Wes Bentley 4K and Blu Rays Roundup: A High-Definition Odyssey Through Time and Space

The journey through Interstellar's aural cosmos is no less spectacular, with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track enveloping viewers in an auditory spectacle as vast as space itself. Each roar of rocket engines and shift of spacecraft feels alarmingly present, rooted in a dynamic range that mirrors the sprawling universe Nolan has framed. Yet, amidst the bombastic score by Hans Zimmer, dialogue battles for dominion, a controversial choice that melds with the director's vision. This soundscape doesn’t just accompany the stunning visuals; it shapes the very fabric of the narrative, bridging human emotion with the celestial dance of the unknown.

The two-disc set of Interstellar on 4K UHD doesn't skimp on the brainy bonuses. Dive deep with “The Science of Interstellar” hosted by Matthew McConaughey, or explore the myriad featurettes that dissect the film's production, from the creation of dust storms to the design of those sleek space suits. It's a treasure trove for fans, enriching the already deep space voyage with behind-the-scenes insights and reflections on the film’s creation. This pantheon of extras doesn’t just accompany the film; it elevates the entire package to a must-own for Nolan enthusiasts and newcomers eager to parse the universe’s mysteries.

Embrace the call of rebellion as 'The Hunger Games' 4K UHD Blu-ray edition ensnares the senses with a Dolby Atmos soundscape that transcends boundaries. Panem erupts in an auditory spectacle, with every leaf rustle, and tracker jacker hum mapped in the dome of your living room, painting a sonic picture as vivid as the saga itself. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a revolution that transforms the viewing room into an extension of the arenas and forests. From the foreboding silence of Snow’s tyranny to the cacophony of the Capitol's excess, each layer of sound, enhanced by the depth of Atmos, carves out the ambiance with an artisan’s precision. Whether it’s the visceral energy of an explosion or the haunting melody of the Mockingjays, this auditory overhaul not only complements the visual feast but elevates the tale of Katniss Everdeen to mythic proportions.

Lionsgate, in its benevolence, graces us with a quiver of supplemental arrows to accompany 'The Hunger Games' 4K UHD release. Among the treasures is an audio commentary that offers a behind-the-scenes march through Panem’s creation, featuring whispers from the shadows of the editing room and tales of visual and auditory mastery. Yet, as with any Capitol banquet, there’s a sense of longing for the extravagance of its predecessor's fuller chest of extras. While stalwarts like 'Letters from the Rose Garden' provide intimate glances into the tyrant's mind, the absence of some cherished content leaves a pang of hunger unsated. Nevertheless, this 4K edition is an enduring tribute to the Districts' spirit, ensuring the flames of rebellion burn bright, with each frame and echo captured with a reverence fit for the Mockingjay’s legacy.

However, not all is amiss in American Beauty’s transfer to the realm of high definition. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack orchestrates a serenade that largely hits the right notes, ensuring that the film's dialogue - a pivotal facet of its narrative richness - resonates with clarity. Environmental audibles and the haunting notes of Thomas Newman’s score wrap the viewer in a blanket of suburban melancholy, even if the rear channels and LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) don’t quite reach the sonic depths one might hope for. Moments of auditory brilliance, like the startling chime of a doorbell, highlight what could have been a fully immersive soundscape, teasing at a missed opportunity for aural perfection.

Where the visual and auditory aspects may falter, the extra features on this Blu-ray edition of American Beauty cradle the essence of the film’s making, akin to uncovering a time capsule. The commentary by Sam Mendes and Alan Ball is a riveting behind-the-scenes tour, offering enthusiasts a seat at the creators' table. Though the supplementary material doesn't overflow with abundance, features such as 'American Beauty: Look Closer' and the Storyboard Presentation weave a narrative of painstaking craftsmanship and thematic depth. While the absence of more robust extras from previous versions is felt, what is offered enriches the understanding and appreciation of this cinematic masterpiece, proving that sometimes, looking closer reveals the beauty hidden within.

