‘Money Talks’ Blu-Ray Review – Chris Tucker Works Overtime For Action-Comedy Outing

Brace yourself for an explosive action-comedy as Chris Tucker and Charlie Sheen team up for trouble in Money Talks. A jailbreak accidentally sets fast-talking ticket hustler Franklin Hatchet (Tucker) on the run for murder. Now the whole city is on his tail, and only reporter James Russell (Sheen) can clear his name. Together they’re caught in the hilarious crossfire between the cops, crooks and commandos, trying to retrieve a fortune and diamonds. Also starring Heather Locklear and Paul Sorvino, Money Talks is a full-scale assault of comedy and mayhem.

For thoughts on Money Talks, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic: 

Video Quality

Money Talks gets a fabulous upgrade on Blu-Ray courtesy of Warner Archive with a 1080p transfer derived from a brand-new remaster. There are some vibrant colors featured throughout the narrative that impresses visually. This disc captures the shooting locations with a level of clarity and nuance that reminds you why we love the format so much. Skin tones are natural and consistent, and the presentation offers significant black levels free from crush. The natural film grain remains intact and resolved well free of any egregious compression artifacts or other such digital anomalies. There are details in the production design and clothing that are visible for the first time on home entertainment. Warner Archive has treated this one with the utmost respect. 

Audio Quality

Warner Archive gives this Blu-Ray a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio mix that brings this bustling narrative to life with great skill. Numerous dynamic environmental effects within the city add some sonic texture to this world. The Lalo Schifrin score and various songs sound great as they emanate through the channels with unparalleled fidelity. Dialogue stays anchored in the center channel for most of the film while extending to the surround speakers when necessary. There are several moments throughout that put the low end to the test and dig deep. This audio presentation is a knockout in its execution. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided on this disc.

Note: The first pressing of this release is unfortunately missing the DTS HD MA 5.1 Surround track. Only a 2.0 track is included. A replacement program has been initiated and new discs are currently available at retailers. If you have the original erroneous disc, please email avdefreturns@alliedvaughn.com for assistance.

Special Features

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

Final Thoughts

Money Talks is a solidly entertaining action-comedy that leans on the unwavering commitment put forth by star Chris Tucker. Not all of his lines land, but the sheer number of jokes thrown out ensures that at least a good number of them will have you chuckling. The movie is far from high art, but it hits the “dumb action movie” sweet spot that you want to keep a varied cinematic diet. Tucker would level up the next year with Rush Hour, but this is a good taste of things to come.  Warner Archive has released a Blu-Ray featuring an excellent A/V presentation but not much in the way of special features. Recommended 

Money Talks can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or various other online retailers. 

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

Disclaimer: Warner Archive 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.