Vice Squad, a 1982 film, directed by Gary Sherman, isn’t normally something that I’d suggest people purchase for viewing.
For me, it’s a reminder of what certain sections of Hollywood were like, back in 1981-82.
But it really hasn’t met the test of time.
But for true cinephiles, the importance is beyond cast or story, it’s all about the DP, and how this film, with many sequences apparently shot without the aid of lighting, or at least minimal lighting, were taken by someone already recognized for extraordinary achievments in his field.
Presumably, what has been released by Scream Factory, is a 4k scan of the OCN, which at times is extremely grainy, based upon the lack of light.
Everything that is on the negative appears at full tilt on the new Blu-ray, and it reproduces the look and textures as captured by John Alcott.
Was this a pick-up job between major shoots? Could it have been as a favor to an Avco Embassy exec? I’ve no idea.
But here we have the DP who had worked on 2001, and shot Clockwork Orange, Barry Lyndon, and The Shining for that gentleman from Brooklyn, living in the UK.
While I’m a fan of Season Hubley, this film is all about John Alcott.
Image – 5
Audio – 5
Pass / Fail – Pass
Upgrade from DVD – Yes
Recommended
RAH
Robert has been known in the film industry for his unmatched skill and passion in film preservation. Growing up around photography, his first home theater experience began at age ten with 16mm. Years later he was running 35 and 70mm at home.
His restoration projects have breathed new life into classic films like Lawrence of Arabia, Vertigo, My Fair Lady, Spartacus, and The Godfather series. Beyond his restoration work, he has also shared his expertise through publications, contributing to the academic discourse on film restoration. The Academy Film Archive houses the Robert A. Harris Collection, a testament to his significant contributions to film preservation.
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