Rating summary

Movie		3.0
Video		4.5
Audio		4.5
Extras		4.5
Overall		4.5

Decoder Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf September 10, 2019

Credited to director Muscha, 1984’s “Decoder” is a look at the ways of West German society as it struggles with issues of surveillance and unrest, doing so by examining the behavioral control aspects of muzak. The production endeavors to become experimental cinema, working closely with abstract imagery and loose storytelling to immerse the viewer in the sights and sounds of the time and place, playing games with underground cinema techniques and interests. If Dieter from “Sprockets” had a favorite movie, it would be “Decoder,” which doesn’t particularly care for mainstream execution, doing whatever it can to be visually striking and thematically elusive.

Inspired by the work of writer William S. Burroughs, “Decoder” actually makes the leap and invites the author to make a cameo, adding a dash of literary cred into a cinematic flow that winds around German culture, following the days of a secretive agent and a young man who’s learned to weaponized muzak. “Decoder” plays like an art installation, preferring images over words to express itself, using the music of the day, including work from Soft Cell, to capture the period. For those tuned into its special frequency, the feature presents a challenging vision of authority and delivers an impressive time capsule of the era, including footage of riots and youth culture, while messages on consumerism and complacency are articulated with interesting emphasis.

Decoder Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

"Decoder" is a feature that uses color in very specific ways, and the AVC encoded image (1.33:1 aspect ratio) presentation maintains such artistic intent. Hues are vibrant and varied throughout, delivering character-specific lighting and hotter street signage, preserving neon glow. Skintones are natural, and costuming identifies youthful period trends and colder, oppressive wear for the establishment. Detail is strong throughout, securing textured facial surfaces which identify age and skin care. Interiors offer sharp looks at decoration and background performers. Exteriors maintain dimension, making it easy to study the locations. Delineation is strong. Grain is film-like. Source is in good condition, but scratches and speckling are common.

Decoder Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 1.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix reaches the limits of the original production audio. Crispness isn't there, but clarity is maintained, delivering satisfactory dialogue exchanges. Music is engaging, preserving synth beats. The sonic extremity of the picture is secured throughout, finding some level of stability in the aural chaos and electronic experimentation.

Decoder Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Commentary features author Kier-La Janisse.

• "Sound as a Weapon" (37:38, HD) is a conversation with screenwriter Klaus Maeck, who admits that he tried to offer a commentary for the Blu-ray, only to run out of things to say within minutes. The influence for "Decoder" is explored, with Maeck paying tribute to the underground press and punk scene of his youth, along with a strong William S. Burroughs influence. The interviewee details the production effort, covering muzak research, frog obsessions, and casting, including the plan to secure a Burroughs cameo. Music achievements are celebrated, and the picture's release is recounted, with Maeck pleased the spirit of "Decoder" has carried on, especially in Italy, where it's treasured in cult circles.

• Archival Audio Interview (45:21) offers more time with Maeck, who examines the development and execution of "Decoder."

• "Pirate Tape" Excerpts (4:54, HD) returns once again to Maeck, who details Burroughs's time on set, which was recorded by bystander Derek Jarman. Clips from Jarman's short film are presented.

• Video Footage from the 1982 Berlin Riots (9:43, HD) is offered.

• "Then and Now" (2:26, HD) returns to a few locations featured in "Decoder," observing urban changes 37 years after production ended.

• "Decoder Collective" (10:09, SD) examines the Italian fanbase for the movie, and their ways of "alternate media communication."

• And a Theatrical Trailer (2:20, HD) is included.

Decoder Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

"Decoder" is not a film for a casual watch, requiring extreme patience with deliberate pace and editorial indulgences. One must be in the proper mindset to accept what the picture is offering, and even then, it's not an easy sit. "Decoder" is challenging, and for those eager to experience German atmosphere and oddball forms of rebellion, the effort certainly doesn't break concentration.