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kal
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Joined: 06 Mar 2006
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| Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2011 6:22 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
X-Men: First Class (+Digital Copy) [Blu-ray] (2011)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'First Class' was one of the best summer blockbusters, because it was smart and wasn't afraid to go places few superhero movies fear to tread. It's an engaging origin story, but it stands on its own as a great film. It looks and sounds fabulous on Blu-ray, and it's crop of special features is inviting. I would've loved a commentary, but other than that the extensive making-of feature is a great addition. This one comes highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'X-Men: First Class' looks stellar in 1080p. With a few exceptions of very noticeably phony CG effects, (when the submarine rolls over the palm trees on the beach) this is demo presentation through and through.
The period that Vaughn has created photographs well. Fine detail is alive and vibrant throughout the film. From the plush interior of the Hellfire Club to Emma Frost's sparkly skin-tight suits, everything looks immaculate. Colors are bright and bold. Blue is an almost overwhelming presence from Mystique's body, to Beast's transformation, to the light blue of the nuclear reactor in the submarine. Each shade of blue is completely discernible and clarity is optimum. Oranges and yellows from the numerous explosions burn with ferocity. Blacks are perfectly dark and shadows wonderfully delineated.
Most of the CG looks great. Especially when Shaw takes on the extra mass as he's absorbing energy, or when the anchor tears through his yacht. It's just that submarine shot that looks a tad bit silly, and in HD it looks even sillier. With that in mind, 'First Class' is for all intents and purposes, a stunning transfer featuring deep clear detail, and a wonderful sense for the movie's time period.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
If the video was near perfection, the audio is perfection. There is so much going on with 'First Class's DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix that it would be impossible to draw your attention to each and every one of its highlights in this review.
Surrounds are constantly active with the whiz-bang crashing of mutant mayhem. As Erik sends the anchor tearing through the yacht, metal crunches all around you, LFE roars as the metal of the ship is torn apart. It's a truly engulfing audio experience. That's only one of the many. Dialogue is always clear and concise even in whispered form. Low-end sonics are resounding and unforgiving. Whether it's the roar of their specially made jet or the sudden impact of a missile exploding on a ship, this bass will rattle the walls of your house. Speaking of deep and resonant, Henry Jackman's inspired score reverberates through the sound field providing a sturdy base for our listening environment.
I thought that 'First Class' and its sound mix was every bit as demo worthy as any other high-octane summer blockbuster. Know that if you're purchasing this you'll get top quality when it comes to sound. |
Kal
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kal
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Location: Ottawa, Canada
TV/Projector: JVC DLA-NZ7
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| Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2011 6:29 pm Post subject: |
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Overall, another reference [set of] discs! Some better than others....
Star Wars: The Complete Saga (Episodes I-VI) [Blu-ray] (1977)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | Well, it's finally here. What else is there to say that hasn't been said already? Yes, we all want to have the option of watching the unaltered theatrical editions, but it doesn't look like those are coming any time soon. Until then, this is the definitive high definition set of 'Star Wars.' The set we'd been waiting years for is finally here. While the video presentations waver a bit, the audio presentations are rock solid, producing rocking demo-material for any sound system out there. There are so many special features it will take you weeks to finish them all off. This set comes highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
I thought this would be as good a place as any to list some of the much more noticeable visual changes that the 'Star Wars' films have undergone for this Blu-ray release. Some of the changes are minor, some not so much. If there are noticeable visual changes that have been tweaked by Lucas then they are listed right before each review in a bullet point.
'Episode I: The Phantom Menace'
The puppet Yoda has been replaced with a CGI Yoda which matches the one found in episode II and III. This is one of the only changes that makes sense to me.
Who would have thought that one of the prequels would end up being the worst looking one of the bunch? I didn't. Still 'Episode I' is a DNR'd mess of waxy faces, flat shadows, and murky colors.
It looks extremely dated, and in HD even more so. Almost every face in the movie is devoid of any real fine detail. Pores have been scrubbed away. Hair comes to us in giant matted masses instead of standing out individually. Blacks are flat and at times take on a bluish tint. They have no depth to them. Crushing is a standard offender, swallowing up faces, textures, and characters.
At the timestamp of 50:28 there's an extremely ugly shift in the blackness of the sky above Qui-Gon. It shifts very noticeably almost like unfinished animation is suspended above him. Very ugly. As for noise, I didn't notice any really. It's just the incessant DNR, and general flatness that really bring this presentation down.
3 Stars
'Episode II: Attack of the Clones'
There's a noticeable improvement from 'Phantom Menace' here. It still isn't perfect, because the picture looks like it's taken on some post-production softening that hampers overall detail. I still caught a few instances of waxy-like faces here and there, but nothing as bad as 'Phantom.'
The big improvement here is the much better looking CG. It still hasn't hit the grand look of 'Revenge of the Sith' but it's getting there. Individual hairs are now noticeable. The woven texture in Mace Windu's Jedi cloak, for instance, is visible. Blacks take on more substance here. They aren't just flat pieces of color swallowing up scenery. There are some blacks that exist in mid-range photography that are pretty unforgiving, but for the most part the blacks here are well resolved. A good example of this is in the nightclub scene when Anakin and Obi-Wan chase the bounty hunter. Crushing is still evident though, especially in the scene where Anakin and Padme sit in the room with a burning fire. Detail is lost as the shadows around them become less delineated than the other shadows we saw earlier in the movie.
Overall though, it isn't up to snuff. It's hampered by noticeable DNR. Not as much as the episode before it, but it's noticeable all the same.
3.5 Stars
'Episode III: Revenge of the Sith'
This is perhaps the best looking movie of the entire set. I was pretty blown away by the visuals here, and wondered why the two prequels before it couldn't look this good. Noise reduction seems to have been done away with. It's immediately noticeable on the faces of the actors. They aren't smeary or waxy anymore. Pores are visible. Individual hairs from heads and beards stand out perfectly. Notice the faint bumpy texture of the wall next to R2-D2 when he's fixing the elevator on the ship. This is the kind of detail I was expecting from these movies and we're finally getting it.
Explosions here are brighter, more vibrant. Oranges and reds are their own beasts. In the first two movies those colors sort of blended together. However, the contrast here is magnificent, particularly on the lava planet at the end.
Blacks are their deepest in this film, shadows are well delineated. Fine detail is optimally resolved. The CGI presented is top-notch. Even though it's far from being the best movie of the set, Episode III is definitely the best looking.
5 Stars
'Episode IV: A New Hope'
Digital rocks have been added, for some unexplained reason, in front of R2 while he's hiding in a cave. After R2 leaves the cave, those rocks aren't there anymore.
The underside of Luke's Speeder actually looks good.
Escape pod lid is now black instead of blue.
Death Star explosion has been color corrected and actually looks much better. It doesn't have the bright blue ring around it anymore.
We've spent so much time talking about the asinine changes that have been made to the original trilogy that we've failed to mention some of the visual changes that actually helped. I really like the color fix on the Death Star explosion. It doesn't look so amateurish anymore. The glowing blue noisy border is all but gone, replaced with a clearer, cleaner explosion.
Sadly, DNR rears its head here and there, during 'A New Hope.' It isn't as rampant as 'Phantom,' but it's enough to take stock and realize that maybe Leia's face looks a little too smooth. Check out the waxy, smooth faces that exist in the hallway scene right before they blast their way down to the trash compactor. Grain freezes every now and then, it can be spotted suspended around R2 as he roams the desert. There is some very noticeable problems with flickering and slight color timing changes as C-3PO walks across the desert.
Fine detail wavers a bit, depending on the amount of noise reduction being used. Facial detail is noticeable right at the beginning on the Rebel Guards before Vader storms in. Close-ups really are the only shots that harbor such detail though. I thought that the dirt and grime on R2's casing looked great though. That was some well resolved detail that I'd never really noticed before.
The special edition CG additions really bring the video presentation down a notch because they're already dated. The added Stormtrooper scene along with the Jabba/Han scene, aren't doing this Blu-ray version of the movie any favors. The CG is flat and has the look of early CG animation. Like I said before, if they want to keep changing stuff, how about sprucing up the stuff that looks old and outdated instead of just adding in things here and there.
With all that said, I personally thought that 'A New Hope' looked better than both 'Attack of the Clones' and 'Phantom Menace.' It has its problems, but after all was said and done I was fairly satisfied with the way it was presented.
4 Stars
'Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back'
A few scenes have undergone color correction. Cold bluish hues have been replaced with warmer ones. This is especially noticeable when Chewy is searching for the driods.
When Obi-Wan appears it's more visible this time around.
Hoth's snow looks less blue, and has taken on a whiter more natural look, which is a big improvement actually.
The color timing changing on the snow, even though it's slight, makes a big difference when it comes to seeing the speeders against the background. It's actually one of the unsung, enjoyable changes to these Blu-ray editions.
DNR seems to have taken a backseat here, which is a very good thing. Fine detail makes a reemergence as facial details shine. Edge enhancement is light, and pretty much negligible. Textures on clothing are marvelously rendered here. This is texture that we have likely not seen in any of the other releases of these films. Take note of Chewbacca's individual hairs, or the furry whiteness of the Wampa.
Blacks are deep and satisfying. Shadows and the edges thereof, are easy to discern. This is the way that I think we all pictured these classic films looking. Now that's not to say this one is perfect either. Noise crops up every now and then. There are some minor frozen grain issues on Hoth, but if you're not looking closely for them I don't think you'll be able to spot them. This is my favorite transfer in the Original Trilogy.
