BETTER OFF DEAD

This reviewer was apparently one of many whom had no interest in seeing the John Cusack comedy, “BETTER OFF DEAD,” when it was initially released.  Having just been released by PARAMOUNT, there was some hesitation in seeing it, and surprisingly, it can be described as a comic gem!  It’s really a lost classic that deserves to be seen, and makes for a great addition to any film lover’s dvd collection.

Cusack plays Lane Meyer, a teenager fighting off suicidal feelings after having been dumped by his girlfriend for a jock.  In spite of the suicidal subject matter, Director Savage Steve Holland makes the film’s comic elements come off perfectly.  When Lane meets and falls for a foreign-exchange student, his zest for life returns, but only amidst even more comic episodes.  The writing is exceptional, and the entire cast is made up of some othe best comic talent of the ‘80s!

There are so many great lines and comic situations, that it would be unfair to spoil the surprise of them for new viewers. RUN AND GET THIS!!!!

PARAMOUNT has presented the film with its correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio and 16:9 enhancement.  The colors are decent, although subdued. There’s also a lot of grain. Contrast is fine, with generally deep blacks and grays. Fleshtones appear natural.

The Dolby Digital monaural sound is average. Fidelity is extremely limited, all the more disappointing since the score of ‘80s songs is so nostalgic. Dialogue is intelligible and free from distortion.

In spite of an average transfer, it’s not enough to prevent the film from being a great viewing experience, and it’s still far better than the VHS alternative.