Rating summary

Movie		3.0
Video		3.0
Audio		3.0
Extras		3.0
Overall		3.0

Lost in Alaska Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf December 9, 2019

In the 1890s, George (Lou Costello) and Tom (Bud Abbott) are fireman on the case when they spot Joe (Tom Ewell) drowning in the ocean, initially unaware that the emergency is actually a suicide attempt. Joe is upset after being dumped by his girlfriend, Rosetta (Mitzi Green), and soon takes off to Alaska to reclaim his love. Following the lost soul, George and Tom quickly realize Joe is in a lot more trouble than they initially believe, eventually caught up in his personal business with the locals and dealing with the survival challenges of the Alaskan wilderness.

While obviously shot in Los Angeles, “Lost in Alaska” attempts to extract some fresh Abbott and Costello material by bringing them to an extreme climate. The Alaskan setting does provide inspiration for slapstick sequences, pitting the boys against the cold, ice, and wildlife as they strive to last in the frigid extremes of the state, with a healthy amount of focus on the wonders of fish. The central plot isn’t involving, but the production recognizes its shortcomings, with most of “Lost in Alaska” devoted to comedic set pieces, including a surprisingly lengthy bit involving George and Tom trading sleep shifts to keep an eye on things, with clock manipulations increasing confusion and hostility. Musical efforts are supplied by Green, who breaks up the action with songs, including a charming duet with Costello.

Lost in Alaska Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

The AVC encoded image (1.37:1 aspect ratio) presentation is sourced from an older master, delivering a softer, slightly processed viewing experience. Detail isn't prioritized but isn't completely eliminated, doing better with costuming, which surveys all sorts of fur-based outerwear and period outfits. The artificiality of the sets is also open for inspection. Facial surfaces aren't strong, losing some texture. Delineation is satisfactory.

Lost in Alaska Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix is hampered somewhat by heavy hiss, which lasts throughout the listening experience. Dialogue exchanges are acceptable, isolating dramatic efforts and louder slapstick events. Scoring isn't defined in full, but there's an appreciable orchestral push, with decent instrumentation. Musical numbers are also passable, with louder vocals. Action scenes deliver snappier gunfire.

Lost in Alaska Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Image Gallery (5:16) collects publicity shots, film stills, poster art, and lobby cards.

• Production Notes (1:27) offer information on the making of "Lost in Alaska."

• And a Theatrical Trailer (2:14, SD) is included.

Lost in Alaska Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

"Lost in Alaska" hasn't aged well, offering a cartoon assessment of native cultures, but it's certainly not a mean-spirited picture. It's trying to be as silly as possible, giving Abbott and Costello a chance to get away from the sun and work their magic in the snow, refreshing their routines with different physical requirements while hitting the same slapstick beats.