4.5 Stars
'Episode VI: Return of the Jedi'
Jabba's Palace door has been replaced with a much larger CGI one.
Han Solo's carbonite thawing is now CGI. This is one of the dumber changes. As it stands now, the thawing looks silly. Light surrounds Hans and shoots out from his face, hand, and body. It's almost as cheesy as an angel awaking from slumber.
A CGI Dug has been added to the steps of Jabba's Palace for no discernible reason at all.
The Ewoks do indeed have digital blinking eyes.
When R2 has his freakout, a whole load of gadgets have been added to the picture, more steam coming from inside, and the leaking has been digitally erased. Pretty poorly I might add.
Okay, now we're back into the "Why in the world did they do that," area. Why they felt like they needed to add in even more wacky things popping in and out of R2-D2 when he has his freakout at around the 2:14:40 mark is beyond me. Why they felt like crudely erasing the liquid coming out of him is crazy. That scene looks like an amateur went to work with a crappy version of Photoshop. It really does.
I'm also not a huge fan of the new CGI Han Solo carbonite thaw. It's really tacky especially at the end where he never used to have any light surrounding him. Now it's bursting forth from all sides. It looks really cheesy and unnecessary. To make matters worse, the new radiant light is chock-full of ugly, unsightly banding.
Besides the radical changes, the rest of the movie looks great. Even Endor seems like it's taken on a richer green hue. Detail on the Ewok costumes looks great as you can see individual hairs. Blacks can be crushing at times, particularly the scene where Leia sneaks in and thaws Han. However, I felt like these unnecessary changes were not annoying to fans because of the changes, but they hurt the overall product by being shoddy and way too noticeable. Add to that extremely creepy Ewok blinking eyes and they certainly bring this visual presentation down a peg or two.
3.5 Stars
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The audio on this set is outstanding. I'm just going to put that out there right now. It's one of the best examples of complete sound remastering for an entire catalog set that I've ever heard. Each one of these episodes is full of bright, bold action surrounding you from every side. These are engrossing soundtracks that really almost equal each other in greatness. There were a few minor changes in quality it seemed, but overall they really seemed to stick close together in terms of quality. Each movie got the same mix, which really helped keep the cohesiveness together.
'Episode I: The Phantom Menace'
The video may stink, but the audio does anything but. As much as I hate podracing, and I think that whole part of the movie should be removed, I can't deny that it sounds great in this newly minted 6.1 DTS-HD Master Audio mix. The roaring sounds of the podracers surround you, and pummel you into submission. The LFE roars from the sub with stunning force. Panning effects are insanely smooth as racers fly from one end of the screen to the other.
Unfortunately for us, dialogue is perfectly intelligible so we hear every "Weesa," "Heesa," and "Yousa." Eff you Jar Jar. Young Anakin is no different, but at least the mix treats his voice exactly the same as anyone else. Other audio highlights here include the low-end sound made by the water after Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan descend to the Gungan city and the sound of the uniformed droid marching.
4.5 Stars
'Episode II: Attack of the Clones'
So as to not repeat myself from 'The Phantom Menace' audio discussion, 'Attack of the Clones' has the very same pros about it. Clean, intelligible dialogue. Well-rounded sound stage featuring that ever iconic John Williams score. Again, everything is done right here.
A few highlights that I noticed during 'Attack of the Clones' that you'll want to keep your ears peeled for are the absolute gut-crushing booms made by Jango Fett's seismic charges or the earth-rattling scene where one of the Federation starships comes crashing back down to the ground. That scene engulfs you and sucks you in. It's one of the best sounding scenes in the whole set. I also loved the hustle and bustle of the surrounds when Padme and Anakin are jumping around trying to dodge the different robotic arms on the conveyer belt. There's so much going on in that droid factory and yet you're able to hear it all. I may have liked this audio presentation just a little more than 'Phantom Menace.' I might be biased just because I dislike 'Phantom' so much, but so be it. This one is demo material through and through.
5 Stars
'Episode III: Revenge of the Sith'
'Sith' shares all the wonderful characteristics of the films that have gone before it when it comes to the audio department. The opening dogfight battle is intoxicating. There's a cacophony of sound and action happening all at once, but the six separate channels are able to capture it all. Fighters whiz all around your head, panning smoothly from one channel to the other.
Williams' score sweeps through the design, just like it did with the other films, totally engulfing you in its presence. LFE is a constant threat to shake the pictures right off your walls. When the characters find themselves on Mustafar the low-end of the spectrum goes crazy as the explosions and swelling of lava simply surrounds you on every side. Another demo-worthy audio experience.
5 Stars
'Episode IV: A New Hope'
After watching the prequels first, I did notice an inherent change in the way the sound was presented. The iconic opening music had brasher horns which were just a tad bit louder than they had been in the past. Music and blaster sounds were given slightly more prioritization than dialogue. I didn't feel like 'A New Hope' lived up to the demo-material goodness set by the last two prequels.
That said, 'A New Hope' is no slouch. Considering its age, this sounds great, and the newly minted DTS- HD Master Audio track adds more oomph to this movie than you ever thought possible. Blasters, while they may be a little on the loud side, fill the air with whizzing beams of light which explode with tenacious ferocity. Lightsabers clash together to form a low-end thump that sounds great every time. Panning effects sound wonderful here too as ships and speeders cruise from one end of the frame to the other. To tell you the truth, I didn't ever think that the original movies would sound this good.
4.5 Stars
'Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back'
The LFE takes over here. Whether it's the stomping thuds of approaching AT-ATs or the thunderous soaring of the Empire's Destroyers, bass is non-stop here. It rattles, thumps, and wallops its way through the entire movie. The only LFE downtime is when we visit Luke on Endor. Other than that the sub is fully engaged during the different action-packed exploits of Han and his rag-tag crew.
I thought that dialogue was given a bit more prioritization here, along with nicely placed directionality. The deep booming voice of James Earl Jones has a nice resounding low-end whoosh to it. This is everything you could want, and more. Demo material!
5 Stars
'Episode VI: Return of the Jedi'
Yes, the new addition of Vader yelling "Noooooo!" at the end is a real bother. So much so that it degrades the rest of the movie. Everything is building up until that moment and then… well, you get the picture. Adding that "Nooooo!" should be figured into the audio scoring just as much as the visual additions should.
Other than that stupid add-on, the rest of the movie sounds just as terrific as the rest of the set. I particularly liked the feeling of the surrounds in this one. Whether it be the echoing roars of the Rancor or the happy chirps of the Ewoks, the surrounds picked up every nuance of the sound design. 'Empire' may blow you away with its thundering bass, but 'Jedi' will wow you with its attention to detail. Listening to those speeders blow through the forest, trees whapping by on both sides, was a fantastically engrossing experience.
4.5 Stars |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Thu Oct 13, 2011 12:50 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Transformers: Dark of the Moon (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy) (2011)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'Transformers: Dark of the Moon' is silly, bloated at times, convoluted, and it doesn't always make sense, but it can also be loads of fun for the teenage boy inside us all. It also happens to be the best 'Transformers' film, but perhaps I'm growing more forgiving as the series progresses. This movie-only edition of the film features delicious, near perfect visuals and a reference (soon to be THE demo disc) 7.1 True HD soundtrack. If you've already decided that you hate the 'Transformers' series, then stay far (far) away. If you enjoy this franchise, then your decision to purchase this Blu-ray comes down to whether or not you care about 3D or need to watch special features.
If 2D is good enough for you, this is a winner of a Blu-ray, and will no doubt be cheaper. If you love 3D (from what I saw theatrically, 'Dark of the Moon' features the best "live action" 3D since 'Avatar') and/or enjoy the extensive special features commonly found on 'Transformers' Blu-rays, wait for the 3D Combo. I hate to say it, but when a studio openly announces their plan to release two separate versions of a film, that's not actually double-dipping. It's informing customers of his or her choices, both of which have pros and cons. In this case, having it now vs having the fancier, more complete edition.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Transformers: Dark of the Moon' arrives on Blu-ray with a stunning 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode framed in its original theatrical aspect ratio of 2.39:1. It should be noted that, unlike the previous film in the franchise, this one was not filmed with any IMAX cameras, so there are no variations in aspect ratios. It was shot using a combination of 35mm film and HD 3D cameras. Here, of course, we are getting one "eye" of the 3D presentation. Some other film stocks were used (or approximated) for the opening sequences set in the 1960s.
As one would expect from a modern Hollywood blockbuster, this new 'Transformers' film boasts an incredible amount of fine detail and resolution. Even though it's the 2D presentation, it feels almost like it's 3D. Colors are rich and saturated, while whites remain balanced. There are varying levels of grain depending on the shooting format, but overall the Blu-ray provides a nice film-like experience. There's no hint of edge enhancement of DNR. Dark scenes are inky, yet detailed despite a occasional crush.
While there's a lot to like about this HD video presentation, it's not perfect. There's a touch of banding (as seen as the ship launches from Cybertron) in some all-digital scenes, but it's not that bad. Also, during the climax, the giant-snake Decepticon (Driller?) is ripping through a building and there are so many moving parts they turn into a blur; however, it's not clear if this is intended motion blur, or a compression issue. The real flaw preventing this disc from being a reference level video presentation is skin tones. There's a joke in the film about John Malkovich's character having orange-tanned skin (even more so than John Boehner), but the problem is everyone's skin is warm and tinted slightly-to-moderate orange. It's unsettling given how accurate the highlights and shadows appear.
