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kal
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| Posted: Mon Aug 06, 2012 9:10 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Boss: Season One [Blu-ray] (2011)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | 'Boss' is political thriller fraught with devious characters trying their best to hold onto the power that they so desperately crave. It doesn't show politics in a good light, but that's just the point. The people in this show aren't moral people. They speak and preach about morals, but they don't act on them, it's basically politics like you always thought they were being played. The key here is Grammer's performance. His cruelty knows no bounds, but he's okay with that as long as he's winning. With stellar video and audio presentations, this Starz show comes highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Even in the darkest corridors and corners of Chicago's political world, 'Boss's 1080p picture shines. Here we're presented with a nearly flawless transfer featuring wonderfully saturated details, vividly bright colors, and deep inky blacks.
The show is full of extreme close-ups on faces (and specific sexual body parts during certain scenes). It's easy to see details as tiny as goosebumps form on the skin. Close-ups on eyes reveal details in the irises and veins around the eye. Pores are instantly visible giving the show a high-def look. There are never any soft scenes to speak of (except when the edges of the shot are specifically made to look feathered for a certain look).
Colors are well-saturated. From the grays, blacks, and browns of the Chicago skyscrapers to the green grasses of the city's golf courses, whatever color the video is presenting shines. Skintones are always natural and never seem out of balance. Contrast is taken care of. Shadows are nicely cast, giving the show a nicely delineated picture. Everything about the look of this show is better on Blu-ray. I originally watched it on my Comcast hook-up and artifacts appeared often enough to be distracting. Here, everything is crystal clear. This is a great looking TV show.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Lionsgate provides the show with a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 mix. Unlike 'Nurse Jackie' (another Lionsgate property that is released with DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1) 'Boss' seems to use the extra channels to its benefit. There are many more scenes and situations where the added channels help create an enveloping feeling.
Open Chicago streets are alive with ambient sound. The rear and side channels pick up honking cars, chatting people, and the applause of the many political speech gatherings in the show. As Tom Kane gives his speech in the first episode, endorsing Mac Cullen, you'll be able to hear his voice reverberating through the surround speakers, much like it would be if you were standing in the middle of that crowd listening to him speak.
The soundtrack music calls for a heavy helping of subtle bass. This isn't shake-your-room bass, but the LFE here is nice and consistent throughout. Dialogue is always clear and never broken up by the constant thoroughfare of Chicago life. Whenever a conversation takes place outside on the busy streets of the city, voices are prioritized in such a way that they never become lost or garbled with all the other action around them. There may not be a lot of "wow" moments here, but the 7.1 mix for 'Boss' is an engulfing mix simply because it's so well put together. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2012 2:22 am Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Battleship (Two-Disc Combo Pack: 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: | Director Peter Berg directs the flop wannabe-summer-blockbuster based on the classic Hasbro board game and turns it into something surprisingly fun. Starring Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsgård, Rihanna, Brooklyn Decker, and Liam Neeson, 'Battleship' is a bloated, convoluted mishmash that explodes on screen and relishes in the over-the-top excess of CGI absurdity, delivering exactly what it promises as pure popcorn entertainment. The movie splashes onto Blu-ray with a stunning reference quality transfer and a bombastically loud, demo-worthy audio presentation. While a few the supplements are the same as in the DVD release, the majority are high-def exclusives, ensuring that the Blu-ray package is the one fans will want.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Battleship' blows Blu-ray out of the water with a flawless, demo-worthy 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode that consistently surprises from beginning to end. Although a little too trigger happy with the lens flare effect, Tobias A. Schliessler's photography is simply stunning with immaculate, crisp whites everywhere. It's one gorgeous panoramic shot of Hawaii after another while the overall picture maintains brilliantly vivid and comfortably bright. Black levels are inky rich and penetrating with top-notch delineation of background information within the shadows. The entire video has a nice three-dimensional feel to it and comes with an attractive cinematic appeal. Primaries are absolutely sumptuous but accurately saturated, while the softer secondary hues fill the rest of the screen with warmth and a great deal of energy.
Presented in a 2.40:1 aspect ratio, the transfer is one of the sharpest and most revealing we've seen in a long while from a live-action movie. The faces of the cast are probably the most shocking, exposing every pore, wrinkle, and superficial blemish. Flesh tones and complexions appear natural and accurate to the tropical climate while also showing superb lifelike textures in everyone. Stitching and threading in the various uniforms are plainly visible as is every distinct line, bolt and piece of equipment aboard the destroyers at the beginning and the battleship at the end. Fine detailing continues in the CGI alien warships where we can clearly make out even the smallest bit of rust-like spots and the tiniest indent on the metallic exterior suggesting a history of battle. The creatures' spacesuits also display terrific definition of scars and minor imperfections. In the end, this is an outstanding high-def debut sure to make fans very happy.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Being the big, garishly ear-splitting and thunderous action extravaganza to usher in the summer movie madness could expect anything less from 'Battleship' other than... well, a "big, garishly ear-splitting and thunderous" soundtrack.
Be warned, this DTS-HD Master Audio track is incredibly loud, especially when the battle commences and things start exploding. The surrounds consistently come alive with extraordinary accuracy and directionality, filling the room with the sounds of objects flying everywhere. Missiles and shells from naval guns fly overhead to their target while the alien peg-like bombs whiz by side speakers and land in the back. Whether it's jet fighters, spaceships, ore aircraft moving from the front to the rears with seamless panning, creating a terrifically-entertaining soundfield that's immersive and engaging. Atmospherics during some of the quieter sequences are not as pronounced as others, but they are still audible in the distance, keeping an active soundscape.
Amid the boisterous mayhem, vocals and conversations remain crystal clear and precise so that we can hear every ridiculous piece of dialogue uttered by the entire cast. The soundstage is expansive with excellent fidelity and warmth, maintaining a sprawling image with plenty of off-screen activity. Dynamics and acoustics are fantastic, lighting up the screen with specific definition and separation in the upper frequencies without feeling too bright. Every ping, thump and clash of metal on metal is perfectly heard with amazingly distinct clarity.
The one and only gripe of the whole design is a low-end that doesn't quite capture the depth and magnitude of what's seen on screen. Don't get me wrong, there's plenty of mid-bass to feel the excitement and enjoy the explosive action, providing some fun tactile moments. But given the scale and gravity of these naval battles, bass never digs very deep or generate the sort of wall-rattling, chest-pounding intensity we'd expect from a contemporary sci-fi actioner such as this. Aside from that one negligible grumble, admittedly a trivial personal preference, this lossless mix is a total blast. Shriekingly loud and idiotically bombastic but strikingly detailed and razor-sharp nonetheless, 'Battleship' is an aural delight on Blu-ray. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2012 2:25 am Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Quadrophenia (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] (1979)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | Of course, it's highly recommended for Who fans because of the new audio, but I'd even recommend this to others who aren't into the band or rock 'n' roll. The film does a very good job capturing a moment in time while telling a universal story that isn't limited to teenagers, as anyone let down by people and institutions around them can identify with it. I wish Townshend or Daltrey could have participated in new features, but that's my only gripe.
If there's anything you take away from the review, make sure it's "play it loud."
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
The video has been given a 1080p/AVC-MPEG-4 encoded transfer displayed at 1.85:1. The liner notes reveal, "This new digital transfer was created in 2K resolution on a Spirit 4K film scanner from a 35mm interpositive. It was then color graded on a Baselight 8 digital grading system, under the supervision of director of photography Brian Tufano. Thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, splices, warps, jitter, and flicker were manually removed using MTI's DRS and Pixel Farm's PFClean, while Image Systems' Phoenix was used for small dirt, grain, and noise reduction."
The colors look good, with reds like Dave's sweater standing out among his fellow Mods who are usually in a drab green jacket. Whites are clean and solid as seen in the Dover cliffs. Blacks aren't as strong, some times getting swallowed up into each other. There's strong shadow delineation, as seen by how well the spectators in the first music club can be seen in the back of the room.