Dive helmet-first into the auditory inferno of Ghost Rider's Blu-ray release, featuring a duet of high-definition sound extravaganzas that set a towering bar for home cinema. With the luxury of choice between uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround sound and Dolby TrueHD 5.1, listeners are thrust into an immersive soundscape that's as engaging as the visual spectacle. The rear channels toss a persistent barrage of effects, from the subtle whisper of a breeze to the guttural roar of Ghost Rider's motorcycle, ensuring a 360-degree audio assault. The fidelity of the soundtrack is unmatched, seamlessly blending dialogue, effects, and music into a cacophonous symphony that reverberates through the depths of the viewer's soul, making it a reference-quality auditory showcase.

The spirit of Ghost Rider gallops beyond the screen with an exhaustive array of extras that delve deep into the heart of its creation. The centerpiece, an 82-minute documentary titled Spirit of Vengeance, embarks on an epic journey exploring the meticulous layers of the film's production from Melbourne's sets to digital effects wizardry. Accompanied by two insightful commentary tracks and a parade of high-definition trailers, this Blu-ray doesn’t skimp on delivering a behind-the-scenes look that's as rich and engaging as the feature presentation itself. While some treasures from the DVD vault may be missing, the quality focus of this release helps illuminate the paths tread by the filmmakers, serving as both a demonstration-worthy showcase and an educational excursion into big-screen magic.

Prepare to have your sonic perception recalibrated! 'Mission: Impossible - Fallout' doesn't merely utilize the Dolby Atmos track; it weaponizes it into an entity so profound, your eardrums will sign up for a repeat mission. Composer Lorne Balfe's score becomes an enveloping cloak, majestic in its reach, threading through your speaker setup with the determination of Ethan Hunt himself. With soundscapes that mirror the heartbeat of action - from the roar of motorcycle engines tearing through Paris to the symphony of gunshots that follow, and the hush of whispered alliances—it's an audio-visual banquet. Embrace the overture of exquisite fidelity, where dialogue dances with clarity no matter the on-screen turmoil, and each atmospheric layer extends the cinematic landscape well beyond the confines of your home theater.

Believe the hype; the treasure trove of extras bundled in 'Mission: Impossible - Fallout's 4K UHD release turns witnessing into experiencing. Paramount gifts us not one, but three insightful audio commentaries directly on the 4K disc, including banter between Christopher McQuarrie and Tom Cruise, and a solo score journey with Lorne Balfe. Venture further with the comprehensive seven-part documentary ‘Behind the Fallout’ on the supplementary Blu-ray disc, and delve into a montage of deleted scenes, a music breakdown of a nail-biting foot chase, and more. This array of special features doesn't just complement the film; it escorts us behind the scenes, under the skin, and into the heart of 'Fallout's' unmatched dedication to cinema craft. Whether for the technically curious, the action aficionados, or those enamored with the undying spirit of the IMF, 'Mission: Impossible – Fallout' on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a collector’s dream, echoing the film’s relentless pursuit of perfection.

Dive deeper into Elliot's forest with the Blu-ray's DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtrack, a sonic journey that's as comprehensive as it is immersive. From the subtle rustling of leaves to the heart-pounding thumps of the dragon's stride, each sound is a thread in the intricate audio tapestry that blankets the viewer. The low end roars to life with Elliot's every movement, grounding the audial landscape with a depth that echoes through the soul. Despite occasional fluctuations in dialogue volume, the clarity and distribution of sound remain impeccable, crafting an environment where the line between reality and fantasy blurs. The whispers of nature, the echoes of laughter, and the crescendos of adventure fill the living room, proving that in the world of 'Pete's Dragon,' every note and nuance plays its part in the symphony.

The Blu-ray release of Pete's Dragon does more than recount a tale of friendship and adventure; it invites viewers behind the curtain with a collection of extras that are as enlightening as they are endearing. From on-set diaries that offer a peak into the director’s vision to bloopers that remind us of the joy found in creation, each extra is a piece of the puzzle that enriches the movie's fabric. Notably, Making Magic reveals the artistry behind our favorite dragon, Elliot, blending practical effects with digital wonders. This compilation of insights, laughter, and music, including the mesmerizing tunes of Nobody Knows by The Lumineers, forge not just a deeper connection to the story, but to the craft of storytelling itself. It’s a meticulously curated trove that complements the narrative, ensuring the magic of 'Pete's Dragon' lingers long after the screen fades to black.

