Thankfully, while the video may be a source of disappointment, the audio package here performs well. Granted it's not outstanding, but there's enough quality in the Uncompressed English PCM 5.1 to make it noteworthy. Strong use of LFE and an active, and immersive, soundstage really bring some of the action to your home theater. With that being said there are some balance issues in the mix and occasionally sound effects don't pack the punch they should. There is also an English Dolby Digital 5.1 and a French track as well.
As far as the packaging for this release is concerned, it's rather slick with a book-like presentation. There's a 25-page booklet attached to the case and it includes biographies and articles pertaining to the cast and production of the film. It's interesting, but nothing outstanding. That's the plus side. The downside of the packaging is the fact that the disc just kind of floats in a cardboard insert and easily falls out if you're not careful.
For bonus features on the disc the pickings are slim and, unfortunately, familiar from previous releases. There are seven deleted scenes, a retrospective on the film, and a look at the effects and music. All together it's roughly 40 minutes of material and it's a letdown for owners of previous releases.
Who should buy into The Terminator's latest release? Well, anyone who doesn't own the film should consider picking it up, but even so it's not as "special edition" as it could have been. The transfer is a letdown, the bonus features are meek, and the packaging is a blend of positives and negatives. Take that into consideration when making a decision. I say buy it for the film if you don't have it, but don't look for home theater showpiece material.
Article comments