When Scott and Kate Johansen’s daughter gets into the college of her dreams it’s cause for celebration. That is, until Scott and Kate (Will Ferrell and Amy Poehler) learn that the scholarship they were counting on didn’t come through, and they’re now on the hook for tuition they can’t begin to afford.
With the help of their friend and neighbor Frank (Jason Mantzoukas)—also in need of a major payday—they decide to open an illegal casino in his suburban house, risking everything together on a Vegas-style bacchanal where money flows, inhibitions are checked at the door, and all bets are off.
The House starts off a bit dull until things get more entertaining once Ferrell and Amy Poehler get to let loose and be a bit wild with their characters. A fun cameo from Jeremy Renner is the best part of the film. Jason Mantzoukas is a wild card that helps to add intrigue whether you can trust Frank or not. Worth a purchase for fans of the cast. 7/10
The House arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 2.40:1 - Color reproduction was good. The palette gets a nice warm depth to it with reds, oranges and wood grains when the casino is in full swing. Black levels were pleasingly deep and inky. Overall clarity was excellent save for a few instances at the beginning where the image softens a touch. 8/10
Audio is provided by a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. - Dialogue reproduction was crisp and clearly presented. The highlight of this track are the fun selection of music. The LFE channel flexes it muscle with some hip hop music cues and a couple action beats later in the film. 8.5/10
* The House: Playing with a Loaded Deck (HD, 12:47) - Pranks, practical jokes and unpredictability. Watch Will Ferrell, Amy Poehler, Jason Mantzoukas and a full house of all-star comedians go all in during this hilarious and highly inappropriate look backstage that you won’t be able to unsee.
* If You Build The House They Will Come (HD, 13:43) - Discover how the cast and crew transformed an ordinary quiet suburban house to a full-blown underground Vegas-style casino complete with high-roller tables, a pool party and Fight Night, and how the cast went to poker school, learning to place their bets from the pros.
* Deleted Scenes (HD, 15:43)
* Extended/Alternate Scenes (HD, 1:19:54)
* Gag Reel (HD, 09:57)
* Line-O-Ramas (HD, 08:41)