Blu-ray

Published on April 19th, 2024 | by James Wright

Batteries Not Included (Imprint Collection) Blu-ray Review

Official Blurb: A group of poor tenants on New York’s lower east side have nothing more than sheer determination to stop the destruction of their homes. The feisty group are delighted when a few ‘visitors’ from outer space drop in to help out?

The Review: The classic 1987 film, Batteries Not Included has been re-released on Blu-ray that includes some new special features to give fans a unique look at behind the scenes on how this film was made. Directed by Matthew Robbins, Batteries Not Included starred Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy, Frank McRae and Elizabeth Peña whose character’s lives are thrown upside down when aliens from space arrive.

The film is also a social commentary on New York at the time which saw some part of this now great city fall into ruins with a developer looking to force the tenants out of an apartment block – however they don’t want to move. This causes the developer to hire some thugs to “help” move them on, however their kind hearted landlord Frank who also owns the local diner is on the side of his tenants which causes him to be targeted.

However the universe has other ideas and one night, some tiny flying saucers arrive in New York, looking for power and they end up in Frank’s diner where they take a lighting to this kind hearted gentleman and his family. These little flying saucers decide to take on the fight for Frank and his tenants, somehow replicating into other UFO’s or now known as UAP’s in the 21st Century to help liberate these people from the greedy corporation that is threatening to destroy their homes.

While the story is a little clichéd at times, it’s actually quite a heartfelt story and the characters in Batteries Not Included are not only very memorable but help with the heart and soul of this film. Sure it’s a comedy drama but you really start caring about these characters which makes you cheer for them as the film progresses. Add in some very touching and emotional moments and Batteries Not Included is a classic that brings you back to a simpler time which will leave you with a smile on your face.

Although the video and audio is slightly dated given the technology of 1987, it does come up well on Blu-ray with relatively sharp images and vibrant colours. Audio supports DTS HD 5.1 Surround Sound that adds to the cinema style of presentation. However where this release shines is its new Imprint release that adds a great interview with director Matthew Robbins and writer Mick Garris who both share their thoughts, struggles and wins of bringing this film to the big screen. There is also an interesting featurette with composer James Horner that gives you another twist on his Batteries Not Included were made.

Final Thoughts?

Batteries Not Included is a classic 80’s film with warmth and heart. If you love a good sci-fi watch, this film definitely ticks the right boxes for something fun and light.

Recommended!



 

Special Features & Technical Specs:

  • 1080p High-definition presentation on Blu-ray
  • NEW Bring Good Things To Life: Directing Batteries Not Included – Interview with director Matthew Robbins (2024)
  • NEW An Amazing Story: Writing Batteries Not Included – Interview with writer Mick Garris (2024)
  • NEW Remembering James Horner: Scoring Batteries Not Included – Interview with Sara Horner (2024)
  • Original Theatrical Trailer
  • Audio DTS HD 5.1 Surround + LPCM 2.0 Stereo
  • Aspect Ratio 1.85:1
  • Optional English HOH Subtitles
  • Limited Edition slipcase with unique artwork


About the Author

james@impulsegamer.com'


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