To Live and Die in L.A. - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - When a notorious, highly sophisticated counterfeiter murders his partner, Secret Service agent Richard Chance (William Petersen) launches a furious vendetta to capture the man responsible. But master counterfeiter Rick Masters (Willem Dafoe) is always just one step ahead of Chance in William Friedkin's thrilling, suspenseful crime drama. With violent shoot-outs and a turbulent chase scene reminiscent of Friedkin's own THE FRENCH CONNECTION, TO LIVE AND DIE IN L.A. broke with tradition by making the ostensible hero as morally reprehensible as the villain he pursues. Clashing with bureaucratic obstacles, Chance is forced to break the rules in order to procure cash for a sting operation, but the risks he takes snowball into an avalanche of violence and moral repercussions, leading to a morally ambiguous cul-de-sac from which there may be no return.





***VIDEO QUALITY*** - 'To Live and Die in L.A.' is presented in full 1080p using the AVC MPEG-4 codec and is in the original 1.85:1 aspect ratio.First thing you'll notice when switching from the DVD to the Blu-ray image is the increase in fine detail that really brings the dirty Los Angeles underworld of the film to life.Colors were strong and flesh tones were completely natural.Black levels are rock solid throughout adding to the darker scenes of the film.Their was a nice layer of grain that only added to my appreciation of this transfer.A fantastic job has been done by MGM/FOX and earns a well deserved "4.5 out of 5 Star Rating".


***AUDIO QUALITY*** - A solid catalog release DTS-HD MA 5.1 track accompanies the excellent video presentation.The rousing scenes that featured car chases, gun shots, and lots of fire were the highlight of this track with a great sense of ambiance that fills the soundscape.Bass was a strong performer and much better than I was expecting going in.Dialogue was crisp and clean throughout.I will concede that dynamic range was a little bright on the high end.Overall a nice improvement in clarity and overall bass response from the DVD."4 out of 5 Star Rating".





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -

**Disc One**

* Theatrical trailer + Previews (HD,2min)

**Disc Two** - Included is the original Special Edition DVD as a bonus.
* Feature length commentary by director William Friedkin
* Counterfeit World: The Making Of To Live And Die In L.A. (SD,29min)
* Deleted Scene and Alternate Ending Featurette (SD)
* Deleted scene featurette (SD)
* Photo Gallery

Paramount will release Steven Spielberg's "Saving Private Ryan" starring Tom Hanks on Blu-ray May 4,2010

Paramount has announced plans to bring the 1998 Dreamworks produced World War II film “Saving Private Ryan” directed by the iconic Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks to Blu-ray Disc on May 4th,2010. The title is already available for PRE-ORDER over at Amazon with a $27.99 price tag. No specifics on technical specs or bonus materials at this time.I will keep everyone updated before the release.

The Last King Of Scotland - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - Inspired by real people and events, the gripping, suspenseful stunner, The Last King Of Scotland stars Forest Whitaker in his Oscar winning* performance as the notorious Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. Amin’s incredible story is told as seen through the eyes of Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy), a young Scotsman who becomes the volatile leader’s personal physician, due in part to Amin’s unexpected passion for Scottish culture. Amin even proclaims himself “The Last King of Scotland.” Seduced by his charisma and blinded by decadence, Garrigan’s dream life becomes a waking nightmare of betrayal and madness from which there is no escape.





***VIDEO QUALITY*** - 'The Last King Of Scotland' is presented in full 1080p using the AVC MPEG-4 codec in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio.The best attribute is the saturated color palette that gives you the feel of being in the hot Ugandan climate.Flesh tones looked much more natural then the DVD version where there was a abundance of orange tones with faces. There is a heavier level of grain and it lends the image a more film like appearance.Fine detail was very good with a few softer scenes that pop up.I was pleased with this solid transfer an it is a very nice upgrade from the DVD version."4 out of 5 Star Rating".





***AUDIO QUALITY*** - A solid presentation is offered here with a DTS-HD MA 5.1 track. Dialogue was always intelligible with even the heavier Ugandan accents being clear and easy to understand.Surround effects were utilized well with seamless pans across the soundstage.Bass comes through rich and tight with superb LFE effects during scene that features gunshots and explosions.FOX releases another dynamic, flawless track for a catalog title."5 out of 5 Star Rating".





