The Zero Boys might have somewhat of a cult following but for me, it’s not very enjoyable even in the old so bad it’s good kind of way. The acting isn’t good and the horror elements never quite clicked either. I suppose it works as a time capsule from the 1980s as everyone tried to put their spin on the slasher genre but this one failed.
The Zero Boys
(1986)
Genre(s): Action, Thriller, Horror
Arrow Video | NR – 89 min. – $39.95 | April 26, 2016
Date Published: 05/22/2016 | Author: The Movieman
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PLOT SYNOPSIS |
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Plot Synopsis: For a group of young friends, a weekend of survival games in the wilderness turns into a genuine battle of life and death when one of their number turns up dead. Finding themselves hunted by a bloodthirsty band of maniacs intent on slaughtering them one-by-one, the self-styled “Zero Boys” must now play their war games for real. Quick Hit Review: Released in 1986, The Zero Boys is a forgotten flick that features subpar performances, bad writing and all in all exudes the fantastic cheese factor only the 1980s can produce. The story is rather basic and there are times where you’re probably remembering better produced movies from the era, though I’d be lying if I wasn’t at least partially entertained, though one cannot ignore what doesn’t work. |
SPECIAL FEATURES – 3.5/5 |
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This release comes with a reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Graham Humphreys. Inside is a nice 24-page essay and photo booklet as well as a DVD Copy. Audio Commentary – Actress Kelli Maroney (Jamie), with moderation by writer/filmmaker Chris Alexander, provides an interesting track recounting her time working on the movie. Nico Mastorakis on… Nico Mastorakis (27:48; HD) is a unique interview with the director offering insights on, well, himself and his career. Zero Girl (8:20; HD) is a new interview with actress Maroney. Blame it on Rio (8:30; HD) – This new interview with actress Nicole Rio where she offers her insights on working on the movie. This release also comes with the Music Videos for the Main Theme (2:09) and The Spelling of S.U.S.P.E.N.C.E. (1:09) by Hans Zimmer, the Theatrical Trailer (3:09; HD) and a Stills Gallery. |
VIDEO – 3.5/5 |
| The Zero Boys debuts on Blu-ray through Arrow Video presented with a 1.85 widescreen aspect ratio and a 1080p high-definition transfer (scanned in 4K from the original 35mm interpositive element). Although I’m sure the few fans this film has will be pleased, it’s not exactly the prettiest looking picture with OK detail however it’s obscured by a heavy amount of noise present during both day and nighttime scenes, though far more distracting in darker shots. On the plus side, there weren’t any noticeable instances of dust marks or scratches, cleaned up for this release. |
AUDIO – 4.0/5 |
| The movie has been given a PCM 2.0 track which actually doesn’t sound all too bad. Dialogue levels are crisp, clean and clear with some OK depth when that 1980s synthetic music and soundtrack pops up. Any pops or hisses seemed to have been removed for this release. It’s nothing I’d call reference quality or anything yet still quite impressive given what presumably was a shoe-string budget. |
OVERALL – 3.0/5 |
| Overall, The Zero Boys might have somewhat of a cult following but for me, it’s not very enjoyable even in the old so bad it’s good kind of way. The acting isn’t good and the horror elements never quite clicked either. I suppose it works as a time capsule from the 1980s as everyone tried to put their spin on the slasher genre but this one failed. On the other hand, Arrow Video has given those fans one heck of a set with well done, and newly minted, features, along with an informative commentary track. |
Check out some more screen caps by going to page 2. Please note, these do contain spoilers.