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kal
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| Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 6:50 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Cleopatra (50th Anniversary 2-Disc Edition) [Blu-ray] (1963)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | Fifty years after its initial release, 'Cleopatra' remains a fascinating film specimen. Flawed, yet breathtakingly beautiful, this massive production is a stunning tribute to meticulous craftsmanship, epic vision, and grace under pressure. Hollywood moviemaking rarely gets any bigger than this, and though at times the story stalls and the speeches sound affected and self-important, 'Cleopatra' continually casts a seductive spell, immersing us in the opulence of ancient kingdoms, the passion of unrequited love, and the complex machinations of history. The on-screen fireworks between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton may not seem as explosive as their off-screen publicity, but their chemistry is palpable and Taylor's allure undeniable. 'Cleopatra' may not dazzle you with its story or performances, but it's definitely something to see, especially in the splendor of 1080p. Fox's restoration is fit for a queen, featuring impeccable video and robust audio, while the substantive supplemental package covers this spectacular production from almost every angle. Though 'Cleopatra' will continue to divide audiences and critics alike, no one can dispute the quality of this superior Blu-ray release, which comes highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Once known as the most beautiful woman in the world, Elizabeth Taylor deserves a breathtaking transfer for her most scandalous role, and she gets it with this stunning restoration of 'Cleopatra.' Fox pulls out all the stops in this vibrant 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 rendering that features exceptional clarity, spectacular contrast, perfect color balance, and a sensual lushness that honors both the title character and the actress who portrays her. Nary a speck or errant scratch sully the pristine source material that looks as if it were minted yesterday, yet despite the slick appearance, the image maintains a warm, film-like feel that makes this larger-than-life epic accessible.
From the vividly illustrated opening credits to the expansive exteriors and intimate close-ups, this transfer brings 'Cleopatra' to brilliant life. The picture, shot in the Todd-AO format and featuring Oscar-winning cinematography by Leon Shamroy, is so sharp, individual faces in the massive crowd sequences are easy to discern. Details in the soldiers' breastplates, the intricate weavings of costumes, Cleopatra's heavily glittered eyelids, complex tapestry designs, and intricate wall etchings are all exquisitely precise. Despite the wide aspect ratio, depth remains palpable, allowing us to drink in the richness of Cleopatra's palace, the expanse of the battlefield, and the pageantry that accompanies Cleopatra's arrival in Rome. Inky black levels complement Cleopatra's raven-colored hair and cast a lovely sheen over nocturnal scenes. Shadow detail, however, is never compromised, and crush is never an issue.
Colors pop beautifully, from the deep reds of carpets and gowns to the lush azure blue of sky and sea, and from the bright gold of Cleopatra's headdress to the array of pastels that comprises much of the women's wardrobe. Though the palette is varied and bold, hues are never overplayed or over-pushed, so the image always flaunts a pleasing naturalness even in the face of staggering opulence. Fleshtones are spot on, too. Taylor's creamy complexion is often on full display, thanks to her revealing wardrobe, and it contrasts nicely with the ruddy skin tones of Burton and Harrison.
Close-ups are sparingly employed, despite the allure of Taylor's beauty, but they wield incredible impact. Facial features are well-defined, individual strands of hair are visible, and the craftsmanship of the jewelry and headdresses that often adorn Cleopatra is strikingly evident. In fact, the picture is so crisp, even in medium shot, it's easy to pick out Taylor's scar from the tracheotomy she was forced to undergo during her near-fatal bout with pneumonia in the very early days of shooting.
No banding, noise, pixilation, or other annoyances disrupt the presentation, and no enhancements, such as edge sharpening or noise reduction, rear their ugly heads. Say what you will about the content of 'Cleopatra,' but there's no denying this is one beautiful film starring a breathtakingly glamorous actress, and this exceptional transfer reverently honors them both.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'Cleopatra' comes equipped with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, in addition to a compressed Dolby Digital 4.0 track. Unless you're a purist, the lossless option is preferable, and from the opening strains of the overture, it's immediately evident this is a high-quality effort distinguished by superior fidelity, subtle nuances, and marvelous tonal depth. Alex North's majestic, Oscar-nominated score has never sounded more full-bodied and robust, and the wide dynamic scale handles the blaring brass, soaring strings, and heavy percussion with ease. Not a hint of distortion creeps into the audio, even during the most cacophonous scenes, and no age-related imperfections, such as hiss, pops, or crackles, crop up either.
Surround activity isn't particularly pronounced, but crowd noise does penetrate the rear speakers, and the music score nicely fills the room. Solid stereo separation across the front channels adds some directional enhancement to the dialogue and widens the overall soundscape. Accents like footsteps and swordplay are crisp and distinct, and conversations are always properly prioritized and easy to comprehend, even when spoken in hushed tones. Not a lot of bass works its way into the proceedings, but what's there possesses good weight and blends into the audio fabric well.
'Cleopatra' isn't as bombastic as some epics, so it's soundtrack isn't very showy, but the presentation here is well modulated, clean, and smooth. And for a 50-year-old movie, you can't ask for much more. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 6:52 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
A Good Day to Die Hard (Blu-ray / DVD + Digital Copy) (2013)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | The latest installment to the 'Die Hard' franchise is an unfortunate disappointment story-wise with villains that fail to be much of a threat to Bruce Willis's everyday anti-hero. Amazingly, the movie somehow still manages to be slightly entertaining thanks to the work of director John Moore and his crew who create some stunningly elaborate action sequences. The Blu-ray arrives with a tough and gritty picture quality that certainly impresses, while the lossless audio is a fantastic, reference-quality presentation of explosive action. A healthy collection of supplements rounds out the entire set, but in the end, the package is another bad flick arriving on a good disc.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
The fifth installment to the 'Die Hard' franchise debuts with an excellent, near-reference 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode which often wows and amazes yet comes with a rough and gritty appeal. The picture is awash in a thick layer of grain that's very noticeable throughout but stable, providing the image with an appreciable cinematic quality and actually complements some intensity to the action sequences. The rest of the video is highly-detailed and very well-defined. The busy Moscow streets are crystal-clear, exposing every brick along buildings and every crack in the sidewalk. The tiniest debris from explosions and gunshots are resolute and distinct while the threading and stitching of costumes are plainly visible.
Presented in its original 1:85:1 aspect ratio, the freshly-minted transfer displays outstanding shadow details, allowing viewers to revel in the wreckage and mayhem of the big, nighttime finale at Chernobyl. Comparative to the other films in the series, the cinematography of Jonathan Sela is a unique choice, as contrast falls on the lower end of the grayscale, creating a rather downcast and bleak look to the whole film. Still, visibility of background information remains intact, and whites are cleanly resolved. A heavily restrained color palette adds to the dreary appearance, but for the most part, primaries are accurate and nicely saturated with natural, revealing facial complexions. Black levels are also true and spot-on with many scenes of shadows penetrating deep into the frame, giving McClane fans a fantastic video to enjoy.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Without question, the best part of 'A Good Day' is this explosive, hard-hitting and earth-shattering DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack that will overwhelm and leave listeners wishing the movie were actually better. Right from the start, the music of Marco Beltrami spreads to the back speakers and fills the room with a sense of excitement and unease. While several discrete effects during quieter moments widen the soundfield with great directionality, dialogue maintains superb clarity and intelligibility in the front. Once the story shifts into high-gear, namely the spectacular car chase through Moscow, the mayhem of traffic noise is heard all around, enveloping the viewer with edge-of-your-seat realism.
