Dragnet: Collector’s Edition Blu-ray Review
Tom Hanks and Dan Akroyd save “Dragnet.”
Based on the hit TV show of the same name, the 1987 film “Dragnet” is a continuation of the series only it’s far more comedic and in some ways a spoof of it. The story revolves around the by-the-book Sgt. Joe Friday (the nephew of the original Joe Friday) and his new young, hipper partner Pep Streebek. They are complete opposites, but they must bond and learn to work together as they investigate a power hungry cult called P.A.G.A.N. that is stirring up trouble around L.A. There’s also a key subplot involving a woman named Connie who was being targeted as a sacrifice by the cult. Joe and Pep save her and she begins to fall for Joe.
I have heard there are many fans of the “Dragnet” TV series that are none to keen about this film version and I can see why. This is much different in tone and is a sometimes raunchy, innuendo filled buddy cop comedy. However, if you take it on its own, there’s much to enjoy about this version. First of all, Tom Hanks and Dan Akroyd are perfect for their roles and their chemistry together is a hoot. It’s clear Akroyd was all in on this project as he not only commits to the part but also co-wrote it alongside Alan Zweibel and Tom Mankiewicz. Tom Hanks is pretty much just along for the ride cracking jokes here, but you can tell he is soaking it all up.
The action here is also top notch. There are several memorable set pieces including shootouts and car chases. This movie has a sizable budget and it shows in the end product.
On the downside, the script does have its issues. Granted, there are one-liners and jokes that work well, but there are some that don’t ala anything REALLY 80’s and the corny end plane sequence. The romance storyline also drags on and feels positively archaic in this day and age.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 1.8:1 1080p. How does it look? A clean hi-def transfer that will surely please fans of the film.
Audio Track: 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? It doesn’t pack a punch, but it’s solid.
Extras:
* “A Quiet Evening In The Company Of Connie Swail, An Interview With Co-Star Alexandra Paul”- A 25 minute interview with the actress who talks about her experience in working on the film.
* “Just The Facts: A Promotional Look At Dragnet With Dan Akroyd And Tom Hanks”- An old school 46 minute special about all variations of “Dragnet” hosted by Hanks and Akroyd.
* A trailer and 5 TV spots.
* A talkative and informative commentary by pop culture historian Russell Dyball
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