Shaolin Mantis Blu-ray Screenshots (Patreon)

Just when you thought we were done with kung-fu...

Video

88 Films debuts Shaolin Mantis on Blu-ray via a new master (according to the marketing), but it's not a great one. At issue, the resolution, sub-par enough to suffer notable aliasing/jaggedness on most edges. This is most prominent at distance. For instance, the king's throne in the opening scenes breaks up the various decor around him, leaving messy definition behind.

This is coupled with only average clarity. Grain is minimized to almost nothing. While texture does appear, Shaolin Master looks overly oily/waxy. Smearing happens too, especially in close-ups. Additionally, compression brings artifacting, primarily seen on solid-colored walls like gray concrete. What results is a transfer lacking in filmic qualities, and far too digital.

A touch flat, color doesn't thrive, although certain hues on costumes succeed. Pinks, turquoise, and reds stick out. Flesh tones hold a warmth as well. Contrast is decent, and shadows dim. At least the restoration goes well, removing debris and scratches in full.

Audio

Upper registers in the score wane and wobble, not unexpectedly. The low-end holds itself together better; drums actually produce a small rumble from this mono track.

Both an English dub and Mandarin are available, each in PCM. Age deteriorates dialog on both, scratchy and worn, if perfectly intelligible.