PIC of the Week – Blackkklansman
Article series by Ray Schillaci
Although Disney and Pixar released their highly touted Incredibles 2 this week with families grabbing it off the shelves, it’s Universal Pictures Home Entertainment’s release that is one of the best and emotionally charged pictures of the year on 4K and Blu, BlacKkKlansman. The remarkable true story of Ron Stallworth, an African-American cop who went undercover (no pun intended) to infiltrate the Ku Klux Klan. This is the finest film in director Spike Lee’s canon, and could very well be due to producer Jordan Peele, director/producer of last years hit Get Out.
The big surprise (other than a very special guest star) in Lee’s film is how funny it is thanks to Lee, his three other writers, Charlie Wachtel, David Rabinowitz and Kevin Willmott, and the source material provided by Ron Stallworth’s book, Black Klansman. Also, the natural comic timing of John David Washington as Ron Stallworth and Adam Driver as undercover cop Flip Zimmerman helps immensely. But, in no way does it overshadow the seriousness of the racial tensions in the ’70s portrayed in the film, and how we’ve unfortunately been forced backward in the present day.
Here’s a film that should be required viewing in schools, although that could be a very heated argument in red states. This is not a liberal argument. As many of us learned about the holocaust by the Nazis and slavery in the South in history class, not enough are aware as to the level of racism running rampant in our nation less than thirty years ago. The evolution of the KKK, David Duke, and racism in America are all addressed in a film that is as entertaining as it is informative.
Lee captures the ’70s beautifully. The whole look of the film takes on the myth of ’70s blaxploitation movies, along with its music. The film also rises above the films of that era, and is far from being exploitive. Lee, who tends to plant his signature on far too many scenes in his films, has tempered his style, and the film is all the more powerful for it.
I cannot stress enough that this film is well worth seeing and highly entertaining. For those not familiar with the title character’s story, you will be consistently surprised and on the edge of your seat as you watch the investigation unfold. I would highly recommend mature children and parents have this one for a movie night.
Universal offers a 4K UHD presentation that captures the era in a wonderful, natural way. Even the night scenes hold up beautifully. The picture is top drawer and a great reference for the 4K experience. Taking a very slight step down, the Blu offered by the big U still delivers a great crisp picture that loses very little quality on a 4K TV as well.
Universal does not skimp on the audio either with an English Dolby Atmos sound that surrounds us and immediately sucks the viewers in. Dialogue is rich, ambient sound never overpowering yet we can hear every pin drop in all different directions. For those who have not invested in an Atmos system yet, you still have a great theatrical surround sound with the Dolby Digital 5.1 provided. Either way, viewers, you cannot lose on this one.
What we do lose on is Universal’s cheaping out on the extras. Studios, films such as this should not be limited in their bonus material. Most people renting or buying home entertainment want to know as much as possible about a film of this magnitude. And, what does Universal Pictures Home Entertainment give us? Cast and crew discuss the making of the film in less than six minutes, and we get the treat of treats…an extended trailer of the film. It almost feels like a joke.
But, all that being said, this is another film well worth owning. Great picture, great sound, and a production and stars that are first rate. Here’s hoping the picture becomes an Oscar contender.
Best Price – 4K – $24.99 – Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon
Blu-ray – $19.96 – Walmart, Amazon
