Vice Squad (1982)

Description

Vice Squad (1982) – Blu-ray Disc Review (from 4K UHD Set)
Disc Type: Blu-ray (BD-50, included in Kino Lorber’s 3-disc 4K UHD combo pack)
️ Release Date: May 13, 2025
Runtime: 97 minutes | Rated: R

️ Blu-ray Video – 3.5/5

The Blu-ray disc in this combo pack presents Vice Squad in 1080p from the same restoration as the 4K disc. It carries over the 1.85:1 aspect ratio and is encoded via AVC. Compared to the 2019 Shout Factory release, this Blu-ray version has some improvements but also introduces new flaws:

• More stable image than past editions
• Yellow-ish tint is still present, affecting reds and blues
• Film grain sometimes looks noisy or smeared, especially in low light
• Mild fluctuations in black levels and shadow detail
• Some light smearing is noticeable during closing credits

While not a total disaster, the 1080p version shares the same source weaknesses as the 4K disc — you’ll see color and grain issues throughout. The difference in quality between this and the earlier Blu-ray is more lateral than upward.

Region: A (locked)

Blu-ray Audio – 5.0/5

Both audio tracks from the 4K disc are present here:

• DTS-HD MA 2.0 Mono – Authentic and clean; still the best choice
• DTS-HD MA 5.1 – Lightly expanded soundfield, but no major upgrade

Dialogue is sharp, ambient detail (screams, sirens, bar chatter) is crisp, and score elements are balanced well across the front channels. No distortion or syncing issues noted.

Subtitles: English SDH

Blu-ray Special Features – 5.0/5

All bonus content from the 4K disc is mirrored on the Blu-ray, including:

• ️ Commentary #1: Steve Mitchell – thoughtful analysis on setting and tone
• ️ Commentary #2: Director Gary Sherman & producer Brian Frankish – deeply informative
• ️ TV Spots, Radio Spots, Trailers

This Blu-ray is Disc One of the 3-disc set. A second Blu-ray (Disc Two) contains all supplemental interviews and archival content (see 4K review for breakdown).

Final Verdict – Blu-ray Score: 4.0/5

✅ PROS:

• Solid audio performance
• Great slate of extras and commentaries
• Very watchable, despite visual inconsistencies

⚠️ CONS:

• Yellow-ish hue affects color fidelity
• Grain can appear messy and uneven
• No major upgrade over previous Shout release in 1080p

BOTTOM LINE:
The included Blu-ray in this combo pack serves its purpose well, but it’s the special features that make this disc worth spinning. If you already own the previous Blu-ray, this isn’t essential unless you’re upgrading for the extras or 4K disc.

️ A gritty grindhouse time capsule with street cred to spare. Recommended for genre fans.