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -
* Deleted Scenes (SD,12min) - A nice collection of scenes that would have been welcomed if kept in the film.i enjoyed the alternate opening the most.Optional Commentary is included with director Kevin MacDonald.
* Capturing Idi Amin (SD,29min) - A interesting look at the numerous challenges the cast and crew had with bringing Amin to the big screen. Archival footage is included as well as interviews.
* Forest Whitaker ,Idi Amin (SD,6min) - A short peek at the method Forest Whitaker did to prepare for this great role.
* Fox Movie Channel presents Casting Session (SD,8min) - A short, standard EPK type behind-the-scenes look at the film.Includes cast and crew interviews.

Couples Retreat - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - Vince Vaughn leads an all-star cast in the laugh-out-loud comedy about eight friends whose vacation in paradise is one they’ll never forget. Their group-rate vacation comes at a price when they discover that participation in the resort's unconventional couples therapy activities is anything but optional. Co-starring Jason Bateman, Jon Favreau, Faizon Love, Kristin Davis, Kristen Bell and Malin Akerman, Couples Retreat is a hilarious party in paradise, loaded with laughter and fun!





***VIDEO QUALITY*** - 'Couples Retreat' is presented in full 1080p using the AVC MPEG-4 codec in the 1:85:1 aspect ratio. As one of the character's of the film states the island looks like a screensaver, it sums up this transfer perfectly. Breathtaking detail gives you a sense of being there. The film’s color palette exhibited a broad spectrum of beautiful blues, oranges, and whites with every other color of the rainbow having a moment to shine. Black levels were nice and shadow detail solid.I would like to note there are a couple instances when there is detail loss for a moment or two. There were no signs of grain, edge enhancement , or any digital nose reduction."5 out of 5 Star Rating".





***AUDIO QUALITY*** - Audio is presented with a DTS-HD MA 5.1 track. Dialogue was well represented and always crisp and clean. Bass was used sparingly usually only adding effect to music. Rear channel activity is used to add atmosphere and does highlight a few discrete effects as well.This is for the most part though a front heavy mix , but considering this is a comedy this earns a solid "4 out of 5 Star Rating".





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -

**Disc One**
* U-Control - You can select an optional video commentary with Director Peter Billingsley and Writer/Producer/Actor Vince Vaughn.
* Alternate Ending (HD,3min) - An alternate ending to the film showing the 4 couples landing back in Chicago.Inlcudes optional commentary from Director Peter Billingsley and Vince Vaughn.
* Extended Scenes (HD,4.5min) - Included are “Dinner at Eden“, “Lucy’s Massage” and “Jennifer’s Journey“.
* Deleted Scenes (HD,10min) - These deleted scenes are exclusive to this Blu-ray release.I enjoyed watching them but as usual the film isn't less without these scenes.
* Gag Reel (HD,3min) - A typical gag reel with mistakes turning into laughs.
* Therapy’s Greatest Hits (HD,5min) - These are truly some laugh out funny therapy sessions with the couples in the film.
* Paradise Found (HD,6min) - Showcases the gorgeous island location of Bora Bora that was chosen for the film.
* Behind the Yoga (HD,4min) - Shows rehearsal and preperation footage of the yoga sequence.
* Pocket BLU - This feature gives you the ability to access exclusive bonus features on either your iPhone or iPod Touch.

**Disc Two** - A Digital Copy of the film is included. This is compatible with your PC, Mac, or iPod and Windows Mobile devices.

The House Of The Devil - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - The Horror Film of the Year available on Blu-ray.

Sam (Donahue) is a pretty college sophomore, so desperate to earn some cash for a deposit on an apartment that she accepts a babysitting job even after she finds out there is no baby. Mr. and Mrs. Ulman (cult actors Noonan and Woronov) are the older couple who lure Sam out to their creaky Victorian mansion deep in the woods, just in time for a total lunar eclipse. Megan (Gerwig) is Sam's best friend, who gives her a ride out to the house, and reluctantly leaves her there despite suspecting that something is amiss. Victor (Bowen) at first seems like just a creepy guy lurking around the house, but quickly makes it clear that Sam will end this night in a bloody fight for her life...

