HD DVD Review: Assault on Precinct 13 - Page 2

Both the DTS and 5.1 mix are far louder and more involving than the SD DVD version. The bass is stunning, packing a huge punch to gunshots. Surround use is aggressive and consistent. Gun fights are amazing in terms of how well bullets fill the sound field. Even the subtleties such as wind blowing serve to increase the immersion.

Extras are unique in that they feature people not usually given time on the movie set. For instance, Armed and Dangerous meets with the weapons specialist while discussing which weapons fit which characters. Behind Precinct Walls follows the set designer as he shows off the built-from-scratch facility. Plan of Attack speaks with the stunt director. Assault Team and Caught in the Crosshairs follow the crew and cast respectively.

A writer/producer/director commentary discusses many aspects of the shoot and the original. Director Jean-Francois Richet has a tough accent making him difficult to understand at times. That carries over to the five deleted scenes and their optional commentary. Trailers finish off this single disc affair.

The 1976 version deals with a relentless gang assaulting the precinct. This update changes to replace the street gang with a technologically advanced threat that should completely overpower such a small defense set up of seven total people. It creates a better sense of tension, though not necessarily a better movie as a whole.

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Article Author: Matt Paprocki

Matt Paprocki is a 12-year movie and game critic. He currently freelances for Blu-ray review site DoBlu.com and video game site MultiPlayerGames.com.

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