There's a good amount of grain that increases when the light decreases. Details are solid, from the sharp lines seen in the patterns in the suits of a few Mods to architectural textures like the walls of Jimmy's parents' apartment. When Roddam and cinematographer Brian Tufano chose lens to deliver wide depth of field, it comes across in the sharp focus seen in the image.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The audio is available in English LPCM 2.0 and DTS-HD Master Audio. The extensive liner notes reveal, "The film was originally released with a 2.0 stereo soundtrack, which is presented as the default track on this disc. It was restored and remastered at 24-bit from the 1979 Dolby magnetic master. Artifacts such as dropouts, azimuth errors, hums, and thumps were manually mitigated using the Pro Tools HD platform. "Pete Townsend originally envisioned the 1973 album Quadrophenia as a quadraphonic, or four-channel surround, recording. In 2011, Townsend and the Who's sound engineer, Bob Pridden, went back to the record's original source tapes to create a deluxe, remastered box set of the album, entitled Quadrophenia: The Director's Cut, for which they also created new 5.1 surround versions of certain songs. Knowing that this work had been done, Criterion contacted the band and asked them to work with us on making 5.1 versions of the Who songs in the movie. "For this release of 'Quadrophenia', we created an all-new, remixed 5.1 surround soundtrack, produced at 24-bit using a variety of sound elements from the original album and the 1979 movie. All the Who music was taken from first-generation sources - 4 track 1/2-inch, 8 track 1-inch, and 16-track and 24-track 2-inch analogue tapes - found in the band's archives. In some cases, the songs were reconstructed from scratch from these original multitrack recordings. The film's dialogue and effects were taken from the original 35mm dialogue/music/effects magnetic audio stems. The availability of these separate dialogue and effects stems enabled us to render a detailed and engaging 5.1 audio image. Under the supervision of the band and the film's editor, Sean Barton, a brand-new mix was created at Deluxe 142, in London, by mixer Alan Sallabank, and approved by director Franc Roddam. The staggering result is an immersive experience, and we suggest you play it loud."
I would echo that suggestion because the 5.1 mix sounds amazing, so I am not going to side with the purists this time. The music has outstanding fidelity. The vocals, which are primarily Roger Daltrey's, are clear and don't get buried in the mix. John Entwistle's superb work is on display right from "The Real Me" in the opening credits. Heavy yet nimble bass lines get the subwoofer thumping as does Keith Moon's controlled, chaotic drumming. The warm brassy tone of the horns rings out during "5.15". Townshend's masterful guitar work has rarely sounded better.
When songs are from sources within a scene, like "Be My Baby" playing at Sandra's party, the room tone ambiance softens the clarity and power of the music. Overall ambiance is good. For example, down in Brighton, the large group of kids milling and the chaos that ensues can be heard in the surrounds. The dialogue is clear and quiet moments are free of hiss or defect. The track has an extremely wide dynamic range, from the loudness of The Who rocking to quiet sounds like faint footsteps running across wet pavement. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2012 2:27 am Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Hunger Games [2-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 Hunger Games' delivers the goods on Blu-ray when it comes to packing a punch in the technical categories. Fans will absolutely love this release, while casual film buffs will probably like it too. You already know what you're getting with 'Hunger Games' so it's pretty easy to know if it's for you or not. I, for one, find the story entertaining and the movie well-acted. This is a highly recommended release for sure.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Lionsgate's 1080p AVC-encoded presentation is quite a treat. Overall, this is a strikingly clear, very well produced big budget movie whose visuals transfer really well to the high-def format. Faces feature as much detail as they possibly could. There may be a little too much detail in the case of Efie (Elizabeth Banks). Her close-ups reveal how caked-on her make-up for the movie really is. Close-ups on other people reveal all sorts of facial details, from Donald Sutherland's unruly beard hair to Lawrence's smooth, rosy-cheeked skin. Detail on textures is also great as tree bark is naturally bumpy and rough and clothing shows individual threads or wrinkles depending on whether it's woven or leather.
Colors are great here too, even though there have been quite a few post-production filters added onto the look. Depending on the setting a light green or light blue filters has been added. Green is a dominate color here, as the entirety of the games are fought in a lush forest setting. The sterile environment of the command center controlling the game offers cool blues. The strange clothing of those people in The Capitol pop off the screen as pinks, yellows, purples and neon blues are commonplace. There really isn't a color that isn't represented here in one form or another, making for a highly colorful presentation that is rendered well.
Blacks are deep and sufficiently inky. Shadows are perfectly delineated too, offering a detailed view of people and objects even in low light. I didn't notice any artifacts to report. Banding and aliasing stayed at bay. There was one scene where a character's shirt shimmered for a few seconds, but that was it. The rest of the movie is flawless looking, reminding me of what I saw in the theaters when it first came out.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
If the visual presentation was near perfection, the 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio presentation is perfection. This is a butt-kicking, ear-thumping audio mix that puts you right smack-dab in the center of the action and never let's go.
The additional two channels really help in providing and enveloping feel. As Katniss runs from other game participants we can hear them yelling at her through the rear speakers as the rush of foliage and the crunch of twigs are happening in the front. A swarm of killer bees is unleashed and all of the channels fill up with a deadly buzzing that really makes you feel like you stepped into the middle of a bunch of angry bees. LFE is also astounding. Fireballs shoot past Katniss as a wildfire is created in the game. The loud whoosh and boom they create rumble the floor, walls, and pictures if you've got them. Even subtle ambiance is completely noticeable. The scene where Katniss and Rue use mocking jays to communicate offers pin-point accuracy in the speakers as the whistling mocking jay song bounces from one channel to the other as it travels further away.
Dialogue is always clear and comes directly from the center channel with the front channels offering pitch-perfect directionality when needs be. There's nothing that's left out here. Lionsgate's audio mix covers all the bases and what you end up with is a demo-quality track which you could use to show off your set-up. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2012 2:29 am Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Boardwalk Empire: The Complete Second Season (Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy) (2011)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | I liked season one just a little bit more, but season two does introduce a ton of new interesting twists. Watching Nucky really struggle to regain his power is fascinating simply because he seemed so invulnerable in the first season. The backdoor political bargaining is amped up and provides for some great face-to-face scenes as characters do much more backstabbing than actual stabbing. This is a great show with a wonderful presentation in both the audio and visual departments. 'Boardwalk Empire: Season Two' comes highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Was there any doubt that HBO would provide the demo-quality goods again? Season one featured a stellar visual presentation and season two is no different. This show has some of the most beautiful visuals in all of television. The striking period sets of a 1920s Atlantic City boardwalk are crisply done. No expense was spared on the show's attention to detail, and believe me high definition captures every detail there is to be had.
Fine detail is always recognizable here. Textures, everything from the lady-like lace of Margaret's fine dresses to Nucky's finely tailored pin-striped suits, appear as tangible things. Like you could reach out and run your fingers across them. Faces are replete with details like scars, age-lines, facial hair, small pores, bruises, and shiny tears (of which there are many). With this type of fine detail it's easy to focus on the subtle performances by many of the actors in the show. The way they purse their lips, watching the tears well up in their blood-shot eyes, everything has a lifelike quality to it. Edges have a crispness to them. Contrast is perfectly balanced.
Colors are bright and bold. Whenever Nucky and his entourage wander into their favorite restaurant on the boardwalk our eyes are greeted with all manner of colors. The women's colorful dresses – pinks, greens, blues, and purples – shine under the lights while the dark suits of the men are all very well defined. Speaking of darker colors, blacks here are as deep and inky as they can get. They never appear flat or tinged with grey. As such the dark blacks provide ample shadows that are never crushing. I didn't notice any technical anomalies that should worry anyone. Aliasing, shimmering, and banding are all kept away. This is another flawless HBO presentation. Just sit back and enjoy.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Like the first season, the second season's audio prowess is, in a word, fantastic. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is a full-bodied work of art. Sure, the show is quite talkative, but it still has its action-inspired moments where it shines. Most of all though, the show's audio mix provides a lifelike, genuine feel that engulfs anyone watching it.
The rear speakers are always alive with ambient commotion. Restaurants are humming with patron chatter, speakeasies are boisterous places where men hoot and holler, and even a burlesque party in Nucky's suite that leads to a bunch of men laughing and women giggling as the rear speakers pick up every ambient sound with perfect pitch and detail. When Nucky gives a speech on Memorial Day his voice, projected by a microphone, can be heard echoing throughout the sound stage.
The show features a lot or 20s music and it's really given a chance to shine. What's great is the way the mix handles music played from an old-time record player compared to music that takes over the soundtrack usually during the show's many character montages. The record music is light, with very little bass, and comes from the front speakers only. The soundtrack music fills each channel and adds much more low-end sound. Its small details like these that make this a great soundtrack. On top of that dialogue is always clear, even when people whisper. You won't be disappointed with this demo-quality track. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Sun Oct 21, 2012 9:50 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Titanic (Four-Disc Combo: Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / Digital Copy) (1997)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | One of the biggest box-office successes in movie history features a rather generic and formulaic plot about a pair of star-crossed lovers during the ill-fated maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic. Nevertheless, the incredibly simple story is surprisingly the right approach for immersing audiences into the romance and glamor of the ship once called "The Last Word in Luxury" and its unfortunate plunge to the bottom of the Atlantic. This Blu-ray edition arrives with a spectacular 3D conversion that amazingly adds another immersive experience to the film and an interesting audio presentation that expands with the narrative. The package is also brimming with bonus features that will keep viewers occupied for hours, making this a must-own for devoted 3D fans.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
If I hadn't seen it for myself, I never would have believed it. 'Titanic – 3D' is definitely the best 3D conversion of a catalog title (or of any title, for that matter) we've seen released on the format. Comparatively, natively-shot features surely surpass this romantic favorite when it comes to video quality, yet on its own terms, the video is demo-worthy and spectacular. Considering Cameron is one of the leading pioneers of this latest filmmaking trend and this is also one of his biggest sellers, I'm not all that surprised he would place a personal investment and take enormously great care to ensure the best possible high-def transfer, presented in its open matte aspect ratio of 1.78:1for the first time on home video.
