Running Scared

In the Kino Video release of "Running Scared" on a 1080p, AVC-encoded Blu-ray, the film's original cinematographic intentions are largely preserved, per the insights of director and cinematographer Peter Hyams. Without undertaking a direct supervision of the transfer process, Hyams himself remarked on the commentary track about the accuracy of the visual presentation. This Blu-ray honors the original film's lighting, color palette, and exposure choices, highlighting the myriad challenges involved in translating the subtle nuances of film into a digital format. Despite not being directly overseen by Hyams, the transfer effectively maintains the detailed and sharp imagery characteristic of his work, though sharpness here is defined through a lens of deliberate use of darkness, shadow, and silhouette.

The video quality benefits from the film's source material being in excellent shape, showcasing minimal signs of wear or damage and providing an image that is detailed across various landscapes—from cityscapes to Key West's vibrant colors. The contrast between the gray-dominated Chicago scenes and the rich, warm pastels of Key West exemplifies Hyams' mastery in creating visually compelling environments. This distinction is further emphasized by bursts of color in specific elements, enhancing the overall visual narrative. The disc's technical aspects also manage this balance well; with a single-layer 25GB disc dedicated mostly to the film at an average bitrate of 23.95 Mbps, Kino has avoided potential compression issues. This choice, alongside maintaining a fine-grained image and avoiding over-sharpening, allows 'Running Scared' to retain its filmic quality and authenticity despite its age.

A careful approach to lighting and framing, as demonstrated in scenes set both in Chicago and Key West, alongside a general avoidance of digital over-processing, ensures that 'Running Scared' looks as close to its original theatrical release as possible. Despite some minor print defects and a grainier texture in certain scenes, the presentation does justice to the film's aesthetic dynamics. It is commendable that Hyams' stylistic preferences for soft lighting and intricate silhouettes have been respected in this transfer, preserving the intended atmospheric depth and period-specific grittiness. This Blu-ray release stands as a testament to the enduring visual and thematic relevance of 'Running Scared', offering fans and newcomers alike an accurate representation of the film's cinematic essence.

The audio presentation of the Blu Ray for "Running Scared" is delivered through a lossless DTS-HD MA 2.0 track, affording the film’s original stereo soundscape a contemporary rejuvenation without sacrificing its 1986 roots. This particular track prides itself on a commendable execution of Rod Temperton's musical soundtrack, wherein the hit song "Sweet Freedom" by Michael McDonald, alongside others like the opening title track by Fee Waybill and "Man Size Love" by Klymaxx, are showcased with impressive dynamic range and robust bass extension. Notably, the dialogue maintains clarity across the board, ensuring that even amidst the synth-dominated score and numerous songs, every word is discernible.

While limited to a 2.0 English option, the lossless DTS-HD Master Audio track manages to surpass expectations. It succeeds in delivering a clear and crisp auditory experience, where even the nuanced sound of gunfire in action sequences does not fall short of creating an immersive atmosphere, albeit without the Michael Mann-style reverberation that might be anticipated. Furthermore, the balance between the vibrant musical numbers and the spoken dialogue is meticulously maintained, preventing any overshadowing and preserving every element's intended impact.

Moreover, the audio quality benefits from the absence of glitches such as dropouts or hissing, showcasing a careful transfer that respects both the integrity and legacy of the film's initial theater sound. The inclusion of English subtitles also adds a layer of accessibility, ensuring that the engaging soundtrack and dialogue can be enjoyed by all. This audio track, while seemingly constrained by its 2.0 configuration, actually enhances the cinematic experience of "Running Scared," arguably even improving upon its original theatrical presentation through meticulous remastering and attention to lossless audio integrity.

