Predator 2 Blu-ray Review

Predator 2 makes its Blu-ray debut with a 1080p resolution and framed at the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1. While it exhibits a notable improvement in cleanliness over its predecessor, contrasting the first film's grainy texture with a decidedly more polished look, this sequel falls prey to excessive digital noise reduction (DNR). This results in a presentation that, while occasionally sharp and vibrant, particularly in daylight scenes bursting with flamboyant colors, often comes across as artificially smoothed. The film's grain structure, natural to its cinematic texture, is unfortunately diminished, with darker sequences and areas of the screen where noise is excessively conspicuous, betraying an unnatural stillness to what should be dynamic imagery.

The application of DNR has not uniformly benefited the transfer; while it does render some scenes impressively detailed and color-rich, especially in well-lit conditions showcasing the movie's striking costume design, it simultaneously strips away much of the filmic quality that enthusiasts treasure. Blacks are rendered decently, avoiding washout into grays or undue brightness, yet they lack the depth that could imbue the image with a more three-dimensional quality. Despite these criticisms, the transfer does handle contrast adequately, preserving shadow detail and avoiding severe crush, but it's hindered by minor banding issues that occasionally mar the viewing experience.

Overall, this Blu-ray presentation of Predator 2 offers a mixed bag. It capably delivers in terms of color representation and overall clarity, especially in its more visually vibrant segments. However, the heavy-handed digital processing subtracts from the film’s authentic texture, leaving a somewhat sanitized visual experience. While certain sequences impress in their detail and fidelity, the pervasive smoothing and noise issues prevent this transfer from reaching its full potential. Fans may appreciate the upgrade from previous formats, but will likely hope for a more refined treatment in future re-releases to fully do justice to the film's gritty aesthetic.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack of "Predator 2" on Blu-ray presents an ambivalent auditory experience. On one hand, it delivers an aggressive and immersive soundscape that uses its 5.1 configuration to envelop the listener in an unyielding barrage of sound that is both exciting and overwhelming. The rear channels are commendably active, enriching action sequences with detailed gunshots and ricochets, while also contributing to a realistic atmospheric experience in quieter scenes, such as those set within the police headquarters, filled with background chatter and the sound of typewriters. The bass is thumpy and vigorous, adding to the overall impact of the track.

However, this sonic assault does not come without its flaws. The soundtrack suffers from a lack of clarity at times, with dialogue occasionally getting lost amidst the louder sound effects and music, detracting from the cohesiveness of the auditory experience. Complaints have been raised about the bass sounding dull and gunshots lacking in sharpness, elements that are critical for an action movie's audio to deliver an impactful punch. Further criticism touches upon the use of surround channels being sparing rather than strategic, and Alan Silvestri's score being presented with lackluster fidelity, leading to a less than optimal separation of instruments in the front soundstage.

Despite these shortcomings, the audio presentation does manage to create a dynamic and enveloping environment that mirrors the film’s intense action sequences and urban setting. Yet, it's also hindered by issues that likely originate from the original mix, leaving it straddling the line between being a robust auditory experience and one that does not fully exploit its technical capabilities, thus providing a mixed experience for audiophiles seeking a reference-quality sonic performance from this Blu-ray release.

The "Predator 2" Blu-ray enhances its classic Sci-Fi action allure with a standard but satisfying array of extras, admirably preserving the essence of the 2005 Special Edition DVD's supplementary features. The double commentary tracks stand out, with Director Stephen Hopkins providing amusing insights into the film's production and its era-specific traits, and writers Jim and John Thomas delving deeper into the narrative's development, original concepts, and technical aspects of the Predator lore. "The Hunters and the Hunted" featurette, despite its dated EPK origins, is a captivating watch, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the film's making, complemented by Gary Busey's unique take on the plot. Special effects and weaponry get their due in "Evolutions" and "Weapons of Choice," providing fans with a closer look at the iconic Predator gear. Despite the absence of Blu-ray exclusives and the omission of a still gallery from the DVD version, this collection maintains a solid replay value for enthusiasts interested in behind-the-scenes content and the film's enduring impact.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentaries: Insights from Director Stephen Hopkins and writers Jim & John Thomas.
• The Hunters and the Hunted: A making-of featurette that explores the film's creation.
• Evolutions: Special effects breakdowns showcasing before-and-after visuals.
• Weapons of Choice: A detailed look at the Predator's iconic arsenal.
• Hard Core Segments: Extended footage from the film's fictional news program.
• Original Theatrical Trailers and TV Spots: Promotional content for the film's release.
• The Predator Goes to Town: A vintage EPK promo piece.
• International Making-Of Featurette: Additional behind-the-scenes EPK footage.
• Creating the Ultimate Hunter: Focuses on the special effects behind the Predator's technology.

