MovieFreak.com - Young Guns: Special Edition DVD Review

Young Guns: Special Edition (1988)

Starring: Kiefer Sutherland, Emilio Estevez, et al.
Director: Christopher Cain

Rating: R

Studio: Artisan Entertainment

Review Posted: 5.14.03

Spoilers: None

Synopsis

The year is 1878, Lincoln County, John Tunstall, a British ranch owner, hires six rebellious boys as "regulators" to protect his ranch against the ruthless Santa Fe Ring. When Tunstall is killed in an ambush, the Regulators, led by the wild-tempered Billy the Kid (Estevez), declare war on the Ring. As their vendetta turns into a bloody rampage, they are branded outlaws, becoming the objects of the largest manhunt in the western history.

The Video

YOUNG GUNS is presented in an aspect ration of 1.85:1; the image has been enhanced for 16X9 televisions. Artisan has done a fine job with this Special Edition DVD. I thought the film presented an accurate and excellent transfer. Detailed and colorful this DVD was truly fantastic to watch. This was a generous upgrade from Artisan. Artisan truly knows what its DVD fans look for in a Special Edition and YOUNG GUNS makes for another reverence.

Sharpness was strong; appearing crisp and sharp throughout the film. Print flaws appeared virtually non-existent. I witnessed some instances of specks and grain, but not enough to merit a major concern; overall Artisan presents a clean and unsullied film. Colors were terrific, the palette featured a bright and neat presentation as colors came across bold and exact. Black levels were deep and rich, and shadow detail was fittingly dense but not terribly thick. Ultimately, YOUNG GUNS: SE is presented an eye-catching visual experience; a noteworthy upgrade from the original DVD offered years ago.

The Audio

YOUNG GUNS is presented in both a Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS track. Both tracks contained a nice stereo presence with the DTS track offering a little more boost in its presentation. Overall, I felt the film delivered excellent audio quality. The soundfield seemed extremely spacious and engaging throughout the whole film, with audio placed accurately in the environment. All five channels were active, and they also blended together smoothly and cleanly; sounds moved between speakers naturally and the entire package created a very strong presentation. Gunfire flied around the room and I felt totally involved.

The track also maintained an effective ambiance during silent moments. Audio was also excellent. Dialogue came across distinct and natural, with no problems. Music sounded clear and smooth. Ultimately YOUNG GUNS produced a naturalistic audio track and the re-mastered version of the film is truly significant.

The Extras

Commentary by Lou Diamond Phillips, Dermot Mulroney, and Casey Siemaszko
Theatrical trailer(s)
All-new digitally remastered version
"The Real Billy the Kid" documentary
Trivia track: Gunning for the Facts

Summary

Overall, YOUNG GUNS is the way to go. There are two versions of the film that have been released. I encourage owners of the original disc to purchase this one. For those of you like myself who waited for a special edition we won't have to wait any longer, because Artisan has presented a very nice DVD package here. Although the film may not be for everyone, I felt YOUNG GUNS was both enjoyable and exciting.

The disc comes highly recommended for fans of the western genre. The DVD provides great picture and sound with a abundant amount of extras. For those of you who have never seen YOUNG GUNS, the special edition is worth a look.

Film Rating: 3 out of 4

Review originally appeared on DVDFreak.net

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