This presentation is not about gimmick effects or astounding audiences with cool camera tricks. It's about immersing viewers and pulling them further into the world of the "Ship of Dreams," creating a sense of almost being there. And on that front, the movie succeeds like a charm. From the moment it commences, we instantly notice the incredible amount of depth and feel as if characters on screen move within a genuine three-dimensional space. The background penetrates deep into the screen, making the hallways and promenade decks feel elongated and far beyond our distance. Whether watching Rose suffer another mindless sit-down chat with snobs or Jack sneaks about in the back, separation of the foreground is sharp and pristine, giving viewers a wonderful pop-up book effect on several occasions. The exterior of the ship and all the interior rooms appear immense and spacious as characters walk around independently of their surroundings.
Even with the darkened glasses, the high-def video is richly saturated with a wide range display of colors, from lush, vibrant primaries and warm, full-bodied secondary hues which bring Russell Carpenter's cinematography to life. Facial complexions appear natural with astounding lifelike textures. Contrast is pitch-perfect with crisp, brilliant whites that add for some highly impressive moments of clarity while black levels remain luxurious and sumptuous with deep penetrating shadows. Definition is razor-sharp and highly-detailed, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the tremendous amount of work and time that was put into the film's making. We can clearly make out the individual stitching and threading of the costumes, practically count each rivet holding the ship together, scrutinize the detailed, ornate woodwork of the grand staircase, and be amazed by the intricate details of the decorations on walls. I could go on and on, but simply put, this 3D presentation is endlessly adorned with so much for the eyes to take in and with the added dimensionality to boot, it's a spectacular show.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Like its name implies, 'Titanic' splashes onto Blu-ray with a colossal audio presentation that adds another immersive layer to the 3D presentation. The DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack reveals the design to be a rather interesting one that starts off very subtle and understated, but it grows with the narrative into something quite spectacular and engaging. It's as if deliberately broken into two parts, much like the story itself, between a guided tour of the ship and its thrilling sinking.
For the first half, the movie is very front-heavy with only a few scattered pieces of atmospherics, nicely enhancing the soundfield at certain moments. Voices are detailed and precise in the center, and channel separation is well-balanced. With a clean, sharply-detailed mid-range, imaging feels wide and expansive, particularly during scenes on the promenade deck or while in the middle of large gatherings with plenty of convincing off-screen effects. James Horner's musical score spreads across the speakers with persuasive fidelity and acoustics while very lightly bleeding into the background.
It's not until the second half, when the entire sound system suddenly comes alive with thrills and excitement, beginning with some mild directionality soon after the ship crashes with the iceberg. As panic slowly ensues, passengers are heard running around, coupled with the noises of crew members readying for the inevitable. When the ship starts to take in lots of water, the rears display the loud cracks of wood and the bending of steel with enthralling discrete clarity. In the final moments, the screams of people, the splashing of water, and the death moans of the "Ship of Dreams" fills the entire room and envelopes the listening area. The subwoofer also takes a commanding presence with some deeply powerful ultra-low frequency effects which add to the drama and apprehension while the mid-bass provides an effectively impactful punch to other action sequences.
This first half of the film is an interestingly restrained design, but the second half offers an engrossing aural experience, making this a reference quality lossless mix. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Oct 21, 2012 9:52 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Moonrise Kingdom (Two-Disc Combo Pack: 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: | Just try watching 'Moonrise Kingdom' without a permanent smile on your face. It's pure, unfiltered imagination. Its young actors work brilliantly together to create a bond between two onscreen characters that is rarely this strong. It's a delightful little film, one that is much more layered and affecting than its simplistic story would lead you to believe. With wonderfully meticulous audio and video presentations, this one comes highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Moonrise Kingdom' has a fantastic old-timey cinematic look to it because Anderson filmed the movie with Super 16. The choice to go with 16mm might frighten some, since the film stock can be overly grainy sometimes. Don't fret though, because Anderson, under the watchful eye of his accomplished cinematographer Robert Yeoman, has created a rich film that looks great in HD.
Going with 16mm does have its limitations on finer detail though. Mid-range shots have that familiar soft, gauzy look to them. Grain is thick throughout the movie, but it only adds to the texture of a bygone era of film. An era that Anderson is trying to recreate here. The grain, which is present throughout the film, provides a very natural thematic feel. Almost like you're watching the movie at an old art house theater only it's completely free from any needless dirt, specks, or grime.
Shadow detail is hampered somewhat, however, I was surprised at the amount of detail the movie culled from its 16mm source. The heavy grain in 16mm tends to create very heavy, indistinct blacks which crush detail. While detail in the dark isn't as sharp as it would be in 35mm, there are plenty of scenes where darkness falls, but detail doesn't take a huge nosedive. Edges are still discernible during nighttime scenes. Facial features may be gobbled up from time to time by heavy shadows though. Blacks are deep and resolute. The color palette, which leans more towards earthy tones like golden yellows and tanned browns, creates a lively experience. Reds are used sparingly, sothat when they are used they popl. Suzy's neon blue eye shadow is perhaps the most colorful the film gets and the video presentation makes it shine.
While it may not be as crisp and clear as we're used to seeing for brand new films, 'Moonrise Kingdom' has a look all its own and a video presentation that provides an accurate portrayal of the director's vision.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix is just as great. The movie is heavy on the dialogue, that's true. There is plenty of sound centered right up front. Dialogue is clear and delivered through the center channel. Many scenes feature people talking off screen with directionality picking up their voices nicely in the front speakers. There are also many scenes where characters quickly talk under their breath, but those lines are always clear. It's important that they are because many of the jokes come from the hushed one-liners.
The surrounds are surprisingly engaged as the sound mix seems just as meticulously produced as the visuals. A thunderstorm provides effects for rolling thunder and pouring rain. Wind rips across the soundfield traveling seamlessly along its way. Scouts mingle and play in the background, birds chirp, crickets serenade. The surrounds are constantly buzzing with action, keeping you immersed in the film.
Low-end involvement also works well. This isn't an action-packed movie by any means, but the culminating thunderstorm does provided for enough deep thunderous cracks along the way. The movie's bubbly 60s-inspired soundtrack calls for clear resonant bass and it delivers. There are many scenes where the sound seems as meticulously constructed as the video and this mix gives that hard work a place to shine. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Oct 21, 2012 9:54 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Marvel's The Avengers (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo in Blu-ray Packaging) (2012)
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| Quote: | Joss Whedon made a fantastic adventure film, that expertly blends action and character and tone to assembling one of the best super hero films in the history of the genre ('The Avengers' is also a rocking good movie, regardless of the "superhero" label). As a Blu-ray, all versions feature reference quality 7.1 audio and 2D video. The 3D version is pretty great too, though it has a few flaws, including darkness and (on some displays) crosstalk. Special Features are, sadly, only average unless you truck over to Target where buying 'The Avengers' or 'The Avengers - 3D' includes a feature length documentary about the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Phase One (everything leading up to 'The Avengers'). As for which version of the film to purchase, completists will enjoy the 4-Disc 3D release -- it usually costs about $5 more than the 2D release and, in addition to the 3D version of the film, includes a Digital Copy as well as a code to download the film's soundtrack. If you absolutely loathe 3D, then pick up the 2D edition. Regardless of what edition you purchase, 'The Avengers - 3D' easily earns a MUST OWN rating!
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'The Avengers' makes a stunning debut in a reference quality MPEG-4 AVC encode framed at a 1.78:1 aspect ratio.
With a seamless blend between digital cinema elements and computer generated visual effects, expectations are high for this Blu-ray release. I'm happy to report 'The Avengers' meets or exceeds them, representing a perfect translation of the cinema experience to the home environment. The source material is pristine and blemish-free; the encode is crisp and error-free. Resolution and detail are resplendent. You can examine the hair follicles on Robert Downey Jr.'s face, metallic floors on the Helicarrier, the leather of Thor's costume, and the crumbling asphalt in battle torn New York City. Everything is so clear, from hair and skin to costume fabric and metallic textures, this 2D image nearly has the dimensionality of its 3D counterpart.
