48 Hrs. [Blu-Ray]

Oftentimes, technical revolutions are a boon. The fact that we're able to watch films on a number of formats is an inventive feat we take for granted. At that, something so advanced as the Blu-Ray player, which optimizes cinema to the point of being arguably better than life, is amazing. Unfortunately, technological advancements aren't immune to having their limitations revealed, a situation that occurs with this half-hearted release of Hill's 1982 action comedy, 48 Hrs. Starring Nick Nolte as Jack Cates, we watch a badass cop on the trail of a hardened criminal. Looking for help, he enlists imprisoned wisecracking conman/evildoer associate Reggie Hammond (Eddie Murphy) for two days: the titular 48 hours. Elementary, but near-perfect, the film is an endless haven of off-colour jokes, wanton destruction and general hilarity; it's no wonder 48 Hrs. ended up inspiring the whole buddy cop genre. Both Nolte and Murphy shine, most notably the latter, who dives into his first big screen role with a gusto he's been lacking since the end of the '80s. Such a solid script and strong acting ensure that even some 30 years later, we're entertained for its duration. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for this "improved" treatment. While the footage does look clearer, the sound is modestly upgraded at best and the absolute lack of any bonus materials, other than the original trailer, reveals the studio disregarding a catalogue film that not only initiated a genre unto itself but also most likely funded many of their subsequent releases. 48 Hrs. the Blu-Ray: great film, forgettable format.