Plot: What’s it about?
The Los Angeles Times needed to have someone inside the Watts riots in 1965, someone to capture the story and relay it to the masses. This person couldn’t have an outside view, as anyone could have that, this person needed to be inside the riots. When the newspaper sent in a team of reporters, all white, the men were soon forced to run for their lives. The racial tension was so high, especially within the riots, a white man would face certain danger inside the chaos. So when young messenger Bob Richardson (Blair Underwood) volunteered to go inside, the newspaper had little choice but to accept. He was a one man reporting staff, risking his health and even life to uncover all kinds of information. But would his risks pay off with the story of a lifetime, or would he simply be lost in the chaos of the riots?
This made for television movie was nominated for six Emmy awards, with James Earl Jones’ performance taking home a statue. Heat Wave tells the story of the Watts riots in 1965, a violent event that shook the nation and had a massive impact on race relations. This production proves to be more than solid, but is driven by the cast and not by the direction. The direction is basic, no mistakes, but overly simple at times, which causes the cast to have carry the burden. Jones is superb here, in a performance that deserves a higher profile and as I mentioned before, earned him an Emmy award. Blair Underwood and Cicely Tyson also turn in great efforts, but the cast as a whole is just terrific here. I can’t recommend this as a purchase, as it isn’t a repeat viewing kind of flick, but it is worth a look as a rental.
Video: How does it look?
Heat Wave is presented in full frame, as intended. This movie was shown in 1990, so I expected a solid, if not great looking visual treatment. The print shows no real blemishes to speak of, even the darkest of scenes look solid and on the mark. The colors have a grim, often understated appearance and that’s as intended, while flesh tones seem natural at all times. No issues with contrast either, as black levels are smooth and refined. All in all, a good visual presentation in all respects and one that should satisfy fans.
Audio: How does it sound?
The included stereo soundtrack probably sounds much like the broadcast version, which isn’t bad, but rather limited at times. Although the film is based during the riots, there isn’t as much action as you’d think, so the audio is never that explosive. In other words, there isn’t much need for surround presence and while nice to have, it wouldn’t be a great benefit in this case. The dialogue is clean and has no errors, so while not remarkable, the soundtrack here is acceptable. This disc also includes subtitles in English, Spanish, and French, in case you ever need those.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes no bonus materials.