Along the front soundstage, panning is flawless as the movement of the vehicles smoothly travel from one speaker to the next and suddenly rush to the rears effortlessly. The sounds of bullets and helicopters also fly in all directions with stunning authenticity. Through all this, the mid-range remains sharply detailed and superbly dynamic, allowing every shard of glass, the tiniest debris fragment and the grinding of crashing metal to be plainly heard without missing a beat. But the real showstopper is a decisively authoritative and seismic low-end that will undoubtedly push the capabilities of your subwoofer. There are many moments of fun ultra-low frequencies that will make your sofa shake and walls rattle along with several other bits that are highly-responsive and precise. So if your sub can handle it, play this awesome lossless mix loud because it earns my vote for one of the best high-rez tracks of the year. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 6:55 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Oz the Great and Powerful (Blu-ray / DVD + Digital Copy) (2013)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | In my mind, there always will be only one 'Wizard of Oz,' but Disney's energetic prequel succeeds as a high-voltage kiddie action flick, nothing more. The rest of Sam Raimi's cluttered fantasy lacks whimsy and charm, and the entire enterprise is presented without much reverence or finesse. Though there's plenty of magic performed on screen, 'Oz The Great and Powerful' is hardly magical in tone or execution. The 2D Blu-ray sports a sumptuous video transfer that's superior to its 3D counterpart, potent audio, and a solid supplemental package. If choosing between 3D and 2D, I'd stick with 2D (the 2D disc also contains all the supplements, while the 3D release only offers them through the digital copy), but either way, a rental for this title will surely suffice, even for diehard Oz fans like myself.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
I actually much prefer the 2D rendering of 'Oz The Great and Powerful' to its ragged 3D counterpart. While obviously not as dimensional, this 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer still possesses a palpable sense of depth and an elegant lushness that makes the fantasy world of Oz truly come alive. Whereas the 3D version feels heavily processed and stiff, the 2D edition nicely integrates all the elements and exudes a pleasing smoothness that helps immerse us in the story. Grain is entirely absent and not a speck, dot, or errant scratch sully the pristine source material. Clarity is superb and contrast is spot on, allowing all the brilliant hues and garish tones to shine with appropriate vitality.
Reds, greens, blues, and especially the essential yellow of the iconic brick road are all deeply saturated and project just the right degree of artifice. Black levels are deliciously inky and shadow delineation is excellent, with no incidents of crush perceivable. Background elements are razor sharp; individual faces in massive crowd scenes are not only visible, but also strikingly detailed, and the fabrics of costumes exhibit a fine textural feel. Fleshtones tend to look a bit orangey, but they're not off enough to spoil the overall picture.
The black-and-white opening sequences also possess a nice look, with solid gray scale variance helping the image achieve a good degree of depth. Though I wish sepia tones had been employed as a nod to the original 'Wizard of Oz,' and some grain had been added to accentuate the period feel and more clearly differentiate drab Kansas from sumptuous Oz, what Raimi has done works well enough. The gradual transition from black-and-white to color, as well as the widening of the aspect ratio, is subtly and effectively done, though nothing can match the wow factor that sweeps over viewers when Dorothy opens the door to Oz in the classic original.
No banding, noise, or pixilation disrupt any portion of the film, although there's a bit of slightly perceptible break-up in fast motion sequences, and no enhancements, such as edge sharpening or noise reduction, could be detected. This 2D transfer definitely enhances the 'Oz' experience and trounces its 3D cousin.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track supplies plenty of full-bodied, robust sound. With so many high-end effects, including a tornado, sizzling fireballs, and flying monkeys, there's a lot of opportunity for surround activity, and this track manages them all well. Discreet elements are marvelously distinct, yet there's a unity to the mix that keeps it from feeling overly processed and choppy. A wide dynamic range handles the highs and lows with ease, keeping distortion at bay and allowing all the special effects free rein.
The tornado sequence packs an appropriate wallop, as the raging wind funnels across all the speakers and the subwoofer makes its presence felt. Explosions also wield some hefty weight, but nuances come at a premium. Danny Elfman's music score is nicely textured during its softer moments, but when it goes big it goes bold, bursting with fidelity and tonal depth as it effortlessly fills the room. Despite many competing elements, dialogue remains properly prioritized throughout, with conversations always clear and comprehendible.
Disney usually provides well constructed, muscular audio for its major releases, and this track is no exception. It's a solid effort that complements the film without overpowering it. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 6:57 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (Unrated Cut) (Blu-ray / DVD / Digital Copy + UltraViolet) (2012)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | 'Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters' isn't the best re-imagining of a classic tale, but it's a hell of lot more fun, memorable and likable than most of the others. It not only adds wit and charm to the playfully violent twist of the Brothers Grimm story, but it's absolutely entertaining. After making five times its production budget at the worldwide box office, Paramount has already green-lit a sequel. The only way to view the theatrical cut in high-def is by owning the 3D Blu-ray. This 2D Blu-ray only contains the new unrated cut which features 10 additional minutes of footage spread throughout the film. The video quality is near-perfect, with the lossless audio quality being a superb five-star 5.1 Dolby TrueHD mix. While I prefer the 3D Blu-ray release over the 2D one, if 2D is the only option, I still recommend 'Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters.'
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Paramount has given 'Hansel & Gretel' a very strong, near-perfect 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer that expands the film from its original 2.35:1 aspect ratio to 2.39:1.
The video quality is crisp and always clean. Noise, bands and all other flaws are completely absent. Facial features are highly defined, showing off both the detailed textures of our heroes' faces and the cracked and deathly features of the witches' faces. Black levels are solid and consistently deep. Colors are just as vibrant as they should be – especially the reds that light up the sky during the blood moon. Explosive fires roar with great colorization amidst the natural and muted colors of the dark ages. Fleshtones are natural and spot-on for the "living" folks; the witches with somewhat normal faces carry a dead pale look.
The only fault that I could find in 'Hansel & Gretel' was a minor amount of aliasing with the tiny spider web wires that makes up a tree-to-tree witch trap. This flaw is present in both the 3D and 2D presentations, so don't feel like you're being ripped off for not owning the 3D version.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters' features an always-active 5.1 Dolby TrueHD audio track. Be prepared to have all channels constantly lit up with unique sound.
I was impressed by the overall volume of this mix. Even during the downtime, scenes where we watch characters safely wander through forests, effects are constantly emitting from all around the room. Imagine the most amount of wildlife that you've ever heard at once, then triple it. Woodpeckers, chirping and fluttering birds, wind blowing through tree limbs – that's what you're hearing non-stop in even the most calm moments of 'Hansel & Gretel,' making the action-packed and tense moments even more exciting, loud and thrilling.
The bassy and dynamic effects of cottages exploding, fire crackling and creatures roaring sound fantastic. A few of the action moments contain would-be graphic violence where the action takes place off-screen (these were probably the instances planned for the now-non-existent PG-13 cut of the film), but the horrific and disgusting sounds that blare from the speakers paint a bloody picture in your mind of what you would be seeing had the action taken place in the frame. (Don't worry – there's still a lot more bloody violence than just these PG-13 moments.)
The vocal levels perfectly blend with all of the other sounds. The clarity is perfect and never trumped by the scoring - which occasionally consists of distorted electric guitars chomping away with power chords. As loud as the overall mix may get, the music, effects and vocals always work harmoniously with one another. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Mon Jun 17, 2013 6:59 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Amazing Spider-Man (Mastered in 4K) (Single-Disc Blu-ray + Ultra Violet Digital Copy) (2012)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | The 'Amazing Spider-Man' is a great example of a comic book reboot done right, differentiating itself just enough from the prior installments to carve its own identity. This "Mastered in 4K" disc from Sony offers a higher bitrate transfer, but outside of screenshot comparisons, I found the differences to be nearly invisible under normal viewing conditions. The audio track from the last release has been preserved here and it's still fantastic. Unfortunately, none of the extras have been ported over and there is no 3D option. Those who own large projector screens or actual 4K displays might find some value in the slight improvements here, but for most, there really is no need to double dip.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Considering how strong the last release was (the 2D version received a 5-star video rating from us) I really wasn't expecting to see any kind of an improvement from this disc -- especially since it's my understanding that the previous version was already mastered in 4K. Though I was a little surprised to discover that the two transfers aren't quite identical looking, for most users, the differences here will be negligible. Yes, the bitrate is technically higher (most scenes hover around the 30s as opposed to the 20s in the last release), but in motion I really could not detect any kind of discernible improvement. With that said, as the included screenshots demonstrate, there actually is an increase in apparent clarity and contrast in this transfer (though it looks like this was likely accomplished through artificial sharpening). It's much more visible in these shots than it is under normal viewing conditions, however, and once again, I want to reiterate that I could not detect any major differences between the two as I switched from source to source on my HDTV (even in fast moving scenes which usually benefit the most from increased bitrates). In fact, it was only after capturing the screenshots that I noticed any differences at all.
