The Chinese Boxer Blu-ray Screenshots (Patreon)

Video

Other than stray dust, 88 Films performs incredible clean-up to this master, struck from the negative according to promotional materials. Scratches and gate weave nullified, much of The Chinese Boxer looks practically new.

Outstanding resolution drives this presentation, presented with remarkable clarity and definition. Easily resolved grain keeps this clear (although snow during a key fight brings artifacting), even if a slight oiliness suggests a mild low pass through filters. A spot or two of frozen grain and minor smearing confirm this suspicion. Impact to the end result is negligible given the visible texture, but trained eyes will notice the anomalies.

Also generous is contrast, persistently bright whether dealing with interiors or exteriors. Black levels provide equal oomph, bringing needed dimension to the frame. Color saturation offers stability, staying somewhat neutral, with slight zest. There's a sense the stock faded over time, but this new master brings back the life, and without suggestion of any digital grading.

Audio

Not that it makes any difference to the end product, but the case shows a logo for DTS-HD, but both the English and Mandarin tracks are PCM. Just an FYI.

Focusing on the Mandarin, quality is as expected for an early import. At its best, dialog is coarse, strained, and overly bright in delivery. Every line is a chore, if appealing in that roughshod manner associated with kung-fu cinema of the era. The score isn't much better either, even revoltingly raw when hitting high notes or dramatic lows. Fight sounds comes through equally weary.