Rating summary

Movie		2.5
Video		4.0
Audio		3.0
Extras		3.5
Overall		4.0

Joysticks Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf December 5, 2015

Teen horndog cinema of the 1980s visits the arcade in 1983’s “Joysticks,” with writer/director Greydon Clark aiming to mastermind his own “Porky’s” with this ode to token-fingering juvenile pursuits, bare breasts, and the underdog spirit. It’s supremely goofy work, featuring a supporting turn from Joe Don Baker (joining Jon Gries, John Diehl, and Corinne Bohrer), merely out to service its intended demographic of sedated adolescent boys, never rising above sophomoric humor and screamed performances. It’s junk, but there’s one element of the movie that consistently holds attention: video games.

“Joysticks” isn’t much for plot, working through an episodic adults vs. kids battle of wills, allowing Clark to organize plenty of physical humor and dismal pranks, hoping to delight young audiences with extended examples of dumb guy humor. However, the feature is set at an arcade, offering viewers a chance to take in the Pac-Man generation, with plenty of game cabinets to spot, with the picture wisely taking time to soak up the atmosphere. The directorial effort isn’t much, but it finds a steady rhythm of goofballery early on, alternating between shenanigans and game play, locating some highlights along the way. Much like “The Wizard,” one doesn’t watch the movie for the iffy craftsmanship, only for the chance to spy retro gaming in motion.

Joysticks Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

The AVC encoded image (1.78:1 aspect ratio) presentation preserves a filmic look, with tasteful grain management and refreshed colors. Hues are particularly potent with arcade visits, enjoying bright set decoration and wild character costumes and hairstyles. Skintones are accurate as well. Detail is satisfactory with this style of low-budget cinematography, capturing facial particulars and fabrics, and the feature's use of classic video games is open for study. Delineation is comfortable, never thickening with evening misadventures. Source is in fine shape, with some minor vertical scratches and speckling.

Joysticks Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix comes across loud, but not defined, providing a persistent crispiness to the upper range. Precision isn't available, leaving dialogue exchanges more functional, with nothing lost in the jumble of voices and sound effects. Soundtrack selections are also understood, but lack sharp instrumentation. Atmospherics and video game particulars add to the listening experience without overwhelming it.

Joysticks Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Commentary features writer/director Greydon Clark.

• Interview (17:44, SD) with Clark explores the origin of "Joysticks" and its semi-successful theatrical release (he inflates the movie's opening weekend gross). Time is also spent on the rest of Clark's filmography, including the 1980 chiller, "Without Warning."

• And a Theatrical Trailer (1:29, SD) is included.

Joysticks Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

"Joysticks" is surprisingly sluggish when it comes to stupidity, with Clark cushioning the blow by including ample nudity, sexually charged antics, and bodily function humor. It's an obvious film with broad performances, and for those in the mood for lowbrow entertainment, "Joysticks" aims to please. Any expectations for something significant aren't going to be met, but a chance to spy arcade culture in its prime is valued, even when sandwiched between fart jokes.