Accompanying the visual spectacle, 'Underworld: Awakening' in 4K UHD wields its Dolby Atmos track like a finely tuned symphony of screams, whispers, and warfare. As viewers find themselves front and center in a battle royale, the soundscape envelops with a precision that places you amidst flying bullets and creeping shadows. While the film delights in auditory excess, especially in its liberal use of bass to underscore the heft of action scenes, it executes a dance of sound that is as sophisticated as it is powerful. The Atmos experience doesn't just project noise; it crafts an environment, leveraging intricate sounds like rainfall and rustling to forge an immersive panorama. This auditory excellence mirrors the visual’s ambition, aiming for a total envelopment of the senses that at times borders on the overwhelming yet remains a testament to the film's dedication to action-packed, sensorial cinema.

Underworld: Awakening on 4K UHD Blu-ray doesn’t skimp on the accoutrements, packing in extras with aplomb, notably with the inclusion of 'Underworld: Endless War', an animated narrative that deepens the lore. Where it truly shines is the Blu-ray disc's carryover content such as the insightful filmmakers' commentary and the bevy of behind-the-scenes featurettes that peel back the curtain on this cinematic endeavor. The 'Cracking the Underworld' picture-in-picture experience stands out, offering viewers a dive deep into the film’s construction. These extras balance the atmosphere established by the visual and audio presentations, creating a comprehensive package that not only elevates the main feature but also enriches the overall understanding and appreciation of the dark, tumultuous world 'Underworld: Awakening' inhabits.

Engage your senses further as 'Knight of Cups' whispers its serene and sometimes chaotic symphony in an enveloping DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio mix. The soundtrack, a fusion of whispered dialogues, submerged score, and a tapestry of environmental sounds, molds itself around Malick’s poetic visuals like a sonic cocoon, ensuring dialogue clarity amidst the resonating backdrop of wind, waves, and city din. The audio dynamics, bold yet delicate, navigate from the tranquil to the tempestuous without eclipsing the narrative's voice. It's an audio landscape where helicopters transition smoothly overhead and the clangor of lively gatherings immerses you, courtesy of an ingeniously utilized surround sound setup. Thus, the Blu-ray orchestrates an auditory vista that is as expansive and encompassing as the panoramic views it visually parades.

While the pilgrimage through ‘Knight of Cups’ on Blu-ray is undeniably enchanting, the trek through its supplementary offerings treads a lighter path. The disc shelters a making-of featurette, a prism through which the cast, including Christian Bale and Natalie Portman, shed light on Malick’s improvisational wizardry. Although brief, this 16-minute excursion into the minds behind the movie enraptures with personal recollections of the filming odyssey, framed by Malick’s evasive aura. Yet, in the realm of extras, one might find themselves longing for more—a deeper dive into the philosophical depths and visual artistry that define Malick’s work. Despite this, the featurette serves as a succinct but potent distillation of the movie's creation, offering a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship behind the visual and narrative ballet that is 'Knight of Cups'.

Prepare to be engulfed in a cocoon of auditory suspense with 'Amnesiac’s' lossless DTS-HD MA 5.1 sound mix, presented by XLrator Media on its Blu-ray edition. Here, subtlety reigns supreme; the mix prioritizes ambient sounds — the unsettling creak of a door, the sinister whisper of the wind — to weave a pervasive unease that is both engulfing and ephemeral. Kate Bosworth and Wes Bentley shine, their performances amplified by the mix's crystal-clear delivery, enhancing the film's chilling narrative thrills. The sparing use of Aleks de Carvalho's haunting score further escalates the film's atmospheric tension, crafting an auditory landscape that intrigues and unnerves, proving the film's commitment to an experience that's felt as deeply through the ears as it is seen through the eyes.

