Split Image is a spirit-stirring story revolving around an all-American college athlete, Danny Stetson (Michael O’Keefe, The Great Santini), who is innocently lured into Homeland, a youth-oriented cult, by a compellingly beautiful girl (Karen Allen, Raiders of the Lost Ark). Here he is programmed by the charismatic leader Neil Kirklander (Peter Fonda, Ulee’s Gold) to believe that his new life now has the true meaning that it previously lacked. Anguished by their son’s disappearance, the Stetsons hire a modern-day bounty hunter, Charles Pratt (James Woods, Cop), to abduct Danny and exorcise his brainwashed mind, deprogramming him to return him to his family and friends. A truly intense psychological drama directed by suspense master Ted Kotcheff (Billy Two Hats, North Dallas Forty, First Blood). Featuring Elizabeth Ashley (The Carpetbaggers) and Brian Dennehy (F/X) as Danny’s parents; music by Bill Conti (Rocky).

For thoughts on Split Image, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:

[youtube https://youtu.be/eDsAEdjuLRw?si=YCOq0dMBY4w9OUhT&t=2451]

Video Quality

Kino Classics presents Split Image with a major upgrade in the form of a new 1080p master transfer in 2.39:1 sourced from a 2K scan of the Interpositive that looks fantastic. According to the commentary track, this film was never released in its original widescreen on home video, so this correction alone makes it a monumental upgrade. The transfer retains the sumptuous natural film grain absent of any compression artifacts or other such damage. The grain always resolves consistently without becoming noisy or clumpy. The film is practically pristine with no egregious instances of damage or dirt detected here.

The film features some wonderful colors within the costumes and locations that emanate off the screen with impeccable vibrancy. Skin tones appear to be natural, and the presentation offers up deep black levels that stay strong even in shadow. There is a favorable uptick in fine detail that should please longtime fans. Subtle details in the environments, clothing, and production design stand out more than ever before, often revealing new facets you may have previously missed. Kino Classics has treated this one with respect.

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray comes with a strong DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio track that brings this one to life without issue. Dialogue and background noises are balanced to perfection with all competing elements. This track shows no discernible age-related wear and tear such as hissing or popping. All of the sound effects and music appear to be faithful to the original intent of the creative team. The soundtrack is a standout element that never shows any weakness. Despite the strength of this element, nothing ever drowns out the dialogue or other important information. This disc maintains resolute fidelity that is appreciated at every turn. You really could not ask for better from Kino Classics. There are also optional English SDH subtitles included.

Special Features

Audio Commentary: Film Historian/Filmmaker Daniel Kremer provides a pretty solid commentary track in which he delves into the production history of the film, the career of director Ted Kotcheff, the background of the performers, the portrayal of cults, the release history of the film, the legacy of the feature since its release, and more.

Trailer: The two-and-a-half-minute trailer is provided for Split Image. There are also trailers provided for Gorky Park, 52 Pick-Up, The Bedroom Window, The Wanderers, and The Hard Way.

Final Thoughts

Split Image is a pretty compelling drama that tackles the unsettling world of cults effectively. It is easy to see how certain people can get caught in a spell under the right conditions. The leader played by Peter Fonda is dialed into the right level of smarmy charm that feels dangerous without going over the top. If anyone is swinging for the fences, it is James Woods – but it works for the character. The film does not end as strongly as it starts, but it is very entertaining overall. Kino Classics has provided a new Blu-Ray featuring a great A/V presentation and an informative interview. If you are a fan of the film, this is the type of release you have been waiting for. Recommended

Split Image 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: Kino Classics 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.