With the exception of the small increase in sharpness and contrast and some slight differences in framing, this transfer is virtually identical to the last already reference quality disc. For those unfamiliar with the movie's appearance on Blu-ray, here's what Nate Boss had to say about the video in his original review:
Presented in 1080p (with an AVC MPEG-4 encode at 2.40:1), 'The Amazing Spider-Man' surprised me with its visuals. I was so used to the Raimi films, which featured candy coated bright colors and lots of daylight, that it took me some time to get comfortable with the constant gloom that lingers over this film, this isn't meant for Saturday morning viewing. Once I got my bearings with the change in visuals, though, I came to appreciate this as one of the best looking Blu-rays on the market, in a somewhat subliminal way, as the picture isn't at all "in your face" with how truly amazing it is. The credit goes to the RED camera system, but more specifically, the RED Epic, capable of filming 3D picture at 5K resolution.
The picture is stable and constant from start to finish, so you won't hear me say the opening half looked like this, but the closing half looked like that. This is wall to wall greatness. Textures are perfect, utterly perfect, as furniture, skin, clothing, hair, lizard scales (that one I don't get to use all that often!) are all so lifelike, so real, you can't help but rationalize the film as real, too. The depth of picture, naturally, is astonishing, from the top down looking at the floor or from standing level looking at the distance, even in 2D the picture is deep, deep, deep (no better way to say it than to say it three times). The amount of character and detail on display is amazing, even in the darker shots, like the grimy sewer sequences, which bring their own level of beauty to the picture in an icky kind of way. When the Spider-Man suit is finally unveiled, the texture, the detail, and the way it gets dirty and muffed up, it's a character of its own. What's really impressive, though, is the way special effects are seamless in the picture, as not a single moment stands out, not to emphasize "hey look what we can do!" or even in a negative light, where an effect fails and draws the eye.
Aliasing is never visible, not in the tightest checkered shirts, not in the sharp windows of the skyscrapers in the NYC sky, not in any of the Lizard's scales, Gwen's fine blonde hair, or the sharp ridges in the Spidey suit. There is no sign of artifacting or banding, edges are extremely crisp, white levels are enough to put Mr. Clean to shame, and there isn't any bit of information lost due to crushing, no matter how dark the picture gets. This isn't a glossy, shiny film, but it's still visual perfection and demo worthy from start to finish. A real master constructed this disc to make it look this good.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Unlike the video, this audio mix appears to be the same as the previous release. Here's what Nate Boss had to say about the track in his original review:
'The Amazing Spider-Man' has a fantastic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. Really, it's swell. It just isn't as overpowering, attention grabbing, or even as system testing as I'd expect from a tent pole franchise. I like the warm, in your face dialogue, the amazing localization and movement effects that keep us in the midst of Spidey's actions, and I was really wowed by how much work was put into making webslinging not just a visual aspect of the film, with swoops through channels accented by bass that sells the speed the action takes place at. The gunfire in the film is top notch, too, and the action sequences really are designed like miniature masterpieces. But, and this is a big but, this disc lacks something, that presence that keeps you engaged at all times. Not only is the subwoofer used somewhat sparingly, the score and soundtrack (ugh, the soundtrack...) don't grip from the rear channels, and environments aren't anywhere near as busy as one would expect from the most populated city in America. Yes, atop the skyscrapers we get a slight authentic busyness that's to be appreciated, but it's rare in this film, that enveloping effect that really puts you in the moment. That's something that only the best sounding discs do. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 7:30 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Dead Man Down (Two Disc Combo: Blu-ray / DVD + UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2013)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | I first screened 'Dead Man Down' several weeks prior to its U.S. theatrical release, long before it had word-of-mouth or a Tomatometer score. After seeing it, I wiped the drool from my mouth and couldn't wait until embargo lifted so that I could actually talk about the film. When opening day arrived and I saw the consensus, I was appalled to learn that I was in the minority of people who loved it. To this day, I still have no idea what the hater gripes are about. 'Dead Man Down' is a solid noir-ish thriller. As if the complex characters and their dynamics aren't enough, it's built upon a solid story and features plenty of tense action to keep anyone entertained. And as if that's not enough, the performances by Noomi Rapace and Colin Farrell are perfectly extracted by Niels Arden Oplev's fantastic direction. What more could you ask for? The video and audio qualities are both near-perfect. The only aspect of this release that's lacking is the light amount of special features. Three brief featurettes are included – not one of them being noteworthy. But even then, 'Dead Man Down' continues to be one of my favorite films of 2013, a Blu-ray that I whole-heartedly recommend.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Dead Man Down' has been given a solid 1080p/AVC-MPEG 4 encode that widens the theatrical 2.35:1 aspect ratio to 2.40:1 and is damn near perfect. Go figure – Sony puts out another fantastic-looking Blu-ray.
Off the top of my head, I cannot think of another film that kicks off with as many vanity reels as 'Dead Man Down.' In any other movie, I'd groan, but four of the five reels immediately exemplify the greatness of this release. One shows off the dense black levels, another the vibrant colorization, another the great level of detail and another the luscious sharpness.
With the story playing out like a twist on the classic noir genre, the majority of the settings are dark and gritty – but despite it all, there's literally only one short scene that collapses beneath crushing darkness. The outdoor nighttime scene in minute 66 is unnaturally consumed by the blacks. Aside from that, the black levels appear spot-on with how I remember the film looking when I saw it in theaters. Amidst the inky dark sections there are splashes of vivid coloring, many of which contrast the palette. Lit by pale fluorescent lights that drain the typically natural fleshtones out of the actors, the warm colors harmoniously clash and create a fitting and unique stylized look.
The sharpness and level of detail in 'Dead Man Down' is as good as it gets. Between nearly-closed window blinds, wall designs, patterned clothing and line-filled cityscapes, there are many opportunities for aliasing, but this Blu-ray never stoops to that level. Textures of clothing, porous facial features and hundreds of individual hairs on heads are some of the fine features that you're going to notice. The scars on Rapace's face are so defined that you can mentally run your finger over them and know exactly how they feel.
Aliasing isn't the only would-be flaw that's missing. There are several instances where I expected bands to appear, but alas, they're nowhere to be found. Digital noise is another element that's completely absent.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'Dead Man Down' comes with an impressive 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track that's dynamic, engaging and completely complimentary to the on-screen images and the film's overall tone. It not only makes great use of active sound, but also uses silence and ambiance as an enhancer.
Effects are properly used to punch nearly every scene. During shootouts, gun shots and explosions pack a punch, dynamically lighting up all channels and placing you in the middle of the crossfire. The depth and resonance of this bassy mix definitely add to its efficiency. When warranted, LFE also blares with strength and power. These moments tend to get loud, adding an edge to the danger and violence.
When we're placed in the non-action environments, the effects are used to physically place you in that same location – be it a chaotic city street, a rusted and leaky abandoned freighter or 17 floors above the bustling New York City streets. These environments come to life via these subtle and minute effects.
Music and scoring are also seamlessly blended in to enhance picture. As a shootout erupts in the opening sequence against a group of Jamaican drug dealers, the pre-shootout bass-filled reggaeton music fittingly becomes the score. Other times, the score is so subtle and natural that it's almost unnoticeable.
