HIGHLANDER:THE IMMORTAL EDITION

Certainly one of the most popular action films of all time, “HIGHLANDER” has received, yet another dvd transfer and presentation.

First released 16 years ago, the film’s developed a huge fan base, which has
spawned the film into three sequels and a popular tv series.  Christopher Lambert stars as Connor MacLeod, an immortal, after first dying in battle, then being resurrected. Sean Connery, another Immortal finds him and acts as his mentor, tutoring about the rules he must follow in his new role.  The only way an Immortal can be killed, is through beheading.  The film, even with its 1.85:1 aspect ratio, feels like a “big” epic, with huge battle scenes.  Director Russel Mulchahey knows how to stage a scene, and almost every composition is staggering to the eye.  The very first scene, taking place at a wrestling match, sets the stage for the impressive camerawork to follow, almost instantly!

The film deserves a great transfer, and while some of the previous ones have been decent, none have been outstanding, until now!  ANCHOR BAY has released this as a THS presentation, and although it’s been certified as such previously, the presentation wasn’t worthy of such merit.

It’s probably impossible to have a “grain-free” transfer, due to the way the film was shot, but this one, while still grainy in many scenes, has far less grain, and a sharper image than ever available before.

Colors are far more vibrant now, and free from oversaturation.

ANCHOR BAY has gone all out with the soundtrack for this release.  While previous versions offered Dolby Digital 5.1 sound, this version offers Dolby Digital EX and DTS EX.  There is also a 2.0 mix available in both French and English.  The dialogue is sharper than on previous versions, but still imperfect, but never muted.  The amount of bass has never been equaled in any other version. This will give any subwoofer a run for its money!  The DTS version isn’t that much different in depth from the Dolby Digital version, however, in certain instances, e.g. battle scenes, the DTS offers greater clarity, and better bass.

Mulcahy and the film’s producers provide a commentary track is the same as offered before on dvd and the special edition laserdisc set.  There’s plenty of technical information offered here, as well as some entertaining tidbits about the actors in various scenes.  There are also trailers, a thick booklet, cd with songs from the film by Queen, and more.