Grindhouse Blu-ray Review

Grindhouse's Blu-ray presentation brings an intentional, meticulously crafted "damage" to the forefront, faithfully preserving the directors’ artistic vision of emulating the appearance of films that have seen better days. Featuring an AVC-encoded image in full 1080p glory and retaining the original theatrical cut’s 2.35:1 aspect ratio, this release is a triumph in simulating the gritty, worn aesthetic characteristic of grindhouse cinema. The deliberate inclusion of scratches, specks, missing frames, and a kaleidoscope of other imperfections is not only a bold choice but executed with such precision that it enhances rather than detracts from the viewing experience. Rodriguez and Tarantino's commitment to authenticity is evident in every frame, with Planet Terror and Death Proof both exhibiting their unique flavors of visual degradation – the former slightly more so than the latter.

Colors across both films are presented with a vital vibrancy or intentional desaturation, harking back to the era of '60s exploitation films with their exaggerated palettes. Despite the artificial introduction of grain, lowered contrast, and other elements typically bemoaned by videophiles, these stylistic decisions contribute to a surprisingly detailed image quality. The shift from VC-1 to AVC MPEG-4 encoding for the theatrical transfer offers a subtle yet appreciable enhancement in quality, minimizing compression issues without betraying the intentionally flawed aesthetic. Planet Terror’s "home video" edition diverges in aspect ratio to 1.85:1 upon Rodriguez's request, though without noticeable improvement from earlier releases, suggesting room for speculation on the potential impact of a 4K HDR enhancement.

The Blu-ray honors the distinct cinematic experiences of Planet Terror and Death Proof, each maintaining their intended 2.35:1 form (with the exception of Planet Terror’s alternate home video aspect ratio). While these films challenge traditional evaluation criteria through their designed-to-degrade visuals, their presentation on Blu-ray does not falter. The treatments–from color manipulation to scratch effects–underscore a faithful yet innovative homage to grindhouse aesthetics, without compromising on clarity or immersion. Whether it’s the more “filmic” texture of Death Proof or Rodriguez’s digitally aged Planet Terror, the Blu-ray delivers an unwaveringly authentic and compelling visual experience that suggests even greater potential for future 4K endeavors.

Grindhouse's Blu-ray audio presentation offers a mixed bag that leans more towards satisfaction than disappointment, largely depending on one’s audiophile tendencies and the specific segment of this double-feature one considers. For those with a penchant for the retro, the Dolby Digital 5.1 448kbps mix on "Planet Terror" might evoke a sense of nostalgia, even though it lacks the full dynamism a lossless track would provide. Yet, this does not detract significantly from the experience; the mix is surprisingly immersive, crafting a soundscape filled with varied sound effects—from the relentless gunfire to the distinctive squelch of blisters—that utilizes the surround channels effectively. The dialogue remains discernible amidst this sonic variety, complemented by Rodriguez's fittingly cheesy score.

Conversely, "Death Proof" presents a more dialogue-driven audio experience, with its front-centric mix placing emphasis on conversation until its high-octane chase sequences take precedence. Here, the Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio tracks previously released come into play, offering a cleaner, fuller surround experience that shines during these moments of heightened action. However, it is with the Grindhouse disc’s addition of a lossless DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix that the audio presentation truly excels. This upgrade injects a robustness into the audio, enhancing the clarity of dialogue and significantly amplifying the intensity of explosions, gunfire, and roaring engines. The low-end benefits from a palpable increase in rumble and impact, providing a richer auditory experience. Furthermore, employing the DTS Neural:X function introduces an additional layer of spatial atmosphere, making for a more enveloping and engaging listening experience, particularly for fans seeking that extra auditory dimension.

The Blu-ray release of "Grindhouse" comes packed with an incredibly vast and diverse range of extras, spanning informative commentaries, captivating featurettes, unique trailers, and various galleries, making it a paradise for enthusiasts of the cult double feature. The division between content specific to "Planet Terror" and "Death Proof" allows for a focused exploration of each film's creation, complemented by insights into their special effects, stunts, and casting decisions. Noteworthy are the extensive looks into the stunt work of "Death Proof" and the special effects wizardry of "Planet Terror," showcasing Rodriguez and Tarantino's distinctive filmmaking tactics. Additionally, the inclusion of faux trailers provides an entertaining glimpse into their expansive cinematic influences. This comprehensive collection is a testament to the creative ambition behind "Grindhouse," offering fans and newcomers alike hours of engaging content that accentuates the films' enduring appeal.

Extras included in this disc:

