They are the unidentified victims of an unsolved crime spree — women linked by a serial killer’s gruesome handiwork … and by police files giving them the alias “Jennifer.” Homicide investigator John Berlin believes he’s made a breakthrough in the case when he uncovers a key witness — a blind woman named Helena. Yet who can truly rely on the testimony of a witness who cannot see? Who can trust Berlin when he ultimately becomes a suspect in the murders? And who can keep the vulnerable Helena from becoming the next Jennifer?

For thoughts on Jennifer 8, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:

[youtube https://youtu.be/FZa2peI-zyg?si=04AMOwSex5gO1pIu&t=70]

Video Quality

Jennifer 8 comes to Blu-Ray via Scream Factory with a 1080p transfer that is derived from a new 4K scan of the Original Camera Negative. This film was first released on Blu-Ray in 2013 courtesy of Warner Bros. Unfortunately, we don’t have that disc, making comparisons impossible at this time. From what we have read, that release was sourced from a DVD-era master that was lacking. Whatever the case may be, this new transfer is a grand representation of the feature with a naturally filmic presentation. Nicks and scratches have been completely eradicated for a clean and consistent viewing experience. The transfer does not showcase anything in the realm of density fluctuation or other unwanted anomalies.

Colors unlock a pleasing depth when it comes to clothing, lighting, and specific elements of the production design. These hues retain a substantial amount of nuance in the numerous shadowy spaces. Black levels stand firm and provide a strong amount of depth and detail. The transfer really delivers when it comes to showcasing fine detail as subtle textures emerge from the background. The Extended Cut incorporates previously unreleased footage that is of lower quality than the Theatrical Cut material, but it holds up passably well. While some may understandably bemoan the lack of a 4K UHD Blu-Ray, this new Blu-Ray release is a winner and should be enjoyed by fans.

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray disc comes with both a DTS-HD 5.1 and 2.0 Master Audio track that represents the feature without issue. Environmental noises such as the chatter of the police precinct or falling rain are represented well. The score from Christopher Young emanates without any hint of damage or distortion. Dialogue comes through crisp and clear even when the track gets a bit more thrilling, especially in the third-act fervor. The low end provides some texture that fleshes out the world without being too commanding. The audio experience comes through with confident fidelity. Scream Factory has provided a terrific audio experience that handles this one well. English SDH subtitles are provided for those who want them.

Special Features

Theatrical Cut (2:05:18) and Extended Cut (2:09:27)

Is It Dark Yet? – Looking Back At Jennifer 8: A 43-minute retrospective documentary featuring new interviews with Writer/Director Bruce Robinson and Stars Andy Garcia and Lance Henriksen in which they discuss bluffing their way into making the movie, the original idea to cast Al Pacino, the casting process, the research that went into the film, the experiences during production, the motivations of the characters, issues with the studio, and much more that is worth checking out.

Deleted Alternate Ending: A way to watch the six-minute alternate ending from the Extended Cut as a standalone. I personally think this is a weaker ending as women are put more in the “damsel in distress” role, but it is good to have here for posterity.

Original Theatrical Trailer: The two-and-a-half-minute trailer is provided here.

Final Thoughts

Jennifer 8 is a decent enough serial killer drama to pass the time, but it is not one that will linger in your head for very long. Andy Garcia is engaging in the lead role while Uma Thurman continues her habit of always making a movie infinitely more watchable. The narrative requires you to forgive certain leaps of logic and is often handled clumsily, but it is not a complete failure. Everything is simply middling, and if you are in the mood for that, this will do the trick. Scream Factory has provided the film with a Blu-Ray release that delivers a top-notch A/V presentation and a nice amount of special features. If you are a fan of the movie, this release is the one to get.

Jennifer 8 (Collector’s Edition) is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Scream Factory has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.