Blu-ray Review: Silent Running

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

In the 60s and 70s science fiction films came with a message. After 2001 A Space Odyssey warning of technology came Silent Running's environmental warning. Silent Running while not a commercial success the film over the years has become a cult classic.

Now Arrow Video has decided to give this post-apocalyptic science fiction film the Blu-ray release that this cult film richly deserves. Complete with a brand new 2K restoration. Let's take a look at this brand new release.

In the not-so-distant future, Earth is barren of all flora and fauna, with what remains of the planet s former ecosystems preserved aboard a fleet of greenhouses orbiting in space. When the crews are ordered to destroy the remaining specimens, one botanist, Freeman Lowell (Bruce Dern, The Burbs), rebels and flees towards Saturn in a desperate bid to preserve his own little piece of Earth that was, accompanied only by the ship s three service robots.

It is so hard for one actor to carry the majority of a film by themselves. Think of Tom Hanks in castaway. Bruce Dern had to do just that and what a great job he does. He brings a real sensitivity and a sympathy to his character of Freeman Lowell.

Kids and adults that have grown up with this generation's technology, will find this film a bit dated. But fans of retro entertainment will love this film. The special effects are great and film's soundtrack is perfect.

Arrow Video has restored this film in 2K from the original camera negative. It was approved by director Douglas Trumbull and produced by Arrow Video exclusively for this release. It is presented in 1080p 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The audio is the original lossless mono and there is English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. I have to say I am very impressed with this restoration. This release looks better than any release I have seen.

But as with Arrow Video releases you know that is not it! No not by a long shot. They loaded up this Blu-ray with bonus features. Take a look at what is included.

SPECIAL EDITION CONTENTS

Brand new audio commentary by critics Kim Newman and Barry Forshaw

Original audio commentary by Douglas Trumbull and actor Bruce Dern

Isolated music and effects track

No Turning Back, a new interview with film music historian Jeff Bond on the film s score

First Run, a new visual essay by writer and filmmaker Jon Spira exploring the evolution of Silent Running s screenplay

The Making of Silent Running, an archival 1972 on-set documentary

Silent Running by Douglas Trumbull and Douglas Trumbull: Then and Now, two archival interviews with the film s director

A Conversation with Bruce Dern, an archival interview with the film's lead actor

Theatrical trailer

Extensive behind-the-scenes gallery

Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Arik Roper

The restoration is enough to make this a must own, but the bonus features are so amazing that it makes this even more of a must add addition to any sci-fi film fan's Blu-ray collection.

So if you are a fan of Bruce Dern or 70's science fiction you are going to want to get a copy of this Blu-ray for your collection. Head over to Amazon.com or MVDShop.com and get your copy today.


Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) We would give Arrow Video's Silent Running Blu-ray...