Blu-ray Review: Trading Places [Paramount Presents Edition]

Synopsis: ​Upper-crust executive Louis Winthorpe III (Dan Aykroyd) and down-and-out hustler Billy Ray Valentine (Eddie Murphy) are the subjects of a bet by successful brokers Mortimer (Don Ameche) and Randolph Duke (Ralph Bellamy). An employee of the Dukes, Winthorpe is framed by the brothers for a crime he didn't commit, with the siblings then installing the street-smart Valentine in his position. When Winthorpe and Valentine uncover the scheme, they set out to turn the tables on the Dukes.

Main Features: "Trading Places" has been and will forever remain a favorite of mien to watch around the holidays and New Year's. The cast clicks together in every way possible, showcasing their comedic chops as part of the ensemble. Even though I think less and less of director John Landis by the day as a person, nothing can be taken away from what he has carved into film history with many notable comedy classics. He had all the right ingredients here, with Murphy, Aykroyd, Jamie Lee Curtis, Denholm Elliot, Bellamy, and Ameche. Ever so quotable to me, and remains funny. The latest Blu-ray release does not disappoint with the HD presentation. And the then-modern adaptation of "Prince and the Pauper" still holds strong in its message today. 

Bonus Features: Sadly, the only new extra is a brief interview with Landis, talking about the rough draft script to final product. Singular various extras are peppered but not plentiful. 

Final Call: Although not many worthwhile special features, "Trading Places" still makes for a funny Merry New Year. 

Grade: B+