March 25, 2015

IMAX Island of Lemurs: Madagascar Blu-ray Review






**SYNOPSIS**



Captured with IMAX 3D cameras, “Island of Lemurs: Madagascar” takes audiences on a spectacular journey to the remote and wondrous world of Madagascar, where lemurs arrived millions of years ago as castaways. They’ve since evolved into hundreds of diverse species, but are now highly endangered.

“Island of Lemurs: Madagascar” highlights the tireless efforts of trailblazing scientist Dr. Patricia C. Wright and her lifelong mission to help these strange and adorable creatures survive in the modern world. Joining David Douglas once again behind the scenes are editor Beth Spiegel, co-producer Diane Roberts, and composer Mark Mothersbaugh. Songs are by Hanitrarivo Rasoanaivo & Tarika.





**MOVIE REVIEW**



The Lemurs (Lemuriformes) of Madagascar have lived on this Earth since the age of the Dinosaur and have grown on this beautiful island for millions of years. With humans destroying more of the planet's natural resources these adorable and peculiar creatures existence is now being threatened. Dr. Patricia Wright is at the forefront in studying and trying to protect the Lemurs of Madagascar.

Running at a a fast 41 minutes this IMAX film stays to the tried and true formula of educating while showing the cuteness of some of the world's most amazing creatures. The Lemurs are entertaining, especially the way they jump and dance. Morgan Freeman's narration draws the viewer in. Young children to adults should find this film to be enjoyable though in my opinion some of the more educational bits are simplified for a younger audience. 8/10


**VIDEO QUALITY**



IMAX Island of Lemurs: Madagascar arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 1.78:1 - Colors are vibrant and pop with lush greens, crisp whites, and shades of brown, white and grey in the Lemurs fur. Black levels were deep. The overall image is striking in it's clarity and overhead shots of the island are breathtaking. Fine detail in the creatures fur is clearly defined. No issues to speak of. 9/10


**AUDIO QUALITY**



Audio is provided by a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. - Starting with narration from Morgan Freeman the dialogue was consistently crisp and clear with nice heft in the center channel for Freeman's distinct voice. The overall sense of environment was good and there are moments you could close your eyes and feel like you were there on the island. The music is spread through all channels and perfectly balanced in the mix. No anomalies were heard 8.5/10


**SPECIAL FEATURES**



* Making of Island of Lemurs (HD, 4min49sec)

* Behind the Scenes (HD, 2min20sec)

* The Story of Lemurs (HD, 5min43sec)

* Meet Patricia Wright (HD, 3min38sec)

* A Baby Indri (HD, 2min12sec)

* Five Things About Indri (HD, 2min15sec)

* The Cutest Lemur (HD, 1min42sec)

* Go-Kart Racers (HD, 2min2sec)