Overall, despite a couple flaws, this is an HD stunner.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
This 7.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack is perfect. One of the best and most accurate 7.1 presentations I've ever heard and sure to be a go-to demo disc.
From the very first second with the Paramount logo as its stars swirl through all surround channels, you know you're in for a treat. Most impressive is how subtle it can be at times. Dialog is always audible and clear, and there's a lot of fine detail work on display. Doors shutting or bullets pinging in various speakers. Atmospheric stuff. And no matter how loud and chaotic the visuals on screen appear, the audio is a precise symphony of effects and music. Screaming highs and guttural lows show off the track's impressive dynamic range. The panning is engaging -- front to back, side to side, all around -- a truly immersive experience. We've gotten to meet the film's Supervising Sound Editor, Erick Aadahl. He's being doing 7.1 for a while now, and 'Dark of the Moon' may be his (and his team's) best work yet.
I'm amazed a film like this doesn't just devolve into noise, but this is truly awesome. |
Kal
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| Posted: Thu Oct 13, 2011 12:51 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Ben-Hur (50th Anniversary Ultimate Collector's Edition) [Blu-ray]
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'Ben-Hur' is the quintessential epic, and this spectacular 50th Anniversary Edition from Warner may just be the quintessential Blu-ray collector's set. Boasting arguably the finest 1080p transfer of any classic film, exceptional audio, supplements galore, two handsomely produced hardcover volumes, and classy packaging, this is without question one of the top Blu-ray releases of the year and a must-own for every film aficionado. So clear some shelf space and give this thrilling Academy Award-winning film a prominent spot in your library, and enjoy the passion, spectacle, and, above all, the eye-popping, fully restored image of one of Hollywood's grandest and greatest achievements.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
When 'Ben-Hur' was released on DVD back in 2005, it boasted a "new digital transfer from restored 65mm elements," and the picture quality blew me away. This new anniversary edition proclaims the film has been "newly restored and remastered" once again, this time "frame by frame from the original 65mm camera negative." Reportedly, more than $1 million was spent on the 8k scan, "making this the highest resolution restoration ever completed by Warner Bros. studio." And the meticulous process took so long to complete, WHV – according to a press release – couldn't release the film in conjunction with its 50th anniversary. Thankfully for film fans, quality outranked a marketing ploy, and what we have for the 52nd anniversary of 'Ben-Hur' is arguably the most spectacular video transfer of any movie – classic or otherwise – I have ever seen.
The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 rendering exhibits breathtaking clarity, incredible depth, and pitch-perfect contrast and color timing. Not a speck or mark of any kind betrays the film's age; the image is so razor sharp and pristine – from intimate moments to massive spectacle – the film looks like it was shot yesterday instead of more than a half-century ago. 'Ben-Hur' was filmed in an extremely wide aspect ratio (2.76:1), reducing the amount of real estate the image takes up on screen. Yet this transfer exhibits such crisp detail, nothing in the frame is ever obscured or fuzzy. Talk about looking through a window… This transfer transports us to ancient Rome, the deserts of Palestine, and their respective ornate residences and humble abodes like the finest HD travelogues, completely immersing us in the culture, scenery, and action. Grain is absent, yet this superb rendering never seems artificial. At all times, 'Ben-Hur' maintains a very real film-like feel, and it's an exhilarating view from start to finish.
The intricate designs on the Romans' breastplates are stunningly clear, as are the peaks of dancing flames deep in the background. Embroidery, appliqués, and adornments to all the lavish costumes flaunt palpable texture, and even in long shots, foliage is well delineated. Close-ups are razor sharp, yet still maintain a natural look. Facial creases, scars, and various anomalies are easy to discern, and Heston's piercing blue eyes provide a striking accent.
The proof of the pudding, however, lies in the chariot race, and here 'Ben-Hur' surpasses even the highest expectations. From the manes of the horses to the jagged-edged wheels of Messala's vehicle, detail is stupendous. Even the longest, widest shots exhibit astounding levels of clarity. If I had an Italian relative who was an extra in the crowd, I swear I could probably pick him out.
Colors are bright and vivid, but never bleed or appear over-pushed. Once again a slightly muted, earthy look predominates that keeps every scene looking real. Reds especially pop in long shots, but accent hues, such as Pontius Pilate's purple robe, exude just the right amount of vibrant lushness. Black levels are rich and deep, yet shadow detail never suffers, and fleshtones remain stable and true throughout the film's lengthy running time.
At times, the enhanced clarity makes the limited use of backdrops and miniatures seem more obvious, and occasional rear projection work suffers from lines that are a bit too sharp, but these are very minor quibbles. No banding or digital noise afflict the image either. Even if you don't like 'Ben-Hur,' you owe it to yourself to check out this top-notch, A-1 transfer that's literally a visual feast.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Breathtaking picture notwithstanding, 'Ben-Hur' would be nothing without sound, and thankfully the quality of the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is every bit as spectacular as the video. Clear, dynamic, full-bodied, with clean, bright highs and solid lows, this track fully immerses us in the action, pageantry, and soul-stirring moments of this classic historical saga.
Natural stereo separation across the front channels nicely opens up the sound field, while subtle surround atmospherics punch up the film's drama. Details are crisp; all the rustlings of fabric, janglings of armor, and footsteps in sand and on stone are distinct. The bass frequencies during the chariot race output palpable rumbles that enhance the spectacle without overwhelming it - another example of the meticulous nature of this mix.
The music score by Miklos Rozsa ranks among the finest ever produced for the screen, and here it receives the royal treatment, bursting forth with supreme fidelity and a warm surround feel. From the clean brass tones to the passionate strings and weighty drums, all the elements are perfectly integrated and balanced, providing a marvelous listening experience with nary a hint of distortion or break-up.
Dialogue is consistently clear and comprehendible, and no age-related deficiencies, such as hiss, pops, and crackles, intrude. This is an active, involving track that rivals the quality of more recent films, and those who appreciate great sound will be thrilled by it. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Thu Oct 13, 2011 12:51 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Lion King (Two-Disc Diamond Edition Blu-ray / DVD Combo in Blu-ray Packaging) (1994)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | The 2D presentation of this classic Disney film is every bit as amazing and awe-inspiring as the 3D version was. It's colors burst off the screen in what is arguably the most vibrant, colorful animated film on Blu-ray to date. This is a must own release for sure.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
I've got to say that Disney's 1080p presentation of 'The Lion King' is probably the best I've ever seen a hand-drawn animated feature look on Blu-ray. Yes, 'The Princess and the Frog' was immaculate, but 'The Lion King' looks that much better. Perhaps it's because of the movie's awe-inspiring scope. Whatever it is, it looks downright fantastic in every frame.
Colors are intensely vivid. They leap off the screen. I was drawn to the orange-to-red gradient on Zazu's bill. The finely shaded gradient is wonderfully colorful. The 2D animation flourishes in HD. Edges are perfectly concise and easy to discern. Lighting is carefully placed giving the animation a very 3D feel.
There isn't a speck of dirt or grime here. This is an immaculately clean transfer free from any technical flubs or mishaps that might detract from the viewer's experience. What is even more amazing is that the very early computer animation that was used during this film doesn't jump out at you. Even though the technology was still in its infancy, it's hardly noticeable here. The stampede looks natural and flows perfectly. Even with the added high definition, you'd never be able to strain your eyes and say, "Yeah, that's early CG." From start to finish, this is one of the most splendidly colorful, and demo-ready discs out there. Its 2D presentation is spectacularly amazing in every way.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The audio for 'The Lion King' comes by way of a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 mix, while the two dubs are given "Disney Enhanced Home Theater Mixes," whatever that means. This film doesn't pack one of those excessively powerful punches that tries to redefine audio by showing how loud a film can get. This track, is about balance, a balance that is here in spades.
The dialogue and atmospheric effects are placed perfectly throughout the soundstage, with absolutely wonderful dynamics, not a second of distortion, not a single off or odd line or sound. Distinction, directionality, localization effects, they're all top notch. Echoes put you right in the middle of a number of scenes. Bass levels are a bit subdued, with a nice thump on the stomp of elephant hooves, or the constant rumble in the stampede, but there's never any real roaring moment, and especially in a scene filled with hundreds of rampaging beasts filling a room, you bet I would have loved to have that added depth.
Ah well. I really have no complaints. This track can't measure up to some of the other animated titles, of its era, before or after, with its obviously subdued intentions. There are times listening to the film where you want there to be a thunderous roar, a tremendous thump or rumble, and it just isn't there. This presentation is still very, very faithful to the original source. |
Kal
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| Posted: Thu Oct 13, 2011 12:52 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
(IMHO they 'jumped the shark' with the second movie a long time ago...)
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (Two-Disc Blu-ray / DVD Combo in Blu-ray Packaging) (2011)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides' probably wouldn't have sold as many tickets if it were called 'On Familiar Tides,' since it is pretty shameless about stealing the structure and a number of scenes from the original film in the series. The cast additions are great, the castoffs improve the film with their absence, but no actor could be capable of fixing the wrongs of this film, or even making them less noticeable. I can say this was a very, very long 136 minutes, and an experience I'm not so thrilled to experience again...oh wait, there's still a 3D disc to review...
This 2D edition has absolutely spectacular presentation qualities, though it comes up way short in the extras department. On the strength of disc and acting alone, this one comes recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
I've got to say it, 'Pulp Fiction' has never looked better.
