The Return of Sabata Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		3.0
Video		4.0
Audio		4.0
Extras		1.0
Overall		3.5

The Return of Sabata Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf May 14, 2017

The good news is that Lee Van Cleef has come back for 1971’s “Return of Sabata,” picking up where he left off in the 1969 original, reclaiming the character’s cold stare from Yul Brynner, who portrayed the gunslinger in 1970’s “Adios, Sabata.” Van Cleef’s return is welcome, reuniting the squinty actor with one of his best roles, but the celebration is half-hearted at best, as “Return of Sabata,” while retaining the Looney Tunes approach of the series, remains largely stuck in neutral, trying to cut through substantial exposition to find the fun again, taking far too long to get going.

Once again, the concerns of evil men and the glory of gold fuels the plot, keeping Sabata busy with new adversaries and personal vendettas, most taking plenty of screen time to establish. Liveliness comes in the form of Sabata’s gang, which is made up of opportunists and acrobats, one using a foot-powered slingshot to take out enemies, while another manages a “Gymkata”-style existence where he always finds hidden trampolines to help flip around his enemies. Shootouts and staredowns are enjoyable, along with Van Cleef’s snarling commitment to the part, but pure moments of western escapism are few and far between. The picture often shows hesitation when it comes to screen insanity, saving most of its broader ideas for the second half.

The Return of Sabata Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

The AVC encoded image (2.34:1 aspect ratio) presentation shares a sort of frosted look with "Adios, Sabata," where the top and bottom of the frame are a slightly brighter, detailing source wear and tear that doesn't seem inherent to the original cinematography. This leaves blacks a tad milkier at times, weakening delineation. Detail is strong throughout, delivering textured looks at these meaty, sweaty faces, and costuming retains fibrous qualities. Colors are true, showcased through period dresses and town decoration, while western golds and browns are communicated successfully. Mild speckling remains, but no overt damage.

The Return of Sabata Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA mix is consistent, leading with dubbed dialogue exchanges that appear hastily assembled by the production, with lip synch more of a hope than a reality. Still, dramatic intent and broad accents are understood. Scoring is lively and supportive, and while precision isn't prized, genre moods are secured. Sound effects are blunt but appropriate.

The Return of Sabata Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• A Theatrical Trailer (2:08, HD) has been included.

The Return of Sabata Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Compared to the previous chapters, "Return of Sabata" doesn't share the same energy level, gradually running out of ways to exploit the character's sharpshooting skills and acts of intimidation. "Return of Sabata" is never outright boring, but it's clear the producers were hoping to cash in on a brand name at this point, managing to lure Van Cleef (who was never a choosy actor, let's be honest) back into the fold for one more, slightly fatigued adventure.