Drunken Master Blu-ray Review

Eureka Entertainment's Blu-ray release of "Drunken Master" presents a commendable 1080p/AVC-encoded high definition video transfer, framed in the original 2.39:1 aspect ratio, derived from a definitive new 4K restoration. For a film nearing forty years old and made on a limited budget, the restoration offers an impressive visual fidelity characterized by a natural, fine grain structure. The presentation exhibits remarkable detail and clarity without excessive digital manipulation. Although some softness remains around the edges, this only enhances the filmic quality of the visuals, maintaining integrity true to its original aesthetic.

The color scheme is notably improved, with healthy skin tones free from the notorious green tint seen in previous releases. Primary colors and supporting nuances are well-preserved, adding vibrancy to the overall visual experience. However, it is worth mentioning the presence of consistent black crush, particularly evident during indoor scenes and some daylight sequences, which can obscure detail and flatten the image. Despite these minor issues, the density and contrast levels remain satisfactory, with strong albeit occasionally faltering black levels. Background flutter is minimal and largely inherited from the source material, effectively minimized in this transfer.

Overall, this Blu-ray offers a cleaner image with reduced print defects and no significant degraining or sharpening artifacts. The restoration affords "Drunken Master" a fresh and vibrant appearance unrivaled by earlier versions, making it a definitive upgrade for fans and collectors alike.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "Drunken Master" offers a range of tracks, with the standout being the original Cantonese DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 mono track. This faithful rendition of the film's audio promises strong dialogue delivery and suitably exaggerated effects, alongside its typically cheesy score. It doesn't provide an immersive sound experience but remains a natural and possibly the best presentation the film has ever had. Though other tracks like Mandarin and English dubs are included, purists and first-time viewers are likely to benefit most from the original Cantonese track due to its authenticity.

A notable addition is the inclusion of the original Hong Kong theatrical subtitles, maintaining all inherent spelling and grammatical errors, which adds a layer of intentional humor to the viewing experience. Technically, although certain audio enhancements and fight scene effects do show their age, these elements have been preserved to retain the film's original charm. Minor distortions in the music's upper register sometimes surface, but they never entirely distract from the overall enjoyment, indicating a careful balance between preserving authenticity and optimizing audio quality within the limits of the surviving elements. This blend of attention to detail and respect for the source material results in an engaging and nostalgically satisfying audio experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Drunken Master" by Eureka impresses with a rich selection of extras. The highlight is an archival Audio Commentary by Hong Kong cinema expert Ric Meyers and Jeff Yang, co-author of Jackie Chan's autobiography, providing invaluable insights. Interviews with key figures including Jackie Chan, Tony Rayns, Gareth Evans, and others offer a deep dive into the film's impact and legacy. The extras also include a Deleted Scene showcasing Chan's incredible skills and several vintage clips such as a Kicking Showcase and UK Music Promo. A comprehensive booklet rounds out the package, making it a valuable collection for fans and scholars alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Archival audio commentary featuring Ric Meyers and Jeff Yang.
• Jackie Chan: Interview covering the cult status of "Drunken Master" and its production.
• Gareth Evans: Discussion on Jackie Chan's influence on his work.
• Tony Rayns: Analysis of Jackie Chan’s emergence as an action star.
• Ng See-Yuen: Interview with the producer on working with Jackie Chan.
• Deleted Scene: Showcasing Jackie Chan's drunken boxing skills.
• Kicking Showcase: Vintage clip highlighting martial arts choreography.
• UK Music Promo: Vintage promotional clip for the film.
• Trailer: Original international trailer.
• Booklet: Illustrated booklet with an essay by Michael Brooke.

"Drunken Master," directed by Yuen Woo-ping, marks a pivotal moment in Jackie Chan's illustrious career, crystallizing his unique blend of comedy and martial arts. Emerging from the shadow of Bruce Lee, Chan's portrayal of the mischievous Wong Fei-hung injects both humor and kinetic energy into the narrative. The film, set in motion by a series of misfortunes, follows Wong as he endures rigorous training under Beggar So, played by Yuen Siu-tien, whose quirky, alcohol-fueled techniques juxtapose discipline with comedic elements. The physical comedy and intricate fight choreography elevate the film, culminating in a climactic sequence that showcases Chan's prowess, even with limited resources, solidifying it as a landmark in martial arts cinema.

This Blu-ray release by Eureka Entertainment benefits from a meticulous 4K restoration, offered in both its original Cantonese track for the longer Hong Kong version and a Mandarin track from an alternate cut. The inclusion of English subtitles—both new translations and the original Hong Kong theatrical versions complete with their unique imperfections—enhances accessibility while retaining cultural authenticity. Chan's performance shines not only due to his unparalleled athleticism but also through his interactions with a robust supporting cast, whose precise execution complements his dynamic style and prevents any lapse in engagement. Supplementary features like archival interviews with Chan and critique programs further enrich this definitive edition, providing comprehensive insights into this seminal work.

Eureka Entertainment's Blu-ray release of "Drunken Master" is an essential addition for any Jackie Chan or martial arts cinema aficionado. The film, Chan’s breakout success, is presented with a new 4K-sourced video transfer that significantly enhances visual fidelity, offering the clearest and most vibrant presentation of this classic to date. This release further enriches the viewing experience with a variety of audio options, catering to a wide range of home cinema setups. The subtitle selections add an unexpected layer of humor, paying homage to the sometimes playfully erratic nature of original translations.

One of the standout elements of "Drunken Master" is the incredibly strong ensemble cast supporting Chan’s iconic performance. The film’s success hinges not only on Chan's distinctive and dynamic fighting style but also on the exceptional chemistry and skill level of the supporting actors. This collaboration is evident through the film's practical effects and meticulously choreographed fight sequences, delivered without reliance on modern CGI techniques. The teamwork involved remains impressive, showcasing pure skill and dedication.

In conclusion, Eureka Entertainment’s Blu-ray release of "Drunken Master" is indispensable for fans of the genre. With its superior 4K video presentation and robust selection of audio options, this release sets a new standard for archival quality. The extra features included make it a comprehensive package, celebrating the legacy of Jackie Chan and his early work in Hong Kong cinema. This release should inspire hope that further titles from Chan’s illustrious back catalog will receive equally meticulous treatment. An unequivocal recommendation.