2009 Top 10 List Selections:
TimeOut New York
The Onion
AMCtv
Sound on Sight


***VIDEO QUALITY*** - 'The House Of The Devil' is presented in full 1080p utilizing the AVC MPEG-4 codec in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio. Being shot with old-school 16mm film lends to the extremely vintage feel this film has. There is nice grain of layer that adds to the retro feel. Surprisingly being from a 16mm source this transfer contains a fairly great amount of detail, the highlight being the wood paneling at the pizza place and close-ups.Colors were subdued but had a natural look to them and flesh tones were spot on. Black levels were solid.I am serious when I state that if you didn't know this was a new film that you were watching a vintage horror film from the late 70's or early 80's."4 out of 5 Star Rating"


***AUDIO QUALITY*** - Audio on this release is presented in both DTS-HD MA 5.1 and Uncompressed Linear PCM 2.0 Stereo tracks. I enjoyed the no nonsense design to the mix and felt it complemented the setting really well.If you wanna take your mind back to a simpler time and fun late night horror films, play the Linear PCM track and watch it around 1 in the morning by yourself. The film’s startling original score by Jeff Grace is spread across all 5 channels with a nice presence of LFE as well. Dialogue came through crisp and clean. It does a great job with this horror film's style and retro 80's feel, earning a solid "4 out of 5 Star Rating"


***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -
* Audio Commentary with Director & Cast
* Audio Commentary with Director, Producers & Designers
* Theatrical Trailer (SD,2min)
* Deleted Scenes (SD,7min) - The scenes presented here were cut for a reason.Nothing that adds anything more to the film.
* In The House of the Devil (SD,13min) - Includes interviews with the cast and crew and behind-the-scenes footage.
* Behind The House of the Devil (HD,5min) - Brief interviews with writer/director Ti West as well as cast members Jocelin Donahue, AJ Bowen, Greta Gerwig and Mary Woronov.

Walk The Line - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - Reese Witherspoon, in her Academy Award winning** performance and Joaquin Phoenix, in his Oscar nominated*** role star in the critically acclaimed Johnny Cash chronicle, Walk The Line. With his driving freight-train chords, steel-eyed intensity and a voice as dark as the night, the legendary “Man in Black” revolutionized music - and forged his legacy as a genuine American icon. Golden Globe winners**** Phoenix (Gladiator, Hotel Rwanda) and Witherspoon (Election, Vanity Fair) star (and sing) as Johnny Cash and June Carter in this inspiring true story of one man’s unwavering devotion to his sound, his message and the greatest love of his life.





***VIDEO QUALITY*** - 'Walk The Line' debuts on Blu-ray in full 1080p using the AVC MPEG-4 codec in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio.What stands out first is the amazing amount of detail over the DVD version which was no slouch.All the attention to Johnny Cash and June Carter's attire to the style of that era is brought to the screen perfectly.Colors are vivid with my favorite scenes taking place at a Las Vegas show with neon signs glowing in the background of a performance.Black levels were flawless and shadow delineation was spot on,I could see the different layers of black of "The Man In Black's" suits.The gorgeous cinematography by Phedon Papamichael is done justice with this beautiful, filmic transfer.No signs of digital enhancement or noise reduction were noticed.FOX knocks this catalog release out of the park." 5 out of 5 Star Rating"





***AUDIO QUALITY*** - This demo worthy DTS-HD MA 5.1 track is remarkably involving throughout the films 135 minute running time.Surrounds are almost constantly engaged with crowd noise, light breezes blowing by, Folsom Prison, etc.As expected every scene featuring either band rehearsal or actual performances with Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon (who do an admirable job singing with their real vocals) are richly detailed with full, hearty bass that encompasses the room.Dialogue was always crisp and clean.This wonderful presentation earns a perfect "5 out 5 Star Rating"





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** - * Audio Commentary by Screenplay Co-Writer / Director James Mangold
* More Man In Black: Deleted Scenes (HD,23min) - There are some really nice scenes here that would have added a little more insight into Johnny's life on the road an d with his first wife.Worth a watch.
* Extended Musical Sequences (HD,6min) - Includes Dolby Digital 5.1

"Rock and Roll Ruby“
“Jackson“
“Cocaine Blues“
* Featurettes - Included are:

“Folsom, Cash & The Comeback” (SD,12min)
“Celebrating The Man In Black: The Making of Walk The Line” (SD,21min)
“Ring of Fire: The Passion of Johnny & June” (SD,11min)
* Theatrical Trailer (HD,2min) - Includes Dolby Digital 5.1

Zombieland - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - Nerdy college student Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) has survived the plague that has turned mankind into flesh-devouring zombies because he’s scared of just about everything. Gun-toting, Twinkie-loving Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) has no fears. Together, they are about to stare down their most horrifying challenge yet: each other’s company. Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin co-star in this double-hitting, head-smashing comedy.


