‘School in the Crosshairs’ Blu-ray Review (Cult Epics)
Stars: Hiroko Yahushimaru, Ryoichi Takayanagi, Toru Minegishi, Makoto Tezuka | Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi
When most people think of Japanese cinema, their minds go straight to martial arts epics or chilling horror films – and for good reason, those genres absolutely rule. But in 1981, director Nobuhiko Obayashi delivered something refreshingly different: a wild blend of sci-fi and fantasy titled School in the Crosshairs.
Cult Epics, known for their stellar Blu-ray line-up that includes His Motorbike, Her Island, Wan Pipel, and Dakota, are now bringing this Obayashi gem to life with a deluxe Blu-ray edition. Another bold and fascinating addition to their growing catalogue of cinematic treasures.
Ordinary schoolgirl Yuka’s (Yakushimaru) new term comes to an odd start when she inexplicably stops an accident by using latent psychic powers. Troubled by her newfound abilities, Yuka also senses a strange force start to take hold of the school, with students turning into mind-controlled fascists, patrolling school halls, stifling dissent and mandating the re-education of freethinkers.
School in the Crosshairs is a light-hearted film with a live-action anime feel to it. The stellar dreamlike photography of DP Yoshitaka Sakamoto brings this film into a whole new level of must-see.
The film has been transferred to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The audio track is a Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. There are also new, improved English subtitles. The transfer comes from a 2K restoration, which means the picture is crisp and clean, and the colours are vibrant. The audio is clear. This is yet another great restoration from Cult Epics. But with this Blu-ray, there are also cool bonus features, including:
Special Features:
- Audio Commentary by film critic Max Robinson
- Sailor Suits and Sound – Visual essay by Phillip Jeffries
- Obayashi Film Poster Gallery
- Theatrical Trailers
- New Slipcase art design by Sam Smith
- Reversible sleeve with original Japanese poster art
- First Pressing includes repro 24-page Japanese booklet
Yes, Cult Epics impresses once again with their deluxe edition of this fun little Asian film. From the on-disc bonus to all the great artwork; Cult Epics never disappoints with the quality of their products.
***** 5/5
If you enjoy sci-fi fantasy films or are a fan of the deluxe Blu-rays from Cult Epics, head over to Amazon and order your copy of School in the Crosshairs today.
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