Hired to Kill (1990) - Blu-ray Review - Arrow Video

NO MAN ON EARTH COULD GET HIM OUT OF PRISON ALIVE. SEVEN WOMEN WILL TRY.

Blu-ray & DVD Combo Pack
Released by: Arrow Video
Release Date: May 17, 2016 (US) 
Production Year: 1990
Region Code: A
Running Time: 1:36:28
Audio: English LPCM Stereo 2.0, English Dolby Digital 5.1
Video: 1080p (1.85:1 Aspect Ratio)
Subtitles: English SDH

THE FILM - [ 2.5 / 5 ]:

Starring legendary actors Oliver Reed ("Gladiator," "The Brood") and George Kennedy ("The Delta Force" and "The Naked Gun" series and his genre work in films such as "Death Ship" and "Just Before Dawn"), "Hired to Kill" is an essential slice of ‘90s action fare featuring guns, girls and a plethora of budget-busting explosions for good measure.

Action movie staple Brian Thompson (whose brief turn in 1984’s "The Terminator" led to a starring role in the 1986 Sylvester Stallone vehicle "Cobra". I always remember him most as the alien bounty hunter in "The X-Files.") stars as Frank Ryan, a mercenary sent to track down a rebel leader in hostile territory. Posing as a fashion designer, he won’t be going it alone, as he’ll be aided by seven beautiful – but deadly – female fighters. While the opportunity to see Oliver Reed chewing up the scenery behind an elaborate mustache merits the price of the admission alone, "Hired to Kill" is also noteworthy as being co-directed by Nico Mastorakis – the man behind such cult favorites as "Island of Death" and "The Zero Boys."

This was my introduction to this film and while I did not find it to be a great film, it was at least entertaining and has some great scenes not to mention an awesome ending! I don't want to spoil anything for first time viewers but you are sure to recognize and if you're like me, appreciate, some moments you have seen in other films that precede and have come out after this film. It might say something about my personality but I enjoyed the early scene where Frank Ryan "answers" the telephone. 

While the film does feature two greats in Oliver Reed and George Kennedy, they unfortunately do not feature prominently in the film. The real stars are Brian Thompson and the bevy of deadly beauties who are hell bent on completing their job at all costs. I hadn't even heard of this film before, somehow, so hopefully this new release from Arrow Video helps bring the movie more attention and introduce it to a new generation. 

AUDIO - [ 4.5 / 5 ]:

The Blu-ray comes with two English audio options. There are Dolby Digital 5.1 and LPCM 2.0 Stereo tracks. Viewers should be happy with the audio choices on this release. Personally, I prefer original audio but those that want more channels should be pleased with the DD 5.1 track that is included. The dialogue, sound effects and score were very well balanced and volume levels were consistent throughout. 

VIDEO - [ 4 / 5 ]:

"Hired to Kill" comes to Blu-ray thanks to Arrow Video US via MVD Entertainment Group. The film features a brand new 2K restoration of the film, approved by writer-director Nico Mastorakis and is presented in 1080p with a 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio. There are some white specks that appear during the opening credits but afterward it clears up and the film looks excellent. There is a significant amount of fine detail present in close ups and the film has a pleasant look and is sharp throughout. Colors look gorgeous and while the "models" are working the runway, the colors really standout. There are an abundance of varying colors present in the film from the numerous character outfits to colorful flowers. Skin tones look very natural and black levels in tuxedos and dresses feature varying degrees of intensity. Film grain is hardly noticeable due to many daytime or brightly lit scenes but it does appear in darker scenes but never heavy in my opinion. 

SPECIAL FEATURES - [ 3.5 / 5 ]:

Audio Commentary - This track features Michael Felsher of Red Shirt Pictures and editor Barry Zetlin. The pair talks about the film as well as discussing films in the career of Mr. Zetlin including "Galaxy of Terror" and "Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood" as well as Mr. Zetlin's experience working with legendary producer, Roger Corman. This isn't one of the more typical commentaries where the bulk of the conversation pertains to what is happening on the screen. This was an interesting track that mostly serves as an interview with Barry Zetlin. 

Hired to Direct (27:26) - A new interview with director Nico Mastorakis on the making of "Hired to Kill." Mr. Mastoraskis discusses different aspects of the production of the film from working with the actors, including a difficult Oliver Reed, to tragedy on the set involving a helicopter accident.

Undercover Mercenary (17:33) - A new interview with actor Brian Thompson filmed in Los Angeles, January 2016. Mr. Thompson mostly talks about his acting career and how he got started in the business. He too talks a little about the helicopter accident while filming "Hired to Kill."

Theatrical Trailer (2:50)

Stills Gallery (7:18)

Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Graham Humphreys

Fully-illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing by critic James Oliver

Original Freedom or Death Screenplay (BD/DVD-ROM Content) 

OVERALL RATING - [ 3.5 / 5 ]