The Boondock Saints: 10th Anniversary –
Truth and Justice Edition (2001/Fox
Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
Picture:
B Sound: B Extras: B Film: B
Hurray
for double dips! One of the most
unexpected hits of the last decade has to be The Boondock Saints; getting little release or attention in
theaters, then subsequently being a breakout hit on home video. The film was so much a hit on home video that
it even spurred a sequel; something that is somewhat unheard of and rarely
achieved.
Now on
Blu-ray we have the second release of the explosive Irish hit man film, as it
includes both the Theatrical and Unrated Directors Cut Versions of the film;
not to mention an exclusive new extra.
The difference between the two cuts is hard to distinguish and neither
adds nor detracts from the film.
Apparently little has been done to further fix up the picture and sound
on this almost dismissed, low budget venture; but hardcore fans will rush to
buy this re-release.
As the
technical features of this release are recycled from the 2009 Blu-ray release,
the review will attempt to recapture the same.
The
picture is presented in a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 2.35 X 1 digital High Definition transfer
that for the most part is adequate, but not all too impressive. Both the theatrical and extended cut are
available for viewing here; both cuts being great films with about the same
sketchy picture quality. It is obvious
from the beginning that the transfer did not come from the best film master,
with grit and debris being present throughout that makes for a blemished
Blu-ray release. The colors are off and
the contrast is as well, though the blacks are solid and flesh tones are
balanced. It is an adequate release for
fans that have been waiting, but expect another release to be coming for
sure. The sound is a bit of a step up
from the picture in its DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround Track that
uses most of the speakers and with the engaging action sequences it is at its
best. The scores and gunfire jump from
every angle and immerse the viewer in a great cinematic experience.
The
extras feature Audio Commentaries, Deleted Scenes, Outtakes, a Printable
Script, and Theatrical Trailer. The only
extra worth commenting on is the Audio Commentaries; one featuring Troy Duffy
and the other Bill Connolly. Troy Duffy
is obviously a self indulgent, egotistical man; throughout the commentary he
name drops and quite unbashfully promotes himself. Duffy’s commentary holds little substance,
nor does it give insight into the film.
Connolly is more self aware and talks of the film’s production troubles,
giving a tad more insight but in the in end still being a lackluster
commentary.
The new
extra included in this set is an almost half-hour featurette with Troy Duffy, Sean
Patrick Flannery, David Della Roco, and Norman Reedus host a casual round table
discussion about their feelings on the film.
The points of discussion are emotional, funny and can’t be found
anywhere else. A love for this cult
classic is expressed by all involved and a certain passion is exuded that most
don’t divulge for DVD/Blu-ray extras. Overall, a very nice extra.
I am not
sure if the sole extra warrants a re-release of the film, but I was thoroughly
entertained for my 1,000th time through the film.
- Michael P. Dougherty II
