Paramount Presents is a new label to recognize and celebrate films from the studio’s vast and storied library. The Paramount Presents banner will be used for a new line of collectible Blu-ray Discs incorporating a curated selection of enduringly popular movies, as well as films that had a cultural impact upon their release. The label will also be used to bring classic films to select theaters for limited theatrical runs so audiences can experience them again on the big screen.
“Paramount’s library represents over a century of filmmaking and includes some of the greatest films in cinematic history,” said Bob Buchi, president, worldwide home media distribution, Paramount Pictures. “We look forward to opening the vault and sharing some of our most treasured films with fans under the new ‘Paramount Presents’ banner, both in theaters and in our new Blu-ray collection, which has been crafted to offer something special to casual fans, dedicated film enthusiasts, and collectors.” This new collection will return each title to the spotlight with remastered releases that include brand new bonus content.
Flashdance
Plot: Alex Owens is a beautiful young woman who works a day job in a steel mill and dances in a bar at night. When Alex discovers that her handsome boss, Nick Hurley, is both interested in her and supportive of her performing career, she renews her efforts to get accepted into a prestigious dance conservatory. Although Alex is frightened of failure, she is cheered on by Nick, as well as by her mentor, former ballet performer Hanna Long.
Director: Adrian Lyne
Runtime: 97 min
Rotten Tomatoes Consensus: All style and very little substance, Flashdance boasts eye-catching dance sequences — and benefits from an appealing performance from Jennifer Beals — but its narrative is flat-footed.
Pretty in Pink
Plot: Andie is an outcast at her Chicago high school, hanging out either with her older boss, who owns the record store where she works, or her quirky classmate Duckie, who has a crush on her. When one of the rich and popular kids at school, Blane, asks Andie out, it seems too good to be true. As Andie starts falling for Blane, she begins to realizes that dating someone from a different social sphere is not easy.
Director: Howard Deutch
Runtime: 97 min
Rotten Tomatoes Consensus: Molly Ringwald gives an outstanding performance in this sweet, intelligent teen comedy that takes an ancient premise and injects it with insight and wit.
Review:
Something exciting about Paramount setting up this collection is the intended purpose; focusing on people like me and you; film enthusiasts and collectors. I’ve seen some people in the forums complain about “having to buy these again,” but we all know buying anything is an option — if you want re-releases with the best possible image, you’ll always have to reach into your pocket. What else is new?
The best news is that all of these releases look the best that they ever have! I know that’s the big question and the elephant in the room, so once again yes, all three of these releases are significant to modest jumps over their previous releases. If you love them, you will have to have them.
- Flashdance had a solid release in 2013, so this disc’s ‘improvement’ will ultimately be up to the viewer. This re-master has a less grain, so there are points where the image will look on the softer side. That isn’t exactly a negative, but is noticeable. Also, this disc is more refined and seemingly brighter than the previous release — colors are more true to how they should’ve looked. This could be a little strange as everyone is used to the darker appearance, but like I said — this will be at the viewers discretion. If you are looking to collect this awesome ‘Paramount Presents’ line, you shouldn’t pass on this, but I understand why you might. Finally, Bonus features include a new Filmmaker Focus with Lyne.
- Pretty in Pink has arrived on Blu-ray for the first time! This remaster looks great with a new level of detail and color — there are little things you will realize immediately like the detail and vibrancy of clothing which really helps that 80’s aesthetic. If that’s not enough, the audio mix sounds just as good and better than ever before. This disc is an all around plus, and whether you like it or not, this is one of the gem films of the 80’s. Beyond that, this release includes a new Filmmaker Focus with director Howard Deutch and, for the first time, the film’s isolated score track from composer Michael Gore.
The only “off” thing about this lineup is that they’re being released on Blu-ray and not 4K. My only guess?Personally, I think it’s the best option to help keep the cost down and nothing else. Some are already predicting that next year (2021) these will be released again in 4K… but I doubt it. That would be a strange strategy… who would buy them again? I certainly wouldn’t.
In conclusion —
Taking everything I’ve said into account, both of these films get my day-one recommendation to add to your collection! You can grab a copy at your local retailer today! Nobody knows how many movies Paramount is setting up to release. Is it 10? 25? 50? I think it all depends on the sales and word of mouth… if these releases gain popularity, then more will be added. I’m sure there’s a standard dozen to start things off, so we will have to wait a few months and see what happens.
For now, the next two to come are Airplane! & Ghost.
Are you a fan of these movies? Will you be picking it up to own? Let me know what you think in the comments below.
Cheers & stay safe,
Matt.
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