Without fail, no matter which route the effects and score take – loud or soft – the vocals are always crisp and clear. They're never drowned out by the other sounds. You won't have to reach for the remote to adjust the audio one way or the other due to the mixing levels. The only cause of me reaching for the remote was to toggle the subtitles so that I could understand a single line that Farrell says with a thick Hungarian accent. Aside from that – which is by no means a flaw of the disc – the lossless audio mix is brilliant. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 7:33 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
42 (Blu-ray/DVD + UltraViolet Digital Copy Combo Pack) (2013)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | '42' tells the story of Jackie Robinson in a way that is both entertaining and educational. Thanks to some wonderful cinematography and a handful of powerful performances, '42' has emerged as not only one of the better baseball movies ever made, but one of the best movies released so far in 2013. The lack of extras on this Blu-ray/DVD/Ultraviolet combo release is a disappointment, but not enough to prevent me from giving '42' a high recommendation.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'42' was shot digitally on the RED Epic camera, and therefore gets a transfer directly from the digital source material here. The results are stunning, with a near flawless picture. Don Burgess was the director of photography on '42,' and he gives the movie an old-fashioned look that I just love. The movie mostly avoids bright colors, giving us a lot of earth tones – grays, greens, and browns. Color has been drained ever so slightly, allowing for a very historical appearance.
While the movie shoots for an old-fashioned look, it maintains the sharpness one would expect from a digitally-shot movie. Skin tones are well-balanced throughout, and details look great (you can see the threads of fabric in the players' uniforms). Blacks are, for the most part, solid with distinguishable shadows. I could detect no noticeable instances of video noise, artifacts, or other issues. Overall, this is a great transfer that fans of the movie should be quite pleased with.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
As one can probably imagine, there are a great many moments in '42' where characters are just sitting and talking with each other – so the quality of the English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track isn't always noticeable. However, when the story takes the action onto the baseball field, things come to life with every crack of the bat or roar of the crowd. The baseball scenes have been shot to give viewers an on-the-field perspective (attempting to use angles not typically seen during a TV broadcast of a game), and the audio helps add to that feeling. The rear speakers are frequently active, and directionality is both noticeable and well-done. Overall balance is also pleasing, with a nice mix between the dialogue, sound effects, and soundtrack. No glitches or dropouts were evident throughout.
Subtitles are available in English SDH, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 7:34 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Wild Strawberries (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] (1957)
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| Quote: | Next to 'Fanny & Alexander,' 'Wild Strawberries' is arguably Ingmar Bergman's most personal and reflective film since a great deal of his intimate thoughts and feelings on life are expressed here. Starring legendary filmmaker Victor Sjöström, the story of one man's self-prescribed journey into his past is a lovely photographed and deeply complex tale of self-reflection and introspection. The Blu-ray from The Criterion Collection arrives with a near-reference video presentation and an excellent lossless mix. With a healthy assortment of bonus material accompanying the classic film, the overall package is recommended for Bergman fans and cinema lovers everywhere.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
According to the accompanying booklet, this high-def transfer of 'Wild Strawberries' was struck from the original 35mm camera negative at 2k resolution in Stockholm. Criterion, once again, delivers a marvelous, near-reference picture quality that bests previous home video editions of this beautiful piece of cinematic art.
Aside from some unavoidable instances of softness and other negligible, age-related issues, this 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode is highly-detailed with distinct fine lines around trees, leaves and grass. Textures and threading in the clothing are distinct with the smallest stitching plainly visible, and the tiniest wrinkle on the face of Victor Sjöström is sharply defined and revealing with incredible lifelike clarity.
Presented in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio, the image also displays a very fine layer of grain, maintaining the classic film's cinematic quality, while contrast is pitch-perfect with crisp, brilliant whites throughout. Black levels are luxurious and accurate with remarkable gradational details and strong delineation within the darkest portions of the presentation.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Remastered at 24-bit from a 35mm print, as explained in the liner notes, the uncompressed PCM mono soundtrack for the Swedish classic is as equally impressive with a soundstage that feels broad, despite only coming from one channel. Acoustics and fidelity are superb, giving the lossless mix a good deal of presence and warmth. Dynamic range is never really pushed very far, but imaging delivers wonderful clarity detail with ambient effects in the background breaking much of the silence. While the crashing of waves on the beach is heard in the distance, we can also hear actors moving and rubbing against the vinyl seats of the cars. Being a character and dialogue-driven film, conversations are lucid and intelligible, providing the emotional inflections of actors splendidly. Overall, it's a wonderful and very fine high-rez track for an emotional, heartfelt film. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2013 7:37 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Marketa Lazarova (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] (1967)
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| Quote: | Initially, it's easy to understand why 'Marketa Lazarová' has been described as a difficult film, but when taken into consideration with the other, far more prestigious mark as the greatest Czech film ever made, the latter certainly wins out. Admittedly, the early segments of the film can be complex, as the unorthodox narrative and filmmaking techniques are not what many viewers will likely be familiar with, but as the story progresses it will no doubt captivate those who've committed themselves to the picture. This is another stellar release from Criterion with an outstanding image and wonderful sound, that's all backed up by some fascinating special features, which lend greater understanding and appreciation of a truly remarkable piece of work. Highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
In addition to the prestige 'Marketa Lazarová' brings with it from its native country, a significant amount of the appeal of this Criterion Blu-ray comes from the extensive work that was done to restore the film. And the end result of that labor is one of the most astonishing restorations in recent memory. The 4K digital film transfer not only cleans up decades worth of damage and lingering residue, but it also creates a much sharper image that is so richly detailed and clear it contradicts the age of the movie.
This is a black and white movie that has many lengthy portions taking place in open fields covered in snow, set against an overcast sky, and yet, with this transfer, there is still an incredible amount of depth in the foreground and background, despite so many natural elements seemingly in collusion to produce as flat an image as possible. The contrast is very high throughout, which is one of the reasons the picture has so much depth. Characters are very distinct against any background, and there is an excellent amount of gradation between the whitest whites and the blackest blacks. The gradation is so superb, in fact, that even in very dark scenes, there is plenty of detail present in the actor's faces, their elaborate costumes and even certain textural elements in the background.
As mentioned above, the image is also richly detailed. There is an abundance of fine detail on display that doesn't just look astonishing in terms of film quality, but it also makes the haggard look of so many of these actors feel even more authentic and believable, and enhances the quasi-documentary aspect of the film. Textures in buildings and clothing are also incredible to look at and there is an astonishing amount of detail to take in from one scene to the next (a highlight and superb example of the level of detail in the film is how easily it would be to count the individual links in the chainmail worn by several of the characters).
While the image undoubtedly looks better than it has in ages, there are a few instances of slight screen flicker and some smudges that still remain – either because the restoration process was unable to remove them, or because it would have altered the finished product too much from its source. Either way, this is a remarkable restoration that gives a very visually interesting movie the presentation it's always deserved.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'Marketa Lazarová' relies as heavily on its bombastic, sometimes overwhelming score, sound effects and interesting use of recorded dialogue, as it does on the visual component of its storytelling, and I'm pleased to say that this Blu-ray boasts an uncompressed monaural soundtrack that brings with it far more depth and range than would be expected from a track of this kind and as old.
Early on, the mix does a fantastic job of bringing the viewer into the film via a mostly flat narration, which then opens up into a surprisingly wide spectrum of elements that come together to enhance the film's non-visual atmosphere. Dialogue – which is very sparse early on, but becomes much more prevalent later on in the film – is very easy to hear, and every actor's voice is distinct and different from those around him or her, which helps non-Czech speakers to better distinguish who is speaking at a particular moment, as dialogue is often times wrapped over multiple cuts and transitions, allowing the film to progress without becoming a series of two-shot conversations.
Most impressive, however, is the overall balance that's on display in this mix. There are often times several elements rushing for the same outlet, and yet they never feel as though they are competing against one another. In fact, the atmospheric effects, dialogue and score all work in perfect harmony to compliment one another and blend to make a single, distinct listening experience that is remarkably free from scratches, hissing or pitch in the actors voices or other key sound elements. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 11:25 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Shoah (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] (1985)
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| Quote: | 'Shoah' is mandatory viewing by all. This very important film is the ultimate account of what happened during the holocaust. This film has won many awards over the years and deservedly so. There is nothing else like it. Criterion's video and audio presentations are flawless, which come complete with amazing extras. While it's a stiff price-tag, this documentary might be one of the best movies of all time. This is a must-own and receives my highest recommendation.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Shoah' comes with an impressive 4K HD transfer and is presented in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. As per the Criterion booklet, the transfer and restoration took place this year and created in 4K from the original 16mm negative, the restored in 2K for the final print we see on blu-ray. The image itself is great considering all of its different conditions and the way the movie was filmed. There is a consistent layer of grain still, but with the restoration and transfer, the depth and clarity is significantly improved.
