Red Sonja

Presented in a widescreen aspect ratio of 2.35:1 and given a 1080p transfer encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray release of "Red Sonja," directed by Richard Fleischer, courtesy of Optimum Home Entertainment, appears to have been sourced from materials showing their age. Despite these limitations, the high-definition presentation showcases an effort to deliver the 1980s fantasy adventure with a level of visual clarity that fans may appreciate, albeit with some qualifications. Viewers can expect to encounter various degrees of fluctuations in contrast and clarity throughout the movie. This inconsistency is coupled with occasional color pulsations which can detract from the viewing experience. Fine details are generally preserved well in brighter, daylight scenes, but the presentation struggles to maintain this level of clarity in darker sequences, where detail tends to blur slightly. Furthermore, there are noticeable instances of light film grain intermixed with digital noise, alongside sporadic minor edge enhancement.

The technical handling of "Red Sonja" on Blu-ray reveals both the limitations of the source material and the challenges involved in its digital restoration. Although most scenes retain an adequate level of detail, particularly in well-lit conditions, the picture quality suffers during night scenes and in moments where the image's stability falters. Random instances of noise correction are apparent, pointing to efforts made to clean up the image, albeit not always successfully. Despite these issues, the disc does not exhibit significant signs of damage such as cuts, marks, stains, or debris, indicating a careful transfer process aimed at preserving the film's original look as much as possible. As an added convenience for global audiences, this Region-Free Blu-ray disc eliminates concerns about compatibility across different geographic locations, ensuring that fans can enjoy this cinematic piece without facing playback issues related to regional coding or video standards.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Red Sonja" features a sole English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. This track presents itself as something of a mixed bag. On one hand, its delivery is commendably clear, particularly where dialogue is concerned. Voices emerge crisp and intelligible, free from any distortion or overshadowing by background scores or sound effects. This clarity ensures that viewers can follow the storyline without struggle. Despite its strengths in delivering dialogue, the track doesn't make full use of its 5.1 capabilities across the board.

In terms of dynamic range and spatial audio, the track does not consistently impress. It appears that opportunities to utilize the rear channels for a more immersive ambient experience or to accentuate the film's action segments with auditory depth are underexploited. When the track does attempt to leverage its surround sound capabilities, the results are notably modest. There are fleeting moments where the audio engineering shines through, enhancing certain scenes, but these instances are rare and stark in contrast to the overall presentation.

One cannot dismiss the quality of Ennio Morricone's soundtrack, which is handled well within this audio track. The musical score is balanced nicely against dialogue and sound effects, avoiding any jarring clashes that could detract from viewer enjoyment. Nonetheless, the absence of optional English subtitles is a glaring oversight, limiting accessibility for those who might rely on them for a complete viewing experience. While the track is free of any intrusive audio artifacts like pops or hisses, contributing to a clean listening experience, the overall execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in harnessing the potential of its 5.1 setup for a more dynamic and enveloping sound landscape.

The Blu-ray release of "Red Sonja" garners attention not just for the main feature, but notably for its rich, in-depth supplemental materials that delve into the background and making of the film, alongside a special highlight on one of its stars, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Viewers should be aware, some of these extras are presented in PAL format, requiring a Region-Free player or PAL-compatible TV in some regions. The documentary "Arnold Schwarzenegger - The Man Who Raised Hollywood" offers an insightful look into Schwarzenegger's journey from bodybuilding to becoming a celluloid legend, featuring discussions by numerous directors on his work ethic and filmography. Additionally, "Making of: Red Sonja vs. Kalidor," helmed by assistant director Michel Ferry, provides an intriguing exploration into the film's tumultuous production process, thereby giving fans and newcomers alike a deeper appreciation for the classic action adventure.

Extras included in this disc:

• Arnold Schwarzenegger - The Man Who Raised Hollywood: A documentary exploring Arnold Schwarzenegger's rise from bodybuilder to movie star, with input from several directors on his career and work ethic.

• Making of: Red Sonja vs. Kalidor: An archival featurette with assistant director Michel Ferry discussing the controversial history of the film's production.

Richard Fleischer's "Red Sonja," released in 1985 and featuring a notable cast including Brigitte Nielsen and Arnold Schwarzenegger, has been brought to Blu-ray by Optimum Home Entertainment. Notably, the disc also includes exclusive supplemental features such as the documentary "Arnold Schwarzenegger - The Man Who Raised Hollywood" and an interview with assistant director Michel Ferry. This particular release lacks optional English subtitles for the main feature but is region-free, thus accessible to a global audience.

The narrative follows the eponymous Red Sonja on her quest for vengeance against Queen Gedren, who brutally murders her family and possesses a talisman with apocalyptic powers. Along her journey, Sonja allies with the haughty Prince Tarn and his guardian Falkon, later joined by Schwarzenegger's Kalidor, a warrior with his own vendetta against Gedren. The dynamic between Sonja and Kalidor adds depth, bringing romantic elements that complement the adventure. Despite its ambitious storyline and set against a backdrop of high fantasy, the film unfortunately does not achieve its potential. Critics have pointed out the lackluster acting and underwhelming execution as main detractors.

Despite these critiques, "Red Sonja" is a part of cinematic history, aided by contributions from industry legends such as cinematographer Giuseppe Rotunno, production and costume designer Danilo Donati, film editor Frank J. Urioste, and composer Ennio Morricone. Their involvement brings a layer of quality to the production that stands in contrast to the film's reception. The presence of these accomplished individuals evokes a curiosity about what the movie could have been under different circumstances, making "Red Sonja" a fascinating subject for both enthusiasts of fantasy cinema and critics alike.

The Blu-ray release of Richard Fleischer's Red Sonja by Optimum Home Entertainment represents a significant opportunity for both aficionados and newcomers to the fantasy genre. As a region-free disc, it affords universal accessibility, promising an unencumbered viewing experience regardless of geographical boundaries. This particular aspect makes it an appealing addition to any collector's or enthusiast's library, especially considering the speculative scarcity of superior or comparable future releases. The technical qualities of this Blu-ray edition serve as a compelling incentive for those who hold Red Sonja in high regard to secure their copy posthaste.

Moreover, for individuals who have yet to acquaint themselves with Red Sonja, this release provides a tantalizing proposition. However, it bears mentioning that the film itself, while a cult classic to many, may not universally appeal to all tastes within the fantasy genre. The suggestion to prospective viewers unfamiliar with the movie is to explore rental options prior to commitment. This cautious approach enables an informed decision-making process, ensuring that one’s investment in this Blu-ray disc is predicated on a genuine appreciation for the film’s unique charm and artistic merits.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of Red Sonja by Optimum Home Entertainment stands as a noteworthy endeavor in preserving a niche but beloved cinematic work. Its region-free status, coupled with the lack of foreseeable superior editions, renders it a must-have for devoted fans and a worthy consideration for curious newcomers. Prospective buyers should weigh their personal affinity towards the genre and the film itself, keeping in mind the advised preliminary rental. This review underscores the release as a valuable, albeit niche, addition to any film collection, championing informed viewership and selective acquisition.