Target
Studio: Paramount
Year: 1985
Rated: R
Length: 117 Minutes
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1
Audio: Dolby Digital English 5.1, English 2.0, French Mono
Subtitles: English
Special Features: None
S.R.P.: $14.99 USD |
Release Date: June 14, 2005
From the “better late than never” file - this DVD was released on June 14, 2005.
Arthur Penn’s
Target stars Gene Hackman (as Walter Lloyd) and Matt Dillon (as Chris Lloyd) - distant father and son swept suddenly into international intrigue and the world of spies when wife and mother (Gayle Hunnicut) disappears while vacationing in Paris.
Father and son must put aside their differences as they trace clues around Europe. In the process, Chris finds out that there is more to his father than the mild-mannered hardware store owner he thinks he knows... Walter is Former CIA. And Walter’s wife’s disappearance is connected to his former job.
It’s an interesting story at its base. The execution, however, leaves a bit to be desired. For me, the changing relationship between Walter and Chris, while interesting, pulls you “out of the moment” and causes the main plot to stall. That, and a somewhat absurd finale that caps off the film keep it from achieving greatness.
Hackman turns in his usual competent performance, and Dillon shines as well. The script just didn’t quite rise to the caliber of the star power.
Target is a competent genre film, worthy of a couple of hours for fans of the genre and of the film’s stars. Other options that achieve a stronger pace in the genre might include
Frantic or
The Bourne Identity.
The Transfer
Target is presented in an aspect ratio of 1.85:1, and is anamorphically enhanced.
The print shows a bit of wear, displaying occasional dust and scratches - though I’ve certainly seen worse on films of this age (I’ve seen better, too). The transfer lacks fine detail, and colors seem a touch on the cool side.
Saturation is good, contrast is good, and shadow detail is acceptable.
Audio is available in English 5.1, English stereo and French mono. The 5.1 track sounds okay, but seems to be missing punch in the higher frequencies. There is also a noticeable hiss during quiet passages. Bass response is acceptable, though there is little real use of low frequency effects.
This is only an average transfer, in both audio and video.
Final Thoughts
While not perfect,
Target offers a couple of hours of decent entertainment. And with a suggested retail price of $14.99 US, this should street around $10. The transfer is acceptable, though far from perfect.