The close-ups during the interviews clearly reveal much more vivid detail with the backgrounds. The colors vary from scene to scene with varying degrees of saturation, as the different filming conditions prohibited the best color use. However, all of the dirt, hairs, and scratches have been removed giving this Blu-ray a pristine look, free of any compression issues or flaws with banding or motion blur. This is a top-notch video-presentation.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
This release has a lossless French LPCM Mono audio mix and has been greatly improved on. If you are looking for the big-bang action sound with bass, look elsewhere. This is not the mix for you. There are more than five languages heard through this documentary, which Criterion has provided an amazing English sub-title option for its North American audience.
The dialogue is crystal clear. At times the translator is translating at the same time the interview subject is talking, but we always get the perfect sub-titles on time and is never confusing. Since this film is mostly on the center channel alone, there isn't much in the way of the ambient noises and there is never any sound from the rears. However, in the restoration process, the dialogue came out much more balanced is much clearer and cleaner, with no evidence of hissing, pops, or cracks. For a documentary relying solely on interviews, this is amazing. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 11:27 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
My Way [Blu-ray] (2011)
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| Quote: | ‘My Way’ was one of my favorite films of 2012 and is one of the best war films ever made. Its attention to detail and character is astounding. The video and audio presentations are demo-worthy, however I wish the extras were longer and that there was more of them. Maybe the studio is holding out for an ultimate edition. Despite the extras, this is a MUST OWN and receives my highest recommendation.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
‘My Way’ is has a glorious 1080p HD transfer and is presented in 2.35:1 aspect ratio. this film looks incredible in HD. The colors are rich and vibrant with the detail very sharp and clear. You can make out every scar, hair follicle, and thread of clothing on this one. The blacks run deep and inky with no evidence of crushed shadows.
The depth of this epic war film is amazing and everyone and every object look top notch on screen. You will notice, as to transfer our minds into the past with flashbacks, and some of the intense war battles, that the color hues change a bit, but that was the point. I did not notice any aliasing or edge enhancement with this release. I’d say this is demo-worthy.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The audio presentation on this disc is just as good as the video, meaning it is also top notch. You can choose between Korean and English on either lossless DTS-HD 5.1 audio mixes and Dolby Digital 2.0 audio mixes. Your full set of speakers will get a big workout from this awesome audio presentation. The dialogue is crystal clear and is mostly centered on the fronts, but since being a war film, there is dialogue coming in from all over - so you will hear it on all speakers. Plus, you will hear the dialogue in Korean, english, German, and Russian, which all sound great. The ambient noises and sound effects are killer, too, no pun intended.
The bullets whizzing by, explosions, debris, and screams are all distributed perfectly across the channels throughout the surrounds. It actually feels like you’re in a war zone. The bass will rattle the walls and floors of your place and packs quite a punch. The score is epic and sounds fantastic, and never drowns out the dialogue or sound effects. Again, a demo-worthy presentation of audio. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 11:30 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Tai Chi Hero [Blu-ray]
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| Quote: | I had a ball with 'Tai Chi Hero,' as I did with the first film. It's pacing is good and the action sequences are top notch. Add to that the Scott Pilgrim aspect with a good amount of comedy, and you have one entertaining film. The video and audio presentations are top notch here with one solid extra. If you're already a fan, or even if you're new to the genre, 'Tai Chi Hero' is recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Tai Chi Hero' comes with a gorgeous 1080p HD transfer presented in 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The detail is rich throughout, providing great closeups that define facial scars, dirt, and wrinkles on the actors. The rocky mountain terrain of the village is also rich in detail as well as the costumes of the actors, which clearly define stitching. Flesh tones come across natural and smooth with black levels running deep and inky.
The colors are rich and vibrant and tend to pop off the screen. The gold and silver of the steampunk styled machines shine well with the exteriors of the foreign land providing some nice greens, reds, and even grays. There is also some good depth in the image, giving the landscapes a full and breathtaking experience. I did not notice any banding or edge enhancement on this release, leaving this video presentation top notch.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
This release comes with an impressive lossless DTS-HD 5.1 audio mix in Mandarin and English. There are also stereo 2.0 mixes on this disc if you so desire. I'd stick with the Mandarin track, as the dubbed English version is silly. Heck, even some of the film is spoken in English. The dialogue is always crystal clear and easy to understand with no evidence of cracks, pops, or hissing.
The sound effects come across very well and use the surrounds quite often. The bigger action sequences pack a punch with all of the battle sounds and giant machines working. The directionality of these sounds are top notch as they are with some of the dialogue. The bass kicks in a few times and the score does a great job of adding suspense to each scene, while not drowning out any sound effects or dialogue. Lastly, the dynamic range is amazing here, giving this audio presentation a high score. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 11:32 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Oblivion (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy + UltraViolet) (2013)
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| Quote: | 'Oblivion' does indeed borrow a lot of its plot and twists from other sci-fi movies, but its look is wholly original. Kosinski has a keen eye for putting together a visually lush film. Cruise does exactly what he does almost every time he's asked to lead a film; he nails it. I found 'Oblivion' exciting, beautiful, and rewatchable, which is a lot more than I can say about many of this year's summer films. It comes highly recommended on all fronts. Even if you don't like the movie, the demo material this disc provides is some of the best you'll find anywhere.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
For those that were hoping for IMAX aspect ratio shifting like 'The Dark Knight,' you'll be disappointed here. 'Oblivion's 1080p picture is framed at a constant 2.40:1. While it doesn't have the full frame IMAX feel during some of the more action-packed scenes, 'Oblivion' still remains a beautiful movie to look at regardless.
Kosinski's technically artistic eye is always present. Take for example the sky home that Jack and Victoria live in. That isn't green screen you're seeing outside. It's a modern take on front projection. Those are real clouds and real sunsets. Many of his in-camera techniques lend themselves to making a spotless high-def presentation. Almost every scene is in stunning clarity, but it never looks un-cinematic.
Detail is mind-blowingly clear. Everything from the tiniest reflection in the sleek futuristic surfaces of the sky home, to the majesty of Cruise's ageless hair follicles. Everything comes across as clear as you'd expect. Even nighttime scenes are perfectly visible. Shadows are natural and wonderfully delineated. I didn't notice any ugly anomalies. No banding. No aliasing. Nothing but eye candy as far as the eye can see.
If you were hoping for a switching aspect ratio Blu-ray, then I'm sorry - this release isn't for you. However, none of the film's beauty has been diminished. If you're looking for a demo-quality disc to show off your home theater system with, then this one is it.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 mix is just as impressive. The electronic techno beat pulses through this presentation like something possessed. It feels (literally feels) like 'Tron: Legacy.' The bass is unmistakable and unforgettable. It rumbles passionately causing complete sensory enjoyment.
The movie's action uses pinpoint directionality. As the bubble ship flies through slim canyons, it seamlessly transports its sound from speaker to speaker creating the illusion that it's flying across your living room. The added side channels provide a wonderfully enveloping ambiance that truly makes the presentation demo material.
Dialogue is always clear, even though this is one of those movies where people dramatically whisper a lot. Rear channels are almost always engaged with some sort of frenzied futuristic activity. Like I said, the LFE is out of control... in a good way. Everything about this audio mix will make audiophiles drool. More demo-quality for your collection. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Aug 07, 2013 11:34 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Evil Dead (Blu-ray + UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2013)
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| Quote: | A relentless, ghastly, and jubilant phantasmagoria of nightmares, the 'Evil Dead' remake is a boisterous, outing that lives up to the cartoonish spirit of the Sam Raimi cult classic. From Uruguayan filmmaker Fede Alvarez, making his big-screen American debut, the film comes with a clever plot that feels fresh and new, but doesn't shy away from being seen as a reimagining/reboot/continuation of the beloved original while also drenching the whole affair with buckets of gory, blood-spattered gruesomeness. The Blu-ray arrives with an excellent video transfer and a reference-quality audio presentation. Supplements are disappointingly brief, but a couple enjoyable exclusives make the overall package a great purchase. This is recommended for fans everywhere.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Evil Dead' debuts unto Blu-ray with a fantastic, blood-splattered 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode that shows some stylized cinematography as well as a couple, mostly minor artifacts. The freshly-minted, digital-to-digital transfer is highly-detailed with excellent clarity of the aged furniture in the cabin and clean, resolute lines in the surrounding foliage. The tiniest scratch and gaping wound is distinct, while facial complexions are generally revealing with great lifelike texture during close-ups. However, the video's best aspects are interrupted by instances of banding that thankfully don't ruin the movie's enjoyment and very brief moment of aliasing when the kids first open the cellar door. Frankly, they're easy to overlook but there nonetheless and worth mentioning.