It pains me to write this section of the review. Pains me dearly. I want to give 'Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides' a five star score, the loftiest perch attainable under our system. I want to, but I just can't do it. I do want to say that Disney has given us an amazing looking disc, absolutely amazing. I also want to say that if every disc looked this good, there wouldn't be any need for Blu-ray reviews at all. Disney's 1080p transfer on their latest 'Pirates' flick is a real gem, clearly defining the top tier as one of the best looking titles to hit the format this year.
I want to change things up a little, and talk about what bothered me about the disc, before throwing all that fun lavish praise at it, because quite simply, if I start the other way around, I may never get to the gripes and may talk myself out of this. Consistency is the killer. 'On Stranger Tides' boasts some absolutely jaw dropping sequences, moments that clearly redefine the definition of "demo material," and even when it isn't at its peak, the amount of detail in the picture is superb. However, in part due to a proliferation of dark sequences in the opening half of the flick, there isn't consistency when it comes to this amazing power. The opening of the film, for example, left me wondering when the "wow" was going to kick in, like I knew it would. There isn't any amazing moment in the opening act of the film, surprisingly, regardless of lighting or setting, as it seems the picture gets better and better as the film progresses. Noise was a big concern in the 'At World's End' review, and it pops up again, but it's nowhere near as problematic to my eyes.
And...well, that's it for the gripes. This disc is awesome. Shadow details are strong, the picture is regularly immensely deep, and textures, there isn't a word to define how truly revolutionary they are here. Black levels don't waver and stay superbly inky, skin definition, from the cuts and burns to the light freckling of Cruz's face, let's just say there's absolutely no complaints there! Colors are bold, from the gorgeous (and amazingly defined) blood red sails of the Queen Anne's Revenge, to the beautifully azure skies and ocean late in the film. Detail levels, a highlight, for sure. The clarity in Captain Jack's dreadlocks and random hair strands, now sporting a more sun-bleached hue, let's just say that something that assuredly smells so nasty never looked so delightful.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track given to 'Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides' is a winner. A smashing, emphatic winner. Of course, those who have read our coverage for the previous three 'Pirates' films would know that the series has earned a five star rating on each and every release.
There really isn't all that much to talk about in this section of the review, because it's all so bloody perfect. There's power up the wazoo in the score, in the effects, there's thunder all over this track. Clarity? Just superb. The swaying and bowing of wood, the rain and wind whistling through the room, even the light sizzling of the tips of Blackbeard's burning...beard...there's not a split-second's worth of distortion, not a single off line of dialogue or a word with improper dynamics. Localization effects are used frequently and accurately, filling the room quite proper, while the LFE has plenty to chew on, with the undercurrent of the score and the random thumps in the film lending themselves to plenty of low end opportunities.
Unabashed power. Pinpoint precision. Deadly accuracy. Again, 'Pirates of the Caribbean' earns its highest marks in the ears rather than the eyes. |
Kal
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| Posted: Thu Oct 13, 2011 12:52 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc! One of my favourites - can't wait! It's in the mail!
Pulp Fiction [Blu-ray] (1994)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | If you've been holding out for the American release of 'Pulp Fiction' on Blu-ray, well, now you can breathe easy. This is simply the best the movie has looked and sounded in years. The new special features are very much worth a gander, even though we would've all liked to see a new commentary for the movie. It's been a long time coming, but finally 'Pulp Fiction' is on Blu-ray, and it gives me great pleasure to highly recommend it.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
I've got to say it, 'Pulp Fiction' has never looked better.
Something to keep in mind is that 'Pulp Fiction' has a purposeful aged look, giving it the feel of the pulp magazines it's referencing. So, the visuals aren't going to be crystalline in the way modern action movies look on Blu-ray. The entire movie appears just a tad softer, and a little bit grimier, but it's all adding to the effective storytelling.
Even with the inherently softer appearance of the film itself, you'll still notice the perks of high definition right off the bat when you can see individual hairs poking out of Jules' Jheri curl. Black levels are wonderfully succinct, offering a depth and dimension that is lacking on the DVD version. Colors, even though intended to be muted, are very strong indeed. For example, Uma Thurman's simply crimson lips pop off the screen. Skin tones are always very natural looking. Beads of sweat can be seen clearly running down the face of Marsellus. Chunks of brain and skull are easily noticeable in Jules' hair and on his suit after Vincent blows the head off of Marvin.
Even though the movie has a permeating softness to it, there were a few shots during the Jack Rabbit Slim's scene that seemed just a bit fuzzier than they should have been. The transfer has been freed of any distracting bits of dirt and grime. There are no technical problems to point out. Noticeable DNR and edge enhancement are non-existent. In short, this is the video transfer fans were hoping for.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Now here's where you'll get an upgrade from the Danish import version. Frankly Lionsgate's new 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track is every bit as demo-worthy as any of the modern action and adventure movies that have come out on Blu-ray in the past few months. This is a very fun, very energetic mix that uses every channel with purpose.
The rears are alive much of the time, especially during the dance scene and the scenes in the diner. Dialogue is perfectly intelligible, even during Bruce Willis' whispered lines. Gun shots sound a bit tinny, but they've always sounded that way. Actually, the gunshots in 'Pulp Fiction' sound much more realistic than they do in other movies. When Jules lays into his Biblical verses the entire soundstage quakes. The crescendo of his prophetic voice fills the room. LFE has its moments, and when called upon offers a resonate force of bass.
I loved every minute of this engrossing audio mix. It reminded me of the movie's theatrical presentation. Audiophiles and fans alike will find this one a pure treat. |
Kal
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| Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2011 5:14 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Disneynature: African Cats (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo in Blu-ray Packaging)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | The title 'African Cats' doesn't really convey the type of drama or suspense that's awaiting you when you view this film. There's so much more to this movie than just looking at some cats from Africa. The themes presented here are great teaching tools for parents looking to explain the more complex issues of life to their kids. I'm not saying that it's a necessity that you do so, but the opportunity is always there. The video and audio are both astounding. The special features leave a lot to be desired. I was hoping for another Living Menu like on 'Earth,' or 'Oceans' but no such luck. The PiP commentary does provide a lot of great information though. 'African Cats' is recommended viewing for families everywhere.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
The visuals here rival anything the BBC has put out. 'African Cats' looks tremendous throughout the entire film, save one or two minor hiccups. On the whole the 1080p Disney presentation is an awe-inspiring site.
The numerous close-ups of feline backs as they sneak up on their prey reveal tiny strands of hair that are perfectly defined. Hair never bunches or clumps together in unrecognizable blobs. Edges are defined and distinct. Colors are strong. The vivid yellow of the cheetahs' coats burns in the hot African sun. It's easy to discern the slightly different shades of manes that adorn the few male lions in the movie. The greenery of the pride land is contrasted well by the rich muddy browns of the river bank. The stark blue sky encompasses everything giving the entire movie a realistic natural look. The texture of the fur here is top-notch. The detail leaps off the screen.
There are a few nighttime scenes, and while noise spikes ever-so-slightly, I have to say that this is some of the best nighttime/night vision footage I've seen in a while. It isn't nearly as noisy as other nature documentaries. The hyena attack at night has a nice glow like the entire scene is being bathed in the bluish light of the moon. Blacks are always deep. Shadows are distinctly delineated adding depth to the picture. For the most part 'African Cats' is complete demo material. One of the best looking nature docs out there.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 presentation is no slouch either. This thing packs a real punch. The first thing you'll notice is the heft and weight afforded to the deep thunderous roars from the male lions. They grow in intensity until the entire soundfield is filled with low-end rumbling that is truly engaging. LFE thumps as a thunderous rainstorm moves in. The surrounds come alive with action as the rain pours down around the families of lions and cheetahs.
Jackson's narration is always clear (but, that doesn't help its cheesiness). It isn't just the deep roaring that is on display here. In fact the more nuanced sounds like the tiny yelps of excitement from the cheetah cubs or the premature growls from the lion cubs are all given ample room to show off their stuff. These types of cute growls and yelps are always clear and offer a more dynamic range. Directionality works hard as growls, squeaks, and howls are constantly happening whether the animals are in frame or not. Nicholas Hooper's score, while a bit ham-fisted, is well represented here. Ample LFE is provided for the more intense moments, like when the gang of ne'er-do-well lions crosses over the river to take on Fang.
This audio presentation will keep you engaged and engrossed throughout the movie's runtime. It's got everything you'd want in a near demo sounding title. |
Kal
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| Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2011 5:18 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
I'm a sucker for anything that Pixar puts out so this one's a blind-buy for me.
Cars 2 (Two-Disc Blu-ray / DVD Combo in Blu-ray Packaging) (2011)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'Cars 2' is an entertaining spy thriller/comedy with reference quality HD video and 7.1 audio. The film itself is very good, but doesn't quite live up to the other Pixar films in terms of emotional investment. The real question for those deciding to watch the film for the first time is whether or not you like the Mater character. Like him or love him, and 'Cars 2' will be for you. If not, then you'll probably want to avoid this one (though with video and audio like this, it's hard to miss it).
So, who is this release for? First, I would say buying this movie is for fans only. Next, if you don't care about 3D or special features, then this 2D two-disc edition is the one for you. But for my money, the 5-disc edition will cost only a few dollars more, and comes fully loaded. I didn't review that version, but that's the one I would recommend. For those who have not seen 'Cars 2', give it a rent; you're guaranteed a beautiful ride and who knows, you might even enjoy it. It's certainly more competent (plot and staging) than most modern action films. It's just not going to make you cry… Well, unless you despise Mater and your kids make you watch this 100 times. Then I could see some tears.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Pixar films are always spectacular on Blu-ray, and 'Cars 2' continues this trend with its direct digital transfer (1080p/AVC MPEG-4, 2.35:1 aspect ratio).