Night sequences do flatten a bit compared to interiors and daytime sequences (mostly thanks to digital atmosphere effects), but black levels are inky -- not a hint of crush -- while shadow details remain impressive. Watch the Iron Man / Thor forest fight, and you'll see every pine needle, scrap of bark, and tree. Skin tones are natural. The overall color palette ranges from dark and brooding to bright and engaging, perfect for high definition displays. Simply put, 'The Avengers' is a big win on Blu-ray, one of the best available live action titles available on the format.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'The Avengers' and 'The Avengers - 3D' feature identical, reference quality 7.1 English DTS-HD MA soundtracks.
Subtle, refined, dynamic, bombastic, and immersive, 'The Avengers' does everything you're expecting and more. There have been so many spectacular 7.1 surround sound mixes in the last couple years, the real challenge is finding ways to describe why this latest demo disc is noteworthy. 'The Avengers' features perfect dialog rendering in the center channel -- some movies, when the action kicks up, lose track of the characters, but not this. This is a character-first movie and, even in the biggest moments, you know what our heroes (and villains) are saying.
While the side and rear channels aren't the most aggressive I've ever heard, surround activity serves the story well, articulately panning around the room in a full 360 degrees. LFE is subtle at times, but roars when needed, shaking the room with every weapon-fire, explosion, or burst of alien-energy. If I could ask for anything more, I think it would be a little more environment immersion (in the non action sequences, specifically), but that's more a personal preference.
'The Avengers', whether or not you're watching it in two or three dimensions, is a thunderous example of modern blockbuster surround sound. Even if the movie itself wasn't a rock-em-sock-em good time with reference 2D video and a strong 3D presentation, this track alone would make 'The Avengers' a must own. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Oct 21, 2012 9:56 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted (Three-Disc Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / DVD Combo + Digital Copy + UltraViolet) (2012)
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| Quote: | Finally bringing the journey back home full circle, 'Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted' is a hilarious eye-dazzler, bursting with energy and a great deal of heart. Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer and Jada Pinkett Smith reprise their roles and make a few new friends in Martin Short, Bryan Cranston, Jessica Chastain and Frances McDormand. It's a fun new addition to the quartet's misadventures back to New York and arguably the best of the franchise. The Blu-ray arrives with reference quality video and a spectacular audio presentation. Supplements are shared with its DVD counterpart, but a few new exclusives make this high-def edition of the movie highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Madagascar 3' debuts onto 3D Blu-ray with a spectacular, stupendous and sensational 1080p/MVC MPEG-4 encode. Right from the get-go during Alex's dream, the faces and noses of characters burst through the screen and often dangle inside the living room. Melman's elongated face, in particular, does this to great effect quite a bit thanks to his long neck. The car chase in Monte Carlo is one the most exciting because objects occasionally fly all over the place with every explosion and threaten to smack you in the face. But aside from the several gimmicks, the presentation comes with astonishing depth and dimensionality, as separation of the background from the foreground is consistent throughout. Much of the picture has a fantastic pop-up book effect with a convincing sense of space and distance, making this CG animated film a stunner to watch in 3D.
The 1.78:1 image is simply jaw-dropping from start to finish with razor-sharp lines in Alex's mane, the baroque architecture of the Monte Carlo casino and the rope holding the circus tent tightly together. I was most taken aback by the lifelike texture around the faces of many characters, particularly during close-ups. Individual hairs sway and move with impressive realism, and Captain DuBois's uniform is distinct with visible threading and stitching. The most trivial detail, tiny nuance or particularity in the background is as sharply-defined as any object in the foreground, and minor blemishes like the rust on the airplane or the smallest scratch on the train cars are plainly perceptible.
The rest of the high-def transfer is a dazzling feast for the eyes, full of vibrant colors that never sway. Primaries are sumptuous with vividly rich saturation, giving the movie an energized, happily-go-lucky feel that's consistent right from the first opening moments. Secondary pastel hues are also brimming with a boldness that further add to the story's lighthearted humor and gives each character a life of their own. Contrast is right on the money and crisp with shiny, bright whites everywhere, making the video leap out of the screen. Black levels are inky and luxuriant with spotless gradations between the lighter and darker portions. The big circus act after a bit Alex's training, as well as the grand finale at the zoo, are the highlights which best demonstrate the quality of the picture, an extensive mixture of blacks, neon colors, shadow details and ultra-high contrast.
Aside from one barely perceptible and easily forgivable moment of banding (during the finale at the zoo), this final entry in the franchise is simply fantastic.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The previous two movies hit Blu-ray with great soundtracks, but never really presented much of a challenge to one's audio system. This third installment finally changes that with a splendid, demo-worthy Dolby TrueHD 7.1 track that serves as the perfect complement to the jaw-dropping video. The rears are used often for ambient effects, like the soothing sounds of the wilderness, the bustling noise of the city or the excited cheers of spectators. Panning and directionality are flawless, creating a marvelously immersive 360° soundfield. Once again, the circus acts are a terrific highlight as characters fly overhead, fireworks explode in the back of the room or objects whiz by on either side of the listener.
Imaging is immaculate with fluid movement between the channels, generating a broad soundstage with excellently discrete off-screen effects. Dynamics are expansive and far-reaching, defining the highs and mids with perfect crystal clarity. This is most appreciable during the action sequences as an assortment of sounds is employed to keep things entertaining and exciting. The low-end is generally of the mid-bass variety, but it's full-bodied and persuasive with plenty of nice hearty moments. Dialogue is well-prioritized and intelligible amid the chaos and laughter, making this a highly-engaging and fun lossless mix. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Oct 21, 2012 9:58 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Prometheus (Blu-ray 3D/ Blu-ray/ DVD/ Digital Copy) (2012)
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| Quote: | Here it is, folks – my new favorite demo disc. The four-disc 3D Blu-ray release of 'Prometheus' never stops wowing. Watching the film itself is a journey that I wish I could take again for the first time. Upon reflection and analysis (with the help of these hearty special features), it only gets better. Sure, there are those who loath 'Prometheus' – and I've carried on extensive debate-like conversations defending the arguments – but I stand by my opinion that this is one of the very best contemporary science fiction films, a more-than-worthy chapter in the 'Alien'-verse. Although it's not adored by everyone and didn't warrant the greatest box office response, Fox has given it a huge release that's comparable to that of the extended edition of 'Avatar,' the only difference being that 'Avatar' recycled clips and interviews between it's several discs of special features and 'Prometheus' doesn't. The 3D video and audio qualities are perfect, not a single flaw to be found. Both offer environmental enhancements that take you deeper into the world of the film than you can imagine. Do not settle for anything less than this four-disc set. Even if you have a Blu-ray player but not a 3D television, shell out the extra $5 for the four-disc set. You pay for what you get and this is definitely worth it.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
If you've followed my theatrical reviews, you know that I'm not a fan of theatrical 3D – which is why it really meant something when I not only highly recommended seeing 'Prometheus' in 3D on the big screen, but went back to see it embiggened on the IMAX screen. Between theatrical and Blu-ray review screenings, I rarely have time for recreational theatrical outings, but I made time to see 'Prometheus' on IMAX. Just as I recommended seeing it on 3D screens, I highly recommend the 3D Blu-ray. The 1080p/MPEG-4 MVC transfer is absolutely perfect.
The 3D look of 'Prometheus' is astounding. My first experience with the latest and greatest polarized 3D was 'Monster House.' I remember sitting there with my jaw agape because, unlike the old red/blue 3D of my childhood, polarized 3D created a depth that made me feel like I was looking into a stage, not having objects unnaturally protrude from the screen toward me. (Too bad the 3D live-action films that followed it couldn't carry the 3D effect of the animated ones. From there stemmed my dislike of theatrical 3D.) Watching this 3D Blu-ray of 'Prometheus' reminded me of my 'Monster House' experience. The third dimension reaches deep into 'Prometheus,' never looking like a layered pop-up book but naturally and gradually transitioning to those great depths. It's so realistic that a few shots of the Prometheus space craft in flight are dizzying.
Having watched both the 2D and 3D discs, I can attest to the 3D carrying a brighter image to compensate for the darkening glasses. When I first watched 'Prometheus' on the big screen, I was worried about the 3D image because of how dark the underground settings were going to be. Luckily, Ridley Scott and his crew constantly monitored the brightness through real-time 3D monitors and split-image 2D monitors as they shot the film. Even in the darkest scenes, they managed the lighting so well that there is never a loss of third dimension. The brightness of these dark scenes permits the sharpest and finest details to be seen. There isn't an ounce of detail or depth loss.
