1 review for Impulse (1984)

1. 

   Rated 4 out of 5

   Us – October 5, 2023

   **Impulse Blu-ray Review**

   **Rating:** 3.7/5

   Kino Lorber has dug deep into the annals of the 1980s film catalogue to bring us a high-definition re-release of the 1984 film, “Impulse.” What first strikes you about this edition is that the cover art can be a tad misleading. Don’t be roped in thinking this is a futuristic escapade or a passionate romance drama. It’s something else entirely.

   The film unfolds in a peculiar small-town setting in America, eerily depicting the society’s devolution into chaos. The narrative hinges on a mysterious event – an earthquake, shaking both the town’s foundational streets and a concealed containment structure nestled in the woods. This disruption to the town’s previously serene façade forms the crux of the story.

   Tim Matheson and Meg Tilly shine as the lead couple, Stuart and Jennifer. Their journey through a town grappling with inexplicable behavioral changes is captivating. It’s evident from the get-go that something sinister has seeped into the town’s moral compass, causing residents to act on their darkest desires. This shift from the typical small-town charm to a locale of unleashed impulses provides a disconcerting contrast.

   Meg Tilly, in particular, delivers a noteworthy performance. Her character demands a balance of emotional depth and femininity, and she rises to the occasion. Matheson, although competent, often feels overshadowed in the narrative.

   The film also features a young Bill Paxton in a haunting sequence that might leave viewers squirming in their seats, underlining the extent of the town’s derangement.

   Director Graham Baker has opted for a straightforward storytelling approach, which, for the most part, serves the film well. His ability to establish an ambience of understated gloom is laudable. However, some viewers might find the film’s pace a tad too slow. It doesn’t pack the punch of similarly themed films from its era, such as George Romero’s “The Crazies” or Joe Dante’s “Gremlins.”

   The Blu-ray edition comes equipped with an optional director’s commentary by Baker. While his insights offer a deeper dive into the film’s making, the overall presentation could’ve been more dynamic. It’s quite a linear walk-through that might not be every cinephile’s cup of tea. Apart from this, the disc offers a collection of trailers, but nothing that would significantly enhance the viewing experience.

   In conclusion, “Impulse” in its Blu-ray avatar is an interesting watch for those curious about 1980s socio-psychological dramas. Its exploration of societal breakdown and suppressed behaviors in a seemingly ordinary setting offers enough intrigue. While it might not top the charts of must-watch classics, it certainly isn’t a regrettable addition to one’s collection.

   *Experience “Impulse” in unparalleled quality. Rent it now from 4kbluray4u.com!*