Shakedown Blu-ray Review

Shout Factory’s Blu-ray release of "Shakedown” (#40 in the Shout Select series) offers a true 1080p image that derives from a high-quality print of this 30-year-old film. The 1.85:1 framed transfer shows marked improvements over the previous Universal DVD release, with smoother and more fluid motion. Outdoor daylight scenes are crisp with vibrant colors, while nighttime shots capture the essence of 1980s NYC through bright neon signs and the gritty ambiance of iconic locations like The Deuce and New Amsterdam. Though the color timing is largely spot-on, minor artifacts are present, yet they don't detract significantly from the viewing experience.

The master is generally in good condition, though some darker scenes exhibit noticeable film grain, occasionally bordering on noise, which may mar detail levels in very low-light shots. In such instances, blacks remain dark and inky, albeit with occasional instances of washout, especially noticeable during composites with green screen effects. Nevertheless, even these shortcomings do not diminish the overall significant leap in video quality compared to previous releases. The MPEG-4 AVC-encoded transfer runs at an impressive average bitrate of 29.993 Mbps, with the total disc bitrate reaching 35.41 Mbps, ensuring that the 97-minute feature remains visually engaging throughout.

In summary, Shout Factory has succeeded in presenting “Shakedown” in what is arguably its best visual condition to date. Despite a few minor imperfections, the Blu-ray’s video transfer is a considerable upgrade that will please fans of this cult classic.

The audio presentation of "Shakedown" on Blu-ray offers a solid 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio track that commendably fits the film's modest budget. Despite the limitations inherent in a stereo mix, the track manages to be spacious, although it lacks the mid-range punch typically associated with action scenes from the 1980s. Dialogue clarity is generally good, but there are instances where background music and action sequences overpower the voices. Nonetheless, the track is devoid of any clipping or crackling, maintaining a clean and clear sound throughout.

Shout has retained the film’s original DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo Surround, which balances the dialogue sufficiently even amidst significant background noise. Historical critiques from the film's original release noted problematic sound mixing with an overwhelming amount of background effects. However, this new release sees improvements where dialogue remains discernible despite ongoing ambient noise. The bass quality ranges from very good to excellent, especially highlighted in tracks like "Purple Haze" and the Dylan/Red Hot Chili Peppers' rendition of "Subterranean Homesick Blues," offering a compelling high-end pitch with notable depth. Jonathan Elias’ electronic score complements the mix well and is rendered with finesse.

Overall, while the stereo mix may not deliver the "punchy" experience of higher fidelity formats, it makes up for it with clear dialogue and effective use of background elements. Notably, the optional English SDH subtitles are comprehensive, albeit marred by a single spelling error. This audio track should satisfy most listeners looking for a trip down memory lane while enjoying a technically competent presentation.

The Blu-ray extras of "Shakedown" offer an immersive behind-the-scenes look at the film, deftly blending insightful commentary and nostalgic content. The introduction by James Glickenhaus is concise but sets the stage well. The audio commentary, moderated by cinephile Edwin Samuelson, provides a comprehensive discussion, though it occasionally leans heavily on Samuelson's inputs during the first half. The "Shakedown Breakdown" interview stands out with Glickenhaus delivering thorough responses, shedding light on his thought process and preparation. "Miles Over the Limit" features an engaging personal anecdote about the legendary Miles Davis. The still gallery presents a rich visual archive, while the theatrical trailer, albeit in upscaled quality, captures the film’s original promotional essence.

Extras included in this disc:

Introduction By Writer And Director James Glickenhaus: A very brief intro by the filmmaker.

Audio Commentary With James Glickenhaus: Full-length track moderated by Edwin Samuelson.

Shakedown Breakdown – An Interview With James Glickenhaus: A detailed interview where Glickenhaus appears well-prepared.

Miles Over The Limit – James Glickenhaus Discusses Miles Davis: Personal story about Miles Davis.

Still Gallery: Slide show featuring 69 images from marketing campaigns.

Theatrical Trailer: Analog-sourced trailer, upscaled to 1080i.

"Shakedown," helmed by James Glickenhaus, is a quintessential 80s action film that oscillates between serious courtroom drama and outlandish action spectacle. The film features Peter Weller as Roland Dalton, a Legal Aid attorney on the verge of transitioning to Wall Street, and Sam Elliott as Richie Marks, a grizzled narcotics officer. The plot revolves around Michael Jones (Richard Brooks), a drug dealer who kills a corrupt cop in self-defense, leading Dalton and Marks to team up and unravel systemic police corruption. The dynamic between Weller and Elliott provides a compelling if formulaic, buddy-cop experience—a staple of the genre.

Glickenhaus's direction is part homage, part imitation of popular action films of the era, blending intense court scenes with explosive action sequences. One of the standout aspects of "Shakedown" is its unabashed embrace of 80s excess. Sam Elliott, armed with a .45 Magnum Lar Grizzly, delivers memorable one-liners amid gunfights that trigger exaggerated explosions, capturing the decade's penchant for over-the-top escape. The film also dives into deeper themes such as ethical disintegration within law enforcement, juxtaposed against the morally ambiguous roles that both Dalton and Marks find themselves navigating.

The movie’s nostalgic value is amped up by its meticulous capturing of the era’s aesthetic, with references to then-contemporary films like "Death Wish 4" visible in the background. "Shakedown" doesn’t shy away from highlighting the gritty atmosphere of late 80s New York, imbuing each scene with a vintage rawness. Though critically received with mixed reactions upon its release, the film has carved out a cult following for its blend of humor, action, and melodrama. For an audience with fond memories of 80s cinema or a taste for action-comedy hybrids, "Shakedown" offers an entertaining foray into the flamboyant and bold style that dominated its time.

Review Summary of "Shakedown" Blu-Ray Release

"Shakedown," marking the 40th film in Shout Factory’s “Shout Select” lineup, has been given a deservedly rich treatment for its Blu-Ray release. Directed and written by James Glickenhaus, this 80s action film stars Peter Weller and Sam Elliott, delivering performances that capture the gritty essence of a now-lost New York underworld. Despite the absence of new content featuring Weller or Elliott, the included introduction by Glickenhaus and a collection of insightful new extras enrich the package significantly.

Technically, the Blu-Ray boasts an aspect ratio of 1.85:1 AVC and offers a robust English DTS-HD MA 2.0 audio track. This release represents a substantial upgrade from the previous beaten-up 2004 DVD, presenting the film in the best visual and auditory quality to date. Although not considered high art, the presentation heightens the appreciation for those who relish 80s action staples. This release appeals particularly to fans of robust thrillers and is likely to attract new viewers looking to explore Glickenhaus's cinematic oeuvre.

In conclusion, "Shakedown" on Blu-Ray stands out as a fun and engaging watch, amplifying its cult status through enhanced image quality and additional content. It's an underrated gem that should not be overlooked by fans of classic action thrillers. Given the enhancements and supplementary materials provided by Shout Factory, this release comes highly recommended for both long-time admirers and new audiences seeking vibrant, nostalgically raw storytelling from the 80s action genre.