Blu Review 32 - The Long Kiss Goodnight

[samtyler]

The Long Kiss Goodnight Blu-ray Review

Distributor: Warner Home Video (Germany)

The Long Kiss Goodnight is one action film with a pretty decent story behind it.
Starring Geena Davies and Samuel L. Jackson, who have a great on screen chemistry together, the film has many layers to its average running time including action, suspense and even comedy with some classic one liners like only Samuel L. Jackson can deliver.

The film has seemed pretty underrated as of late, however thanks in part to a new high definition release, all that could be about to change.

Soon to be released on Blu-ray in UK/US regions, for some reason a German region free release has found its way onto the market first and it is that disc which is reviewed here. On loading the disc and selecting play from the main menu, the film begins playback using the English language track without any subtitles selected which makes for a hassle free import for English speaking collectors.

Warner Home Video have provided a new 1080p 16x9 2.4:1 transfer which is most impressive. Black levels are excellent throughout giving a real depth to the darker scenes, while colours appear bright and vibrant. Detail is also excellent with the image appearing sharp and clean. Previous DVD releases had generally been a little disappointing as far as transfer quality was concerned, however this Blu-ray marks a real step up in quality making the film appear almost brand new.

Audio is presented in DTS HD 5.1 English (as well as having German and Spanish options) with the track being loud and very well defined. Throughout the movie there are countless scenes of gun fire and explosions which all sound impressive, however even during the quieter dialogue heavy moments, the audio is clear and precise. The classic musical numbers now also appear much stronger than before which really helps to immerse the viewer into the movie.

Extras are unfortunately limited to a theatrical trailer. It is not yet clear if domestic releases will improve on this, however knowing Warner Home Video's usual policy of one Blu-ray master for all territories, it is probably unlikely.

For fans of the movie, the Blu-ray is a must have. With vastly improved transfer and audio, the film will grab your attention like never before. Certainly a release to put your home cinema equipment to the test, The Long Kiss Goodnight delivers a powerful performance on Blu-ray which will not disappoint.


Eight years ago she lost her memory. Now, a detective must help her remember the past before it buries them both.

[Paul Moran]

Is the "Santa Sleigh Pursuit" scene included in the film? I saw this in the first TV broadcast, but it was missing from the UK EIV non-anamorphic DVD. (Listed in the "jump to a stunt scene" Extra, but not actually present on the DVD!) Also not on the R1 New Line DVD I bought subsequently.

[samtyler]

Is the "Santa Sleigh Pursuit" scene included in the film? I saw this in the first TV broadcast, but it was missing from the UK EIV non-anamorphic DVD. (Listed in the "jump to a stunt scene" Extra, but not actually present on the DVD!) Also not on the R1 New Line DVD I bought subsequently.

Unfortunately the scene is not on this blu-ray release, sounds good tho so it is a shame it was not included

[Paul Moran]

Disappointing. I will probably get the blu-ray anyway, but I will wait for the eventual UK release to have its inevitable price drop!