Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
“True Romance” is one of the best films of the Nineties. Watching Tony Scott interpret the words of Quentin Tarantino while maintaining his signature visual style is an absolute treat. The 4K UHD release by Arrow Video looks gorgeous and features the legacy content alongside a few new features.
“The Untouchables” benefits from great direction by Brian De Palma and a strong cast made up of Sean Connery, Kevin Costner, and Robert De Niro. The Paramount UHD release is a vast upgrade from the 2007 Blu-ray release.
“The Batman” is the best Batman film since “The Dark Knight.” Matt Reeves’s vision of Gotham is one of the most compelling yet. The Warner Bros. 4K UHD is one of the most impressive releases this year on the format.
“Beverly Hills Cop” is the film that elevated Eddie Murphy to superstar status. A great blend of comedy and action, it helped establish the formula for buddy cop movies in the Eighties. Paramount’s UHD release is the best the film has looked.
Liam Neeson is a good actor, but “Blacklight” is sadly a misfire for all those involved (including Aidan Quinn.) Universal Pictures have given the film a competent Blu-ray release.
“Wild Things” was one of the last erotic thrillers to see large scale success at the box office. With a strong neo-noir story and sly sense of humor, it has aged well. The Arrow Video 4K UHD is gorgeous.
“Miami Blues” is a very well done neo-noir adaptation of the eccentric and wonderful Charles Willeford novel. Alec Baldwin, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Fred Ward are all perfectly cast. Shout! Factory released the Blu-ray in 2015.
“Last Night in Soho” is a wonderful supernatural thriller from director Edgar Wright and co-writer Kristy Wilson-Cairns. It a beautifully shot neon-lit experience. Universal Pictures has given the film a Blu-ray release.
“Candyman” is not a reboot or remake. It is a clever and well made sequel to the classic 1992 horror film and easily one of the best horror films of the last couple years. The Universal Pictures 4K UHD looks and sounds amazing.
“I Spit On Your Grave” is one of the most relentless and difficult rape/revenge films ever made. Ronin Flix have done an excellent job of presenting this troubling film in its best presentation.
“Scream” was a generation defining horror film when it was released in 1996. Wes Craven reminded everyone that he was a master at generating suspense. The script by Kevin Williamson still feels fresh twenty five years later. The new Paramount 4K UHD is a big improvement over all prior releases.