On the more positive side, the 2.39:1 image displays a well-balanced contrast with clean, bright whites throughout although the overall palette of the photography falls on the lower end of the grayscale. Colors appear subdued and restrained, adding to the story's gloomy atmosphere, but primaries remain accurate and cleanly rendered, especially the deep, rich reds of blood. Black levels are a bit disappointing though, showing many murky, cloudy shadows everywhere that take away from the finer details. All in all, it's a great high-def presentation for a terrifyingly fun flick.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The sadistic and depraved horror remake also finds its way to Blu-ray with a highly-entertaining, reference-quality DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack that will even your neighbors screaming bloody murder. The design is chockfull of all sorts of warped sounds that will have your stomach churning. From nails piercing skin and blood splattering across the floor to the detailed sound of flesh being ripped apart by a piece of glass, the mid-range is extensive and precise with splendid acoustical details. The low-end is robust and high-responsive, adding depth and a powerful oomph to the many jump scares. Imaging is broad and engaging with excellent, well-balanced channel separation and outstanding vocals which are never drowned out by the rest of the gruesome mayhem.
The bedlam continues with an enthralling and continuously active soundscape that saturates the room with a nightmarish atmosphere. Rain comes pouring down all around in large droplets; flies buzz with frenzied excitement above and behind; sinister laughs are heard in the distance from the cellar or in another room; the haunting creaks of wood echo throughout; and the scraping sound of a crowbar dragged across the floor moves from the back to the front with stunning ease. Directionality and panning are flawless and discrete, generating a nerve-wracking environment of dreadfulness. The lossless mix is impressive and terrifyingly immersive, one that raises goose bumps and will have you jumping off your seat. Crank it loud and strap yourself to the chair because this is a fun ride. |
Kal
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| Posted: Fri Aug 23, 2013 8:22 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Boardwalk Empire: The Complete Third Season (Blu-ray) (2012)
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| Quote: | At some point 'Boardwalk Empire' has got to end, but I don't want it too. Even with 'Game of Thrones' and 'Breaking Bad' taking a lot of the publicity, 'Boardwalk Empire has continued to crank out quality television that can stand up against any of the fan favorites today. The way it intricately weaves characters together is some of the best storytelling out there. It's methodical yet reserved. It's a show unlike any other really. With demo-quality audio and video, the third season is highly recommended for anyone who loves great television.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
There's no stopping the demo-quality video when it comes to 'Boardwalk Empire' on Blu-ray. Of any show on TV it certainly looks the most cinematic. Even with its digitally filmed picture, the show still takes on a depth and dimension that is rivaled only by 'Game of Thrones.' It's a gorgeous show, with outstanding set construction, and costume dressing. High definition simply gives the show's wealth of detail a way to shine.
The third season picks up where two and one left off. Detail is crisp and defined. Silken flapper dresses simmer while woolen gangster suits provide extremely lifelike texture. HBO has never been one to cram a ton of episodes onto one disc. Instead they spread them out, providing enough room for each to breathe. This way we're never subject to unsightly compression issues. Aliasing, banding, and blocking are nowhere to be found. What tiny bit of crushing exists is negligible at worst.
Color is sumptuous. The opulent lifestyle of the show's gangsters overflow with blood red and rich gold. Suits come in all sorts of colors from browns, to grays, to navy, and every shade in between. Each color is easily discernible on screen. One can even spot delicate pinstripes in mid-range shots. Let's not spend any more time gushing about this presentation. Just know that it's top-notch in every conceivable way.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Ditto for the audio! Oh, I have to write more than that? Well, here it goes.
'Boardwalk Empire' has always possessed one of the most varied, most exhilarating audio mixes on television. From the patented music of the Roaring '20s to the oddly modern music of the show's opening credits, the show's sound design has always been attention-grabbing. This season is no different.
Yes, the show's music, of which there is a ton, is always nicely pipe through all channels. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix throws its full weight behind each and every musical number on the soundtrack. LFE is alive and well. It accompanies the show's music, and also provides heft for gunshots, hand-to-hand fights, and the occasional explosion.
Dialogue is full of life and always intelligible. Yes, even Michael Shannon's litany of gruffly whispered lines are easily heard. Never do the show's variety of sound effects get in the way of hearing the spoken word. Prioritization is superb. Directionality too. Rear channels feature a wonderful assortment of ambiance, especially during parties. Just like the video presentation, the audio is as good as it gets in the world of television on Blu-ray. |
Kal
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| Posted: Fri Aug 23, 2013 8:25 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Great Gatsby (Blu-ray+DVD+UltraViolet Combo Pack) (2013)
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| Quote: | The fourth time isn't the charm. Though Baz Luhrmann's interpretation of 'The Great Gatsby' has merit, especially during its dark last hour, this glitzy, often garish adaptation of the F. Scott Fitzgerald classic can't be considered the definitive version. By favoring style over substance and adding too many contemporary elements, this manic film lacks the laser focus required to capture the elegance, underlying power, and lingering resonance of this iconic American tale. 'The Great Gatsby' doesn't just chronicle one man's obsession with a lost love and thirst for attention and respect, it paints a damning portrait of a wild, selfish era and the frivolous people who populate it. Luhrmann tries his best to honor Fitzgerald's agenda, but in an ironic twist, his own self-indulgence ultimately brings the film down. Sparkling video that's better than its 3D counterpart, strong audio - although you might not like some of what you hear on the hip-hop soundtrack - and plenty of supplements make this an attractive package. Far from the disaster some purport it to be, this 'Gatsby' just might grow on you through subsequent viewings and definitely deserves a look. But if you're searching for the real Jay Gatsby, the only place you'll find him is on your bookshelf.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Let me get one thing off my chest right away: Watching 'The Great Gatsby' in 2D is a far better experience than seeing it in 3D...at least it was for me. Without all the distracting pop-up elements vying for attention and adding a cartoonish quality to what should be a very serious film, I was able to more fully absorb the nuances of character and immerse myself in the setting of this fascinating, delicately woven tale. Yes, the CGI is just as noticeable here as it is in the 3D version, but it's not so in-your-face that it draws your focus away from the on-screen drama. In 2D, 'The Great Gatsby' is less manic, less artificial, and more engrossing. Subtleties that are lost in 3D are easier to discern here, and the entire film seems more cohesive.
The flat edition, like its 3D cousin, sports not a hint of grain, yet images seem sharper and crisper, and colors flaunt a heavier level of saturation and warmth. Struck from a pristine print, Warner's 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer is antiseptically clean and possesses plenty of pop, with strong contrast heightening the impact of all the picture components. Hues are bright and bold, especially the green foliage and red lipstick, while delicate pastels exude an airy feel. Blacks are rich and deep, whites are strong and resist blooming, and fleshtones look more natural and stable than they do in 3D. Background elements, such as the paintings on the cluttered mansion walls, are strikingly sharp; shadow delineation is quite good, with no instances of crush; and patterns remain rock solid without a single errant shimmer. Close-ups, too, are marvelously vivid, displaying fine facial features well.
