The Bank Shot Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Bank Shot" is a pleasantly surprising offering, characterized by its AVC encoded image (2.33:1 aspect ratio) that does show some age but maintains a commendable quality. Exterior scenes are vibrant and detailed, while close-ups astutely capture character nuances, including make-up intricacies and intense expressions. Though there is some inherent softness, the period cinematography remains preserved with finesse. Colors are faithfully rendered, albeit slightly muted, enhancing the California blue skies and varied costuming hues. Skin tones appear natural, with the film grain consistently present, embodying the classic filmic qualities. Speckling and minor scratches are noticeable but do not detract from the overall visual enjoyment.

The 2.35:1 1080p transfer showcases impressive clarity despite the film's 41-year age. Visual comedy elements and specific details—such as Scott's exaggerated eyebrows, Don Calfa’s distinctive mullet, and Sorrell Books’ fake moustache—are displayed with fantastic precision. Colors maintain strength throughout, with blues particularly standing out and reds appearing robust without overpowering the scene. Black levels and shadows are generally strong, although some minor crush is evident in night scenes. The print quality is generally fine, demonstrating only minimal wear indicative of its age, such as slight salt and pepper nicks.

Ultimately, the Blu-ray's visual presentation effectively balances the preservation of the film's original charm with modern viewing standards, offering a satisfying experience for both new viewers and long-time fans of this bright and colorful caper comedy.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "The Bank Shot" showcases a dynamic 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix, which stands out particularly in scoring cues, delivering bold and clear instrumentation that complements the film's tone. The soundtrack by John Morris is audibly rich, adding a layer of fun with its busy sound design. Each scene is meticulously layered with sound effects and rampant dialogue, allowing for an engaging auditory experience. Nonetheless, dialogue intelligibility occasionally suffers due to inherent sound quality choices, as voices often compete with the ambient noises of street life. Despite this, the group dynamic is generally satisfactory with atmospherics that are aggressive without being distracting.

Further enhancing the auditory experience, the use of the DTS-HD MA 2.0 track ensures that background sounds and dialogue maintain a clear distinction, avoiding overlap that might otherwise muddle the listening experience. This clarity ensures that even amid bustling background atmospheres, dialogue remains discernible and free from distortion. Notably, the track adheres to the midranges, avoiding any disruptive spikes or drop-offs. The audio presentation is largely free of age-related hiss or breaks, creating a solid and encompassing sound profile that aligns well with the film's madcap energy.

The Blu-ray release of "The Bank Shot" offers a sparse collection of extras, which primarily includes a theatrical trailer. The included trailer, presented in high definition, is a repeat from the 'Cops and Robbers' Blu-ray release. While it might divulge slightly more than necessary, it effectively captures the film's humor and essence. The lack of other significant bonus content is somewhat disappointing for enthusiasts seeking more in-depth insights or collectible features.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: (HD 2:44) The same trailer as featured on 'Cops and Robbers.' Showcases the film with some potential spoilers but captures its comedic spirit well.

"The Bank Shot" offers a unique entry into the caper comedy genre with a brilliantly unconventional twist. The film stars George C. Scott, known for his gravitas in roles like Patton, who steps into the shoes of Walter Upjohn Ballentine, a cautious career criminal stuck in a desert prison. Scott plays Ballentine with a deadpan delivery that contrasts delightfully with the madcap antics surrounding him. In this adaptation of a Donald E. Westlake novel, the narrative avoids traditional gunplay in favor of elaborate schemes and disguise-heavy hijinks, which lean on slapstick humor and broad performances from a supporting cast that includes Joanna Cassidy, Bob Balaban, and Clifton James.

Director Gower Champion establishes a tone of comic absurdity from the outset, using John Morris's circus-style score to accentuate the farcical nature of Ballentine’s escapades. The plot revolves around an innovative bank heist—stealing an entire mobile bank structure rather than just its contents. This creative premise is a breath of fresh air in a saturated genre, bolstered by sharp editing and tight framing that often force characters into exaggerated proximity, enhancing the comedic impact. Champion's direction allows these organized moments of chaos to unfold seamlessly, contributing to the film’s engaging rhythm and visual dynamism.

Character dynamics are at the film's core, with Scott’s performance compellingly juxtaposed against the eclectic ensemble cast. Clifton James as Warden Streiger provides an omnipotent narration that breaks the fourth wall, adding a layer of self-aware humor that complements the film's lunacy. The physical comedy, particularly Scott's exaggerated features and gestures, meshes well with the verbal wit and narrative quirks. This offbeat approach makes "The Bank Shot" a memorable entry in 1970s cinema, demonstrating why it stands out despite—or perhaps because of—its bizarre premise. Fans of screwball comedies will find "The Bank Shot" both an entertaining and refreshingly original ride.

"Bank Shot" combines the antics of a crime caper with an engagingly madcap sense of humor. The film follows a gang's attempt to steal an entire bank, navigating a seemingly uncrackable safe while trying to avoid detection by the police. While the narrative treads on familiar ground and can be somewhat anticlimactic, the ensemble's cohesive dynamic and spirited performance ensure a lighthearted viewing experience. Despite scenes where the humor might feel over the top, the film delivers consistently entertaining asides and scams, capturing the viewer's attention through its sheer silliness.

Providing sharp comedic timing within a loony narrative structure, "Bank Shot" cleverly avoids the pitfalls common to caper comedies. The Blu-ray edition excels in delivering high-quality picture and audio, which enhances the overall viewing experience. Whether you're already a fan of this lesser-known gem or encountering it for the first time, this release by Kino Lorber is bound to impress.

In conclusion, while "Bank Shot" may not be groundbreaking, it stands out with its unique charm and well-executed humor. This Blu-ray edition ensures that both fans and newcomers will find something to appreciate. Highly recommended for those looking for an entertaining crime-comedy with a distinctly silly twist.