Color, detail, texture, and depth are nothing short of jaw dropping in every scene. And while one of the previews (Disney Studios All Access Pass) shows off severe banding (and therefore how badly compressed a film like this could be), there are no signs of compression errors anywhere. No banding, macro-blocking, aliasing, nothing. The sets, based on real world locations in the United States, Japan, Italy, France, England, and even the open Pacific Ocean are stunning. What always amazing me in Pixar films is how, despite the fact that it's a cartoon, textures for water, painted metal, paved streets, and various other surfaces all look photo realistic (or damn near close). Tokyo in particular will be a showstopper for home cinema enthusiasts. The bright neon signs contrast nicely with wet surface streets, inky black skies and shadowy alleys. The fictional Porto Corsa is bathed in warm, southern European sunlight, with a sparkling blue bay and rustic architecture. And London, with all the pubs and taxis and busses and the insides of "Big Bentley"…it's all magnificent to behold.
Pixar films are known for their attention to detail, not only in terms of technical achievement, but in filling every pixel with information. Here, it's the Cars Universe versions of mountains, buildings, and culturally specific signage. What a testament for these filmmakers then that, while you might not be able to catch all the details in the first viewing or two, you technically can see everything. Seriously, stop any frame of 'Cars 2', and it's a painterly, artistic, colorful, visual feast filled with as much story as the film itself. As I said above, hats off to you, Pixar, hats off.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The 7.1 DTS-HD MA surround track is pure auditory delight.
While not nearly as aggressive as something like a 'Transformers: Dark of the Moon', this track is filled with bombastic bass, perfect voice work, outstanding panning, and an array of discrete effects that will suck any listener into the world of 'Cars 2'. It's really hard to review perfection, because there are only so many compliments to be dolled out before resorting to clichés. As the second Pixar film to be mixed theatrically for 7.1, I found my ears enchanted by how the soundtrack doesn't bash in your brains, but rather invites you into its delicate world. The comedy and quiet scenes work just as well as the explosive action sequences and edge of your seat races. Every engine purr, tire squeal, metal crunch is expertly laid out along with the Michael Giacchino's spy-movie music score. If you love full 360-degree panning effects (that, you know, let everyone know you have 7.1), check out a moment early in the film where Mater's voice echoes as he warns people that the pistachio ice cream has turned; that's one of many fun moments in what will sure be highlight to any demo presentation.
Additional audio selections include English 5.1 DTS-HD MA ES, English Descriptive Video Service 2.0, English Dolby Digital 2.0, Espanol 7.1 DTS-HD HR, 5.1 Espanol Dolby Digital EX, and 5.1 Epanol Mexicano Dolby Digital EX. |
Kal
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| Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2011 5:22 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
I watched this one a couple of nights ago. While I was never comic book reader or fan growing up, this one is definitely one of the better comic book adaptations I've seen. A good movie, worth watching for comic book fans and non-fans alike.
Captain America: The First Avenger (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy) (2011)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | Marvel Comics films aren't always great adaptations. Sometimes we get a great tale that's true to the comics and still works well on screen, and other times we get... the 'Fantastic Four' movies. 'Captain America: The First Avenger' is among the best adaptations from the company so far. It has heart, soul, and tons of action, with some intelligence and fantasy to boot. This is the kind of film that will appeal to audiences of all ages, with a timeless tale, a relatable hero that's impossible to dislike, and a great, great performance in the lead. Sure, I didn't buy the voice coming out of the scrawny version of the character, but come on, the effects work to make wimpy Steve Rogers is fantastic! And so is this disc. It's awesomeness, forever captured for audiences to enjoy over and over again. This is the year's best comic movie, probably the best action movie, as well, and one of the top five to ten comic book adaptations. Whether you go 2D or 3D (which still includes this 2D disc), either way, put this one in your collection, post haste.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Presented in 1080p with the AVC MPEG-4 encoder, 'Captain America' proves to be high-def candy on Blu-ray.
This disc sports perfect edges, wonderfully clear, powerful colors, and detail levels that truly shine. Funnily enough, the best looking moment in the film is one of the most mundane, in the soldier training segments, full of amazingly defined grass and dirt. Picture depth is often incredible, with a number of scenes exhibiting nearly endless information and clarity. Textures are a real treat, as well, while night shots hold up very well, with no lost information in shadows. Another plus? This disc is free from any kind of edge enhancement, while facial features can be very perceptible. Black levels? There's not enough ink in all the stationary stores in the world to compare to this.
This transfer does have an odd noise burst here or there, a very ugly sequence in the theater where every eye visible is blatantly blue, and a few moments that look like facial features have been smoothed out just too darned much, enough to keep this disc from earning that rare five star commendation. Still, this disc is worthy of salutations. It's really, really good looking.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The audio for this flick is presented by way of a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track that comes up a bit short compared to some of the other Marvel flicks (particularly 'The Incredible Hulk'), but it still has plenty to offer.
Dialogue doesn't get buried for a single word in the entire film, while range will frequently catch your attention with the blistering highs. This disc sports some solid volume spikes, and some good thumps and bumps, as well as gunfire pops, while rear speakers get more than their fair share of activity, particularly in action sequences, which throw you in the middle of a WWII battle like few other discs do, with gunfire coming from all angles nicely. Ambience is appropriate in every scene, while directionality is also spot on. The only place this track is lacking is in thunder, as the bass levels just don't match the carnage we see on screen. With the massive explosions filling this film, you'd expect a lot of rumble and roar, but it just doesn't happen anywhere near as much as it should. If you listen to this disc through your television's speakers, you just lost half of the experience, as this track is exactly that: an experience. |
Kal
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| Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2011 5:27 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Winnie the Pooh (Three-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy) (2011)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'Winnie the Pooh' is a pleasant way to spend an hour of your time. It's an animated feature that you won't mind sitting down and watching with your kids. The video and audio are both stupendous on this release. The sticker price of $29 at some stores may give you pause. After all that's a lot to pay for a movie that's only an hour long. Even then, it's still a good investment in my mind since it's sure to be a movie your kids will watch over and over. 'Winnie the Pooh' is highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Disney animation always looks splendid in HD, and 'Winnie the Pooh' is no different. Its 1080p picture perfectly captures the simple wonder of the Hundred Acre Wood and its inhabitants. Just like 'The Princess and the Frog' the hand-drawn animation simply shines here. Individual pencil lines are distinctly present, even Pooh's eyebrows shift around during each scene because the fine pencil lines that make them up are all drawn individually.
The colors are absolutely glorious. From the warm, nurturing palette of Pooh's home and the surrounding neighborhood, to the bright glowing musical number where Pooh swims around in glistening oceans of honey. Most likely this sequence was done with the help of CG animation, but it still retains that hand-drawn quality that's the real draw of this movie.
The carefully drawn and painted backgrounds seem like almost exact replicas of the 'Pooh' shorts of old. Like our friends are stuck in watercolor paintings, the backgrounds provide a simple yet effectively defined forest-like backdrop. 'Winnie the Pooh' is as demo-worthy as they come. You'll be delighted with the visuals just as much as your children.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Like the video, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix is subtle in its charms, but nevertheless impressive in its presence. Much of the movie is centered on the simple dialogue of the narrator and the movie's characters. Their dialogue is presented cleanly and clearly through the center channel. Directionality works perfectly here as you can hear Tigger bounding up one side of the soundfield, entering the frame, and then leaving the other side just as seamlessly.
The musical numbers resonate nicely through all of the channels. Composer Henry Jackman's original music for the film fills the front and rear channels as the characters perform a medley of melodies that are all sing-a-long worthy. Pooh's honey-drenched dream features a nice bit of strong LFE, along with the scene where the characters imagine just exactly what a Backson looks like. LFE overwhelmingly loud or deep, but is satisfyingly stoic and is actually present more than I thought it would be going in.
It isn't the most action-packed audio mix, and doesn't stand up to the much more technical and impressive Pixar mixes, but on the whole this one is extremely enjoyable on all fronts. |
Kal
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| Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2011 5:18 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Toy Story 2 - 3D
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'Toy Story 2' ups the 3D ante from the original enhanced film, with an adaptation that's wholly satisfying and often breathtaking. Smoother, richer, and featuring more exciting and immersive effects, this film shows just how seductive 3D upgrades can be when matched with suitable material. 3D enthusiasts will be thrilled with this disc and shouldn't hesitate to rush out and grab it! Highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
From the opening frames of 'Toy Story 2,' it's immediately apparent this 3D rendering exhibits more dazzling dimensionality, presence, and eye-popping splendor than the original 3D-enhanced film. The Buzz Lightyear video game sequence bursts forth with plenty of projectile effects and a marvelous immersive feel that envelopes us at once. The main titles also possess that distinctive 3D feel, pushing away from the background and floating in air. Though 'Toy Story 2' is only four years younger than the first movie in the trilogy, it looks surprisingly more spry and embraces the 3D technology more fully. Even more depth and dimensionality distinguish this sequel, and the wider array of settings allows our senses to enjoy more varied experiences.
