Latest news with #WarnerArchive
Geek Vibes Nation
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Hans Christian Andersen' Blu-Ray Review - Danny Kaye Brings An Iconic Storyteller To Life
Once upon a time, there lived in Denmark a young shoemaker named Hans Christian Andersen whose magical tales delighted boys and girls throughout the land. Danny Kaye 'is a delight' (Cue) as Hans, who one day journeys beyond the borders of his small village, across the sea and into the dazzling city of Copenhagen. There he encounters marvels and wonders beyond his wildest dreams…and finds the inspiration for some of his most unforgettable characters, such as The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, Thumbelina and many more! Nominated for six Oscars, Hans Christian Andersen is pure enchantment! For thoughts on Hans Christian Andersen, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required: Video Quality Warner Archive brought Hans Christian Andersen back in print to Blu-Ray in 2020 after first being released on Blu-Ray by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment in 2012. This disc is the exact one used in the original run, only brought back so you do not have to pay inflated prices on the second-hand market. The Samuel Goldwyn estate restored the film for this original release from a 2K scan on the Interpositive in a 1.37:1 aspect ratio that looks good but could likely look even better with modern restoration tools. One of the most impressive aspects of the film is the vibrant array of colors within the costumes and settings that radiate off the screen with a lovely vibrancy. Every hue appears to be fairly accurate to its intended shade. Black levels showcase nice depth with respectable stability throughout, and highlights are bright without succumbing to any blooming. The restoration appears to have eliminated most dirt and damage for a clear picture. There do not appear to be any dastardly digital anomalies such as compression artifacts, banding, or other such nuisances. The level of detail and clarity is in fine shape with a faithful amount of natural film grain intact, yet there is a bit of softness at points due to coming from an Interpositive. We would love to see a 4K restoration in the future, but this disc holds up well enough. Audio Quality The Blu-Ray comes with a pleasant DTS-HD 1.0 Master Audio mono track that captures the material without issue. The star of the show is the music, and this track executes these elements with care. It balances the soft vocals with the accompanying dance numbers and music with great clarity. Dialogue comes through clearly with nothing overshadowed by competing elements. There are spectacular moments when the track is bustling with all of the competing elements, but the fidelity never comes up short. Warner Bros. has provided a strong presentation that avoids signs of age-related wear and tear. Optional English (SDH), French, and Spanish subtitles are provided. Special Features Theatrical Trailer (2:43) Final Thoughts Hans Christian Andersen is an amiable movie musical that takes a fictionalized look at the life of an iconic storyteller as brought to buoyant life by Danny Kaye. The narrative is understandably kid-friendly given the tales that he wrote, but there is a lack of complexity given to his struggles that falls in line with so-called biopics of the time. That being said, the glossy approach to the narrative does yield some entertaining numbers and some fine performances. Warner Archive has re-released a Blu-Ray featuring a pleasant A/V presentation but not much in the way of special features. Recommended Hans Christian Andersen can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or various other online retailers. Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray. Disclaimer: Warner Archive has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Geek Vibes Nation
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Michael Collins' Blu-Ray Review - A Captivating Look At A Real-Life Revolutionary
Michael Collins tells the powerful, turbulent story of one of Ireland's most controversial patriots and revolutionary heroes, known as 'The Lion Of Ireland', who leads his countrymen in their fight for independence. Set in the early 20th century, when a monumental history of oppression and bloodshed had divided Ireland and its people, the film covers the bloody 1916 Easter Uprising, when Irish revolutionaries surrendered to the overwhelming military power of the British forces and Collins was arrested. Upon his release, he takes leadership of the Irish independence movement and strives to create a free and peaceful country. For thoughts on Michael Collins, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required: Video Quality Michael Collins was released on Blu-Ray in 2016 courtesy of the Warner Archive with a sturdy 1080p transfer derived from a 2K scan of the Interpositive. This is not the most overtly colorful film, but key pieces of production design and some stunning environments compensate for this with some bold hues. The transfer retains the valuable texture of the natural film grain that resolves evenly throughout the journey. There is a plethora of detail uncovered within the backgrounds and on some of the costumes. No signs of ugly compression artifacts or banding were spotted throughout. Warner Archive allows this one to look its best. Audio Quality This Blu-Ray features a stirring DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio surround sound track that commendably showcases the original soundscape. This track provides a presentation clear of any obvious blemishes or digital anomalies that would disrupt the viewing experience. Dialogue is crisp and clear without being overshadowed by narratively impactful sound effects. The environmental noises are not distractingly showy in the rear speakers, but everything expands out quite naturally. The exceptional score from Elliot Goldenthal is treated respectfully and blends well within the mix. This track is a winner. Optional English SDH, French, Spanish, and an array of other subtitles are provided for those who desire them. Special Features Audio Commentary: Director Neil Jordan provides a commentary track recorded in 2015 in which he reflects on the production of the film, his inspiration for wanting to tell this story, the dramatic license he took with the film, the response to the film, the history of Ireland, and more. In Conversation with Neil Jordan: A nearly five-minute interview with the filmmaker who introduces the film and discusses its legacy. South Bank Show: A 51-minute episode of the series that explores the release of Michael Collins through interviews with Neil Jordan, Liam Neeson, producer Stephen Wooley, historians, and more, along with historical and behind-the-scenes footage. Deleted Scenes: There is a six-minute collection of unused material provided. Theatrical Trailer (1:44) Final Thoughts Michael Collins is a captivating look at a real-life historical figure who fought for his country with a ferociousness and tenacity that made him a hero and a villain, depending on the perspective. Liam Neeson offers one of his strongest dramatic turns here, and the remainder of the ensemble match him (when they are given the right material). The film has a mighty runtime, but the direction of Neil Jordan ensures that the film is never less than gripping. Warner Archive has released a Blu-Ray featuring a worthy A/V presentation and welcome special features. If you appreciate a good historical drama, this one is a winner. Recommended Michael Collins can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or through various other online retailers. Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray. Disclaimer: Warner Archive has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