***VIDEO QUALITY*** - A demo quality transfer utilizing the AVC MPEG-4 Codec in the 2.40:1 aspect ratio.Strikingly bold colors spray the screen with blood and skin tones are spot on with only a couple scenes showing a hint of orange in flesh tones.Flawless fine object detail highlights every broken down road ,car, cracked glass, and most importantly every drop of blood.No grain was visible but fortunately there were no signs of Digital Noise Reduction.Blacks are inky black with excellent shadow delineation.Horror Comedy fans have found their new demo disc."5 out of 5 Star Rating.


***AUDIO QUALITY*** - A solid DTS-HD MA 5.1 track.Bass is the key here and right from the opening titles it is rich and deep while never becoming bloated or overblown.I enjoyed the few panning effects in the mix and the surrounds are utilized to their potential with any scenes where a zombie is even potentially nearby.You can hear moaning and rustling from the rears that are subtle which adds to the effect.Dialogue was always natural and crisply rendered.This an immersive track that adds to the fun of the film."4 out of 5 Star Rating"


***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -


**Disc One** -
* Audio Commentary - With Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Ruben Fleischer, Rhett Reese, and Paul Wernick.
* In Search of Zombieland - (HD,16 min) A basic EPK featurette with cast and crew interviews that add up to nothing substantial.
* Zombieland is Your Land - (HD,12 min) A short but fun behind the scenes feature with interviews from cast and crew.The sets and construction of the are the best part of this featurette.
* Deleted Scenes - (HD,5 min) This set of deleted scenes are quick and worth watching, but the film isn't left wanting for them.
* Visual Effects Progression Scenes - (HD,2 min) A look at the extensive work that was done in creating green screen backdrops and the various other effects from the film.
* Theatrical Trailers (HD,6 min) - Promotional trailers for the film featuring Eisenberg and Harrelson answering fake zombie questions.
* Preview Theatrical Trailers - (HD) Included are trailers for 'Black Dynamite,' 'The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day,' 'Universal Soldier: Regeneration,' 'Breaking Bad: The Complete Second Season,' 'Ghostbusters,' 'Michael Jackson's This Is It,' 'Snatch,' and 'Night of the Creeps,'.
* Playstation 3 Theme - When you your 'Zombieland' disc in a Playstation 3 system , under the game tab there is an option to download a 'Zombieland' theme, which makes icons red, and includes a rotating background of some of the pieces of promotional art for the film.A nice addition for fans of the film
* Beyond the Graveyard:Picture-in-Picture Track - A picture in picture track that includes pop ups containing shots from the Visual Effects Progression Scenes extra, cast and crew interviews, animatics, behind the scenes footage, and storyboards.A fun and welcomed track.
* BD-Live - Access online features.Unfortunately there are no specific 'Zombieland' related extras.
* MovieIQ - A BD-Live enhanced trivia track that while viewing 'Zombieland' with MovieIQ enabled allows you to check out updated filmographies of cast and crew.

**Disc Two** - A Digital Copy of the full length feature film is included for use on your PC, Mac, or iPod.There is also a separate download code for use with your PSP.

Amelia - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - Two-time Academy Award Winner Hilary Swank delivers an unforgettable performance as Amelia Earhart, the legendary American aviatrix who boldly flew into the annals of history. Richard Gere co-stars as her charismatic business partner and adoring husband George Putnam. Bound by ambition and love, their enduring marriage could not be broken by Amelia's determination to fly -- nor her passionate affair with Gene Vidal (Ewan McGregor). Equal parts gripping drama, stirring romance and epic adventure, Amelia will take your breath away and send your spirit soaring!