Clarity and contrast are breathtaking, with all the characters looking extremely lifelike. The same details that shined on the 'Toy Story' 3D disc are exceptional here, too: the texture on Mr. Potato Head, the scales on Rex, but also look at how well the hair is rendered on Stinky Pete and Big Al, the costume accents on Jessie and Woody, and the dust particles that pour out of Wheezie. Color saturation is also spectacular, black levels are rich and inky, close-ups are stunningly crisp, and the transfer exudes a much smoother and silkier feel than the original 'Toy Story.' Even better, none of the issues afflicting that transfer - a few jagged lines and some sporadic noise - are present here.
Even though 'Toy Story 2' was not originally designed as a 3D film, it adapts quite well to the format and this terrific rendering provides a few more thrills and even more immediacy than the flat version. You will be amazed at the results.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
If it's possible, this DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 accompanying 'Toy Story 2' is even more of a sonic delight than that on the 'Toy Story' Blu-ray. The LFE kicks right in during the prologue as Buzz blasts through the air. The rumbling from the subwoofer is perfectly prioritized with the other sound effects and dialogue happening as to never drown those out. Panning effects are smooth and without hesitation. Dialogue is perfectly clear through the center channels. The surround channels are alive with all types of clear, engulfing ambient sounds. When Woody falls through the pile of cards during his dream, the cards click and clack around the room with care. The soundtrack is given ample room to flourish. Suffice to say, this is another demo quality audio presentation from Pixar. |
Kal
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| Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2011 5:20 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Toy Story 3 - 3D
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | 'Toy Story 3' is one of the best Pixar films. The studio took its time with this movie and didn't rush it. I still think it's a peg below 1 and 2, but it still chokes me up at the end. The 3D video is exceptional, the audio is demo quality, and there's a huge helping of extras that will keep you entertained for hours. This five-disc set comes highly recommended for the entire family. If you've got 3D capabilities, go out and grab this disc. Your family will thank you.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Toy Story 3' was the only installment in the trilogy originally released in a 3D version, and it is also - obviously - the most recent entry in the franchise, so it's not surprising that this transfer outclasses 'Toy Story' and 'Toy Story 2.' From a 3D standpoint, 'Toy Story 3' is still not a theme park-type attraction, filled with projectiles that make you duck, jump, or stir...and that's a good thing! The folks at Pixar have designed this film simply to be more lifelike in 3D, with figures and objects that protrude from the screen just enough to add appropriate dimension and enhanced depth. Look at how Buzz's hand subtly reaches toward us as he extends it to Woody in the incinerator, or notice the marvelous depth as Woody peers out of the carton as Andy prepares to leave home. This 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 effort makes us feel a part of the action without shoving it in our faces.
Detail, once again, is superior, with skin textures, hair, fabric, even the bits of garbage flooding the incinerator looking incredibly lifelike. Contrast is perfect, with lights and darks impeccably balanced. Colors - be they primaries or pastels - are bright and bold, and black levels are lush and inky. Lines are smooth yet razor sharp, making even the smallest items beautifully delineated. I might have noticed a dusting of noise on a couple of shots, but it was so brief and insignificant it barely merits mention. And no other digital glitches afflict this A+ rendering.
Simply put, this is another dazzling Disney 3D transfer that enhances 'Toy Story 3' and ramps up the home viewing Blu-ray experience to intoxicating and exhilarating heights. Looking for some 3D demo material? You've got it here.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
You knew that the picture was going to look great. That's pretty much a given when it comes to Pixar on Blu-ray, but what about the audio? Let me tell you something, the audio is the real treat on this release. 'Toy Story 3 3D' comes complete with an enthralling 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio mix that will keep you engulfed from the opening scene until the end of the credits. The soundfield is filled with lively noises and ambient sound that will totally immerse you in the story.
As soon as the toys get to the daycare center the masterful ambiance takes over. Screaming kids encircle the soundfield as they run amok. Clinks, clanks, and clangs are delivered with precision as the toys are greeted by a whole host of new toys. During a flashback with a rainstorm individual droplets can be distinguished. It's simply stunning.
Panning effects work wonders, especially as the 7.1 mix takes into account the two side channels. Now Woody is soaring high above you as the wind pushes him higher and higher. His screams and "Woos" are carried throughout the mix, placed exactly where they should be. When it comes time for the big final action-packed ending the mix is cranked up to a bass-laden LFE slug-fest that will catch you by surprise. All this time the soundtrack has been subtle and nuanced, giving us an extremely detailed but reserved audio experience. That all ends when the toys get to the dump and try to escape permanent doom. Room-shaking bass is released from the sub, but never so overwhelming that it takes over and drowns out the dialogue.
Just like the video presentation, this audio presentation is top-notch demo-worthy material. From the restrained, but detail-oriented beginning to the bass-rumbling ending this is another wonderful HD audio experience provided by Disney and Pixar. |
Kal
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| Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2011 5:22 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Change-Up Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray+DVD+Digital Copy) (2011)
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| Quote: | Individually, Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds are hilarious - but for some reason the filmmakers didn't trust them to do their own thing, so they added a high amount of lowest-common-denominator humor and dumbed it down. The first half is mostly terrible, but the second half finds its footing. Too bad this mediocre movie couldn't match the high audio and video quality of the Blu-ray. Had they been on the same level, 'The Change-Up' would be a must-own R-rated comedy - but as it, it's only a rental.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'The Change-Up' is presented with a glorious 1080p/VC-1 transfer in a 2.40:1 aspect ratio. For a movie lacking in quality, it's video content isn't lacking at all.
This clean transfer features a small amount of grain and a great amount of detail. From specks of baby powder on Bateman's face, rogue hairs on Mann's head, stubble on Reynolds' face, lint on Reynolds' clothes and spots on Alan Arkin's noggin, it's all noticeable in high detail. You'll even notice freckles on many of the actors' faces that you didn't know were there. The great detail also shows off Olivia Wilde's perfect complexion. It's so clear that you'd think DNR was used on shots of her face. But at the same time, the high detail makes the bad CG stick out like a sore thumb. From green screen driving scenes, toddlers wielding butcher knives and bashing their heads into objects, Bateman pouring milk on children and CG breasts and "floating" nipples, it's all noticeable.
Black levels are so deep and rich that you can't tell where the bars at the top and bottom of the widescreen presentation end and begin during night shots. The rainbow palette in Reynolds' apartment shows rich, vibrant and saturated colors and fleshtones are always spot-on.
Shadows are always perfectly delineated, showing just as much detail within as there is outside. In one scene, strands of Wilde's rain-soaked hair are just as visible in the shadows as they are in the light. Artifacting, edge enhancement and aliasing are absent and noise doesn't show up for a single shot.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Two English and two foreign audio tracks are available: English DTS-HD Master Audio and English DVS 2.0, as well as Spanish and French DTS Surround 5.1.
The lossless sound mix for 'The Change-Up' is fantastic. When our characters are in a conference room full of legal chatter, your hear the quiet whispers all around you. When they're in the stadium of a Braves game and the crowd erupts in cheer, the rear speakers light up and make you feel like you're in the stands with them. The pitter-patter of rain sounds like it's falling in your theater. When Bateman and Reynolds make their wish, the city lights sequentially shut off around them. The sound of breakers being tripped trigger all across the theater randomly. Being a comedy, this isn't the type of movie to constantly use the rear speakers, but when they do it sounds fantastic.
The channels are mostly filled with generic quirky comedy scoring, but towards the end, after a montage to Coldplay's new single "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall," an unusually strong and epic-sounding score appears that applies the familiar melody from that same Coldplay track. The symphonic score sounds amazing.
The music, vocal and effects dynamics are perfectly mixed. Nothing is ever lost. Playing a small role in the audio, bass is occasionally present and never overpowering. The audio is perfect, but due to the nature of the film's content, it hardly features anything demo-worthy. |
Kal
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| Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2011 5:24 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 (Three-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2011)
(Click on picture to order, hover over for price)
| Quote: | The best movie of the franchise gets a proper send off with a demo-worthy visual display coupled with an audio presentation that will nearly blow you off your couch. There's nothing to dislike about the way this disc looks or sounds, the fact that it's a really good movie simply puts it over the edge. The Blu-ray exclusive special features are informative and worthwhile. The Maximum Movie Mode is a feature every fan will want to explore. When you add it all up, 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2' is a must own title. Even more so since Warner announced that it will be pulling all of the copies from store shelves by the end of this year. Get it while you can.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Simply put the dark, brooding visuals of 'Deathly Hallows: Part 2' in 1080p will blow you away. For some reason, even though the two parts of the 'Deathly Hallows' were filmed at the same time, this part feels a tad more detailed. Slightly more ambitious in its look and scope. I may be grasping at straws there, but this is truly a breathtaking visual feast.
It's hard to not notice all the fine detail shining off the screen. Just take a look at the faces of Harry and Voldemort at the end. Dirtied and bloody, where each speck of mud and gunk is completely visible. The ultra-close-ups of them reveal the tiniest pores, hairs, and dirt flecks. As Hogwarts lay in ruins and the camera swoops down over a rubble-covered courtyard, even at mid-range you can see intricate patterns in the brick-lain courtyard floor. The tiniest age lines are extensively revealed on Olivander's face, even though he sits quite a distance from where the camera is placed. The special effects this time around take on a life of their own. The tiny, pulsating concentric rings of blue light that pulse forth from the students' wands in the darkness are easily visible. The shield that is created by the teachers at Hogwarts is something special. It has a total organic feel as it comes together. Spells and curses fly by with stunning ferocity, each of them clearly defined. As they smash into rocks and walls they send tiny chunks of rubble flying, all of which can be seen with clarity.
