The Hitcher 4K UHD Review
Rutger Hauer is the reason to watch “The Hitcher.”
Written by Eric Red, 1986’s “The Hitcher” begins with a young man named Jim driving through Texas en route to San Diego to deliver a car. While almost falling asleep, he picks up a hitchhiker named John. It is a decision he quickly regrets. John admits to murder and threatens Jim’s life. Jim manages to kick him out of the car, but the story doesn’t end there. John follows Jim, toys with him, murders others, blows up a gas station and frames Jim for multiple murders. Now, Jim has to evade the police and John. Through his struggles, he encounters a diner worker (Nash) that gets caught up in the chaos. Can Jim clear his name and be rid of John for good?
As you might know, director Robert Harmon’s “The Hitcher” has become a cult hit over the years. The horror-thriller (with action elements) has a simple premise, but is a thrill ride from start to finish. Sure, it gets a little extravagant, repetitious, and the end showdown feels very much lifted from an 80’s action movie, but the film still works despite bearing a strong resemblance to “Duel” and 1953’s “The Hitch-Hiker.” It offers up a different spin on a slasher, but it also works as a serial killer thriller.
The real reason “The Hitcher” works at all is due to Rutger Hauer as John. Alongside “Blade Runner,” this is Hauer’s best work. His performance is intense, frightening, and unhinged. He makes the character of John positively terrifying, evil, and unpredictable. Even though the scene is offscreen, there is a murder/death scene that is absolutely haunting and unforgettable. C. Thomas Howell (Jim) and Jennifer Jason Leigh (Nash) also turn in credible performances as the normal people that get caught up in John’s horrific game.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p. How does it look? This is a gorgeous transfer. The daylight desert exteriors are particularly stunning.
Audio Track: Dolby Atmos and 2.0 Stereo. How does it sound? While the Atmos track is satisfactory it’s quite up to the usual Atmos standards as it lacks that extra oomph. The 2.0 track is a solid option.
Extras:
* “The Hitcher” trailer
* Commentary by Robert Harmon and Eric Red
* “Bullseye: An Interview With Director Robert Harmon”- A lengthy 41 minute interview that contains discussions about script changes, characterization, Rutger Hauer, behind-the-scenes stories, stunts, and much more.
No comments yet.
Share This Blog
Robert Ham
dmanderson
Andrea
nicklyons1
DVD Corner 
Leave a comment