Jungle Fever Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		5.0
Video		4.5
Audio		4.5
Extras		0.0
Overall		4.0

Jungle Fever Blu-ray Movie Review

The great Spike Lee (BlacKkKlansman) explores interracial relationships

An absorbing drama about interracial relationships and the obstacles these relationships can sometimes face when presented in the real world, Jungle Fever is an impressive drama from writer-director Spike Lee (BlacKkKlansman, Summer of Sam). Featuring a cast that includes the great Annabella Sciorra, Wesley Snipes, and Samuel L. Jackson, Jungle Fever is a critically acclaimed gem that is worth discovery (or a re- visit).

Flipper Purify (Wesley Snipes) is a hot-shot architect working at a major firm in the industry. Expecting to soon be promoted into the highest rankings of the business, Flipper is excited to soon see his name emblazoned alongside the outside walls of the building. Before the decision can be made on such an advancement, Flipper is introduced to his new assistant: the beautiful and charming Angie Tucci (Annabella Sciorra), an Italian-American white woman.

As the story unfolds, Flipper and Angie begin to have feelings for other another and an interracial relationship begins. The romance faces strife as Flipper is already married (and with child) while Angie's Italian father is devastated to learn his daughter is in a relationship with a black man. As romance unfolds, so does drama behind-the-scenes. Flipper turns to his close friend, Cyrus (Spike Lee) for advice.

Meanwhile, Flipper's family-tree enters the equation of the story. The Good Reverend Doctor Purify (Ossie Davis) and Lucinda Purify (Ruby Dee) are Flipper's headstrong parents. The relationship between Flipper and Angie becomes a conversation at the dinner table. Trouble arises with Flipper's cocaine-addicted brother, Gator Purify (Samuel L. Jackson), keeps asking for more money. Gator's drug addiction leads to some serious problems for everyone in the family. What will happen between Flipper and Angie? Can Gator overcome his addictions?

Thoughtful. Introspective. Entertaining.

Ultimately, Jungle Fever is a compelling drama about interracial relationships as the central concept: exploring both the relationship between Flipper and Angie as well as a sub-plot involving the kind-hearted Paulie Carbone (John Turturro) and Drew (Lonette McKee). In both of these storylines, it remains clear that Lee seeks to explore interracial relationships in the real world. With a master filmmaker like Lee at the helm, audiences are in for a treat.

The performances are one of the most important components of the film. Both Annabella Sciorra and Wesley Snipes deliver impressive, dynamic, and memorable performances. Supporting cast members (including John Turturro) make a splash as well. Yet the greatest standout of the film may be Samuel L. Jackson, who drew on his experiences with drug-addiction (prior to rehabilitation) when starring in this breakout role. Jackson's performance is electrifying and must be seen.

Jungle Fever is further enhanced by another excellent Lee collaboration with the brilliant composer Terence Blanchard (Crooklyn, 25^th Hour). Music plays an important role in all of Lee's films and in Jungle Fever, it's just as integral to the story as any other piece of the puzzle. The cinematography by Ernest R. Dickerson (Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X) reaffirms why the cinematographer is a go-to choice for Spike Lee: Dickerson creates stunning images that help shape the filmmaking.

Lee is such a gifted auteur that Jungle Fever works even when a less-gifted filmmaker might miss-the-mark with such a script. The screenplay is simultaneously creative, engaging, and intelligent. The direction is enthralling from start to finish. There is something magnetic about the energy on display in Jungle Fever: this is a compelling drama told through the prism of Lee. Don't miss it.

Jungle Fever Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Arriving on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber, Jungle Fever is presented with a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition presentation in the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1 widescreen. The transfer is excellent with strong clarity and detail throughout the entire presentation. The print used is extremely clean and is largely free from print damage. A satisfying image.

If there are some minor drawbacks to report, it's that there are occasional minor specks on the print. These moments are fleeting and do not take away from an otherwise fantastic presentation. Color reproduction on the release is impressive. A fine layer of film grain can still be seen on the image. Though Jungle Fever has not received a new restoration, the scan used for this edition presents an impressive and satisfactory picture that won't leave fans feeling disappointed.

Jungle Fever Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The Blu-ray release has received a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. The audio on the release is pleasant with strong fidelity throughout the sound mix. Dialogue reproduction for the film is crisp and clear. Enhancing the experience is the terrific music soundtrack accompanying the filmmaking. Throughout the film, the track does a excellent job of reproducing the music for a dynamic and fun backdrop. Optional English subtitles are provided.

Jungle Fever Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Jungle Fever Theatrical Trailer (SD, 2:37)

The only other extras on the release are a selection of trailers for Spike Lee joints available from Kino Lorber: Mo' Better Blues (SD, 2:42), Crooklyn (SD, 1:19), Clockers (SD, 2:28), and Summer of Sam (SD, 2:35).

Jungle Fever Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Few films manage to tackle interracial relationships. Spike Lee does so with Jungle Fever in a fun and engaging way. The filmmaking is dynamic, entertaining, and intelligent. The performances by Wesley Snipes, Annabella Sciorra, and Samuel L. Jackson are magnificent. Spike Lee once again proves his talent as one of the best American filmmakers of his generation. The Blu-ray release features a strong presentation and should be considered a must-own for fans. Highly recommended.