Trailer and additional previews adorn the 'Amnesiac' Blu-ray, albeit in a straightforward package that beckons further into its dreamlike narrative. The high-definition trailer encapsulates the film’s atmospheric depth within a succinct timeframe, teasing its narrative prowess and setting the stage for a cinematic delve into the realms of memory and identity. While the inclusion of trailers for related titles like 'The Diabolical' and 'Wrecker' provide a mere glimpse into the broader cinematic landscape, they serve as curious appetizers to the main course. Though not brimming with exhaustive extras, this collection offers enough to whet the appetite of those intrigued by the psychological intricacies and the visual and auditory craftsmanship that 'Amnesiac' brings to the table.

Enveloped in the cocoon of a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, 'Cesar Chavez' blossoms into an auditory experience where the whispers and cries of protest are as vivid as the drenched fields are visceral. Here, dialogue reigns supreme, meticulously cleansed of any sonic speck that might distract from the film's piercing narrative heartbeat. Yet, it is in the embrace of ambient sounds, from the fervor of '60s protests to the serenity of rural life, paired with the discreet but impactful use of the LFE channel, that the soundscape finds its soul. A score, tinted with ethnic flavors, weaves through, accentuating without overwhelming, complementing a narrative ripe with struggle and passion.

While the path trod by 'Cesar Chavez' on Blu-ray might seem solitary with its singular extra, the Making Cesar Chavez emerges as a window peering deep into the film's soul. It's a segment teeming with the collective spirit of the cast and crew but whispers of yearning for more—more glimpses behind the curtain, more voices of creation. A 16 to 20-minute odyssey into 'Cesar Chavez''s making that both satisfies and leaves a thirst for the depths untold, a conundrum for those yearning to plunge deeper into the film's historical and emotional wellspring.

The Blu-ray's DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track takes you on an immersive auditory journey that mirrors the depth of its visuals. From the unsettling creaks of underwater structures to the lifelike ringing of metal under sea pressure, every sound is crafted to pull you into the high stakes of deep-sea drilling. Coupled with an electronic score by Air, the soundscape dives into the era's essence while propelling you through a tense, atmospheric adventure. Clear dialogues across English and Norwegian prove no barrier, with optional subtitles ensuring you're never lost at sea. The balance and dynamism in the audio presentation are commendable, delivering an experience where environmental effects and the richly layered score coalesce, bringing 'Pioneer’s' suspenseful narrative to audacious auditory life.

While 'Pioneer's' visual and auditory feats are its crowning glory, the Blu-ray extras, though not abundant, provide a fascinating glimpse into the film's creation. Through the Behind the Scenes Featurettes and the detailed exploration in 'Making of Pioneer: A Dive into the Depths of the Sea', we are treated to an intimate look at the film’s impressive underwater sequences and insightful reflections from its cast. These featurettes, particularly highlighting Aksel Hennie's personal connection to the story and the near-fatal stunts, enrich the viewing experience. Despite the special features' brevity, they offer a tantalizing peek behind the curtain of this visually and technically ambitious cinematic effort, reflecting the dedication behind bringing 'Pioneer's' submerged narrative to the surface.

Whispers of ambition resonate within the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track of Gone, where each rustle of the wind and distant call of nature in Forest Park is staged with a commendable clarity, crafting an immersive—if inconsistently delivered—sonic forest dark. At the heart of the mystery, the film's score dances a fine line between homage and derivation, nodding subtly to the iconic tempos of 'Halloween' and 'The Dark Knight' while carving its own echo in the auditory landscape. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, the dialogue remains shackled to a monochrome of expression, confined largely to the front, a stark contrast to the textured ambience that surrounds it. It's a mix that, while occasionally reaching out into the vastness of its environment through the surround channels, often retreats back into the safety of the screen, hushing the potential dynamism that could have lifted Gone from the depths of the digital dusk.

