Plot: What’s it about?
Val Kilmer stars as Ray Levoi, an FBI agent with some Sioux heritage. He’s sent to help another agent, Frank Coutelle (Sam Shepard) to help solve a murder committed on a tribal land in South Dakota. Coutelle believes it to be an open and shut case, but Ray isn’t so sure. He’s convinced by a local, snarky policeman (Graham Greene) to dig a bit deeper. He does (otherwise we wouldn’t have a movie) and uncovers a conspiracy involving a land grab, pollution, shady government operatives and, of course, many more murders. Of course, there’s more to it than meets the eye with the main theme of the film being Ray’s understanding of the Sioux people.
This, in many ways, is a forgotten film from Kilmer’s anthology. And that’s too bad. This is one of those that I chalk up to “why didn’t I make time to see this earlier?” movies. It’s got a strong cast, good performances from the top three billed stars, though Kilmer never seems to really fit the role like Shepard and Greene do. There’s a supernatural angle to John Fusco’s screenplay that I would have trimmed out of the movie. The reality-based mystery and the characters are interesting enough without having to involve mystic visions and prophecy. Fortunately, it’s not so ‘in your face’ as to ruin the movie. Regardless of your opinions on the subject matter, this is one that’ll fit the bill.
Video: How’s it look?
I’ve said it before and I’ll continue to keep saying it until it’s no longer fact: Sony’s 4K discs are simply the best-looking out there. Having never seen this film, I have no basis of comparison as to what the previous Blu-ray or even DVD versions looked like, but I think it’s safe to say they pale in comparison to this. The 1.85:1 HEVC 4K image makes use of the film’s saturated color palette. Given the locale(s), we’re treated to plenty of washed out skies and barren land. Roger Deocan’s cinematography magically captures the soul and spirit of the Badlands. I’d have to imagine that Sony can officially check this off their list as this is perhaps the best the film will ever look.
Audio: How’s it sound?
Two DTS HD Master Audio tracks are present here with a 5.1 option taking center stage (get it?) and a more traditional 2.0 mix for some “purists” out there. Truthfully, whichever version you choose it’ll be a good one. The 5.1 mix is good, but nothing too terribly memorable, surrounds are used with great effect, but in all fairness it’s a front heavy mix that rarely utilizes the rear channels. James Horner’s score only adds to the mix, pun fully intended. The 2.0 mix emphasizes the “original” mix and might actually be a better choice.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Audio Commentary – Writer and Co-Producer John Fusco’s commentary track from the Blu-ray has made the leap to this 4K disc. It’s a solid track that chronicles a lot of the film, what was left out and what worked. Given that the three main stars have passed as well as director Michael Apted, this track is informative and also serves as a reminder of how much talent was in this film.
- Archival Interviews with Cast and Crew – In “less than desirable” picture quality, we’ve got some vintage interviews with the cast and various members of the ensemble.
- Theatrical Trailer
The Bottom Line
Sadly, all three top billed stars of this film have passed (with Val Kilmer and Graham Greene in 2025) as well as the film’s director, Michael Apted. While I don’t think Thunderheart is the first film to come to mind in Val Kilmer’s catalog, it’s a good, solid film. Sony’s 4K disc unearths some new material and gives us a top notch A/V presentation to boot.