My only complaint with the Blu-ray release is a personal gripe. On IMAX, the frame was opened up from the standard theatrical 2.40:1 ratio to 2:1. Because 'Prometheus' is such an epic film on a grand scope, more is better. My wish is that the 3D disc would have featured the IMAX 2:1 ratio.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
If I could give 'Prometheus'' 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track a rating higher than 5 stars, I would. Hearing it cranked up on a 7.1 system, I heard sounds that I never recognized during my theatrical viewings. The first time I screened 'Prometheus,' I was immediately reeled into the film by the beautiful score overlaying breathtaking landscapes during the opening credits. Hearing the score via this mix is just as wowing. It establishes a grand tone equal to that of the movie that you're about to see.
Once the film takes us into the flight deck of the Prometheus ship, the mixing of the effects makes itself apparent. The effects emitting from every channel are clearly audible. As quiet as some might be, you can easily hear them all - sensors beeping behind you, controls being toggled to the side of you, thrusters outside the ship causing a low bassy rumble. When we're taken to exterior shots of the ship cutting its way through the atmosphere, those same thrusters combined with the atmospheric friction create a deep and resonant LFE that will shake your theater room. One of my favorite sounds in the film is that of the LV-223 storm rolling in. The gusts blast small pieces of metallic rock through the air. As they collide with one another mid-flight, the high-pitch clanking sounds amazing. One thing that I never noticed until listening to this 7.1 mix was that when Prometheus lands on the surface of LV-223, the downward thrusters kick up that same metallic gravel and those same sounds can be heard.
The imaging effects of this mix are seamless and astounding. Take, for example, this same storm sequence. It's obvious that it was shot with the audio in mind because every shot of the storm shows the rocks blowing from left to right. Not a single frame shows it any other way. This causes the wind to relentlessly throw debris in that same direction. It's furious and never lets up. The non-stop left-to-right sound is unnerving. I found myself wanting the shot to switch angles just so that the left-to-right motion would let up. The level of detail put into these imaging sounds is phenomenal. It sounds as if you can literally track these individual blowing rocks from one side of the theater to the other – and there are hundreds, if not thousands, of them.
The vocal detail of this mix is also worth noting. The character that warrants the most attention vocally is David. Fassbender's voice resonates with a rich, deep bass. There's one effect applied to a certain character's voice that I'd like to explain to you, but I cannot because it would reveal a major plot point. (If you want to know, ask me in the forums.) Just like I did with the effects mixing, I heard vocals in the Blu-ray mix that I didn't know existed during my theatrical viewings. They say that no one can hear you scream in space; well, we can surely hear them scream on the surface of LV-223. I didn't hear the many screams Rapace and Charlize Theron let out throughout the film until now.
If you can't watch 'Prometheus' with the audio cranked up because the kids are in bed, don't watch it. This lossless 7.1 mix deserves to be heard as loudly as possible. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2012 7:17 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter [Blu-ray] (2012)
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| Quote: | 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter' is a raucously fun ride through revisionist history. It's a movie that completely owns its illogical nature and uses it to its advantage. It's exciting, decently constructed, and entertaining. What else could you ask from a movie about a past president slicing up mythical undead creatures? With its great video and demo audio, not to mention it's extensive making-of extras, this one comes strongly recommended to anyone looking for a fun time during this Halloween season.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Fox has provided the movie with a 1080p presentation that will most certainly impress anyone who watches it on your TV. Bekmambetov along with the help of his cinematographer, Caleb Deschanel, has shot a slick and detailed movie from start to finish. Like many HD transfers, this one betrays some of the sillier special effects and noticeably bad makeup, but the rest of the movie looks rather stunning.
Even with the movie bathed in slight sepia-tone colors still pop. As you may have guess red is a dominating color here as blood splatters and runs down necks, covers surfaces, and flies through the air is slow motion. The crimson liquid absolutely pops on screen and so does the much blacker blood of the vampires for that matter. Clothing is covered in noticeable texture. Hair strands are distinctly separate from one another in close-ups.
There are some times where black levels tend to crush detail ever so slightly, with Bekmambetov's purposefully inserted fog and dust mucking up the picture even more. It's true that some of the special effects are called to more attention that the filmmakers would like when the high-def microscope is applied, yet the movie comes out looking really good.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Fox's DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is the jewel of this release. Like or hate the movie, the fact is that this is one bombastic mix. Here we're treated to a demo-quality release that leaves nothing on the table. Everything you'd want from thundering bass to strongly involved surround channels, this mix has got it.
Panning effects are seamless in their transition. As Lincoln's axe swings, slow-mo, from one side of the frame to the other, the whoosh follows right along with it. Directionality works perfectly here, especially in the movie's fight scenes. Vampires attack from every direction with the side speakers picking up their guttural growls and hisses before they strike. The surrounds seem to always be engaged, picking up the yells of men running across a battlefield and the cheers of people after they hear Lincoln's speech.
Up front the story is the same. Dialogue has a heft to it that is admirable indeed. Lincoln's voice-overs command attention as they're clearly relayed. The sub-woofer houses the movie's stout LFE. Trains crashing, bridges collapsing, cannons exploding, whatever is happening you better believe that these low-end sonics are going to rattle your room. This mix is every bit as enjoyable as the movie is. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2012 7:19 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Anatomy of a Murder (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] (1959)
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| Quote: | In these far more permissive times, 'Anatomy of a Murder' has lost some of its titillating sting, but talk of panties and sperm aside, it remains a solid, nuts-and-bolt courtroom drama that chronicles a scandalous homocide from the inside out. Director Otto Preminger's just-the-facts-ma'am style suits the gritty material well, and natural performances from James Stewart, the always lovely Lee Remick, Ben Gazzara, Arthur O'Connell, George C. Scott, and the wonderfully acerbic Eve Arden keep us engrossed throughout the substantial running time. Criterion's Blu-ray release is as stunning as the trial, with a sharp as nails transfer, exceptional audio that honors Duke Ellington's thrilling jazz score, and a sizeable dossier of supplements injecting more energy into an already potent film. 'Anatomy of a Murder' may not be the best courtroom flick ever produced, but its no-nonsense presentation keeps it fresh and relevant, and it comes highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Anatomy of a Murder' is blessed with a spectacular 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer that beautifully renders Sam Leavitt's stark yet elegant black-and-white cinematography. Fine grain supplies essential texture and lends the image a marvelous film-like feel. Taken from a new 35mm master positive struck from the original camera negative, this 4k transfer has been meticulously restored, with only a couple of nicks and errant marks sullying the pristine picture. Clarity and contrast are top-notch, and a high level of gray scale variance provides both depth and immediacy, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the action.
Details possess significant pop. We can read the spines of Biegler's album collection, drink in the weave of his tweed jacket, and enjoy the defined look of all the spectators' faces in the crowded courtroom. The location exteriors exude a natural appearance, as do the rustic interiors. Strong black levels beef up nocturnal scenes, yet crush is never an issue, while whites are bright, well defined, and resist blooming. Close-ups brim with superior crispness, highlighting all the creases and intense expressions of the principals.
Best of all, no noticeable digital enhancements, such as edge sharpening or DNR, seem to have been applied, and no anomalies, like pixelation or mosquito noise afflict this dazzling effort. This is another stellar effort from Criterion that will certainly please both fans and videophiles alike.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track was created at 24-bit from the original D/M/E tracks and original stereo music recordings, and the results are quite good. Any age-related defects, such as hiss, pops, and crackles, have been removed, leaving a clean, nuanced mix that makes up in clarity what it lacks in multi-channel definition. Almost all the audio is anchored up front, but the fidelity is so pronounced, the sound effortlessly fills the room. Every line of dialogue is crystal clear, from the quietest courtroom asides to the most bombastic and heated exchanges, and atmospherics are well integrated. The courtroom buzz, cacophony at the bar, and hum of engines on the road fit well into the track's fabric, enhancing the action without overpowering it.
Dynamic range is superior, and really comes into play when Duke Ellington's high octane score kicks into gear. The screaming brass flaunts a purity of tone that's breathtaking, while the percussion provides essential weight without adopting a lumbering heaviness. Thankfully, distortion is never an issue, and no other imperfections sabotage this fine aural effort.
A remastered mono track, presented in uncompressed PCM, is also available for those who wish to better replicate the original viewing experience of this film. It, too, sounds great, and nicely complements the restored video, but the new DTS-HD track is the clear winner, especially if you're a Duke Ellington or jazz fan. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2012 7:21 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Secret of the Wings (Four-Disc Combo: Blu-ray 3D/Blu-ray/DVD + Digital Copy) (2012)
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| Quote: | I don't really have to feel all that embarrassed anymore to exclaim how much I enjoy these 'Tinker Bell' features. Those of you that have seen the previous movies know what to expect now and know how entertaining they are. 'Secret of the Wings' builds on the momentum of its predecessors providing us with another awfully charming movie about fairies. With demo-quality video and strong audio, this one is highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Secret of the Wings' comes in both 2D and 3D versions. This review is for the 2D version of the movie, which is just as amazingly dazzling as the other films have been. This is the other aspect of this franchise that has really impressed me. A direct-to-video franchise is expected to skimp on costs, which would in turn mean creating less-than-stellar CG animation to go along with the cost-cutting measures. With these 'Tinker Bell' movies however, there has been no such thing going on. Each one has exhibited top-notch animation which provides demo-quality imagery when harnessed on a Blu-ray.
