American Graffiti 4K UHD Review
“American Graffiti” is a coming-of-age classic.
Before he went on to direct “Star Wars,” “George Lucas helmed an award-winning coming-of-age comedy in 1973 with “American Graffiti.” The free-flowing story set on the last day of summer in 1962 in Modesto, California focuses on a group of characters before the next chapter of their lives start. Steve and Laurie try to figure out their relationship before college, Curt ponders his future, chases after his dream girl across town, and falls in with a greaser gang (The Pharaohs) for some shenanigans, drag-racer John Milner cruises, essentially babysits the teenage Carol and faces off against a drag race challenger (Bob), and the nerdy Toad borrows Steve’s car and goes out with Debbie.
When it comes to coming-of-age movies, it doesn’t get much better than “American Graffiti.” Perhaps it’s due to the fact that George Lucas drew from his own youth in Modesto or perhaps it’s due to the incredible ensemble cast (more on that later). Take your pick. Whatever the case may be, there’s a real authenticity to the story of these young folks on the cusp of adulthood. Writers George Lucas, Gloria Katz and William Huyck aren’t so focused on story here but rather focus on character arcs to lead the narrative. Curt, Steve, Laurie, Toad, and John each have their own journey. Yes, there are themes about friendship, the future, and relationships, but seeing what these characters are deciding to do for their future (and how their night will go) is the central focus.
The music is essentially a character in and of itself. Not only does this film boast one of the all-time great soundtracks, but the rock soaked tunes (and DJ Wolfman Jack) act as a sort of soundtrack for the characters themselves. There’s so many iconic tracks here from the likes of Fats Domino, Bill Haley And The Comets, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Platters, The Beach Boys, etc.
As for the cast, it’s note perfect. Ron Howard gives one of his finest film performances as Steve. Richard Dreyfuss showed he was capable of great range even then as Curt. A young Harrison Ford shines as the cocky Bob. Candy Clark (who earned an Oscar nomination) is perfect as Debbie. Paul Le Mat is an underrated actor who perhaps doesn’t get enough credit for his turn as John. The late Cindy Williams gives a very sincere and honest performance. Charles Martin Smith was born to play Toad. Mackenzie Phillips scene steals as Carol.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 2.35:1 2160p. How does it look? This 4K is sure to be controversial. While an improvement over the underwhelming Blu-ray release here thanks to the sharper colors, the grain removal and overly glossy print may put off some viewers and home video enthusiasts.
Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? A higher quality track would have been preferred here, but everything from the soundtrack to the drag racing sounds sharp.
Extras:
* Blu-ray copy
* Digital copy
* Theatrical trailer
* 4 sets of screen tests. 1. Ron Howard, Richard Dreyfuss, and Paul Le Mat. 2. Ron Howard and Cindy Williams. 3. Mackenzie Phillips and Paul Le Mat. 4. Charles Martin Smith.
* Commentary by George Lucas.
* “The Making Of American Graffiti”- A 7 part extra that covers the project’s origins, the personal nature of the film, casting, production, post-production and more.
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