I'm a fan of 3D, but the 2D transfer of 'The Great Gatsby' outshines the more dimensional version. All the opulence and vivid color, without any superfluous distractions, are beautifully showcased, enhancing both the viewing experience and, quite surprisingly, the film itself.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track makes good use of the surround channels, with subtle ambient effects often bleeding into the rears. Rain is especially well rendered, and accents such as fireworks and ice chipping are crisp and potent. Stereo separation up front is often distinct, and a wide dynamic scale generally handles everything that's thrown at it. Even the most cacophonous sequences never sound muddied, as the meticulous mix prioritizes the various audio segments well. I did notice a slight bit of occasional distortion during Maguire's overdubbed narration, but it didn't intrude too heavily upon the rest of the track. Bass frequencies provide a good amount of weight, with roaring roadster engines and the thumping beat of Jay Z's music rumbling through the soundscape.
Dialogue is always clear and easy to understand - even DiCaprio's quiet whispers come across well - and the various music styles all benefit from superior fidelity and tonal depth. Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue' beautifully fills the room, while the more pulsating strains of contemporary music commandeer all the speakers for a truly enveloping experience.
This track is chock full of many competing elements, but sorts them all out to produce a cohesive mix that's lively, bright, and often bold. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Fri Aug 23, 2013 8:27 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Shane [Blu-ray] (2013)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | One of the all-time great western films, 'Shane' explores potent issues, acutely delineates character, and sustains a subtle emotional thread with simplicity, grace, and an artistry that was the hallmark of its acclaimed director, George Stevens. Iconic moments abound in this tale of courage, family values, and individualism that's far from a typical genre shoot-'em-up. Oscar-winning cinematography, excellent performances, a literate script, and inspired direction combine to create a film rich in meaning and spirit that never fails to touch and move us, no matter how many times we've seen it. Warner's Blu-ray presentation is top-notch, featuring a glorious Technicolor transfer and appropriately explosive audio. Thin supplements are the only stain on this otherwise impressive release that no classic film buff should be without. Highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Shane' was originally scheduled for an early June Blu-ray release, but the reason for its delay actually dates back six decades to its 1953 premiere when the film was caught in the crosshairs of the widescreen revolution. George Stevens originally shot 'Shane' in the traditional 1.37:1 aspect ratio in 1951, but by the time the methodical director finished his meticulous editing of the movie, the widescreen process was poised to forever transform the motion picture industry, and no studio wanted to be left in the dust. So right before 'Shane' opened, Paramount cropped Loyal Griggs' gorgeous cinematography on the top and bottom of the frame so the film could be exhibited in the wider 1.66:1 format. 'Shane' thus became the first widescreen film of the modern era, beating by eight months the release of 20th Century Fox's highly touted CinemaScope epic, 'The Robe.' Only when 'Shane' premiered on television did viewers first see Stevens' original 1.37:1 version.
Rightfully, all home video editions of 'Shane' also used the original framing of the film, because it was ideally suited to 4:3 TV screens. But when it came time to produce a Blu-ray rendering of the classic western, 4:3 televisions had become obsolete, so Paramount decided to restore the 1.66:1 version of 'Shane' to maximize the widescreen real estate. The director's son, George Stevens Jr., who, as a 19-year-old, worked on the film as a production assistant, reviewed each shot for optimal framing, and, after the high-def transfer was struck, publicly stated he believed the restored 1.66:1 version would have met with his father's enthusiastic approval. Purists, however, cried foul, and the resulting online firestorm (director Woody Allen even voiced his objections) prompted Warner Home Video, which had since licensed the film from Paramount, to cancel the widescreen version and release the original on Blu-ray instead. While it would have been fantastic to have a 'Shane' edition featuring both aspect ratios (much like Criterion did with 'On the Waterfront,' which had three), WHV told Stevens, Jr. putting both versions on a single disc would not be possible.
Turning 'Shane' into a two-disc special edition would have been an expensive prospect, and I can understand WHV's reluctance. Though I would have loved to see the restored 1.66:1 version (and still hope to one day), my preference is always the director's original intent, and the 1.37:1 transfer scores such high marks it erases any disappointment. Without a doubt, this is how 'Shane' deserves to be seen, and even the most discriminating fan will be thrilled by this spectacular effort.
Lush, vibrant, and stunningly clear best describe the 'Shane' transfer, which maintains a lovely, but not obtrusive, grain structure that shows off Griggs' breathtaking, Oscar-winning cinematography to its best advantage. Contrast is pitch-perfect and accentuates the marvelous feeling of depth that distinguishes the sweeping vistas, which still look panoramic, even in the Academy ratio. Griggs used special lenses to make the Grand Teton Mountains look more immediate, and seeing the majestic, snow-capped peaks jut up behind the plateau's earthy landscape and sparkling streams is striking. Even utilitarian two-shots exude a hint of dimensionality that makes the drama feel more immediate. A master of composition, Stevens carefully and brilliantly constructed each angle to achieve the highest degree of impact (which makes it almost impossible to imagine the widescreen crop), and the transfer's color balancing and temperature beautifully complement his estimable technique.
Hues are rich and bold, but still appear natural and cohesive - not always easy when dealing with Technicolor. Blue skies, green fields, and varying shades of brown and gold keep the eye engaged, while deep black levels, rock-solid whites, and stable, true fleshtones tie nicely into the palette. The day-for-night scenes composing the bulk of the film's climax are dazzling in their clarity and presence, with not a hint of crush obscuring any details. Background elements are also crystal clear, and fabrics, from the fringe on Shane's vest to Wilson's ominous leather glove, flaunt appropriate grades of texture.
Close-ups look great, too, especially those of the fresh-faced and wide-eyed Brandon De Wilde. At age 51, Jean Arthur could pass for 10 years younger, but her tight shots are diffused - a typical way of photographing leading ladies in that era - and they constitute the only soft moments in an otherwise crisp and elegant presentation. Warner, as usual, treats its vintage product with the utmost respect, scrubbing away all print defects, such as marks or scratches, and shying away from any enhancements. Without question, this is an A-plus transfer that does this classic movie proud, heightening its raw power while stimulating our senses.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
George Stevens was one of the first directors to champion the narrative impact of audio and put sound on the same artistic plane as images. He became a sound pioneer of sorts in the 1950s, and his innovations more than likely contributed to the high level of audio we enjoy in movies today. For 'Shane,' Stevens wanted an explosive sound for each burst of gunfire, and went to great lengths - reportedly firing small cannonballs into trashcans - to achieve the desired effect. The first jolt, when Shane demonstrates his sharpshooting skills to young Joey, almost knocks you out of your chair, thanks to a potent DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track that supplies as much power as some of its 5.1 cousins. But the intermittent blasts also challenge the balance of the rest of the mix, which requires some volume tinkering to achieve a comfortable level. All in all, though, this track delivers solid audio, marked by bright, expansive high end tones and resonant lows, with plenty of ambient subtleties in between providing wonderful nuances.
Any age-related imperfections have been meticulously erased, leaving a clean, vibrant track that complements the frontier setting and tense confrontations well. In addition to the gunfire, accents such as shattering glass, fisticuffs, and splintering wood are remarkably potent, while Victor Young's pedestrian yet eminently hummable music score enjoys a high degree of fidelity and tonal depth, with the soaring crescendos nicely resisting distortion. Though there's not much in the way of stereo separation or opportunities for rumbling bass, the track possesses a full-bodied, expansive feel that belies its vintage roots.
The audio's biggest problem, unfortunately, is the dialogue, which occasionally sounds a bit muffled. This may well be an issue with the original mix, but the inability to comprehend certain lines somewhat hampers enjoyment of the film. Conversations also seem to be pitched at a slightly lower level than other elements of the track, but thankfully the discrepancy isn't very severe.
