Warning Sign Blu-ray Review

The global premiere of "Warning Sign" on Blu-ray by Scream Factory showcases an MPEG-4 AVC-encoded BD-50 transfer, maintaining its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This transfer captures the beauty of the Utah countryside with its lush, idyllic landscapes, translating this serenity onto the screen effectively. Cinematographer Dean Cundey's mastery is evident in exterior shots and sunset scenes, capturing a diverse range of lighting environments superbly. However, some technical issues are present, with noticeable white speckles and light scratches marring the first half of the film. Dirt interacting with the grain at the beginning and small artifacts towards the end indicate inconsistent grain structure and print damage.

BioTek's interiors are portrayed with a sanitized brightness, reflecting the sterile environment of a chemical research facility accurately. Cundey's use of silver/bluish light and bioluminescent glow adds a unique visual texture, especially around the greenhouse zombies and corn plants. However, the transfer has its limitations; the grain's inconsistencies—vigorous in one scene, subdued in another—can disrupt the viewing experience. Despite these imperfections, Scream Factory has managed to encode the main feature with an average video bitrate of 34,000 kbps, delivering substantial detail but falling short of perfection. Video score: 3.75.

Scream Factory also provides twelve scene selections for the 99-minute feature. These technical choices ensure that, despite its flaws, "Warning Sign" retains both its narrative integrity and aesthetic robustness on Blu-ray.

Scream Factory's Blu-ray release of "Warning Sign" features an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo mix (1682 kbps, 24-bit). The audio quality stands out with a clean and clear sound profile, ensuring crisp dialogue reproduction with no issues. The dynamic range is particularly noteworthy in scenes with the USACT chopper and gunshots, providing good directionality across the front speakers. Composer Craig Safan's all-electronic score, created with the Synclavier Synthesizer, is a highlight, offering a suspenseful and atmospheric soundtrack which includes a distinctive bass thump and a synth choir that underscores emotive storytelling moments.

Ambient sound activity is present, enhancing the film's tension-filled corridors, and there is commendable separation of audio elements throughout the mix. The soundtrack, while not overwhelmingly impactful in terms of stereo experience, stays true to its source material and provides a satisfying auditory experience. Optional English SDH subtitles are available and can be accessed through the menu or via remote control.

The Blu-ray extras for "Warning Sign" provide an extensive and insightful deep dive into the film's production, with contributions from key figures who bring a rich and multidimensional perspective. Hal Barwood’s audio commentary, originally recorded in 2006, though dry at times, offers thoughtful analysis on the film’s themes, actor collaborations, lighting, and color schemes with Dean Cundey. A new interview with Barwood revisits the origins of the project and his reflections on the cast and crew. Jim Bloom’s newly included producer interview is comprehensive and reveals strong support for the film and its team. There are also classic promotional materials, including a theatrical trailer, an original TV spot, and a nostalgic still gallery featuring posters, lobby cards, and press kit photos.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Hal Barwood: Intelligent analysis of filmmaking aspects.
• NEW Interview with Director/Co-Writer Hal Barwood: Insights on project origins and crew reflections.
• NEW Interview with Producer Jim Bloom: Long-ranging defense and appreciation of the film.
• Theatrical Trailer: Full-frame teaser in average condition.
• Original TV Spot: Well-preserved PPV ad.
• Still Gallery: Collection of posters, lobby cards, and press photos.

"Warning Sign," directed by Hal Barwood, is an underrated gem from the 1980s biohazard thriller genre. The film melds the tension and horror of a viral outbreak within a government lab disguised as a pesticide manufacturer. Kathleen Quinlan stars as Joanie Morse, the vigilant security guard who unwittingly triggers a lockdown, trapping employees inside as they mutate into violent aggressors. The cast, comprising Richard Dysart, G.W. Bailey, Sam Waterston, Yaphet Kotto, and Jeffrey DeMunn, delivers solid performances, with Waterston and Quinlan standing out for their grounded and resilient portrayals. DeMunn excels as the ex-alcoholic scientist with critical knowledge of the virus and potential antidotes.

The narrative structure is bolstered by the adept editing of Oscar-nominated Robert Lawrence, which seamlessly interweaves scenes within the lab and the escalating chaos outside. Though the relationship between Waterston’s sheriff and DeMunn's scientist lacks depth initially, it evolves as they confront the biohazard catastrophe. However, some characterizations, like Kotto's Major Connolly, fall into stereotypical traps, detracting from the film’s otherwise gripping progression. Despite this, "Warning Sign" maintains a taut pace and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Barwood’s direction demonstrates efficient handling of the film's modest budget and tight production schedule. He and co-writer Matthew Robbins crafted a script that balances wit, intelligence, and moments of levity against an intense backdrop of government secrecy and bio-warfare. The film's technical execution and the interplay between lab confinement and external pressure create an engaging biothriller experience ripe for rediscovery. Those seeking a compact, well-executed thriller from the mid-80s will find "Warning Sign" a satisfying selection.

Scream Factory’s Blu-ray release of "Warning Sign" brings renewed attention to an often overlooked entry in the biohazard sci-fi genre. Though not a top-tier film, "Warning Sign" has its own merits, particularly in its atmospheric scenes reminiscent of John Carpenter's "The Thing," courtesy of cinematographer Dean Cundey. The transfer itself is solid, though not without imperfections, offering a visually competent presentation that captures the film’s gripping suspense. Complementing this is a very good stereo soundtrack that adds to the overall experience.

What elevates this Blu-ray edition are the supplementary materials – new interviews with director Hal Barwood and actor Kathleen Quinlan. These discussions provide candid and insightful reflections on the production, enhancing appreciation for the film’s craftsmanship. Barwood’s direction demonstrates a commendable effort that may make viewers lament the under-the-radar trajectory of his subsequent career. Scream Factory's commitment to including these extras makes this Blu-ray a well-rounded package, despite it not being an exhaustive special edition.

In conclusion, while "Warning Sign" may not stand alongside giants in its genre, the Blu-ray release from Scream Factory ensures it receives the recognition it deserves. With a decent transfer and valuable extras, it's a commendable release that should appeal to sci-fi and horror enthusiasts. This edition is highly recommended for fans of 80s genre films and collectors of niche cinema who will appreciate the film’s craftsmanship and historical context.