Happy Gilmore Blu-ray Review

The 1080p/VC-1 encoded presentation of "Happy Gilmore," particularly in the Blu-ray release, remarkably preserves the visual fidelity of the film, and demonstrates that some transfers don't require fixing. Boasting a bright and vivid palette, the picture truly shines with primary colors that are tenacious and black levels that are deep and well-managed. Arthur Albert’s cinematography is faithfully rendered, capturing the nostalgic charm of this fifteen-year-old comedy. Despite being identical to the 2006 HD DVD transfer, it offers significant improvements over earlier DVD versions. Detail and sharpness are largely impressive, with finely textured and sharply edged scenes that remain true to the original print. Instances of softness do occur, yet they are negligible against the overall clarity.

However, it's important to note that while "Happy Gilmore" stands out in terms of detail and color saturation, there are minor drawbacks. Very light moire, occasional noise, and sporadic dirt blips can be noted, though they rarely detract from the viewing experience. Particularly in scenes featuring grassy landscapes, the visualization can vary between sharp, defined textures and a somewhat dull green wash. Despite these issues, stray hairs, edges, and textures generally pop with commendable precision, especially in close-ups where the details become astoundingly crisp.

Overall, "Happy Gilmore" remains a highly enjoyable high-definition experience on Blu-ray. While it may not meet the elevated standards of more recent releases, its comprehensive compression artifact control, minimal aliasing, and rare print defects make it a worthwhile upgrade from past DVD editions. By offering a vibrant, detailed presentation faithful to the original film, the Blu-ray transfer of "Happy Gilmore" solidly justifies its value for any fan looking to revisit or discover this comedic gem.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track for "Happy Gilmore" on Blu-ray presents a noticeable improvement over previous standard audio mixes, though it does fall short of perfection. The original sound design of this '90s comedy remains somewhat front-heavy with limited enveloping sonics, but the overall experience is robust and satisfying for fans. While low-frequency effects (LFE) are sturdy and the directionality is reasonably convincing, the rear speaker activity is minimal and occasionally sporadic. Pans are handled smoothly, and dialogue remains crisp and well-prioritized, augmenting the viewing experience.

Standout moments include the film's signature golf drives, where each hit resonates with a substantial thump, adding a visceral thrill to the scenes. Thunderous bass dominates sequences such as the mini-golf earthquake, effectively delivering powerful auditory impact. Despite some inconsistencies in soundtrack elements and crowd noises, which primarily occupy the front channels, Universal's lossless audio efforts are commendable. Although there's room for improvement in directional movement, particularly with sound effects like the golf ball's trajectory, this release boasts a far more dynamic and immersive sound profile. Overall, the upgraded audio elevates "Happy Gilmore," making it a must-have for longtime fans.

The Blu-ray release of "Happy Gilmore" offers a pair of extras: deleted scenes and an outtake reel. Though not extensive, these extras add value for fans. The deleted scenes are numerous, totaling 19 minutes and include a mix of axed scenes and scene extensions that blend well with the film's humor. Unfortunately, they are presented in low-quality standard definition which might deter some viewers. The 5-minute outtakes reel is filled with the expected gaffes and flubs, accompanied by music that adds a light-hearted touch. While these extras may not be comprehensive, they are a welcome addition to the Blu-ray.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Six scenes including At Grandma's House, Waterbury Open, Happy on Tour, Nursing Home, Happy Land Mini-Golf, and League Championship.
• Outtakes: Rapid-fire outtakes with music featuring gaffes and flubs sure to entertain fans.

Happy Gilmore is an enjoyable, albeit over-the-top, comedy that perfectly showcases Adam Sandler's early career antics. Sandler portrays Happy Gilmore, a foul-tempered hockey player who discovers an unexpected talent for golf. The film's plot hinges less on situational humor and more on the vibrant array of characters, from the volatile Happy to the slick and antagonistic Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald). With support from quirky characters such as one-armed former pro Chubbs Peterson (Carl Weathers) and the charming PR director Virginia Venit (Julie Bowen), the film manages to inject heart and hilarity into a premise built on outlandish slapstick. The infamous fistfight sequence with Bob Barker epitomizes the movie's blend of absurdity and entertainment.

While Happy Gilmore does not cater to all comedic sensibilities, it undoubtedly resonates with those who appreciate Sandler’s unabashedly brash style. The movie is emblematic of mid-90s comedy, characterized by broad humor and a flair for the ridiculous. Elements such as Chubbs' backstory don't necessarily aim for realism but serve to amplify the film’s comedic value. Despite occasional tiresome moments due to repetitive angry outbursts from Happy, the film ultimately succeeds due to its memorable scenes and quotable dialogue. Sandler’s performance reveals his potential as a leading actor, despite his then-limited big-screen experience.

In summary, Happy Gilmore remains a nostalgic favorite rather than a flawless piece of cinema. The film is primarily for Sandler fans or those fond of 90s comedic works, offering a hearty dose of laughs alongside its slapstick fare. Though it may not win over every viewer, its lasting appeal and iconic moments solidify Happy Gilmore as a beloved entry in Sandler’s filmography.

'Happy Gilmore' enjoys a cult status among Adam Sandler fans, and Universal's Blu-ray release stands as a testament to its enduring charm. The video transfer is notably exceptional, preserving the film's original colors and details with remarkable fidelity. The image is clear, sharp, and imbued with a sense of nostalgia that fans will undoubtedly appreciate. Additionally, the DTS-HD Master Audio track is commendable, offering an authentic auditory experience true to its source, with dialog and the classic 90s soundtrack resonating perfectly.

Admittedly, the Blu-ray package is somewhat minimalist in regard to special features. There's nothing particularly groundbreaking apart from the superior audio quality your home theater setup will appreciate. While no new content has been added from previous releases, the upgrade to lossless audio is a notable advantage for audiophiles and movie buffs alike. If you've already invested in a high-definition format, this release may feel redundant outside of its improved auditory experience.

If you aren't an Adam Sandler fan, or weren't one at some point in the last two decades, 'Happy Gilmore' isn't for you. It wears its fifteen years and Sandler-stylings on its sleeve and never apologizes for any of it. If you are a fan, Universal's Blu-ray release won't disappoint. It may not have very many special features, but its video transfer is terrific and its DTS-HD Master Audio track is true to its source. There aren't many lingering Universal HD DVD titles left to be released. So pop some popcorn, brace for a flood of nostalgia and join golf's rage-fueled man-child on his rise to the top.