Despite this one caveat, the audio for 'Shane' is crisp and powerful, and Stevens would certainly relish hearing the gunfire in all its lossless glory. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Fri Sep 06, 2013 1:16 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Now You See Me (Extended Edition) [Blu-ray]
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| Quote: | Although it's not nearly as much fun the second time around, 'Now You See Me' is still an exciting rollercoaster ride of a movie that provides some top-notch entertainment. Enjoying the movie (especially during that second or third viewing) requires a great deal of suspension of disbelief, but most should find it worth their time and money. Recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Now You See Me' was shot on 35mm film and contains a ton of scenes that are both dimly lit and rely on visible spotlights/stage lights for the image. Therefore, I had a concern that both banding and black levels might be a big issue with this 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 Blu-ray transfer. Thankfully, neither are much of an issue at all. Black levels are quite strong, despite a few moments here and there where shadows prove hard to distinguish. Likewise, despite all the lights that are part of the stage shows in the movie, banding never seems to be a problem. Lens flares are the most annoying thing, but that's a filmmaker issue and has nothing to do with this transfer (and keep in mind that Star Trek producers Bob Orci and Alex Kurtzman were also producers on this movie, so maybe they convinced Louis Leterrier that lens flares look cool). Film grain is still present, although nicely pushed into the background.
While both facial details and backgrounds are sharp throughout, I did notice a slight inconsistency in skin tones from scene to scene. While skin tones look normal in most exterior sequences (as well as during the stage performances), they sometimes look a little oversaturated in some of the interior set scenes. Again, a large part of this is probably just the difference between natural lighting, the visible lighting of the stage segments, and the professional camera lighting of the stuff shot on sets.
All of the above are minor quibbles, and most will not even be noticed except by the most discerning of viewers. Overall, this is an excellent transfer by Summit/Lionsgate, and the movie looks great in HD.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
For full disclosure before discussing the audio, the mix here is an English DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track, and I only have a 5.1 setup, so my reactions to the audio are those of a 7.1 track downmixed into 5.1, rather than being able to hear the full distinctness of the 7.1 track. With that in mind, I found the audio to be just as well-done as the video transfer is. Big releases like 'Now You See Me' often tend to amp up the sounds and soundtrack at the expense of the spoken dialogue, but everything seems to be properly mixed here. Big explosions or events in the film still have the 'umph' they're supposed to without any high-end distortion, while quieter scenes still have subtle background noises. So the dynamic range throughout is excellent.
In addition to the 7.1 lossless track, the Blu-ray includes a Dolby Digital 2.0 track that has been 'optimized for late night listening', whatever that is supposed to mean. I suspect it's just code for, 'hey, you'll only be getting audio from your front speakers, so it won't wake the neighbors'. There's also an English Descriptive Audio track as well as a Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 track. Subtitles are available in English, English SDH, and Spanish. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Fri Sep 06, 2013 1:19 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Epic (Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack) (2013)
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| Quote: | Because the trailers for 'Epic' made it out to be a mish-mash of other family films, I literally expected nothing from it when I popped in the Blu-ray. Much to my surprise, I found it to be quite enjoyable and much better than the most of this summer's other family films. My daughters joined me for my second viewing (the 2D disc) and both enjoyed it from beginning to end. The story of 'Epic' isn't the most unique, but it also isn't without its creative charm. The 3D Blu-ray set includes every possible digital format of the film (3D BD, 2D BD, DVD, Digital Copy and Ultraviolet), it also comes with extracurricular family entertainment. A packet containing two sets of easy-to-grow seeds is included. Truthfully, I look forward to planting them with my girls when spring rolls around again. The flawless audio and video qualities of the 3D Blu-ray are just another reason this set is a worthy purchase. Most of the special features are directed toward children, but there's a decent 25-minute making-of for the adults. To the casual moviegoer, 'Epic' may only be worthy of renting, but if you have children, I definitely recommend owning it.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Fox has given 'Epic' an absolutely flawless 3D 1080p/MVC (at 41 MBPS) encode in a 2.40:1 aspect ratio. Animation is always the best format for 3D Blu-rays and 'Epic' is no exception.
'Epic' doesn't use gimmicky 3D of forcing images off the screen – which is rare for a 3D kids movie. Instead, it pushes the world of the film deep beyond the face of the television, as if the borders of the screen are the framing of a window. The world created is visually appealing, appearing like the images of fantasies in the mind of a child. Taking place in large settings, there are layers upon layers of material that extend the picture far into the background. From dust particles floating through the foreground to the blowing trees of the background, the distance between the two is an infinite playing field for the action of the film. There is never a lack of depth. The filmmakers ensured that objects are constantly placed in all areas of this setting. While some movies make you forget that you're watching a 3D movie, with 'Epic,' the amazing environments are subconscious reminders.
I appreciate the amount of detail that 'Epic' was given. The lighting of the forest gives the picture a warm and glowing softness that carries a stark contrast with the lifeless world of the Boggins. No matter which of the two settings we're in, fine details are visible. Be it hairs on a bee's body, leafy patterns, rough bark or oily bird feathers, textures and fine features can always be seen.
The animation is so strong that it leaves no room for banding or aliasing. Colors are so vibrant that when we see the gray result of the Boggins' decay, the gravity of their rot carries a strong emphasis. Black levels are deep and rich without removing the fantastic fine details. After watching the film twice – once in 3D and once in 2D – I cannot find a single fault with the impressive picture quality.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
I love that more and more studios are starting to go with 7.1 audio. Fox has given 'Epic' the 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio treatment. Just as much love was put into the audio mix as the video quality.
From the very opening scene, the amazing dynamics of the audio mix become evident. Set mostly in forests, environmental sounds of cicadas, birds and bugs are layered throughout the channels. The sounds of a breeze blowing through leaves of a tree creates an imaging effect that allows you to follow the direction of the wind. Other sounds, such as soaring arrows or passing bats and birds, also show off the strength of imaging. All speakers are constantly lit up with these great examples of environmental effects mixing.
The vocal tracks are absolutely clean and clear. Large crowd scenes offer background banter that emits from all channels. Music also plays perfectly. Be it Steven Tyler's in-movie song, Beyonce's closing credits track or Danny Elfman's score, the music is a great-sounding spacer-filler. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2013 4:46 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] (1965)
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| Quote: | 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' is a methodical, morally complex spy drama marked by intricate scripting, thoughtful direction, stark visuals, and a powerful performance from the great Richard Burton. The video and audio are both exceptional, offering fans a wonderfully authentic and respectful technical presentation. Criterion has put together a great collection of supplements as well, including fascinating insights from the author of the source material. Though its slow pace won't appeal to all viewers, the film is one of my favorite espionage movies, and this is exactly the kind of top-tier release that it deserves. Very Highly Recommended!
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
The movie is provided with a black and white 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer in the 1.66:1 aspect ratio. With its noir influenced visuals and striking cinematography, the film comes to Blu-ray with an exceptional transfer free from any unnecessary processing.
The print is in good shape, but there are some negligible specks and scratches visible periodically (particularly across the right edge of the frame). A moderate to heavy layer of natural grain is preserved, giving the image a rich sense of filmic texture. Clarity is very impressive, offering a sharp picture with strong dimension. Fine details on clothing and faces are especially prominent, and one can see every line of tormented anguish on Burton's tired and defeated face. The black and white cinematography features a heavy emphasis on shadow and light, and the grayscale is natural and even, offering strong contrast (the way the rain slicked streets pop off the screen is particularly impressive). Whites are bright and though not quite inky, blacks are very solid and, with the exception of some fleeting pulsing, steady.
Authentic and richly detailed, 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' makes its high-def debut in style. There are some minor signs of damage, but overall, this is a top-tier presentation that should more than please fans.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The audio is presented in an English LPCM 2.0 stereo track with optional English subtitles. Clean and full-bodied, this is an excellent mix that serves the film well with no technical issues.
Dialogue is clear and rich, completely avoiding the thin quality found in some films of this age. Likewise, the mournful score features strong fidelity and effective stereo separation, perfectly enhancing the somber mood of the film's images. Effects work is modest, but directionality is present across the two channel presentation, creating a solid sense of atmosphere. Dynamic range is wide, conveying gentle sounds like rain and more aggressive noises like a blaring horn with ample presence and no distortion. Bass activity is mostly negligible, but a few scenes feature decent low frequencies (the roaring engine of a plane, for instance). Thankfully, there are no major instances of crackle, pop, or hissing.
Crisp and free from any age-related problems, the audio comes through wonderfully with no real complaints to speak of. The 2.0 sound design is fairly restrained, but the mix is respectful and suits the content well. |
Kal
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