Choreographed Chaos When the Streets Come Alive

Read Time:5 Minute, 3 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Warriors [Limited Edition 4K UHD]
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Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
Year Released: 1979, 2023 Arrow Video 4K
Runtime: 1h 33m
Director(s): Walter Hill
Writer(s): Sol Yurick, David Shaber, Walter Hill
Cast: Michael Beck, James Remar, David Patrick Kelly, Dorsey Wright, David Harris, Deborah Van Valkenburgh, Brian Tyler, Steve James, Tom McKitterick
Where To Watch: available December 19, 2023; pre-order here www.arrowvideo.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Walter Hill takes us on an urban adventure in THE WARRIORS, a film that plunges into the chaotic underground world of New York City. Here, the usual norms are flipped on their head, with gang factions reigning supreme. This high-octane narrative puts "The Warriors" in the spotlight, a group wrongfully accused and forced to navigate a dangerous cityscape. Hill delivers a story that constantly keeps viewers on their toes, blending dark undertones with surprising elements of humor and heart.

I was born in the 80s, yet this was my first viewing; if you’re still with me, wow! What a gorgeous presentation. This felt like I was sitting in a movie theater on opening night; Arrow nails it again! THE WARRIORS offers a unique take on heroism. Hill's protagonists are far from the stereotypical heroes or even anti-heroes; they're characters with complex morals and a raw edge. Yet, the film succeeds in making the audience root for these unlikely heroes as they traverse a city that's as integral to the story as the characters themselves. The genuine excitement of their journey lies in the problematic and vibrant encounters they face, not just their final destination.

The movie's nighttime backdrop and the pivotal role of the New York subway add to the film's dramatic core. The dark, brooding cityscape ushers viewers into a world of danger and urgency. THE WARRIORS is more than just a tale about gang rivalry; it's a cinematic experience that adeptly balances action, character arcs, and moments of romance. The internal dynamics of the gang, rife with leadership conflicts, add a layer of complexity to the narrative.

The film's social commentary adds another layer of depth. A striking scene shows affluent students encountering the gang on a subway, highlighting the stark contrast between different worlds. Set against a raw backdrop of old New York, THE WARRIORS features fight scenes that are as meticulously choreographed as they are impactful. Barry de Vorzon's thematic music adds depth to the film, although, at times, the relentless action can almost be overwhelming.

Despite initial backlash for its portrayal of violence and gang culture, THE WARRIORS has become the true definition of a cult classic. It captures a problematic chapter of New York's past and is a historical snapshot of an era in urban America. In essence, THE WARRIORS is a profound piece of entertainment, encapsulating a unique and enduring story of urban American life. This film feels timeless, even with the dated aspects within its confines. I also loved learning that JOHN WICK paid homage to this classic film!

Bonus Materials
2-DISC 4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAY LIMITED EDITION CONTENTS
Exclusive new 4K remasters of both the Theatrical Cut and the 2005 Alternate Version of the film sourced from the original camera negative, supervised by Arrow Films and approved by director Walter Hill
4K Ultra HD (2160p) Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible) of both versions of the film
Theatrical Cut presented in the original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 for the first time on home video
Original uncompressed mono, plus stereo 2.0 and Dolby Atmos audio options for the Theatrical Cut, plus stereo 2.0 and DTS-HD MA 5.1 for the 2005 Alternate Version
Optional English Subtitles Available for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
100-page collector’s book containing new writing by film critic Dennis Cozzalio, plus select archival material
Limited Edition packaging with a reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Laurie Greasley
Double-sided fold-out poster with original and newly commissioned artwork by Laurie Greasley
Six postcard-sized artcards
Gang logo stickers

DISC 1: THEATRICAL CUT (4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAY)
New commentary by film critic Walter Chaw, author of A Walter Hill Film
War Stories, a new interview with director Walter Hill
A new roundtable discussion in which filmmakers Josh Olson (A History of Violence), Lexi Alexander (Green Street), and Robert D. Kryzkowski (The Man Who Killed Hitler and then Bigfoot) discuss their love of The Warriors and the work of Walter Hill
Battling Boundaries, a new interview with editor Billy Weber
Gang Style, a new interview with costume designer Bobbie Mannix
Armies of the Night, a new exclusive look at costume designs and photographs from the archive of designer Bobbie Mannix
Sound of the Streets, new appreciation of composer Barry De Vorzon, and the music of The Warriors by film historian Neil Brand
Isolated score option
Come Out to Play, a new look at the iconic locations of the Warriors’ Coney Island home turf
The Beginning, archive extra looking back on how The Warriors came to be
Battleground, archive extra in which director Walter Hill and assistant director David O. Sosna look back at the difficulties of shooting on location in New York City
The Way Home, archive extra on the look of film with director of photography Andrew Laszlo
The Phenomenon Archive extra
Theatrical trailer
Image Gallery

DISC 2: 2005 ALTERNATE VERSION (4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAY)
Archive introduction by director Walter Hill

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[photo courtesy of ARROW VIDEO, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]