Rock 'n' Roll High School Blu-ray Review

The Shout Factory re-release of "Rock 'n' Roll High School" boasts a newly-struck 4K master from the original negative, and the visual results are markedly impressive. The new AVC-encoded image in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio significantly surpasses the quality of the 2010 Blu-ray release. Gone are the print damages and source anomalies that plagued the previous editions. While a few speckles and bits of dirt remain, they are inconsequential in the grand scheme. The colors now pop with a vibrant warmth, retaining a grungy yet appealing aesthetic, and blacks are rendered deeply, offering excellent clarity.

Detailing in this presentation is exceptional, allowing for intricate inspection of skin textures and the varied fabric qualities of costumes. Satin and leather garments deliver a vivid visual experience, and the frame decorations enrich the scene composition by adding layers of visual gags and contextual depth. The dimensionality of different locations is well captured, enhancing the overall viewing pleasure. Vibrant colors such as reds and blues secure a rich visual palette that underscores the period authenticity of the film’s clothing and sets. Grain structure is maintained keenly, preserving a film-like quality that complements the deep evening blacks.

Conclusively, this is the finest visual representation "Rock 'n' Roll High School" has seen to date. Short of a 4K UHD upgrade, this reissue sets a high bar for the film's presentation quality, ensuring it will satisfy both new viewers and long-time fans.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "Rock 'n' Roll High School" remains a mixed bag, even acknowledging the limitations inherent in the original recording hardware used back in 1979. Presented in a 2.0 DTS-HD MA format, the track offers lossless sharpness, which, though welcome, cannot entirely mask the underlying issues. Hissing and crackling are occasionally noticeable, and there's a persistent thinness to the overall mix. Loud vocals and singing exhibit some distortion, particularly at higher decibel levels. While intelligibility is maintained, the audio lacks the punch typically expected, especially during musical performances.

Director Allan Arkush himself has admitted that the film's audio record has never been its strong suit. This is evident in the audio mix where even well-executed segments fail to deliver robust results. Dialogue exchanges fare slightly better; they come across comfortably but still within the constraints of the original limitations. Background elements such as hallway and concert atmospherics are adequately represented but don't elevate the overall sound experience. Notably, a curiously omitted ADR line from a character at 9:50 (which remains in the subtitles) underscores some inconsistencies in the mix. Consequently, it is clear that while efforts have been made to maintain an authentic listening experience, these inherent flaws hinder any possibility of achieving high fidelity sound quality.

The Blu-Ray extras for "Rock 'n' Roll High School" provide an exhaustive and engaging dive into the film's origins, production, and legacy. The standout feature, a new 4K restoration from the original camera negative, ensures an unrivaled visual experience. The array of audio commentaries, featuring key figures such as director Allan Arkush, producer Roger Corman, and various cast members, offer valuable insight into the creative process and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. The retrospective featurettes bring to life the challenges and triumphs faced during filming, enriched by interviews with cast and crew members reminiscing about their time on set. Significant attention is also given to the film's unique music selection, which posed initial difficulties but ultimately defined its cultural impact. The outtakes, original commercials, and trailers further enhance the comprehensive nature of this disc.

Extras included in this disc:

• NEW Class Of '79: 40 Years Of Rock 'N' Roll High School: Interviews with key contributors detailing the film's history.
• Audio Commentaries: Multiple tracks featuring director, actors, writers, and producers.
• Back To School: Retrospective with interviews from cast and crew.
• Staying After Class: Cast interviews discussing their memories.
• Interview With Roger Corman: Brief insights hosted by Leonard Maltin.
• Interview With Allan Arkush: Detailed moviemaking memories.
• Audio Outtakes From The Roxy: Sound from the 1978 Ramones concert.
• Original Radio Ads And TV Spot: Vintage promotional materials.
• Theatrical Trailer: Official film preview.

The revamped Blu-Ray release of "Rock 'n' Roll High School" from Shout Factory is an impressive upgrade from its 2010 predecessor. Now utilizing a 4K scan from the original negative, this edition significantly enhances the visual experience with crisp, vibrant imagery. The audio quality has received a noticeable boost as well, adding depth to the film’s raucous soundtrack. This edition retains the classic teen comedy spirit of the late 1970s, featuring punk rock elements, rebellious themes, and the iconic Ramones. Alongside its upgraded presentation, new extras complement the already rich special features, making this release particularly attractive to collectors.

Set in Vince Lombardi High School, the film centers on Riff Randell (played by P.J. Soles), a dedicated fan of the Ramones, who plans to get her entire class tickets to a Ramones concert. Meanwhile, the stern Principal Togar (Mary Woronov) fiercely opposes the influx of punk rock music in the school. The storyline intertwines Riff's antics with minor subplots involving other characters like Kate Rambeau (Dey Young), who has unreciprocated feelings for Tom (Vincent Van Patten). The film juxtaposes teenage rebellion with humorous situations, making it a beloved yet non-conventional teen flick with a whimsical, almost cartoonish presentation.

Arkush's direction lets "Rock 'n' Roll High School" roam freely in comedic absurdity, aided by iconic performances and a fitting punk rock soundtrack dominated by the Ramones. The narrative blends a semi-satirical take on high school life with elements reminiscent of both National Lampoon films and late 70s punk culture. Key scenes like Riff’s dream sequence featuring the Ramones exaggerate this youthful adoration. While the film's loose structure and overt focus on The Ramones might not appeal to all viewers, it remains a cult classic, celebrated for its spirited portrayal of teenage disobedience and musical reverence.

Shout Factory's Blu-Ray edition of "Rock 'n' Roll High School" is an essential purchase for fans, filled with significant upgrades and meticulously curated extras. The 2019 release enhances the original 2010 edition with a striking new 4K transfer that enriches the visual fidelity, displaying the true essence of the film’s vibrant punk roots. Purists will appreciate the high-quality DTS-HD MA 2.0 audio, which ensures The Ramones' music hits with full impact, while English SDH subtitles provide accessibility enhancements. The packaging is equally impressive; the limited edition steelbook design stands out both in exterior aesthetics and interior presentation, a collector's delight.

Performances are a standout highlight, particularly Mary Woronov's portrayal of Principal Togar, which reaches a career-defining intensity and elevates the film into cult classic status. P.J. Soles and Dey Young deliver equally magnetic performances that inject palpable joy into their scenes. Director Allan Arkush, with an uncredited assist from Joe Dante, showcases his knack for infusing the film with a unique rhythm that cleverly blends fast-paced humor and punk rock energy. The inclusion of extended scenes featuring The Ramones not only satisfies fans but also demonstrates the group's surprisingly adept acting skills—elevating the film's overall charm and energy.

Overall, "Rock 'n' Roll High School" on Blu-Ray from Shout Factory is a meticulously crafted package that honors and elevates the original film. Despite its unpolished origins, the film remains vibrant and spirited, a testament to its lasting appeal as a quintessential punk rock comedy. For dedicated fans and newcomers alike, this Blu-Ray edition is a definitive collection that celebrates the film’s rebellious heart with exceptional technical quality and thoughtful presentation. A must-buy for devotees of the genre and The Ramones in particular.