AUDIO COMMENTARY (PLANET TERROR): Featuring Robert Rodriguez
AUDIENCE REACTION AUDIO TRACK (PLANET TERROR)
GRINDHOUSE TRAILER (HD 2:22)
PLANET TERROR TRAILER (HD 2:17)
DEATH PROOF TRAILER (HD 2:21)
THANKSGIVING TRAILER WITH ELI ROTH JEFF RENDELL COMMENTARY (HD 2:34)
ROBERT RODRIGUEZ’S 10-MINUTE FILM SCHOOL
THE BADASS BABES OF PLANET TERROR
CASTING REBEL
SICKS, BULLETS, AND EXPLOSIONS: THE STUNTS OF PLANET TERROR
THE FRIEND, THE DOCTOR, AND THE REAL ESTATE AGENT
PLANET TERROR POSTER GALLERY
STUNTS ON WHEELS: THE LEGENDARY DRIVERS OF DEATH PROOF
QUENTIN’S GREATEST COLLABORATOR: EDITOR SALLY MENKE
THE GUYS OF DEATH PROOF
KURT RUSSELL AS STUNTMAN MIKE
FINDING QUENTIN’S GALS
UNCUT VERSION OF “BABY, IT’S YOU”
INTRODUCING ZOE BELL
DOUBLE DARE TRAILER
EXTENDED MUSIC CUES
DEATH PROOF POSTER GALLERY
ROBERT RODRIGUEZ’S 10-MINUTE COOKING SCHOOL (ALL NEW PLANET TERROR BONUS)
THE MAKEUP EFFECTS OF PLANET TERROR (ALL NEW PLANET TERROR BONUS)
THE HOT RODS OF DEATH PROOF (ALL NEW DEATH PROOF BONUS)
FROM TEXAS TO TENNESSEE: THE PRODUCTION DESIGN OF DEATH PROOF (ALL NEW DEATH PROOF BONUS)
EXTENDED WEREWOLF WOMEN OF THE SS TRAILER & AUDIO COMMENTARY
THE MAKING OF EXTENDED WEREWOLF WOMEN OF THE SS TRAILER
EXTENDED DON’T TRAILER & AUDIO COMMENTARY
DON’T STORYBOARDS / TRAILER COMPARISON & AUDIO COMMENTARY
THE MAKING OF DON’T TRAILER
DON’T POSTER
THE MAKING OF THANKSGIVING TRAILER
NEW YORK TIMES TALK WITH LYNN HIRSCHBERG
COMIC-CON 2006
HOBO WITH A SHOTGUN TRAILER CONTEST WINNER

Grindhouse," a cinematic endeavor by Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez, revives the raw and unpolished essence of 1970s exploitation films, channeling the duo's distinct flair into a unique homage that transcends mere pastiche, delving deep into the realm of grindhouse cinema with its double feature, "Planet Terror" and "Death Proof." Despite its nod to a bygone era, the film's presentation on Blu-ray has managed to secure a niche yet fervent following, particularly due to the authentic replication of the grindhouse experience—complete with deliberate film imperfections and snappy trailers that add to the overall atmosphere. The technical specs on this Blu-ray release, reflective of the filmmakers' intentional abrasions and aged film quality, pay meticulous homage to the original viewing experience. Such detailed attention ensures that every pop and scratch on the soundtrack, alongside each visual blemish, contributes to an authentically immersive experience that is as close as possible to that of watching these films in a deteriorating cinema palace.

Amidst the gore and violence of "Planet Terror" and the tension-laden car chases of "Death Proof," the Blu-ray encapsulation shines in preserving both films' contrasts and intricacies. Rodriguez's "Planet Terror" offers a hyperactive zombie apocalypse, rich in both outlandish humor and body horror, visually enhanced by the transfer's capacity to maintain the integrity of its intended grainy texture. Tarantino's "Death Proof," on the other hand, juxtaposes with its dialogue-heavy setup leading to adrenaline-charged vehicular manslaughter, where the Blu-ray format adeptly captures the kinetic energy of car chase sequences, ensuring clarity and crispness amidst the faux degradation intended by Tarantino and Rodriguez. The package—encompassing not just the films but extended cuts and a plethora of bonus content—caters to die-hard aficionados and new viewers alike, granting an unparalleled opportunity to dissect and appreciate the technical and narrative craftsmanship woven into "Grindhouse."

The reception of "Grindhouse" at its debut—a misaligned expectation from audiences unfamiliar with the titular concept—belies its subsequent acclaim, spotlighting a divide in moviegoer patience and nostalgia-driven appetite for cinema that revels in excessive bravado and stylistic indulgences. This Blu-ray release not only memorializes Tarantino and Rodriguez's audacious venture but also solidifies "Grindhouse" as an enduring tribute to an era of filmmaking characterized by its unapologetic embrace of fringe narratives. Coupled with striking visual fidelity and enriched sound design, this home video experience reframes "Grindhouse" not just as a movie but as an evocative piece of cinema history, inviting viewers to revel in its chaotic glory, whether they are veterans of grindhouse theaters or newcomers curious about this filmic revival.

The Blu-ray release of "Grindhouse," a cinematic experiment by Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez that initially struggled to find its audience, has been a long-awaited event for fans of the daring double feature that aimed to recapture the bygone era of grindhouse cinema. This release, predominantly lauded for its fidelity to the original theatrical experience and its presentation quality, successfully encapsulates the filmmakers' intentions within the visual and thematic boundaries they set out to achieve. The collection boasts a pristine transfer that highlights the intentionally aged and distressed aesthetic of both "Death Proof" and "Planet Terror," accompanied by a bountiful array of extras, including several new additions exclusive to this release. Despite minor qualms regarding the lossy audio component, which might not significantly detract from the overall experience, this release shines as a comprehensive homage to the genre.

Echoing the sentiments of enthusiasts and collectors alike, this Australian Via Vision 4-Disc set emerges as a tempting acquisition, offering not just the complete theatrical experience but also the extended cuts of the two films. The meticulous assembly of hours of engaging extra features, complemented by aesthetic perks like a lenticular cover and art cards, adds considerable value. This edition not only serves as a collectible but also as an invitation for a broader audience to delve into the "Grindhouse" spectacle, melding nostalgia with a polished presentation that pays homage to its inspirations.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "Grindhouse" represents a pivotal moment for fans and newcomers alike, delivering an exhaustive package that transcends mere cinematic viewing into an immersive experience. Despite its initial theatrical shortcomings, this release underscores the film's growing legacy as a cult classic, encapsulating the essence of grindhouse cinema with an unparalleled level of commitment and detail. Highly recommended, this set is not only a testament to Rodriguez and Tarantino's audacious vision but also a beacon for cinema lovers yearning for an era revisited with reverence and innovation.