The Mechanic Blu-ray Review

"The Mechanic" is presented on Blu-ray with an AVC 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The high-definition presentation delivers a generally solid, yet somewhat unspectacular visual experience. The film opens with grain-heavy scenes, which gradually normalize but remain quite evident throughout, especially in brightly lit outdoor sequences. Colors, while reasonably accurate, tend to appear slightly pallid, with fleshtones being particularly affected. Despite this, there are moments when the hues become more vibrant, especially post Bishop's initial job completion. Furthermore, the film's reliance on zoom lenses does not introduce stability issues but may contribute to perceived softness in certain scenes.

The video transfer exhibits a few minor print flaws, including occasional instances of hair, specks of dirt, and white flecks. These imperfections are most noticeable in the opening credits, where slight white letter bleed occurs. Grain is maintained at a natural but heavy level, contributing to a textured visual style that emphasizes the film’s period aesthetics. Fine detail can vary—certain close-ups provide appreciable clarity and texture, as seen in Bronson's wardrobe and specific props, although other shots may appear softer. For example, some close-ups of Bronson use a gauze effect, which softens edges intentionally and gives off an almost nostalgic filming technique often reserved for actresses.

Despite a few minimal compression artifacts and occasional light flicker, the transfer handles the film elements with care. Blacks are adequate, providing solid depth without overwhelming shadow detail. The print condition is commendably good, showing negligible wear and tear. Although not rich with modern vibrancy or sharpness, the Blu-ray maintains the film's original style and atmosphere effectively, ensuring a viewing experience that honors the source material while introducing minor enhancements for contemporary audiences.

The DTS-HD Master Audio Mono mix of "The Mechanic" offers an impressive audio experience, marked by robust and precise presentation of sound elements such as explosions and gunfire. Jerry Fielding's moody score is delivered with a full-bodied resonance, contributing significantly to the overall atmosphere. Clarity in dialogue ensures seamless narrative comprehension, with no perceptible damage or age-related artifacts affecting the track's integrity.

However, while the dynamic range can be narrow at times, the moments of intense action—most notably the explosions—are enhanced with a notable impact, providing a commendable boom given the mono format. Footsteps may occasionally sound flat, but other effects, like the roaring motorcycles racing through Italy, are powerfully conveyed. The balance between dialogue, effects, and score is well-maintained throughout the film, ensuring an engaging auditory experience that stays true to its original release.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Mechanic" offer an engaging and varied array of content for enthusiasts and professionals alike. The Audio Commentary with cinematographer Richard H. Kline and film historian Nick Redman is a substantive inclusion, although Kline's debut in commentary reveals a somewhat meandering style; there are notable insights into his techniques and the imagery of Robert Paynter’s work. The Isolated Score Track in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 offers aficionados of Jerry Fielding’s music an immersive and sporadic auditory experience, showcasing the nuances of his composition. The package is rounded out by two high-definition trailers, which provide brisk promotional retrospectives.

Extras included in this disc:

• Original Theatrical Trailer: A glimpse into the original marketing campaign.
• MGM 90th Anniversary Trailer: Celebrates the studio’s legacy.
• Audio Commentary with Richard H. Kline and Nick Redman: Insights into cinematography and film history.
• Isolated Score Track: Experience Jerry Fielding's music in full clarity.

"The Mechanic," directed by Michael Winner and starring Charles Bronson, offers a multifaceted and complex thriller experience. The film introduces us to Arthur Bishop, a high-tech assassin operating within a luxurious mid-century modern environment, meticulously plotting his hits with a calculated precision that unfolds like an episode of "Mission: Impossible." The movie starts with a riveting 16-minute wordless sequence, demonstrating Bishop's methodical approach to his craft and setting the stage for the intricate cat-and-mouse dynamics that follow.

Bishop’s solitary life is further complicated when he encounters Steve (Jan-Michael Vincent), the son of his latest target, Harry. Though intended to explore a deeper, perhaps even romantic relationship between its main characters, the movie instead opts for a more traditional mentor-apprentice dynamic, resulting in a rather complex but underdeveloped narrative tension. As Steve, a spoiled but eager young man, seeks to learn the art of assassination from Bishop, their relationship becomes a blend of subtle subtext and overt action sequences.

The film doesn’t shy away from elaborate and visually striking set-pieces, including spectacular car and motorcycle chases that elevate its thriller elements. The overall storytelling occasionally feels uneven, blending character introspection with high-octane moments that at times seem forced. However, the impressive technical execution and intense performances—particularly by Bronson in his signature laconic style—anchor the movie firmly within its genre. The finale delivers an impactful twist, keeping true to the film’s complex character arcs and dramatic tension.

Overall, "The Mechanic" is a captivating blend of methodical assassinations, subtle psychological undertones, and explosive action scenes, underscored by Bronson’s compelling portrayal of the solitary hitman Arthur Bishop.

"The Mechanic" starring Charles Bronson is a film that shines due to Bronson's commanding screen presence and its engaging action sequences. Bronson's portrayal of the stoic and methodical hitman injects a level of intensity and charisma that elevates the film beyond standard genre fare. Michael Vincent complements Bronson well, delivering a solid performance as the arrogant apprentice. Directed by Michael Winner, the film features several memorable set pieces that are impressively staged, though the narrative occasionally meanders, lacking the focus it might have achieved with a more tightly woven script.

The Blu-ray release of "The Mechanic" offers good to excellent technical merits. The high-definition presentation, while satisfactory, suggests that the film would benefit from a thorough restoration to meet higher standards of modern home viewing. Despite these technical shortcomings, the Blu-ray still provides a good viewing experience that allows the film's strengths, particularly its action scenes and Bronson’s magnetic performance, to come through effectively.

In conclusion, while "The Mechanic" may not delve deeply into the psyches of its characters or offer profound insights, it remains an enjoyable and highly watchable film bolstered by its strong leads and exciting action. This Blu-ray edition, though in need of some restoration to fully realize its potential, is recommended for its solid technical presentation and the sheer entertainment value of the film itself.