Following in suit, 'Secret of the Wings' propels its visuals with extremely detailed and lushly vibrant animation. Not only is it colorful enough to keep the kiddies interested, but it's also intricately detailed throughout the movie. Fields of thousands of individual flowers, hundreds of grass blades, innumerable legions of snowflakes are all clearly defined. Edges are free from any sort of compression problems like jaggies. They are smooth and easily discernible. Clarity is picture-perfect here. One of the best examples of how intricate detail can get is watching how perfectly visible each and every speck of pixie dust is. It's simply stunning.
Colors are extremely vivid. From the leafy greens and earthy browns of Tinker Bell's home to the bright whites and icy blues of the Winter Woods, this presentation shines with color. Blacks are deep, but never crush. Shadows are strong and full of depth. In short, this presentation mirrors the demo-quality of the previous releases. It's definitely one to show off.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix also mimics its predecessors. It isn't as stunning as the video presentation, but it's a perfectly solid mix that will delight most listeners.
One thing to notice during the movie is how much action there is in the soundfield. While the rear speakers aren't as assertive as they could be, the mix does have quite a bit of depth when it comes to displaying ambient sound. Directionality is key as fairies flutter in and out of frame with their sound effects following them seamlessly. Dialogue is always clear and delivered through the center speaker, with the front speakers chiming in whenever the placement of out-of-frame voices calls for it.
On the low-end, we feel some bass as the more suspenseful moments of the movie get all intense. Thundering storm clouds approach and some nice thick bass adds to an already varied audio mix. While it may not wow as much as the visual presentation, the audio is no slouch. |
Kal
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| Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2012 7:23 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Amazing Spider-Man (Three-Disc Combo: Blu-ray / DVD + UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2012)
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| Quote: | The thought of 'The Amazing Spider-Man' may offend fans of the original series, especially since the death of one series and the birth of another are forever connected, but this take really does hit the spot in a way the Raimi films could have only dreamed of doing. I was hesitant, and while some of the casting is questionable, the end result is the 'Spider-Man' film I've always wanted, the closest to the comic we've ever seen. The Blu-ray combo pack features some of the best looking video on the market, and the audio is beyond impressive, as well, and with a whole disc's worth of supplements, one almost as long as the film, it's hard to say that this is anything but a must-own title.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
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
I suppose I gushed a little bit in the video portion of this review. I promise I won't do it again...
'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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| Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2012 7:25 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Brave (Three-Disc Collector's Edition: Blu-ray / DVD) (2012)
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| Quote: | 'Brave' is a decent Pixar film that falls solidly in the middle of the pack. However, the real treat here is how gorgeous it looks. This may be one of, if not the, best transfers that you'll see all year. The film is strikingly beautiful in high-def and is certainly highly recommended for anyone looking for demo material in order to show off their high-def setup.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
It shouldn't be a surprise that a movie that earned top marks in the 3D department also receives the highest of scores when it comes to its 2D presentation. Say what you will about the movie, but the fact remains that 'Brave' is simply one of the most splendidly animated movies Pixar has ever produced. Its lush, natural worlds are presented in crystal clear clarity, with effervescent colors and painstaking detail.
The color used here is absolutely impressive. Merida's red hair practically pops off the screen any time she's in frame. Her fiery orange-red hair is one of the many highlights of this presentation. The detail in her hair is extraordinary. I remember the first time I saw 'Monsters Inc.' I was astounded at the look and movement of Sully's hundreds of thousands of individual hairs. I didn't think Pixar would be able to top what they did there, but they have here. Merida's hair takes on a life of its own. It moves, bounces and blows in the wind like natural hair. Each strand of her hair is distinctly visible during the movie's crystalline playback. It's beautiful to watch.
Continuing on with the attention to detail paid in 'Brave,' the surroundings of green Scottish hills are vibrantly presented. The green in this movie is the only thing that rivals Merida's ginger locks. The grass and trees are so expertly rendered that it's a little hard to think of them as computer animated. Each solitary blade of grass is distinctly defined and never lost in the movie's fast-moving action.
Textures like the rock walls of the castle or the fur on the movie's bears are equally remarkable. There is so much detail in this movie that you'll have to watch it half a dozen times before you notice every little thing. And believe me you'll be able to notice those details because of the clarity and definition on display here.
Blacks are deep and inky. I first saw the movie in 3D in the theaters and thought the glasses really hampered the darker parts of the movie. Making the entire scene a little too dark. However, this time around seeing it in 2D gave me a newfound respect for the shadow detailing and the intricate minutiae of some of those darkly lit scenes.
If you're looking for a demo-worthy presentation to get this holiday season, then 'Brave' is a surefire bet. It looks absolutely superb in high definition.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Two lossless options - Dolby TrueHD 7.1 and 5.1 - are available, and both provide immersive, nuanced audio that beautifully complements the stunning image quality. Superior dynamic range handles all the action well, with bright, full-bodied highs and guttural lows bringing the various set pieces to glorious life. Surround activity is almost constant, ebbing and flowing with the story, smoothly bleeding from the front to the rears, and never feeling forced. From subtle atmospherics, such as birds chirping and rustling leaves, to powerful accents like slamming doors, clanking swords, and arrows hitting their targets, the sound dances across all five speakers with both ease and distinction.
Bass frequencies are also strong, lending some oomph to stomping feet and the powerful roars of Mor'du, yet the LFE track seamlessly blends into the whole. Patrick Doyle's music score, by turns rousing and introspective, also gets a nice treatment here, benefiting from solid fidelity and fine tonal depth. The delicate reeds emit a wonderful purity, while the pulsating percussion ramps up excitement but never overpowers the other instruments. Dialogue is well prioritized throughout, and though the authentic Scottish accents can, at times, be a bit difficult to understand, all conversations are clear.
No imperfections mar this high-quality track. Despite a smorgasbord of sonic elements competing for attention, distortion is never an issue, and no break-ups or drop-outs, hiss or surface noise ever crop up. Once again, Pixar comes through with a terrific mix that adds body and texture to an involving story. |
Kal
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kal
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| Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 8:55 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Men in Black 3 (Three Disc Combo: Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / DVD + UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2012)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | Completely disregarding the existence of the forgettable first sequel, 'MIB3' comes out of nowhere and really ups the ante, giving it a coherent and complex story, lovable original characters, a great big heart, and a whole lot of fun. 'Men in Black 3' is the franchise's best. Only making it better is this near-perfect Blu-ray set. While the 3D video quality is absolutely flawless, it's the barely-lacking audio that knocks it out of "perfect" status in my book. The quality and type of special features match that of the previous two Blu-rays, giving the franchise release consistency (aside from the fact that 'MIB3' is the only one available in 3D). If I didn't already own it, the 3D Blu-ray release of 'Men in Black 3' would definitely be on my Christmas wish-list. Highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
When I first screened 'MIB3' theatrically, it was shown on a Dolby 3D screen. The 3D presentation wasn't the best, but it wasn't awful either. However, I have to speak differently about the 3D Blu-ray presentation because it is sharp, bright, colorful and deep. I don't ever recall be impressed by the theatrical 3D, but it's the opposite with the Blu-ray.
My biggest beef with the theatrical 3D was that some shots – not many, but some – carried the look of a pop-up book: flat images layered one on top of the other. I never once had that impression with the Blu-ray. Believe me – I was looking for it. The third dimensional elements transition smoothly into the distance. For example, one shot on the sandy beaches of Cape Canaveral show the surface of the ocean disappear far off into the horizon. Each footprint leading up to the gentle ocean waves appears to slowly get farther and farther into the background. When K pushes a secret button and his living opens up to reveal a hidden arsenal, the room protrudes deeper into the usual 3D background. The 3D element also plays with images in the foreground. During one shot in the intro, as a character peers through a small barred visor into a prison cell, we get his point-of-view shot with the highly blurred bars so close in the foreground that you wouldn't be able to focus on them even if they weren't already blurred. These effects are constantly good, enhancing the moments that could really benefit from them – like the time "jump."
I seem to recall the theatrical experience appearing a tad too dark. The daytime shots appeared like the lazy filtered ones that some directors try to pass off as nighttime shots. This problem is non-existent with the 3D Blu-ray. Again, knowing that it was a problem before, I was looking for it on this go-around. Having watched both the 2D and 3D Blu-rays, I can say that the 3D presentation is slightly darker than that of the 2D – but the difference is minimal. Along these same lines, the bright hippie colors are able to remain explosive and vibrant through the darkened 3D lenses.
