Money Train Blu-ray Review

Image Entertainment presents "Money Train" on Blu-ray with a commendable 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer maintaining the film's 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Given the unpredictable nature of catalog titles from the '80s and '90s, Image has executed a proficient job in utilizing source materials that are near-flawless for this release. The transfer displays a modest use of color correction, preserving the film's original quality without unnecessary digital enhancements such as noise reduction or edge enhancement. As a result, the Blu-ray retains the authentic look of the film with consistent colors, adequately deep blacks, and good contrast. The resolution has been notably improved in areas such as facial textures and clothing details, even though the overall clarity is not exceptionally sharp.

Despite these successes, there are some minor drawbacks. The 1080p transfer tends to lean towards a softness that can sometimes be attributed to Digital Noise Reduction (DNR), giving certain scenes a slightly waxy appearance. Moreover, occasional edge enhancement is detectable but remains unobtrusive throughout most of the film. While detail can be satisfactory during close-ups—highlighting elements like freckles and fine hair—colors are somewhat muted, and some black levels suffer from minor shadow crushing, impacting detail retention. Nevertheless, these issues do not significantly detract from the viewing experience. In summary, the transfer is solid and should satisfy fans, even if it doesn't reach the pristine quality seen in other high-profile Blu-ray releases by Image Entertainment.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track for the "Money Train" Blu-ray provides a clear and dynamically robust audio presentation, aligning well with the film's mid-1990s origins. Action sequences particularly benefit from this mix, showcasing trains barreling through rear speakers, metal rending, and gunshots punctuating the audio landscape. These impactful moments create a lively auditory environment, although the panning effects remain somewhat conventional and lack full immersion. The quieter, dialogue-driven scenes display a cleanly discernible vocal track, bolstered by occasional ambient noises such as bar chatter and New York street sounds. Mark Mancina's music score retains reasonable clarity and low-end presence, despite displaying its age.

The overall presentation impressively maintains intelligible dialogue throughout, enhancing viewer engagement. While the action scenes are a highlight, with potent LFE rumbles as the runaway train hurtles down the track and metallic crunches permeating the room, some high-end sound effects become slightly muffled under the ceiling of the mix's performance. However, these minor imperfections do not detract significantly from the experience. The dynamic range and balanced mix ensure that the commotion of action sequences effectively sustains interest, combining clear dialogue with the thrill of dynamic audio elements. Additionally, optional English SDH and Spanish subtitles are provided for added accessibility.

The extras on the Blu Ray release of Money Train are minimal, comprising only a theatrical trailer. While the absence of substantial supplemental material might disappoint some aficionados, the inclusion of a high-definition trailer offers a glimpse into the film's promotional past. The technical presentation of the trailer is commendable, rendered in 1080p with vibrant clarity, serving as both a nostalgic trip and a visual treat for fans of the movie. However, the lack of additional content such as behind-the-scenes footage or interviews is a missed opportunity to provide deeper insights into the film's production and legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: A high-definition trailer providing a nostalgic look at the movie's original promotion.

"Money Train" reunites Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes from their earlier collaboration in "White Man Can’t Jump," but it unfortunately fails to capitalize on the chemistry that made their previous pairing so enjoyable. This film slots squarely into the buddy cop genre, featuring a play-by-play of standard elements: Harrelson's Charlie is a wreck of a gambling addict who’s always in trouble, while Snipes’ John is the upstanding, responsible partner always bailing Charlie out. Set against the backdrop of New York City's subway system, they perform duties like catching pickpockets—until a desperate situation prompts Charlie to consider robbing the money train, a high-stakes central plot device tasked with transporting daily subway revenues.

Robert Blake’s character, Donald Patterson, provides a laughably over-the-top antagonist, fitting in more with Al Capone than a transit authority official. He treats the operation of the money train with mob-boss grandeur, barking orders and maintaining an obsessive hold over the daily revenue collections. The film briefly attempts to juggle multiple subplots, including an ill-defined love triangle with Jennifer Lopez’s Grace Santiago and an underwhelming subplot involving Chris Cooper as a token-booth-robbing pyromaniac known as The Torch. While these subplots attempt to add depth, they ultimately act as filler until the long-awaited heist sequence finally kicks in.

Despite its predictable screenplay and sluggish pacing, “Money Train” is intermittently saved by Harrelson and Snipes’ natural camaraderie and profane, humorous banter. The conclusion’s action-packed, no-brakes finale demonstrates glimpses of what the entire film could have been, but by then it's too late. This frenetic caper climax might have cemented "Money Train" as a '90s action classic had such intensity been sustained throughout. Nevertheless, the film remains memorable chiefly for its cast's dynamic interactions amidst an otherwise conventional storyline and mundane pacing.

Money Train Blu-ray Review

"Money Train" is emblematic of 1990s action comedies, largely coasting on the charisma of its leads, Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson. Their dynamic chemistry elevates what would otherwise be a mediocre film. Despite a plot that sometimes drags and lacks structural integrity, Snipes and Harrelson's well-scripted banter injects moments of humor and engagement. The film thrives on these interactions, making for an entertaining watch primarily due to the duo’s evident on-screen camaraderie.

Technically, Image Entertainment’s Blu-ray rerelease stands out. The high-definition transfer is unexpectedly impressive, bringing a fresh vibrancy to the visuals that weren't as apparent in previous formats. Coupled with a solid lossless audio track, the watching experience is enhanced, ensuring that the film’s action sequences and witty dialogues are delivered with clarity and impact. However, it's worth noting that the release falls short in terms of special features, which might disappoint collectors and fans looking for deeper insights into the film’s production.

In conclusion, while "Money Train" may not be a standout entry in the action-comedy genre, it benefits immensely from the star power and interplay of Snipes and Harrelson. The Blu-ray edition by Image Entertainment provides a strong audiovisual experience, making it worth consideration for enthusiasts of 90s buddy films. It’s recommended for those who appreciate light-hearted action flicks with engaging lead performances, though potential viewers might want to consider renting before making a purchase.