Legend Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Legend" is a fascinating amalgamation of both the U.S. Theatrical Cut and the Director's Cut, each presented in AVC encoded 1080p at a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The U.S. Theatrical Cut features an exclusive restoration by Arrow Films, utilizing the original 35mm camera negative and additional interpositive film elements, scanned in 4K resolution and graded in 2K to enhance the visual quality. This restoration brings forth richer and bolder colors, with an improved contrast that results in a more film-like appearance and impressive detail.

The Director's Cut, presented using the 2011 HD master approved by Ridley Scott, exhibits the inherent limitations of its source material but manages to retain the nostalgic charm of the director's original vision. Both versions maintain their unique grading, creating slightly different visual experiences—where the U.S. Theatrical Cut is characterized by its slight variances in clarity and a rosier color temperature, in contrast to the more yellowish Universal release. Despite some noticeable spikes in grain, particularly in scenes with challenging lighting, Arrow's restoration ensures that there are no major damages reported, while maintaining a natural filmic quality even during intense scenes.

The aesthetic choices across both versions bolster the film's fantasy atmosphere. The vibrant colors convey a mystical forest teeming with life, while transitions to darker scenes are marked by dynamic contrasts and stunning color palettes. Lavish greens and neon floral hues adorn exterior shots, while interior scenes laced with shadows and firelight imbue the film with a dramatic energy. Black levels, costumes, and special effects are all rendered with exquisite sharpness and depth. This new 1080p HD transfer makes "Legend" appear better than ever before, offering an unparalleled viewing experience for fans of the film.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Legend" includes both DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and 2.0 stereo tracks. While the stereo track is the default across the board, audio enthusiasts will find the DTS-HD 5.1 mix the superior choice for its dynamic range, effectively utilizing surround channels to create an immersive listening experience. This release enhances the film's soundscape with a wide dynamic range, clear dialogue, and a precise mix that captures every detail, from delicate whispers to floor-shaking effects. However, some minor mix issues persist, notably with Tangerine Dream’s score occasionally overshadowing dialogue in the U.S. Theatrical Cut.

Despite some critiques, the overall audio fidelity presented in the DTS-HD 5.1 track shines through, providing robust surround engagement. The soundtrack's integration is notable, with Jerry Goldsmith and Tangerine Dream’s scores adding to the atmospheric depth of the film. The separation between channels is consistent and effective, ensuring each sound effect—a crackling fire, a rustling forest leaf—lends to an all-encompassing auditory experience.

The enhanced LFE provides powerful low-end support, especially during key scenes involving Darkness's foreboding voice or explosive action sequences. Optional English subtitles are available for additional clarity, although the dialogue remains clear and distortion-free throughout. In conclusion, this updated audio mix elevates "Legend" in a significant way, preserving its nostalgic essence while delivering a more engaging sound experience reflective of modern Blu-ray standards.

The Blu-ray release of "Legend" is rich in extra content, providing an expansive look into the film's production and legacy. It features detailed commentaries by Paul M. Sammon and Ridley Scott, both offering in-depth insights into the making of the movie. A highlight is the comprehensive isolated music tracks by Tangerine Dream and Jerry Goldsmith, presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Various featurettes, including "Remembering a Legend" and "Creating a Myth," enrich the experience with interviews and behind-the-scenes stories. The package also includes vintage promotional materials like trailers, TV spots, and original featurettes. Storyboards, screenplay drafts, and image galleries offer additional visual context. The highly curated physical presentation, featuring a fold-out poster, lobby cards, character portraits, and a detailed Arrow booklet, satisfies dedicated collectors.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Paul M. Sammon: Insightful discussion on production and Ridley Scott.
• Isolated Music Tracks: Complete scores by Tangerine Dream and Jerry Goldsmith.
• Remembering a Legend: Interviews with UK crew revisiting the movie.
• The Music of Legend: Examination of the film's varied musical scores.
• The Creatures of Legend: Illustration and makeup effects exploration.
• Incarnations of a Legend: Travis Crawford's visual essay on film versions.
• The Directors: Ridley Scott: Archival documentary from 2003.
• Music Video: "Is Your Love Strong Enough?" by Bryan Ferry.
• Crafted Packaging: Includes booklets, posters, and character portraits.

Ridley Scott's "Legend," presented in this Arrow Video Blu-ray collection, encompasses various cuts, including the U.S. Theatrical Cut and the Director's Cut, offering viewers a unique exploration of its multifaceted narrative. The film's distinct versions mirror oral and written traditions, presenting dynamic interpretations of legendary tales. Scott's fantasy epic, although initially met with mixed reviews, boasts stunning visuals and a compelling score. Featuring Tom Cruise as Jack and Mia Sara as Lili against Tim Curry's menacing Darkness, the film traverses themes of good versus evil, complete with arresting sets and practical effects.

The Blu-ray offers a visual feast though opinions on its narrative coherence vary. While some critique the film for its perceived superficiality and Cruise's casting, others celebrate its audacious melding of innocence and darkness. Scott's vision, replete with Catholic undertones, finds common ground with 80s fantasy films yet distinguishes itself through a grittier tone. Critically undervalued at release, it later found a dedicated following for its baroque aesthetic and fantastical elements.

"Legend" achieves a rich auditory experience across its editions. Complementing Scott's direction are two scores: Jerry Goldsmith's traditional orchestration and Tangerine Dream’s electronic renditions, both enhancing the narrative’s emotional scope. The Arrow Blu-ray release not only amplifies these auditory diversities but enriches them with detailed packaging that includes new artwork, a booklet, and other collectibles. Serving both as a homage to its initial iterations and a testament to its enduring charm, the release encapsulates the film’s essence while inviting fresh appreciation.

The Blu-ray release of "Legend" by Arrow Films showcases an impressive endeavor to restore and present Ridley Scott's 1985 fantasy epic in a manner befitting of its unique visual and thematic qualities. This edition significantly enhances the film’s presentation with a meticulous 1080p HD restoration that captures the film's ravishing beauty and surreal essence. Accompanying this visual upgrade, the DTS-HD 5.1 and 2.0 audio mixes create an immersive auditory experience that complements the film's ethereal and otherworldly setting. Notably, the performance of Tim Curry as Darkness stands as an iconic piece of cinema, praised for its imaginative risk-taking, which remains as bold as it was during its original release.

The packaging and supplementary materials included in this release should not be overlooked. Arrow has curated a collection of extras that enrich the viewer’s understanding and appreciation of the film's production and impact. This includes elaborate artwork and detailed bonus features that delve into the trials faced during production, such as those alluded to in anecdotes from actors like Cork(y) Hubbert. For fans and collectors, these additions make this release a treasured item that offers more than just a cinematic viewing experience.

In conclusion, "Legend" continues to cast its spell across generations, solidifying its place in the pantheon of '80s fantasy films. Despite its initial mixed reception, the film’s cult status today is undeniable, supported by Arrow's exceptional release that serves as both a visual feast and a rich historical document. Whether revisiting for nostalgic reasons or discovering anew, this Blu-ray edition is a definitive version, highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the ambitious worlds Ridley Scott crafted. A must-have for any serious collector or fan of fantasy cinema.