"Predator 2" slides into the sequel landscape with a loud, violent, and gory entry that while failing to recapture the understated yet compelling magic of its predecessor, offers enough popcorn entertainment to marginally satiate fans of the original. Set in the tumultuous urban jungle of 1997 Los Angeles, a city ravaged by gang wars and a sweltering heatwave, the film introduces us to Lieutenant Mike Harrigan (portrayed by Danny Glover), an unconventional hero thrust into a deadly game of cat and mouse with the titular Predator. This setting shift from the dense, claustrophobic jungle to the sprawling, chaotic cityscape attempts to freshen the franchise's premise, adding a new layer of terror as the Predator hunts in places familiar yet terrifylingly altered by its presence.

Despite its ambition, "Predator 2" struggles under the weight of its own aspirations. Stephen Hopkins' direction is competent but fails to inject new life into a franchise sorely missing Arnold Schwarzenegger's larger-than-life persona. Yet, amidst its shortcomings, the film boasts impressive action sequences and special effects that manage to hold up, offering a guilty pleasure ride for those willing to overlook its narrative flaws. The supporting cast, including Gary Busey and Bill Paxton, add depth and moments of levity to a film that teeters on the edge of taking itself too seriously.

Technically, "Predator 2" showcases the characteristic gore and violence fans have come to expect, complemented by Alan Silvestri's returning score which maintains a thread of continuity with the first film. While it may stand in the tall shadow of its predecessor, unable to capture its simple yet effective thrill, the sequel does explore further into the Predator's lore, expanding its universe. Ultimately, "Predator 2" serves as a flawed but fun entry into the sci-fi action genre, its legacy somewhat complicated by its inability to surpass or even meet the benchmark set by the original, yet it remains a curious artifact of its time, for better or worse.

In evaluating the Blu-ray presentation of "Predator 2," it's clear that the sequel finds itself in a challenging position, struggling to step out from the monumental shadow cast by its predecessor. Although it cannot match the original's iconic status, "Predator 2" still succeeds in several key areas, blending familiar elements with new additions to the franchise's lore. The film delivers on action and violence, supported by Silvestri's commendable score, and offers performances that, while decent, contribute to a narrative that Action and Science Fiction enthusiasts will appreciate. The technical execution of the Blu-ray by 20th Century Fox, however, leaves room for improvement. With a sound mix that's vibrant and full of energy yet lacks definition in spots, and a video transfer that shows evidence of noise reduction without being overly detrimental, the presentation is a mixed bag. Supplemental materials are provided but are only average in scope and depth.

The Blu-ray quality of "Predator 2" is described best as serviceable, catering adequately to technical aspects without standing out as a showcase example in one's collection. It oscillates between being a guilty pleasure and a hardcore fan collectible, as it combines the allure of blood and action with a less-than-stellar narrative rife with cornball dialogue. Its adequacy will suffice for most seeking an entertaining rewatch or those with a fondness for nostalgic cinema trips but falls short of being a testament to high-definition home theater potential.

In conclusion, "Predator 2" on Blu-ray represents a decent addition for those deeply invested in the franchise or looking for an action-packed diversion on a languid evening. However, it is unlikely to attract new adherents or impress audiophiles and videophiles seeking demonstration-quality material. Its appeal is narrowly cast, recommended primarily for the hardcore fans or as a novelty rental rather than a definitive purchase. The transition from cinema to home media for "Predator 2" reflects an adequate but ultimately uninspiring effort to revitalize its place within the sci-fi action genre's echelons.