***VIDEO QUALITY*** - 'Amelia' comes to Blu-ray in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio utilizing the MPEG-4 AVC Codec.This is a strikingly beautiful transfer bolstered by the gorgeous cinematography from Stuart Dryburgh.Colors are warm with a rich saturation .Thankfully there was never any signs of bleeding.Skin tones were perfectly natural throughout.Inky blacks were accompanied by superb shadow delineation.I noticed a fine layer of grain , which as you know is a plus to me.Detail was striking with textures of the aviator jackets and rivets on the planes showing great clarity.There were no signs of artificial enhancement to the image.A wonderful job by FOX, kudos."5 out of 5 Star Rating"





***AUDIO QUALITY*** - A solid effort using a DTS-HD MA 5.1 track, 'Amelia' sounds very good but not as aggressive as one would think due to the scenes featuring stalling, whooshing, and rumbling planes.First thing I noticed was the rear channels being used sparingly.There are moments of well done surround effects such as planes panning left to right, crowd din, and weather though.Dialogue was crisp and intelligible for the duration of the film.Gabriel Yared's score highlights some great high- end details and mid-range.Bass is perfectly adequate but never really gives that boom that you are expecting.Technically speaking the track is flawless, it just feels a little underwhelming while at the same time it fit's the period the film takes place in perfectly."4 out of 5 Star Rating"





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -

**Disc One** -

* Making Amelia - (HD,23min) A well done documentary that explores the personal life of Amelia Earhart , Hilary Swank's determination in presenting her on the screen, the locations that were scouted for use of the planes.Interviews are inlcuded with the director, principle cast and crew.
* Theatrical Trailers - (HD) Included are Whip It, AFI PSA
* 10 Deleted Scenes - (HD,13min) Included are "A Social Worker in Boston", "Amelia's Fiance Before the Friendship Flight", "The Queen of Diamonds", "Mabel Boll", "Arrival in Wales", "Dorothy Putnam"
* The Power of Amelia Earhart - (HD,11min) Another look at the iconic Amelia Earhart's legacy.
* The Plane Behind the Legend - (HD,4min) A brief look at the use of an authentic Lockheed Electra that was used for filming instead fully relying on CG effects.
* Re-constructing the Planes of Amelia - (HD,7min) A fun tour of the warehouse that was used in creating four different full size built mockups.
* 7 MovieTone News Reels - (SD,7min) A great addition are these original Fox Movietone news reels that kept film audiences entanced with updates of Amelia Earhart's historic flights.

**Disc Two** - A Digital Copy is included with a full length version of the movie that can be played on your PC, Mac , or iPod devices.

Surrogates - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - How do you save humanity when the only thing that's real is you? From the director of TERMINATOR 3 comes a jaw-dropping psychological thriller starring the ultimate action hero, Bruce Willis. In the not-so-distant future, where people experience life through perfect surrogates controlled from the safety of their own homes, murder is a thing of the past. But when a college student linked to the creator of these replicants is killed, one FBI agent must re-enter reality and risk his life to unravel the mystery. In the battle of technology versus humanity, who can you trust? Experience every electrifying moment of this mind-blowing movie. Based on the acclaimed graphic novel and exploding with unforgettable action, SURROGATES is nonstop entertainment from start to finish!





***VIDEO QUALITY*** - "Surrogates" is presented in a 1080p transfer utilizing the VC-1 Video codec in the original aspect ratio of 2.40:1.Due to the mostly cold blue future aesthetic colors really pop off the screen then when there are splatters of blood or beautiful green trees in the Dread sections of the city.Skin tones were always natural.Blacks were consistently deep with shadow detail impeccable.Fine details were above average but please note that the Surrogates faces were purposely meant to have an unreal sheen to them with little to no detail.There was a fine layer of grain noticed throughout.I did notice a few moments of digital noise but nothing to ruin a solid transfer."4 out of 5 Star Rating".





***AUDIO QUALITY*** - Presented in a DTS-HD MA 5.1track, "Surrogates" sounds impressive.There was a nice sense of atmosphere due to well placed surround effects.Dialogue was crisp and clean although it was harder to discern during the aggressive action scenes.The musical score by Richard Marvin is complemented well with great highs and lows.Bass was a top notch performer with a good punch to it.Overall a great listen."4.5 out of 5 Star Rating".





