Mel Brooks is a hit-or-miss director, on a big scale. When his films work, they become instant classics(BLAZING SADDLES), and when they fail(LIFE STINKS), they're easy to pass over for even mediocre films of better caliber at the video store. Having not enjoyed "SPACEBALLS" during its original release in 1987, this reviewer wasn't looking forward to having to review it again. Time can really make a difference, and "SPACEBALLS" is easily one of the most pleasant revisits of an older film in some time.  Never intending to be more than a parody of the "STAR WARS" and "STAR WARS" inspired films of that time, The plot of "SPACEBALLS" revolves around Brooks as leader of the "Spaceballs," miscreants who've ruined their own planet, and seek to steal the clean air from Druidia, a planet wherein Princess Vespa is to be wed.  When the queen changes her mind about her approaching marriage to (Jim J. Bullock)Prince Valium, she escapes in a space-travelling Benz to "SPACEBALL ONE," a giant ship led by Dark Helmet(Rick Moranis).   It's up to Lone Starr(Bill Pullman) and Barf(John Candy), to rescue the damsel, as they take on Dark Helmet, the Spaceballs and others, in the initial hope of earning money from the Princess's father to pay off a bad guy, Pizza the Hut. While some of the jokes are still lame, there are some genuinely funny moments. Sure, many of these are still predictable, but that's exactly what a spoof builds upon and Brooks never shies away from its intentions.  One can never get enough of John Candy in his "Wookie" inspired role, and it's a shame there isn't more on-screen time with him. However, the cast is generally entertaining(with the exception of Daphne Zuniga), and the special effects(although dated) feel nostalgic.

FOX has provided the correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio for this 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 blu-ray release.  Colors are solid and often vibrant, although the image is slightly darker than we'd expected.  The detail is terrific, sometimes showcasing the film's modest budget for set design and maintenance! While there is grain, it's never intrusive. Few scenes appear flat, and it's surprisingly a solid transfer for a catalogue film.

FOX has provided a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix.  This mix is fantastic!!! From beginning to end, the lossy mix showcases wonderful fidelity. The surrounds are used in virtually every scene, enhancing the film's humor in clever ways.  Dialogue, effects and music are perfectly balanced.

Plenty of extras here, including a commentary with Brooks that, while not hilarious, is quite entertaining and insightful.  A half-hour documentary offers interviews and more insight into the production. A homage to John Candy, still galleries and trailers, all in standard resolution, are also offered.

Additionally, Fox has included a DVD of the film, with full-frame on one side and proper letterboxing on the flipside.