering to diverse viewer preferences. These additions contribute valuable context and nostalgic flair to the overall package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director David Green provides production insights and scene-specific notes.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer in standard definition.
• The Park Is Mine Trailer: Promotional trailer in standard definition.
• The Package Trailer: Promotional trailer in standard definition.
• Blown Away Trailer: Promotional trailer in high definition.
• One Good Cop Trailer: Promotional trailer in standard definition.

"Fire Birds," a 1990 action film inspired by the success of "Top Gun," attempts to replicate the formula of military heroism and high-octane drama, this time focusing on helicopter pilots combating a drug cartel. While undeniably simplistic and occasionally misguided in its casting, the film offers enjoyable entertainment, driven largely by the unique performances of Nicolas Cage and Tommy Lee Jones. Cage, portraying Jake Preston, delivers a blend of idiosyncratic quirks and larger-than-life bravado, while Jones, as Brad Little, injects some gravitas into the movie with his mastery of military jargon and commanding presence.

The plot follows Jake Preston's journey from an overconfident but underqualified pilot to a skilled Apache aviator under the mentorship of Brad Little. This transformation includes tackling personal vendettas, rekindling an old romance with fellow pilot Billie Lee Guthrie (Sean Young), and overcoming physical limitations, particularly an unusual eye dominance issue. The action sequences are the film's highlight—extensively showcasing the AH-64 Apache helicopters in dramatic combat scenarios. While Green’s direction tries to keep the narrative engaging, the film ultimately lives up to its stereotypical storyline and predictable development.

Despite being a flawed attempt at replicating "Top Gun’s" formula, "Fire Birds" manages to entertain with its campy nature and action-packed sequences. Cage's eccentric portrayal and Jones' capable support make this movie enjoyable for those who appreciate over-the-top performances and a straightforward action narrative. While the film’s depiction of American military might borders on jingoism, its absurdity ensures it’s hard to take too seriously. For fans of aerial combat films or those looking for a nostalgic, albeit cheesy, military action flick, "Fire Birds" offers a diverting experience that satisfies in sheer spectacle if not in substance.

"Fire Birds" is a 1990 action spectacle that opens with a provocative George Bush quote and leverages the era's War on Drugs to frame its adventurous narrative. The film, featuring a climactic showdown in the purported wilds of South America, attempts to echo blockbuster successes of the previous decade with its over-the-top military zeal and intense helicopter dogfights. However, while it projects an ultra-patriotic fervor, the reality of the drug war was far less glamorous. It's a nostalgia-fueled ride where helicopters dominate the sky, Sean Young provides notable on-screen presence, and the 90s ethos permeates every scene.

Technically, Kino Lorber Studio Classics' Blu-ray edition of "Fire Birds" presents both pluses and minuses. The recycled video transfer remains problematic, lacking the refinements that modern audiences might expect. However, the new audio tracks are significantly upgraded, and the director's audio commentary offers insightful context that enriches the viewing experience. The film's primary draw remains its helicopter dogfight sequences, which are captivating despite the film feeling like a delayed sequel to the 80s action craze—a "Top Gun" imitation that has carved out its niche thanks to Nicolas Cage’s exuberant performance.

In conclusion, while "Fire Birds" is far from cinematic greatness, it holds a peculiar charm and entertainment value that fans of quirky 90s action films may appreciate. The Kino Lorber release, notably superior to previous versions in audio quality and supplementary content, is a commendable effort to preserve this cult classic. If you harbor affection for the film despite its flaws, this release is the definitive version to own for the foreseeable future.