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -

* Audio Commentary with director Jonathan Mostow - The Terminator 3 director discusses in detail the production of the film, the crew,the actors (working with Bruce), and also the differences between the film and the original graphic novel.A really good listen if you have the time.
* A More Perfect You: The Science of Surrogates - (HD,15min) An informative look at the the production of the film with interviews from the cast and crew.The best part is a look at the real world inventions that could one day lead us to the same path that humans took in the film.Would you want a Surrogate of your own?
* Breaking the Frame: A Graphic Novel Comes to Life - (HD,7min) This is a short look at Robert Venditti and Brett Weldele's graphic novel. It showcases animated panels and interviews with the creators.
* Deleted Scenes - (HD,6min) Four decent deleted scenes are offered here and add some more back story to the Surrogates but isn't missed from the films theatrical cut.Please note that special effects are not finalized for these scenes.
* Music Video - (HD,4min) Breaking Benjamin perform "I Will Not Bow"

Whip It - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - Hang onto your helmet and get ready to break away from the pack! Ellen Page scores huge laughs as Bliss Cavendar, a small-town teenager with a big dream: to find her own path in the world. Tired of following in her family’s footsteps of compliance and conformity, Bliss discovers a way to put her life on the fast track...literally. She lands a spot on a rough-and-tumble roller derby team and becomes “Babe Ruthless” — the hottest thing on eight wheels! Co-starring Drew Barrymore (in her feature film directorial debut), Marcia Gay Harden, Juliette Lewis, Daniel Stern and Jimmy Fallon, Whip It is a triumphant, free-spirited comedy loaded with high-speed action and nonstop fun!





***VIDEO QUALITY*** - Whipi It arrives on Blu-ray with an MPEG-4 AVC codec transfer in the original theatrical 2.35:1 aspect ratio.This transfer offers solid image quality with no digital noise reduction or edge enhancement to be found.Colors are strikingly brilliant, the highlight being all the wonderful uniforms worn by the assorted teams.There is a fine layer of grain visible that adds to the presentation.Skin tones were accurate throughout.Blacks levels were solid.This is a superb replication of the theatrical presentation of the film."5 out of 5 Star Rating"





***AUDIO QUALITY*** - Presented in a flawless DTS-HD MA 5.1 track, "Whip It" sounds great.The track really comes together with a good amount of separation during the derby scenes.The fabulous soundtrack that accompanies the film is the standout here and is complemented with crisp highs and tight lows.The bass channel gets a good workout throughout.Dialogue was clean and easily heard.A great job by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment that earns a "5 out of 5 Star Rating".





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -

**Disc One** -
*Deleted & Alternate Scenes - (HD,15min) A collection of scenes that are fun to watch, but aren't missed from the theatrical cut.The following scenes are included -
* Bliss Gets Out Of Brooke's Truck
* No Tip
* Bliss,Pash, and Bird Man on Oink Joint Roof
* Celebrity
* Razor Quits (Extended Version)
* Bliss and Oliver kiss, Bliss listens to CD
* Bliss asks Razor to come back (Raw Cut)
* Maggie and Riley wake up Bliss
* Writers Draft with Shauna Cross - (SD,3min) An all too brief look at the writing process for the film.

**Disc Two** - A Digital Copy Disc is included for download to your PC, Mac , or iPod.

Michael Jackson's This Is It - Blu-ray Disc Review

***SYNOPSIS*** - Michael Jackson's This Is It will offer Jackson fans and music lovers worldwide a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the performer as he developed, created and rehearsed for his sold-out concerts that would have taken place beginning this summer in London's O2 Arena. Chronicling the months from April through June 2009, the film is produced with the full support of the Estate of Michael Jackson and drawn from more than one hundred hours of behind-the-scenes footage, featuring Jackson rehearsing a number of his songs for the show. Audiences will be given a privileged and private look at Jackson as he has never been seen before. In raw and candid detail, Michael Jackson's This Is It captures the singer, dancer, filmmaker, architect, creative genius and great artist at work as he creates and perfects his final show. Directed by Kenny Ortega, who was both Michael Jackson's creative partner and the director of the stage show.





