Dark Water

Arrow Video's Blu-ray release of "Dark Water" brings the film into the high definition realm with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer, showcased in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This release, stirred by the craftsmanship of Arrow, includes a 5.1 surround sound that envelops the viewer in the film's haunting ambiance. The transfer's backbone originates from a High Definition master provided by Kadokawa Pictures, with Deluxe Restoration in London stepping in for additional clean-up efforts aimed at removing visual pollutants and enhancing the picture's stability. However, the release shrouds itself in mystery by not specifying the source elements for this transfer, hinting at a reliance on perhaps older and potentially inconsistent secondary sources.

The video quality of this Blu-ray release demonstrates varying levels of detail and warmth, exhibiting a dichotomy between its polished and lackluster elements. Although there are instances where the presentation showcases acceptable detail and a decently warm palette, these moments prove to be outliers in an otherwise muddy and soft visual journey. The imagery frequently succumbs to a processed appearance, marred by brown hues and an overbearing softness that dulls the visual impact, particularly in shots requiring more detail. The presence of grain, while intended to add a layer of authenticity, occasionally appears manipulated, contributing to the processed look and suggesting possible high frequency filtering.

Technical anomalies further detract from the viewing experience. The transfer seems to struggle with gamma irregularities similar to those found in other Japanese releases, resulting in contrast and brightness issues that often leave images looking washed out or unnaturally tinted. The intrusion of scanner noise, not confined merely to darker scenes, compounds these visual shortcomings. Despite these critiques, it's worth noting that the film's visual presentation in motion does offer some improvement over static images, providing a slight reprieve in a transfer that could otherwise be described as underwhelming.

The audio aspect of "Dark Water" on Blu Ray is represented with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that promises an immersive experience, devoid of the issues that often plague films of its genre. With an emphasis on creating an atmospheric soundscape, the audio design skillfully incorporates the element of water not just as a theme but as a constant auditory presence. The subtle yet consistent sounds of dripping water are ingeniously used to heighten tension, enveloping the viewer in the movie's eerie ambiance. This is complemented by the low-frequency effects (LFE) that add a layer of depth to the audio, creating a sensation that mirrors the film's thematic exploration of drowning - both literal and metaphorical.

The meticulously crafted soundtrack plays a pivotal role in reinforcing the film's unsettling atmosphere. It drifts through the surround sound channels, engaging the viewer from all sides and enhancing the overall sensory experience. This is achieved without overshadowing the dialogue, which remains clear, crisp, and front and center throughout the film. The balance between dialogue, sound effects, and score is maintained with commendable precision, ensuring that each element contributes to the narrative without overwhelming it.

In essence, the audio presentation of "Dark Water" on Blu Ray sets a high standard for horror cinema audio tracks. The exemplary use of surround channels not only supports but elevates the film's storytelling, while the thoughtful integration of sound effects and score creates a hauntingly immersive experience. The technical proficiency evident in the delivery and prioritization of dialogue further underscores the quality of this audio track, making it a highlight of the Blu Ray experience.

The Blu Ray extra presentation of "Dark Water" stands out for its comprehensive and insightful collection of interviews and archival content, catering to fans and newcomers alike. It features a deep dive into the creative minds behind the film, including a detailed interview with director Hideo Nakata, which sheds light on his approach to blending ghost stories with emotional narratives. The celebrated horror author, Koji Suzuki, offers a glimpse into the family-centric terrors that inspired the story. Contributions from director of photography, Junichiro Hayashi, provide perspective on the visual style unique to this film. Archival interviews and a making-of featurette enrich the collection, offering a well-rounded view of the film's production. The inclusion of promotion materials, including trailers and TV spots, rounds off the extras with a nostalgic yet crisp look at the film's original marketing.