Through it all, fine details remain clearly visible. From the pores on actors' faces (which, unfortunately, show Tommy Lee Jones' age) to each individual strand of Emma Thompson's crazy hairdo, it's all visible. This heightened amount of detail does great justice for the knock-out visual effects. None of this would be commendable were it not for the immaculate clarity of this transfer and the complete absence of compression errors.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
While I was initially disappointed that 'MIB3' did not get a 7.1 audio mix, I'm almost completely satisfied with the 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio mix presented here. From the opening credits sequence on, it's apparent that we're getting something great.
The film kicks off with a modernized version of the classic Danny Elfman theme. All sounds just fine until the heavy electric guitar kicks in, at which point it begins to sound spectacular. Music is dynamically mixed throughout the entire picture. Combine that with the great amount of strong effects and you've really got something great. When we first see them, it's fun to hear sounds of the technologically advance and upgraded weapons. There's a new futuristic ring to them that sounds great. When J goes back to 1969, the retro MIB weapons carry a completely different sound, one of humming and vibrating moving parts. The same goes for vehicles.
I'm no car expert. The closest I come to a being a car guy is watching 'Top Gear' on BBC America. I couldn't tell you what model car K and J drive in 2012, but the hyperdrive engine that it carries emits an awesome LFE-laden effect when it is fired up. Oddly enough, the Ford Galaxy they drive in 1969 (I only know the model because it was stated in a special feature) carries an even deeper sound with a much more rumbly LFE than the 2012 version. My only guess is that the 2012 version was a hybrid.
The vocal aspect of the mix is also outstanding. The majority of the vocal mix is great and average – that is, with the exception of Boris. Jemaine Clement's voice is so deep and rich that it almost sounds like two or three voices stacked one on the other. The bass that he exudes is so deep that I can only assume that it is the result of post-production. Either way, it sounds phenomenal.
My only complaint with this audio mix is that on several occasions there seems to be a lull in the all around sound. This isn't due to a flaw, but it's simply a lacking quality in the audio that is normally present. There's almost always something to hear in the audio, but a few scenes (one in specific being the jet pack introduction in MIB headquarters) seem too quiet. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 8:58 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
The Dark Knight Rises (Blu-ray/DVD Combo+UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2012)
(Hover over link for price, click to purchase and support our forum at no extra cost to you)
| Quote: | 'The Dark Knight Rises is an exciting, epic movie and, for the most part, a fitting end to the Nolan Batman era. However, because the bar was raised so high by the trilogy's first two films, this one doesn't quite resonate with the same balance of character, plot, and themes. As a Blu-ray, the video transfer is excellent and the audio is thunderous and dynamic. The Special Features, all exclusive to this release, feature an excellent documentary about the various Batmobiles and many featurettes about making the film -- the only disappointment being the clunky interface. If you're a fan of the film, or the Nolan Batman franchise, this is easily a Recommended Blu-ray with endless Demo potential. If you're not a fan of Nolan or this franchise, your views probably won't change based on this final entry.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'The Dark Knight Rises' features a near-perfect high resolution AVC MPEG-4 encode, which swaps between 2.40:1 and1.78:1 aspect ratios in an attempt to mirror the film's IMAX presentation.
Many were disappointed about 'The Dark Knight' Blu-ray because it used the IMAX master which featured DMR'd (upconversion, sharpening and noise reduction) 35mm material alongside native IMAX footage. Complaints included excessive edge enhancement and a limited contrast ratio that overtly crushed black levels. Those overseeing this Blu-ray seem to have avoided the same mistakes. I didn't see any halos, though if you look very very close, you can see some very minor banding and some flickering vertical lines. Also, while blacks do crush -- as intended, I would argue -- contrast levels are pretty dynamic and mirror the film's theatrical presentation perfectly.
Other than than a few nitpicks, 'The Dark Knight Rises' looks great. Especially the native IMAX-footage (cropped from 1.43:1 to 1.78:1 to fit HDTV screens), which is reference quality. This filmic experience has unbelievable amounts of resolution and depths, so much so that the film feels 3D at times. A window into another world, if you will. The film's color palette is generally muted, but blues are especially icy (in city lights, skies, and The Bat's headlights). Skin tones may be a little on the warm side.
Now, the native 35mm material doesn't look quite as perfect. I'm not sure whether or not it has been through the IMAX DMR process or not, but as I said above, it doesn't feel like it's been over-sharpened to compensate. Next to the native IMAX footage, the widescreen sections of the film are slightly less clear, though there's a chance is a trick of the eye because 1.78:1 footage uses approximately 33% more pixels on an HDTV display than 2.40:1 footage and is, therefore, noticeably brighter. Regardless, while colors and contrast appear to match between all elements -- the film's use of IMAX cameras is like a documentary in that it sometimes changes aspect ratio for as little time as one shot -- the 35mm footage seems less clear and crisp.
Despite a few minor flaws, 'The Dark Knight Rises' looks fantastic on Blu-ray. The IMAX footage is reference quality, and the 35mm footage looks very good too (just not as great), and thankfully less manipulated than 'The Dark Knight' Blu-ray.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Thanks to its bombastic, concussive and ultra-aggressive 5.1 DTS-HD MA track, your neighbors are gonna loathe the day you bring home 'The Dark Knight Rises' on Blu-ray. (Just ask mine. Since I started this review, the guy below me has responded by turning his always-loud-and-repetitive-dance-music up to 11. But joke's on him -- I'm still 20dB below reference.)
Some will argue the IMAX footage is the star of this Blu-ray release, but this is perhaps the best six channel sound mix I've ever heard. Many of you probably remember the controversy earlier in 2012 following the release of the film's six minute IMAX trailer. I can personally attest that Bane's digitally manipulated voice was lost in the gunfire, jet engines, and tearing metal carnage. In the cinemas, this was corrected, and on Blu-ray, I can't say if things were further altered, but Bane's voice is a definite highlight. While every piece of dialog in the film is complete clear and prioritized, Bane's extends across the entire front sound stage conveying a sense of power and brute strength.
Sound effects, music, and LFE complete the sonic masterpiece. Individual effects are clear and resolute; panning right to left and front to back is exceptionally immersive, as are world-building crowd sequences like Wall Street and the football stadium. Han Zimmer's grinding electronic score is like a full on orchestral in your living room. Bass-lovers rise and cheers, because this Blu-ray is a room shaker, but never over done. The bass notes are crisp and punchy, adding an overall sense of dread and tension. And don't worry, it's not just that this track is loud, which of course it is, but it has so much range from the quietest moment to the most bombastic.
In fact, I enjoyed this soundtrack so much I have no complaints. This reference quality sound mix will test any system and, if not properly handled, annoy the neighbors. If Nolan's team can do this with 5.1, I can't wait for his first official 7.1 or Dolby ATMOS mix. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 9:01 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
ParaNorman (Two-Disc Combo Pack: 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: | An animated chiller like no other, 'ParaNorman' is a delightfully entertaining stop-motion feature that tackles some surprisingly mature themes on the cruelty and dangers of bullying. With astonishingly detailed animation work by the talented folks at Laika studios, this is a remarkable family film that finds heroism in the uniqueness and individuality of the main character. The Blu-ray arrives with reference picture quality and an excellent audio presentation that will have you cheering. A nice collection of supplements offers more to enjoy in this high-def package that will satisfy any animated fan. Highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'ParaNorman' haunts Blu-ray with a flabbergasting, reference-quality 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode that really shows off the amazing creativity and talent that went into producing the animated film. Individual freckles and wrinkles on the faces of characters are plainly visible, and each hair atop their heads is sharply distinct. The hanging flesh on the zombies' bodies moves with incredible realism, and the smallest, minuscule detail in the distance is as crystal-clear as the information in the foreground. The old-fashioned, wooden architecture of the town is discrete while the spooky forest towards the end reveals every line and grain on the trees and the surrounding foliage.
Taken directly from a digital source, the 2.40:1 image displays a lush, full-bodied color palette that beautifully splatters the screen from beginning to end. Much of the emphasis is on the softer pastel hues full of warmth and ornate, but primaries are still accurately saturated and sumptuous. Contrast is spot-on and comfortable, allowing for remarkable clarity and visibility of every minute detail of the town and the characters. Black levels are inky rich with precise gradational details within the shadows of low-lit interiors and the darker portions of the video, generating a splendid three-dimensional feel throughout. In the end, the freshly-minted transfer is extraordinary and gorgeous on Blu-ray.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
Although not quite at the level of reference, this DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack is still just as impressive as the video with plenty of fun, demo-worthy moments in the last half of the movie. It's during this time that rear activity suddenly livens up the room with a spooky atmosphere, employing the discrete sounds of a small New England town erupting into complete mayhem. The angry cheers of a mob surround the listener while thunder cracks in the sky above and the wind howls all around. Several other, more subtle effects also bounce around the back speakers with amusing directionality and panning.
