Demolition Man
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Synopsis
Sylvester Stallone and Wesley Snipes go head-to-head in this classic sci-fi/action blockbuster from Joel Silver, the producer of Die Hard and The Matrix.
In 2032, arch criminal Simon Phoenix (Snipes) awakens from a 35-year deep freeze in CryoPrison to find a world where crime is almost non-existent - a serene utopia ripe for the taking. With the police no longer equipped to deal with his 90s-style brutality, they revive 'Demolition Man' Sgt. John Spartan (Stallone), the no-holds-barred police officer unjustly sentenced to CryoPrison who originally took Phoenix down. Old-school cop against old-school criminal, settling their scores on the streets of San Angeles? The future won't know what's hit it.
With a script co-written by Daniel Waters (Heathers, Batman Returns) and a supporting cast that includes Denis Leary, Benjamin Bratt, and Sandra Bullock in her breakout role, Demolition Man is an awesome mix of action and humor!
Picture 9/10
Arrow Video presents Marco Brambilla’s Demolition Man in a new 4K UHD edition, delivered on a triple-layer disc in the aspect ratio of 2.39:1 with Dolby Vision. The 2160p/24hz ultra high-definition presentation is sourced from a new 4K restoration by Arrow, utilizing a scan of the original 35mm camera negative. As a unique bonus, the release features both the North American “Taco Bell” and international “Pizza Hut” versions of the film, delivered via seamless branching.
This transfer represents a significant improvement over previous home video releases, which were marred by a mediocre, video-like quality. Immediately striking is the film-like quality of the image, with Demolition Man exhibiting a surprising amount of grain—an aspect earlier releases failed to capture adequately. The 4K scan faithfully preserves this grain, lending the film a textured and natural appearance that complements its '90s origins, which leads to fine details being rendered with remarkable clarity. It's possible some fans of the film may bristle at how grainy the image actually is (complaints seem inevitable), I think most will be very pleased with how well that textured is rendered here.
The restoration work is equally commendable, with no visible print damage remaining. The image retains its natural film texture without being overly polished, again retaining that film-like consistency. Black levels are rich and consistent, and Dolby Vision’s expanded contrast enhances the experience further, bringing greater depth to shadow detail and highlights. This is particularly evident in the cryo-prison sequences, where light, shadow, and smoke interplay beautifully and cleanly, helping with the atmosphere of these sequences. Highlights on the icy chambers housing the prisoners also reflect brilliantly.
Though the presentation is excellent overall, there are sporadic instances of softer shots, likely stemming from the use of optical effects or later-generation elements, such as zoom-ins during post-production. These moments are noticeable but rare and do little to detract from the overall quality of the presentation. Otherwise, Arrow has delivered an exceptional presentation, making this release a definitive upgrade for the film's fans.
Audio 8/10
Arrow includes the film’s original 5.1 surround soundtrack (in DTS-HD MA) alongside a newly created Dolby Atmos presentation. The 5.1 track delivers everything you’d expect from a solid 90s action film mix. Gunfire and explosions are mixed with impressive range and precision, naturally directed through the surrounds, while Elliot Goldenthal’s score is well-balanced and immersive, complimenting the action on screen. Dialogue remains focused on the front channels, coming through with excellent clarity, range, and fidelity.
The Dolby Atmos track expands on the 5.1 mix, adding more depth to the soundstage. Action scenes benefit from this additional height, subtly enhancing the sense of immersion. That said, the upgrade is not that significant, and its impact will likely depend on your speaker configuration (mine is a 5.1.2 one). Regardless, both tracks perform admirably and remain faithful to the film’s original sound design, delivering an engaging audio experience, even if it doesn't deviate all that much from what I would expect from the period.
Extras 8/10
Arrow Video assembles a strong special edition for Demolition Man, offering a solid selection of supplements. Carrying over from Warner’s previous DVD and Blu-ray editions is the original audio commentary with director Marco Brambilla and producer Joel Silver. This track, which features Silver only during the early portions, leans heavily on technical details. Brambilla discusses how certain stunts and action sequences were executed, including the challenges with the “security foam” used in the film’s climactic car chase. He also reflects on script changes during production, including a major revision involving the family of Stallone’s character.
While informative, this commentary is overshadowed by a new track recorded by Arrow featuring Brambilla alongside writer Daniel Waters, who performed the final polish on the script and is credited with injecting much of the humor. This commentary revisits some technical aspects but dives deeper into the story’s development, influences (ranging from Kurt Vonnegut to Woody Allen’s Sleeper), and its satirical underpinnings. The duo also discusses casting decisions, which included replacing Lori Petty with Sandra Bullock, and finding the right actor to play the film's antagonist, with Stallone wanting Jackie Chan, which I feel would have been a bit off. They also candidly address controversies both at the time of release and now, including accusations of racism tied to Snipes’ casting. The track is engaging and energetic, with Waters’ anecdotes—such as his obsession with LaserDiscs at the time—adding humor and personality.
A third commentary, recorded by film historian Mike White, dives into the film’s production history, sharing additional insights and expanding on details from the other tracks. White uncovers fascinating tidbits, from alternate casting possibilities (Mickey Rourke was also a contender for the role that went to Snipes) to the involvement of various directors during pre-production. He also delves into the many script iterations, noting how the original lacked much of the humor that defines the final product. White provides historical and cultural context for younger viewers, from the social and political climate of the time to the significance of Denis Leary’s appearance, better known then as a comic who appeared in MTV "bumpers." Sadly, he isn't able to explain how Jesse Ventura ended up appearing in this (for less than a minute!) or why he receives a prominent credit.
Josh Nelson’s video essay, Somewhere Over the Rambo, offers further context by examining how the film incorporates news and social issues of the time, such as the L.A. riots, and how Stallone’s past roles add subtext to his character. Nelson also addresses the polarized interpretations of the film as either a critique of left-wing ideals or a right-wing fantasy. Though insightful, it may not add much for longtime fans but could be valuable to newcomers.
The disc also features newly recorded interviews with key crew members, including production designer David L. Snyder (14 minutes), stunt coordinator Charles Picerni (6 minutes), makeup effects artist Chris Biggs (6 minutes), and body effects set coordinator Jeff Farley. Snyder discusses the film’s futuristic set designs, including the cryo-prison, while Picerni recounts the helicopter jump sequence (originally conceived as a blimp stunt). Biggs delves into the creation of Snipes’ look and his job of creating a fake bust for Bullock. Farley’s segment on constructing the frozen bodies is especially fascinating, with behind-the-scenes photos showcasing the innovative silicone designs. Across these interviews, a recurring theme emerges: many crew members initially thought they were making a straightforward action film and were surprised by the finished product's comedic tone.
Rounding out the features are the film’s trailer and a high-definition (not 4K) gallery of production photos, including a surprising shot of Jackie Chan visiting. The limited edition also includes a 59-page booklet with essays by Martyn Pedler, Priscilla Page, William Bibbiani, and Clem Bastow, examining various aspects of the film, from its utopian satire to its action and violence. Additional goodies include a double-sided poster (featuring original and newly commissioned artwork), collectible postcards, and then stickers recreating graffiti from the film and the infamous three seashells. All of this is packaged in Arrow’s signature sturdy box with an o-card sleeve.
While the absence of deleted scenes—particularly a subplot mentioned throughout the supplements—is disappointing, and cast interviews are conspicuously missing, this release still stands as a significant upgrade. For a film that’s never had a proper special edition, Arrow’s effort will undoubtedly satisfy fans.
Closing
Arrow's new special edition for Demolition Man delivers a stunning new 4K presentation and nice selection of insightful features.
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