Extras included in this disc:

• Hideo Nakata: Ghosts, Rings and Water: An in-depth 2016 interview with the director.
• Koji Suzuki: Family Terrors: Interview with the horror author behind the story.
• Junichiro Hayashi: Visualizing Horror: Insights from the director of photography.
• Making of Featurette: An archival EPK providing a behind-the-scenes look.
• Hitomi Kuroki Interview: Archival interview with the leading actress.
• Asami Mizukawa Interview: A piece featuring the actress behind teenaged Ikuko.
• Shikao Suga Interview: Brief discussion with the musician about the film's closing theme.
• Promo Materials: Including trailer, teaser, and TV spots.

Hideo Nakata's 'Dark Water' emerges from the gloom of conventional horror to offer a chilling narrative that intertwines the eeriness of the supernatural with the poignant struggles of a mother's love. Nakata, known for pioneering the 'dead wet girl' trope through iconic films such as 'Ring,' once again delves into this motif by weaving a storyline that transcends mere frights, opting instead for a more psychologically turbulent horror that creeps under the skin without resorting to the typical shock tactics of the genre. The film's introduction, presenting a young girl left in limbo within a rainy landscape, seamlessly sets the tone for a narrative steeped in melancholy and apprehension, establishing an immediate emotional connection that cunningly draws viewers into its melancholic depth.

Yoshimi Matsubara's plight, battling custody issues amid her own psychological vulnerabilities, unfolds within the confines of a decrepit apartment, an everyday setting that Nakata adeptly transforms into a vessel for mounting dread. The evolving water stain on Yoshimi’s ceiling becomes more than a mere household inconvenience; it's a palpable symbol of impending doom, unraveling both her sanity and ours with exquisite tension. Nakata's masterful avoidance of overt gore leaves much to the imagination, magnifying the horror that is suggested rather than shown. This subtle approach crafts an unnervingly believable atmosphere where mundane becomes malevolent.

The narrative’s strength is amplified by its foray into the deep connections between Yoshimi and her daughter Ikuko, intersecting with supernatural elements that hint at Nakata’s familiar theme—the ‘dead wet girl.’ Nevertheless, 'Dark Water' differentiates itself from prior works by weaving these elements into a rich tapestry that explores the maternal bond in the face of spectral despair. The inclusion of recurring motifs like a mysterious child's bag and visions of another child underscore the film’s dense atmosphere, charting a course that ultimately reveals a tale not just of terror, but of sacrifice and maternal devotion. 'Dark Water' succeeds as a genre piece by not only embracing the shadowy corners of horror but also by illuminating the powerful narrative possibilities within them.

Dark Water," as presented in its Blu-ray form, diverges significantly from traditional horror conventions, favoring a narrative steeped in psychological elements over mere shock value. This film intricately explores the nuances of the mother-child relationship, delving into how these bonds are tested by both corporeal and supernatural adversities. Its pacing is deliberate, aiming to build suspense and engagement slowly, a choice that may not cater to the expectations of conventional horror aficionados. However, for those patient enough to immerse themselves in its narrative depth, "Dark Water" offers a profound emotional impact that resonates well beyond its runtime.

The technical presentation of this Blu-ray edition showcases Arrow's commendable effort in supplementing the film with a rich array of extras that enhance the viewing experience. The audio quality is notably excellent, ensuring that the film's subtle auditory nuances are captured with great fidelity. Nevertheless, there is a palpable opportunity for enhancement in the video department. Despite Arrow's reputation for meticulous restorations, this release seems to fall short of its usual standard, with the video quality leaving something to be desired for a film of this visual and thematic complexity.

In conclusion, while "Dark Water" on Blu-ray triumphs in delivering a deeply psychological horror experience enriched with stellar audio and valuable supplementary content, it is slightly marred by its less-than-ideal video presentation. It is a must-have for aficionados who appreciate horror that delves into emotional depths and complex narratives, albeit with the caveat of accepting a compromise in visual quality. Arrow's attempt is laudable but highlights the need for improvement in future releases to truly do justice to the film's atmospheric and emotional ambiance.