Footloose 4K UHD Review
The soundtrack is better than the movie.
1984’s “Footloose” (which was followed by a stage musical and a remake) is a pure 80’s teen movie. The Dean Pitchford scripted story revolves around Ren- a high school teenager who lived in Chicago but has moved to the religious small town of Bomont. Upon arrival, he discovers that the town council (which includes the strict Reverend Moore) has outlawed dancing and rock music. Wanting to stand up to this, Ren plots to organize a senior dance, but he has to convince the Council and the Reverend first. Elsewhere in the story are vital subplots involving Ren teaching his pal Willard how to dance and Ren falling for the Reverend’s frequently wild daughter Ariel (who has a scumbag boyfriend).
Directed by Herbert Ross, “Footloose” is the type of movie that felt like the byproduct of another era. It felt instantly dated in the 80’s and it feels even more so now. There’s barely a story to be told here, the movie is filled with montages, and the entire film feels like an ad for the vastly superior soundtrack that features the likes of Kenny Loggins classic title track, Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out For A Hero,” Deniece Williams’ “Let’s Hear It For The Boy,” John Mellencamp’s “Hurts So Good,” and more. Perhaps the most puzzling aspect is that the entire story leads up to a dance which is not only rather short, but is weirdly glitter fueled. You’re left thinking “That’s it? That’s the ending?”
On the plus side, the cast is quite good. Kevin Bacon had done some big movies prior, but this is the role that launched him into superstardom. He’s a charismatic lead and he has great chemistry with the underrated Lori Singer. Chris Penn quietly steals every scene he’s in as Willard. There are notable supporting performances from the likes of Dianne Wiest and Sarah Jessica Parker. And then there’s John Lithgow as the complicated Reverend. His presence looms large over this movie and he definitely takes full advantage of the character.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p. How does it look? Fans will be happy to know that this 4K disc offers up a quality upgrade that features sharper colors.
Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? A higher quality track would have been preferred but the soundtrack still rages in this 5.1.
Extras (On The Blu-ray):
* Blu-ray copy
* 2004 DVD archive- Theatrical trailer, the 2 part “Footloose: A Modern Musical” and “Footloose: Songs That Tell A Story” featurette.
* 2 commentary tracks. One by Craig Zadan and Dean Pitchford and one by Kevin Bacon.
* Kevin Bacon screen test and costume montage.
* “From Bomont To The Big Apple: An Interview With Sarah Jessica Parker.”
* “Let’s Dance! Kevin Bacon On Footloose”- A Kevin Bacon interview.
* “Remembering Willard”- A tribute to the late Chris Penn and his character Willard. Archival interviews with Penn are also included.
No comments yet.
Share This Blog
Robert Ham
dmanderson
Andrea
nicklyons1
DVD Corner 
Leave a comment