80s Justice Served on LA’s Streets

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
L.A. Wars
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Genre: Action, Drama
Year Released: 1994, 2023 Blu-ray MVD Rewind Collection
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Martin Morris, Tony Kandah
Writer(s): Addison Randall, Tony Kandah
Cast: A.J. Stephans, David Jean Thomas, Johnny Venokur, Mary E. Zilba, Rodrigo Obregón, Vince Murdocco
Where To Watch: available to purchase here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: L.A. WARS, a budget-conscious production, pulls back the curtain on the tumultuous, untamed underbelly of Los Angeles. The narrative heart of the story beats with an electrifying conflict between two figureheads: the daring Raul Guzman (Rodrigo Obregón), a drug czar with an iron fist, and Carlo Giovani (A.J. Stephans), an entrenched crime family don.

Jake Quinn is taking center stage in this high-stakes drama, brought to life by Vince Murdocco. A man haunted by his past, Quinn, with his martial arts prowess and a tarnished history, leaps into the fray to safeguard Giovani's daughter, navigating a treacherous labyrinth of mob politics and fending off Guzman's relentless mercenaries. Their quest for dominance of Guzman, initially a game of chess, soon morphs into a deeply personal battle when he suffers a painful loss. This event spins the narrative, crafting a vendetta fraught with unexpected emotional gravity in the otherwise stern and gritty storyline.

Woven into this maelstrom of violence and deception is the character of Vinny (Johnny Venokur), a supposed ally of Giovani. But Vinny's purported loyalty veers off course when he sets his sights on Carla, Giovani's daughter. His plans, however, are thwarted by the ever-watchful Quinn, who forces Vinny into an uneasy partnership with Guzman, thereby adding texture to the plot's fabric.

Quinn's character offers a distinctive perspective, existing on the precipice of law and chaos. While steadfast in his belief in justice, his unique interpretation of right and wrong often lands him in hot water, leading to even more drama on the force. Still, when a critical situation arises from Vinny's evil plan, Quinn answers the call to action.

In the heart of L.A.'s brewing gang war, Police Chief Roark is backed into a corner, prompting him to make a daring move. An audacious plan to infiltrate the mafia comes to fruition with Quinn at the helm. In return, Quinn demands proper remuneration for his past and the freedom to operate as he sees fit.

Guzman, ignited by the desire for revenge, zeroes in on Carla. However, our quick-witted hero, Quinn, steps in to protect her, his solitary journey through the city streets and high-energy showdowns adding a dash of spice to the unfolding drama.

Amid the turbulence, a spark of romance ignites between Carla, portrayed with sincerity by Mary E. Zilba and Quinn. The chilly exchanges between Carla and Vinny and her warming to Quinn add a refreshing change of pace to the otherwise action-driven narrative.

Quinn stands tall as a beacon of hope in the wild world of L.A. WARS, withstanding the onslaught from the ruthless underworld and a compromised justice system. His unique perception of justice intrigues and contextualizes his dismissal from the force. Yet, it also enables him to utilize his skills in self-defense in his new role as a bar bouncer.

BONUS MATERIALS:
– High Definition (1080p) presentation of the main feature in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio, scanned and restored in 2K in 2020 from 16mm archival elements
– Audio: English LPCM 2.0 Mono, LPCM 2.0 Stereo, French Mono, Italian Mono
– Optional English Subtitles
– NEW! Audio Commentary with producer, co-writer, and co-director Tony Kandah moderated by ‘Cereal at Midnight’ host Heath Holland
– NEW! Video Commentary with producer, co-writer, and co-director Tony Kandah & Heath Holland.
– 'Starting a War' (17:26, HD) Conversation with ‘L.A. Wars’ producer, co-writer, and co-director Tony Kandah.
– 'Shoot First' (23:00, HD) interview with ‘L.A. Wars’ cinematographer Mark Morris.
– Photo Gallery
– Original Theatrical Trailer (2:51, SD)
– Collectible Mini Poster
– Reversible Artwork
– *Limited Run SLIPCOVER (First Pressing Only)

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[photo courtesy of MVD ENTERTAINMENT]