Synopsis
Karen Young (turning in a remarkable performance) is a sweet, somewhat insecure schoolteacher who is date-raped by attorney Clayton Day. The law is no help. This being Texas, thereare plenty of opportunities for her to learn how to use a gun, and she proceeds to do so. Thoughinteresting, the film is divided against itself. On the one hand, it sets out to criticize Americangun culture. On the other, it encourages us to root for Young as she transforms into an avengingwarrior… As a result, Handgun lacks the courage of either of its convictions, and the ending is adisappointing cop-out.
Audio
The mono soundtrack is clean and serviceable, but unspectacular. At times the sound is a bitthin, almost tinny, and the dialogue gurgles now and then. The film thus sounds older than 1982.I suspect this is due to limitations of the original material, and the is true of the video.
Video
The print is in good shape, the flesh tones are fine, and the ratio is the original 1.85:1anamorphic widescreen. The transfer is good within the limits of the material (which means thefilm looks unspectacular and sometimes a bit murky).
Special Features
The main page of the menu is scored, and there’s a trailer. That’s it.
Closing Thoughts
Definitely worth catching for Karen Young’s performance. A good film to argue about too,since even it can’t seem to make up its mind about where it stands.
Special Features List
- Trailer