The movie is dark, full of unforgiving shadows. Although, these shadows never feature a bit of crushing. They're rich and deep, offering a wonderfully delineated picture that adds to the overall detail and look of the movie. Colors, while a bit rare, are actually extremely vibrant whenever presented. When Harry and Voldemort are locked in their own personal duel, the goopy, dripping magic between them shines with powerful reds and greens shooting off the screen.
Everything about this video presentation shines. In short 'Deathly Hallows: Part 2' is one of the finest demo discs you'll be picking up this year.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix is just as demo-worthy as the video.
This thing is one bombastically charged ride. Directionality is top-notch. From the wiz-bang action as spells zoom by in and out of frame to the distant crackle of Death Eater spells exploding on the shield above Hogwarts. Even the quieter moments are cause for rejoicing. When Hermione, disguised as Bellatrix, enters Gringotts Harry and Griphook are supposed to be standing right beside her under Harry's invisibility cloak. Griphook whispers to Hermione that the other goblins know they're imposters. The surrounds pick up this bit of dialogue so well you'll think Griphook is standing right next to you.
LFE is a constant force. From crumbling Hogwarts walls, to the stomping of angry giants the sub-woofer rarely gets a break from the action. Panning effects are always smooth. Take the fire in the Room of Requirement. The low-end rumble of the fire led by a fearsome-sounding image of a dragon sweeps through the stacks of artifacts. The whoosh of the fire zooms from one end of the sound field to the other, enveloping you in its fury.
Surrounds are lively and active for the entire movie. The battle scenes offer a wide variety of ambient noise as wizards, witches and students battle Death Eaters, enormous spiders, and giants. Spells wiz by on every side. The fights are ferocious. You can hear people dying all around. It's simply a completely immersive listening environment.
You'll be just as happy with the audio here as you will be with the visuals. Everything about this disc screams demo quality. |
Kal
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| Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2011 5:27 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Super 8 (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy) (2011)
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| Quote: | 'Super 8' still holds the top spot as my favorite movie of the year. It reminded me of movies like 'Goonies' and 'Stand By Me,' with strong kid characters who can drive a movie just as well as any adults out there. As was expected, 'Super 8' comes to Blu-ray with a great looking video presentation, and an audio presentation that's simply out of this world. The full-bodied 7.1 mix is sure to rumble your home's foundation. 'Super 8' is highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
If you were happy with the look of J.J. Abrams' 'Star Trek,' on Blu-ray then you'll warm right up to 'Super 8's 1080p presentation. Even though the movie takes place in the late 70s, Abrams' photography (with the help of cinematographer Larry Fong) doesn't really reflect the time period. Besides the sparse representations of grainy 8mm footage here and there, the rest of the movie looks as slick and polished as 'Star Trek' did, lens flares and all.
The film has a very distinct clarity to it. Fine detail is optimal on faces, structures, and special effects. You can see individual threads in the shag carpets, and the woven texture of the furniture of that time period. The texture of shirts and denim also stick out. The movie is predominantly set during nighttime sequences. All the big set pieces take place during night, and therefore the presentation of the movie's blacks was extremely important. I'm happy to report that the blacks are infinitely deep and shadows are wonderfully delineated. Even though it's dark in those tunnels under the city, you're still able to clearly see the claw marks in the dirt made by the creature. Colors do pop, however. You'll noticed the bright oranges and reds of the fiery explosions from the train wreck, which cut through the blackness perfectly. I didn't notice any sort of banding at all. Aliasing or any other nuisances are nowhere to be seen.
Yes, Abrams is back in full force with his lens flares. Hate them or love them, they're there. I'm somewhat ambivalent towards them, but they do tend to become distractions as the movie progresses (like they did in 'Star Trek').
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The Dolby TrueHD 7.1 mix provided by Paramount, to quote Charles Kaznyk, "Is mint!" This is one of the best sounding Blu-rays you'll buy all year, but to be honest, are you really surprised by that?
The train wreck (surprise, surprise) is the first place you really find out what you're in for with this engulfing audio mix. As the train becomes derailed and metal starts crunching and clanging against each other all seven channels come to life with all sorts of distressing sounds. Explosions pop off in the rear and side channels. The front channels are filled with the terror-tinged screams of the kids as they run for cover as huge pieces of metal flies all around them. LFE is in a constant state of activity, adding power and oomph to each explosion. The bass lends hard-hitting rumbling as train cars come crashing to earth. When the train depot finally goes up in a fireball you may want to have secured your pictures to the wall, because they'll literally rattle off their hooks. This is a loud, jarring, altogether amazing audio experience. It's a scene that you'll pull out again and again over the years to show to your friends and family exactly how HD 7.1 sound can sound when done right.
It isn't all action and mayhem though. The center channel picks up clean and clear dialogue, which is passed around to the front and side speakers depending on directionality of voices. Panning effects like helicopters circling overhead make smooth transitions throughout the sound stage, from one channel to another, seamlessly. Ambient sound keeps the rear and side channels lively throughout the movie, even if there is no alien action going on. When the kids are boarding the bus out of town, or during the town hall meeting, townsfolk can be heard chattering away giving the mix a very genuine feel. 'Super 8,' rises to the expectations that it set in the theaters, and provides us with a demo worthy audio performance. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:59 am Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Water for Elephants (+ Digital Copy) [Blu-ray] (2011)
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| Quote: | 'Water for Elephants' is, in my humblest opinion, a good film, but it's not a great one because I wasn't able to connect with the love story between the two lead characters. However, this quality adaptation looks marvelous in high definition, sounds wonderful, and features terrific performances from Christoph Walz and other character actors. Definitely not a must buy for those who have not seen the film or even fans of the book. I would say give it a rent first.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
While there are some minor flaws in terms some black level grayness and/or crushing as well as occasional soft shot or two, 'Water for Elephants' sports a very successful MPEG-4 AVC encode (aspect ratio 2.35:1) that shows no signs of encoding artifacts or compressions issues.
Let's get the bad out of the way up front for a change, because there's very little to nitpick. There is some black crushing from time to time (evident in the opening's interior trailer scene where eyes disappear into shadow in a bright room), but the larger black level issue seems to be a persistent grayness in the background of many night time scenes, leaving them a tad flat. Also, there seems to be some unintended focus issues as actors move forwards and backwards in random shot.
Though a few nitpicks prevent this from being perfect, as I said before, 'Water for Elephant's generally looks great. Period pieces with warm, saturated colors do well in high definition and, as we expect from brand new movies, there are no age issues, damage, or dirt to blemish the picture. Detail and resolution are strong, highlighting the authentic exterior and interior production design elements as well as clothing, animal skins, hair, and human faces. Everything is so dreamlike and vibrant, but never completely over the top and unnatural. And despite what I said about black levels above, the film's first few night exterior shots are exceptional -- set on a rainy night, where actors are wearing black jackets against a black night sky. Overall, this is another fine Blu-ray release from the folks at Fox.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'Water for Elephant's arrives on Blu-ray with a well made, but just shy of spectacular, English 5.1 DTS-HD MA soundtrack.
Dialog is perfect and the film features a wide front soundstage with an enveloping ambience from the rears. Rain, crowds, and creaking train cars fill the rear channels to build out the world. LFE runs deep, filling your home theatre with rumbling animal noises and train engines, etc. What's particular nice about the bass tones is that they are purely supportive, and never call attention to themselves (something I've noticed with some lossy surround sound television mixes of late). James Newtown Howard's score might not be as amazing as his work in 'Road to Perdition', but it soars in surround sound. Overall, there's very little to complain about in 'Water for Elephant'. It's a very good track that supports the film experience, but personally I reserve my 5 star audio ratings for more aggressive sonic experiences
Other audio options include Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and French 5.1 Dolby Digital. For those who like to or need to read their movies, there are English SDH and Spanish subtitles available. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:04 am Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
West Side Story (50th Anniversary Edition) [Blu-ray] (1961)
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| Quote: | 'West Side Story' comes to Blu-ray at last, and though a couple of transfer glitches put a damper on its coming out party, this is still an impressive release that will dazzle diehard fans and delight those who have yet to experience this exhilarating Oscar-winning classic. An iconic musical that brims with breathtaking choreography and features one of the most beloved scores in history, 'West Side Story' still packs a hefty emotional punch and makes potent statements about prejudice and violence. Performances across the board remain relevant and affecting, and the direction looks as fresh and vital today as it surely did 50 years ago. New supplements add luster to this presentation, which includes superior video and audio that makes this time-honored tale come alive like never before. If anyone tells you musicals aren't cool, show them 'West Side Story.' Its brilliance speaks for itself.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'West Side Story' arrives on Blu-ray mired in a bit of controversy. While I often found the 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer to be breathtaking - and a big step up from the previous DVD - a significant gaffe has rained on this release's parade, sparking mea culpas from Fox and a promise of replacement discs (though no dates or timeframes have been forthcoming). The mistake may seem insignificant to some, but film purists are rightly outraged. The error occurs at the end of the movie's overture; the innovative line pattern over a series of solid-colored panels developed by title master Saul Bass is supposed to dissolve into the skyline of Manhattan without a hitch, but on the Blu-ray there's an odd fadeout that deletes the final green-tinted frame, destroying continuity and diminishing the wow factor of the effect. If you own the previous DVD version of 'West Side Story,' you can see how this marvelous concept is supposed to work. Unfortunately, some dingbat at Fox saw fit to monkey with a work of art (maybe to facilitate a more definite chaptering break between the overture and the main feature?). Whatever the motivation, it's a shame such a big boo-boo has to afflict and tarnish what I consider to be a first-rate transfer.