The musical score of Jon Brion offers some very light bleeds in the background as well, but for a majority of the runtime, attention is maintained in the fronts. With lots of warmth and exceptional fidelity, imaging feels broad and creates a terrifically eclectic sense of space as off-screen activity is consistently convincing and highly engaging. The mid-range is extensive and room-penetrating, differentiation between the high and mids with precise detailing. A couple moments right towards the end, however, that clarity is somewhat lost and seems slightly distorted though it's hard tell if it's intentional to the design given the action and drama of the particular scene. Nonetheless, the low-end is surprisingly deep and powerful, adding an appreciably heightened level of intensity. Amid all the chaos and commotion, dialogue remains distinct and crystal-clear, so we never miss a single emotional beat. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 9:03 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Wu Dang [Blu-ray] (2012)
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| Quote: | 'Wu Dang' came as a complete surprise: a rollicking adventure film in the spirit of 'Indiana Jones', although not always produced with the same amount of skill. Still, Vincent Zhao and Yang Mi are a delightful pair who help sell a movie that otherwise might have come off as silly. They're aided by Corey Yuen's brilliant martial arts choreography, which is so good that any single fight could be a show-stopper in another film. The video and audio are among the best I've seen all year, with vivid image that is only briefly marred by poor CGI, and an astonishing audio mix that should be a gold standard for other sound mixers to aspire to. Unfortunately, the special features are a complete waste of time. However, the movie is good enough that it's worth checking out the Blu-ray. Highly recommended.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
Well Go USA presents 'Wu Dang' in a 2.35:1 AVC-encoded 1080p transfer. This is, without a doubt, one of the best transfers I've seen all year, even compared to other films shot with Red cameras. From the first shot 'Wu Dang' impresses with its sharpness and clarity. Detail is high in both full light and shadow. Yunlong frequently consults a painted treasure map, and you can see every brush line on the parchment. Contrast is spot on, whites are vivid without blooming, and blacks are strong and deep without crushing. Colors pop off the screen. The reds of Yang Mi's costumes are arresting, while Vincent Zhao's tan leather jacket is so textured you can practically feel it. Fleshtones look accurate, sometimes even betraying the makeup on the actors' faces.
A few of the CGI shots do mar the otherwise brilliant transfer, turning the image soft. Luckily, these shots are few and far between, but it is disappointing when they do show up. Aside from that, I detected no artifacts, macroblocking, ringing, or other transfer issues. 'Wu Dang' is pure eye candy on Blu-ray.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
'Wu Dang' continues to impress with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The mix is incredibly full, with a palpable sense of atmosphere even in dialogue scenes. Effects are subtly but effectively littered throughout the soundstage, creating some of the most impressive and fluid imaging I've heard on disc in a long time. The dynamic range is great, able to handle everything the movie throws at it. Directionality is fantastic, especially during fight scenes. You can feel every hit as it lands, and no matter how fast the actors move, the mix makes sure to keep the action moving along with them. The rears get a real workout throughout, practically never staying silent for the entire runtime of the film. Balance is never an issue, with dialogue easily sharing space with the music and effects, the three elements intertwining to create a mix that is an absolute joy to listen to. Also included is a Dolby Digital 2.0 mix that doesn't come close to approximating how great the DTS mix is. |
Kal
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| Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 9:06 pm Post subject: |
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Another reference disc!
Finding Nemo (Five-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition: Blu-ray 3D/Blu-ray/DVD + Digital Copy) (2003)
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| Quote: | 'Finding Nemo - 3D' is a classic adventure tale about an overbearing clown fish father who travels an entire ocean to rescue his son. Along the way, he meets new friends, survives impossible odds, and learns what it will take to become a better father. As a Blu-ray, 'Finding Nemo' features reference video, an outstanding 7.1 Dolby TrueHD audio presentation (put this Blu on your demo rotation, like, yesterday), and Walt Disney Home Entertainment improved and added to what was already an impressive Special Features package from the original DVD release. The only question, dear Readers, is whether or not you personally enjoy 3D? If you do, then this 5-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition is Must Own. If you prefer your movies in two dimensions, and don't need a portable Digital Copy for iTunes or Windows Media Player, then the 3-Disc Collector's Edition is the Must Own release.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Finding Nemo - 3D' premieres on Blu-ray with a stunning MVC MPEG-4 encode framed in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio.
'Finding Nemo' is the first Pixar or Disney 3D conversion re-release that I missed in the cinemas. Oops. Yesterday, I reviewed 'Up - 3D', which was not only Pixar's first native 3D movie, but hugely detailed an immersive, and I wasn't sure how 'Nemo' would compare. Yes, while some of the film's water textures show their technological age when compared to their newer films, overall 'Nemo' remains a boldly realized, intricate, and simply stunning universe. There's so much detail, exotic locations, and tropical colors that make CGI animated films perfect HD showcases. Another thing I love about Pixar films is how certain textures, particularly the rusty red metal buoy and the metal pulley on the fishing boat, appear as photo realistic.
While some displays may fall in a few scenes, let me assure you -- I was looking so, so closely -- there are no technical flaws to be found. The movie's sea setting will crack lesser movie encodes. With so many gradual color changes (from light to dark and vice-versa), in both characters and virtual sets, one would fear banding, but you won't find any. Or with the screen filled with so many moving fish elements, macro-blocking has probably ruined a few 'Nemo' cable broadcasts, but not here, friends. Perfection.
As a 3D experience, I absolutely loved it. Other Pixar 3D releases may have more natural depth, but I think this has a lot to do with the ocean environments' lightning conditions. However, busier and brighter environments, like the coral reef, are incredibly deep and complex. There's no feeling of that cardboard cutout look some 3D conversions end up with. I'm sure, if produced today, the filmmakers could have gone further, but 'Nemo' honestly looks like native stereo 3D. Also, 'Finding Nemo' has my favorite use of the popout effect. Because the fish characters so small, in a very few instances, they swim up and subtly out of the screen -- not in one of those shock moments, but rather for simple dialog. Definitely a novel effect, one that won't work for all movies, but it reminded me of the most beautiful moments in 'Life of Pi', which may be the best 3D on film to date.
I know many of our readers aren't huge fans of 3D, and I had my doubts too in the beginning, but with every release -- especially high quality ones such as 'Nemo' where there's no sacrifice is brightness and color accuracy -- I'm falling more and more in love with the format's immersive experience. For me, it's not just about the whiz-bang-look-at-me effect, but instead it's another neurological trick -- like surround sound -- that suspends my disbelief and pulls me into the story.
'Finding Nemo' has always been a gorgeous film and, while stunning in high definition, in 3D it's nothing short of a journey into a magical realm.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
If you thought the video looked great, hold on tight, because the 'Finding Nemo - 3D' 7.1 Dolby TrueHD mix is superb.
We home cinema enthusiasts spend a lot of money and time (a LOT of time) trying to perfect our gear -- speaker placement, calibration, crossover frequencies, room setup -- and when we have all these tweaks just right, we want proof our efforts were worth it. We want those aggressive mixes that show off dynamic range, immersion, and concussive LFE. Sometimes, we even make sacrifices to experience high caliber audio mixes by watching flicks we don't necessarily love (who hasn't said, "hey, the movie's kinda bad, but you HAVE to hear the surround sound"?). To be sure, 'Finding Nemo' displays all those qualities we love, but the true magic is this: because the story's so good, we'll actually want to watch, and hear this film, over and over. Demonstration highlights include the two sequences in and around the sunken submarine, the Angler Fish chase, the East Australian Current, inside the whale's mouth, and being caught in the fishing net.
However, despite these spectacle-infused moments, 'Finding Nemo' is so much more. It's one of those tracks where you actually stop thinking about what's happening around and simply fall into the world. Dialog is not only perfect, but the soundstage is so lifelike and wide -- only if a character is dead center on screen does his or her voice come out of the center channel; otherwise, the voices appear to come from your entire front wall. The various environments are sophisticated and subtle. Like you're really underwater. Thomas Newman's emotional score soars from every channel, sucking you into story and character.
'Finding Nemo' features a delicate, discrete, reference quality surround sound mix that beautifully compliments everything on screen and never steps on the action. Many incredible soundtracks are better than the movies to which they are attached, so it's a pleasure to have an audio mix this special on a worthwhile movie.
[NOTE: the Set Up menu appears to default on 5.1 audio, requiring a manual selection of 7.1. However, on my 7.1 system in both bitstream and PCM, the disc automatically played all 8 channels when selecting 7.1 or 5.1.] |
Kal
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