Set in 1970s Los Angeles, down-on-his-luck private eye Holland March (Ryan Gosling) and hired enforcer Jackson Healy (Russell Crowe) must work together to solve the case of a missing girl and the seemingly unrelated death of a porn star. During their investigation, they uncover a shocking conspiracy that reaches up to the highest circles of power.
Shane Black is one of my favorite directors and his latest The Nice Guys is a fun and wild ride. Russell Crowe is great as the straight man, tough guy private detective. Ryan Gosling goes against type and gives one of the best comedic performances of the year as Holland March, a complete buffoon and klutz of a man who also happens to be a P.I. and is terrible at his profession. March has a helpful and intelligent daughter Holly played by Angourie Rice who steals quite a few scenes away from Crowe and Gosling.
The central mystery lends itself to some fun red herrings, comical action sequences and snappy dialogue. The Nice Guys flew under the radar while in theaters but hopefully it will find the audience it deserves on Blu-ray. 9/10
The Nice Guys arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 2.40:1 - Color reproduction is a treat with bright neon, warm wood tones, and some outlandish outfit choice that pop off the screen.The Los Angeles in the 1970's setting of the film lends to the visual appeal. Contrast is perfectly balanced with daytime outdoor scenes full of detail. Black levels were rich and deep while never sacrificing shadhow delineation. The image is sharp and fine details in the fashion, Crowe and Goslings features and the decor all look excellent. No anomalies or digital tinkering to mar this presentation. 9/10
Audio is provided by a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. - The brilliant dialogue was crisp and prioritized to the center channel. The surrounds were surprisingly active and the action scenes envelop the viewer with bullets flying past you, cars crashing and environmental effects. LFE performance was excellent as well with precise and punchy bass adding great depth to the fun soundtrack and gunfire alike. No pops or hissing to speak of. 9/10
* Always Bet On Black (HD, 05:27)
* Worst. Detectives. Ever. Making The Nice Guys (HD, 06:16)