Is 'West Side Story' perfect? No. But the film has certainly never looked better than it does in its current high-def incarnation, and there are plenty of jaw-dropping moments of vibrant color, razor-sharp clarity, and spectacular detail. Hues are brighter and truer than they were on the DVD, yet they maintain a winning naturalness. Yellows and purples are especially well rendered, and the tinted glass in Maria's apartment, as well as the shadows it emits during 'Somewhere,' provide lovely accents that enhance the frame without overpowering it. Fleshtones are spot-on and black levels are always solid and deep, with only an occasional instance of crush. Close-ups are gorgeous, even the ones filmed in soft focus; all exhibit marvelous detail and flaunt a hint of dimension that makes the intimate scenes even more immediate and potent.
The opening aerial shots of New York are greatly improved, possessing far more detail and clarity than ever before, and such challenging moments as the psychedelic dissolve from the twirling Maria into the gym dance scene and the gauzy, blurred shots that frame Tony and Maria during their initial meeting and later while singing 'Tonight' are handled with aplomb. Patterns are strong, fabrics and textures are well delineated, and background detail is excellent. The heightened clarity occasionally exposes the artificiality of sets and backdrops, but doesn't destroy the urban feel.
Grain has been greatly reduced, yet the movie never looks hyper-processed, retaining the feel and texture of celluloid. A bit of aliasing affects some shots - I noticed it most during 'I Have a Love' - but it's faint and not prevalent throughout. Banding is absent, however, and there's no digital noise, even in the darkest scenes.
Unfortunately, a few blips keep this transfer from achieving the heights it should have scaled, but it's far from the mess some have purported it to be. Most of the time, I was blown away by it, and for the most part, it does this classic film proud.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'West Side Story' comes equipped with a superb DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track that's a big improvement over the previous DVD's Dolby Digital 5.1 audio. But some audiophiles may not be entirely pleased. Reportedly, the film's recently discovered and restored six-track masters, which I believe were used in the movie's recent theatrical roadshow presentation, were passed over for this Blu-ray release in favor of the more cost-friendly four-track masters. Such a decision is disappointing, to be sure, but the 'West Side Story' audio that accompanies this Blu-ray remains top-notch and should thrill most listeners.
From the opening strains of the overture, the exceptional quality of this track is immediately apparent. Filled with bright, soaring highs and weighty lows, and distinguished by a crystal clarity, the sound is perfectly mixed and provides a seamless surround feel. The movie may be 50 years old, but the audio sounds like it was recorded yesterday. No surface defects, such as hiss or errant pops, detract from the clean tones, and no distortion ever creeps in.
The music enjoys superior dynamic range, from the screaming brass that peppers many numbers to Maria's lilting soprano. The famous 'Tonight Quintet' presents many challenges, as voices compete for prominence and various melodies bounce off each other, but this track handles the five vocal lines with ease, so we can appreciate the musical complexities while still comprehending the lyrics. Dialogue, too, is always well prioritized and easy to understand, and spreads nicely across the front speakers, lending many conversations a nice directional quality. Stereo separation is also strong during the songs and scoring, and solid bass frequencies subtly punch up various scenes without overwhelming them.
Details are crisp and distinct, from footsteps on the cement sidewalks to the Jets' finger snapping to the rattling of metal fences. And though surround activity is limited during the dramatic scenes, the music subtly envelops us, creating a cohesive aural environment that draws us deeper into the film.
Instead of rueing what might have been, just enjoy this marvelous track, which serves this classic motion picture quite well. |
Kal
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| Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2011 2:28 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
5 Days of War [Blu-ray] (2011)
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| Quote: | '5 Days of War' is a decent action film that can't quite find the right balance between historical accuracy and dramatic conventions. Despite its low budget, the numerous set pieces are solid but several formulaic characters and plot developments hold back a potentially effective retelling of a recent real-world conflict. Video and audio quality are great, providing near demo worthy material. Supplements are slim but the commentary and deleted scenes are solid inclusions. Though a fairly mediocre effort, this disc is still worth a look.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
The film is provided with a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer in the 2.40:1 aspect ratio. Shot digitally in high definition this is a very impressive transfer that features strong clarity and dimension.
The source is pristine with some negligible digital noise here and there. Fine detail is often exceptional with a very sharp image that reveals even the tiniest and most intricate bits of visual information. From the bruised and battered faces of the main characters to the ruble and debris filled streets of Georgia, the video offers a sometimes stunning level of clarity. A shot featuring a fiery stream at night is particularly impressive and many more peaceful images of quiet countryside villages are also strong with vivid colors that offer pleasing vibrancy while still retaining a gritty tone. Black levels are mostly consistent and provide a frequently inky quality. Contrast is high and while whites veer toward a deliberately overexposed look, the intensity suits the content well. A few quick shots here and there (usually in the midst of intense action) feature a more overtly "cheap" digital look with overly smooth motion, but thankfully this is rare and doesn't detract much from the presentation.
'5 Days of War' isn't quite worthy of a five star video rating but it's actually pretty close. Free of any major technical anomalies and featuring sometimes striking levels of fine detail, rich colors and solid depth, the image is very impressive.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The movie is presented with an English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track. Subtitle options include English SDH and Spanish. Bustling with action, this is a powerful and immersive mix.
Dialogue is clean and full and remains audible amidst all the chaos with no crackles or hisses. Directionality across the entire soundscape is great, perfectly emulating a war-zone environment. Bullets whiz by from all directions with piercing fidelity and separation. Even quieter sequences feature appropriate ambient effects with gentle chatter and echoes of activity hitting the rears. Ominous jets flying overhead and many huge explosions provide room shaking rumble, all adding to an enveloping auditory experience that places the listener right in the thick of battle. Dynamic range is excellent, showcasing a wide gamut of frequencies from soft, gentle sounds to more aggressive, loud effects with no distortion. Thankfully, all of the mixing is well balanced with explosions, speech and score never overpowering each other.
The mix does a great job of bolstering the exciting action with an occasionally all encompassing soundscape. Much like the video transfer, this is a strong track that's pretty close to being demo material. |
Kal
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| Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2011 2:31 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Cowboys & Aliens (Blu-ray+DVD+Digital Copy in Blu-ray Packaging) (2011)
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| Quote: | Jon Favreau's 'Cowboys & Aliens' is an entertaining blend of two much loved film genres: the western and sci-fi. With strong performances of western archetypes, the mash-up of frontier-justice gunslingers and alien invasion disaster is far from perfect, but the story sticks to what it promises and delivers without completely going overboard. Daniel Craig stands out as our morally ambiguous anti-hero and it would be great to see him again in the same genre with stronger material. The Blu-ray invades homes with an excellent near-reference audio and video presentation, and features a wealth of exclusive supplements, making it a recommended package for fans and the curious alike.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Cowboys & Aliens' debuts on Blu-ray with an excellent, near-reference 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode, filling the entire screen with tons of beautiful panoramic shots of New Mexico.
Framed in a 2.40:1 aspect ratio, Matthew Libatique's cinematography simply looks stunning, displaying incredible vistas of the desert plains and natural rock formations. The freshly-minted transfer shows remarkable clarity and definition, exposing the small, fine lines in the various wood buildings, the stitching on costumes and every pebble scattered about the ground. Facial complexions are beautifully detailed with lifelike textures, revealing the tiniest blemish, wrinkle and smudge of dirt on the faces of actors.
Part of this rich, distinct clarity comes from a pitch-perfect contrast balance, extending visibility into the far distance. The picture carries an attractive cinematic appeal that's vibrant, crisp and glossy all around without feeling artificial or ruining highlights. The color palette is equally flashy with terrific, bold saturation, providing the image with lots of energy and pop. Being a western, of course, saturation hues pull their weight with a good deal of warmth and giving facial complexions a healthy tone that's accurate to the region. Blacks, on the other hand, are where we run into a bit of trouble, appearing inky and intense for a good chunk of the movie, but once indoors with natural, dim lighting, they look rather drab and murky. Since shadow delineation doesn't falter greatly during these sequences, it's possible it could all be the result of the photography and not a fault in the transfer.
Taken as a whole, Jon Favreau's sci-fi western is spectacular on Blu-ray.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The genre-bending actioner audio track also serves as the perfect partner in crime, furnishing the excellent video with an equally exceptional DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Being a cross with the science-fiction genre, the original design features a great deal of activity in the rears, especially during scenes with the alien spacecrafts. What appear like scout drones whiz by overheard convincingly and pan between the speakers with persuasive ease, extending the soundfield with exciting effect. Imaging is widespread as other small atmospherics fill the back area, most notably when the posse spends the night inside an upside down steamboat. Even in the many segments of supposed silence, the track brings a satisfyingly immersive experience.
Things remain first-rate in the front soundstage, feeling quite expansive with lots of detailed clarity. Off-screen effects and channel separation provide spacious warmth that's highly engaging thanks to a brilliant, room-penetrating mid-range. The upper frequencies are sharp and crisp, maintaining the loud noise amid the many moments of action clear and discernible. The low-end, also, comes with a heaping helping of powerful, very responsive bass, giving each gunshot and explosion a compelling force and weight. Dialogue and a few whispered conversations are delivered with great intelligibility and nicely focused in the center of the screen, never drowned out by the rest of the action.
Ignoring a very small numbers of inactive scenes, this lossless mix of 'Cowboys & Aliens' sounds absolutely amazing and is exceedingly satisfying. |
Kal
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