The Blu-ray release of "Running Scared" by Kino Lorber offers a modest but genuinely intriguing collection of extras that cater to fans and cinephiles alike, expanding significantly upon the sparse offerings of MGM's 2001 DVD release. The inclusion of a brand-new commentary by director Peter Hyams is a standout, providing insightful recollections and anecdotes about the movie's production, despite Hyams' own admitted reluctance to revisit his films. A vintage "On Location" featurette, though overlapping with some outtakes, brings archival interviews and behind-the-scenes glimpses to light. Additionally, Billy Crystal's outtakes add a layer of humor and a personal touch, serving as an informal video diary. The disc also comprises selected EPK scenes, which, despite being somewhat redundant excerpts from the film, and a brief but tone-setting theatrical trailer. Missing, however, are notable absences like Michael McDonald's "Sweet Freedom" music video and a humorous teaser from the laserdisc release, leaving room for an even more comprehensive future edition.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Director Peter Hyams: A newly recorded commentary delivering deep insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the filming.

• Featurette: "On Location" - Offers a glimpse into the production with archival interviews.

• Billy Crystal Outtakes: A compilation of humorous moments and an informal video diary by Billy Crystal.

• Selected EPK Scenes: A collection of movie scenes, presented in full-frame SD.

• Trailer: The original theatrical trailer for the film, enhanced for modern viewing.

Running Scared," featuring the dynamic duo of Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal, emerged as a memorable entry in the 1980s action-comedy genre, marking an important milestone in both actors' careers. Directed by Peter Hyams, the film presents the unconventional pairing of Hines and Crystal as Chicago detectives on the trail of a drug dealer intent on becoming the city's first Hispanic godfather, a role embodied with a slippery charm by Jimmy Smits. Set against the backdrop of one of the Windy City's harshest winters, Hyams leverages Chicago's iconic landscapes, utilizing its streets and skyline to offer a vivid contrast to typical police story settings. The cold not only tests the cast and crew but also adds an authentic chill to the characters' pursuit of warmer retirements, integrating seamlessly with the film's plot and the characters' motivations.

The allure of "Running Scared" lies not just in its comedic elements or action sequences, which include a pioneering chase atop Chicago's elevated train tracks and a climactic showdown in the newly minted James R. Thompson Center. It is also found in the palpable chemistry between Hines and Crystal, whose performances blend improvisation with tightly scripted action, underscoring their roles as mavericks within the police force. Their banter and situational comedy—be it a lineup mismatch or debates over life changes—add layers to their characters that go beyond typical buddy cop archetypes. Moreover, the film stands out for its practical stunt work, eschewing CGI for authentic, adrenaline-fueled action that echoes a bygone era of filmmaking.

"Running Scared" not only paved the way for Crystal's ascent to movie stardom but also highlighted Hines's versatile talent. Despite its formulaic elements, the movie distinguishes itself through spirited performances, strategic use of its setting, and a balance between action and humor, making it more than just a precursor to later buddy cop flicks. Its release on Blu-ray serves as a reminder of its contribution to the genre and why it remains a worthwhile watch for fans of 80s cinema and beyond.

The Blu-ray release of "Running Scared" has garnered attention for encapsulating a unique piece of cinematic history, not just through its narrative but through the potent on-screen chemistry between Billy Crystal and Gregory Hines. Despite discussions for a sequel, the singularity of their collaboration remains untouched, further illuminated by the untimely passing of Gregory Hines. This particular release by Kino Lorber stands out for its commendable audio/visual (A/V) quality and inclusion of special features that are typically scarce in Kino releases, offering audiences a chance to re-experience the 1980s classic with newfound clarity and insight.

In terms of technical specifics, the Blu-ray presentation is recognized for its excellence. It pays homage to the film's original vibrancy while ensuring that it transitions smoothly into the high-definition era. The detailed commentary by director Peter Hyams adds a layer of depth, providing fans and new viewers alike with a richer understanding of the film's production and its emotional weight, particularly highlighting the profound loss of Gregory Hines. This release strikes a balance between preserving the nostalgic essence of the film and granting it a polished look that aligns with contemporary viewing standards.

Conclusively, while "Running Scared" may not recapture the full magic it once held in its heyday according to some, its Blu-ray release affirms its status as a significant portrayal within Billy Crystal's early career and an enjoyable dive into 80s nostalgia. The combination of a well-executed A/V transfer, poignant bonus materials including Hyams' commentary, and the irreplaceable dynamic between Crystal and Hines makes this Blu-ray edition highly recommended for both collectors and newcomers seeking to explore a fleeting yet memorable partnership in film history.