***MOVIE REVIEW*** - The world lost an incredible performer and human being on June 25,2009.This documentary culled form over 80 hours of footage and put together from director Kenny Ortega is a candid look at the man that so many loved but few really knew.My favorite moments of the film besides the as expected amazing musical performances is the quieter scenes of Michael putting all his heart into wanting create what was going to be his comeback and at the same time farewell tour.He comes across as a genuinely caring and passionate man , even when disagreeing with a musician he is still completely professional.I went opening night to see the film with my Grandmother who is 84 and has always stood by Michal and was a true fan.Instead of being a sad night, it was instead a celebration of the icon and we both had smiles on our face the entire time.Tears were shed, but they were tears of joy.This is but a brief glimpse into the mind of Michael Jackson at work but I can think of no better way to remember this true legend who showed he was still at the top of his game and was ready to take the world by storm all over again."A Definite Must Own"
The following songs are performed in the film -
* "Wanna Be Startin’ Something"
* "Jam"
* "They Don’t Care About Us"
* "Human Nature"
* "The Way You Make Me Feel"
* "Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)"
* "I Just Can’t Stop Loving You"
* "Smooth Criminal"
* "Thriller"
* "Beat It"
* "Black or White"
* "Earth Song"
* "Billie Jean"
* "Man in the Mirror"






***VIDEO QUALITY*** - Video Quality on this Blu-ray release is in full 1080p using the AVC MPEG-4 codec in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio.A solid performer overall but I will let you know ahead of time that the aspect ratios fluctuate from 1.33 to 1.78 and the quality can dip to vintage clips in SD and the rehearsal footage that looks spectacular since it was shot using HD cameras.I can say though that this is without a doubt a perfect recreation of what I saw at my local theater.Colors are rock solid with bold primaries.Blacks were satisfying and added to the depth of the image .Detail is good in the HD footage but lacks the fine texture detail that I was hoping for but wasn't there due to the source material.As I said this a solid performer overall and earns a respectable "4 out of 5 Star Rating"





***AUDIO QUALITY*** - "This Is It" is presented in a superb DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio lossless track.What struck me first was how clear and crisp everything is considering this was rehearsal footage shot in an empty Staples Center.We get an aggressive track that was impressive throughout.Any limitations are due to the source.Music is the clear winner and the songs performed during the film really came alive and was complemented by surprisingly rich bass.Surrounds aren't engaged too much but do come in to play more during the song rehearsal's. Granted this track was not filmed from a full fledged concert but what is here was quite pleasing."4.5 out of 5 Star Rating"





***SPECIAL FEATURES*** -

* "movieIQ" - Included on this release is "movieIQ" which uses BD-Live to access facts about the film and the crew.Also includes is the ability to make your own personalized favorite playlist from Michael Jackson songs.The features will not go live until 1/26/2010, release day.
* "Smooth Criminal Vignette" - (HD,4min) Included is the short film piece that was filmed specifically to be shown on the massive LCD screen that would have been a major part of the stage production. This is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.
* "Making Smooth Criminal Vignette" - (HD,11min) An interesting look behind-the-scenes at the making of the "Smooth Criminal" vignette that you should watch before this.
* "Thriller Vignette" - (HD,4min) Included is the short film piece that was filmed specifically to be shown on the massive LCD screen that would have been part of the show if the tour had taken place. This is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.
* "Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins" - (HD,28min) A nice,informative documentary that includes interviews with Director Kenny Ortega and the entire crew that was involved.
* "Staging the Return: Beyond the Show" - (HD,13min) A short documentary that talks about the unfortunate passing of Michael Jackson and Kenny Ortega’s desire to show the world the man behind the curtain as it were, from the wonderful rehearsal footage.
* "The Gloved One" - (HD,15min) A short featurette that takes us on a behind-the-scenes look with costume designer Zaldy and the outfits that Michael had planned to wear on the tour.
* "Memories of Michael" - (HD,16min) This is a tribute featurette with insight from director Kenny Ortega and the crew that worked with Michael in his final days.
* "Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers" - (HD,10min)This is a behind-the-scenes featurette that explores the young men and women who were inspired to take the chance and hopefully be able to perform with Michael on his tour.
* Theatrical Trailer - (HD,2:30) The original theatrical trailer is presented with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.