In an almost reflective gesture to its own narrative austerity, the Blu-ray release of Gone emerges void of the customary trove of extras, presenting a barren landscape where not even a director's commentary dares to tread. Summit Entertainment, perhaps in silent acknowledgment of the film's struggle to carve a lasting imprint in the thriller genre, opts for a minimalistic approach. No behind-the-scenes insights, no deleted scenes or featurettes—just the film, standing solitary against the backdrop of expectations. It's a stark, barren offering that, while ensuring the pristine preservation of video and audio quality, leaves enthusiasts of cinema's outer fringes wandering through the mists of what could have been, searching for unseen corners and unexplored depths within Gone's digital woods.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track accompanying 'Lovelace' amplifies the 1970s aura with an audaciously clear and vibrant soundscape. Shying away from mere nostalgic mimicry, the audio mix thrusts forward with a clarity that elevates period music, encapsulating viewers in a sonic bubble reminiscent of the decade's exuberance. Dialogue, often the centerpiece of auditory efforts, is rendered with pristine precision, allowing every word to marinate in the ambiance of ambient effects. This synergistic blend of music and ambient sound constructs an enveloping experience, cultivating an auditory canvas that respects the period's essence while providing a thoroughly modern listening experience. Amidst this acoustic finesse, 'Lovelace' retains a subtlety that accentuates the story's emotional beats without overwhelming the senses.

While the 'Lovelace' Blu-ray may seem modest in its supplementary offerings, the Behind 'Lovelace' featurette stands as a portal into the intricate making of this poignant biopic. Condensed into about 14 minutes, this single extra dives deep into the intertwined fabric of narrative and historical accuracy, enlightened by the directors Rob Epstein and Jerry Friedman. It offers insights into the adaptive filmmaking techniques and the deliberate balance between drama and documentary, notwithstanding its brevity. Though one may crave more behind-the-scenes lore, this concise exploration into the making of 'Lovelace' enriches the viewing experience, concretizing the film’s account of Linda Lovelace's harrowing yet captivating journey through fame and despair in the adult film industry.

Ever been in a saloon brawl where the noise is so deafening, you can't hear yourself think? That's the Jonah Hex Blu-ray audio experience, commandeering its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track with the subtlety of a hammer to the skull. Gunshots and explosions thunder with such ferocity; you'd be forgiven for thinking the apocalypse had commenced in your living room. Yet, amid this cacophony, dialogue stands unfazed, a lone gunslinger amidst the chaos, maintaining clarity. However, this auditory onslaught leaves casualties—ambiance and the nuanced whispers of a lived-in world get trampled underfoot, squandering a golden opportunity to immerse viewers in the film’s universe with a soundscape that could have been as richly textured as Hex's backstory. The result? A soundstage that feels unbalanced, a threatening villain that never quite fulfills its potential to terrify.

Lurking in the special features, a kind of alchemy transpires—the extras, while not the philosopher’s stone that transforms leaden movies into gold, offer a glimpse into what could have been. Jimmy Hayward leads a band of merry men, including Josh Brolin and Megan Fox, through an exclusive Picture-in-Picture experience that’s more a whimper than a bang, revealing the sparks of ambition that ultimately couldn’t ignite the full bonfire. The Inside Story of Jonah Hex, however, stands tall, a beacon for comic enthusiasts delving into the storied past of DC's disfigured antihero. But like a gunslinger with an unreliable pistol, the collection of Deleted Scenes misfires, failing to add substance or shoot anything but blanks. It's a case of pulling out the big guns with nowhere to aim, leaving fans and newcomers wandering through a ghost town of extras that promise much but deliver an insubstantial bounty.

The auditory realm of 'Dolan's Cadillac', however, traverses a less dynamic path. The Blu-ray's lossless audio track, centered heavily around clear dialogues, often sacrifices the roaring symphony of environmental ambiances and musical nuances for the spoken word. In its silence, there lies a somber reflection of missed chances at immersive soundscapes, sparingly punctuated by moments of multi-channel engagement. Such choices shape an experience that leans towards narrative clarity over an audiovisual onslaught, perhaps more whisper than roar in its recounting of retribution. Yet, there’s an undeniable clarity, a focus, that serves the film’s dialogue-driven story well, even if the heart yearns for a soundscape as layered and complex as its visuals.

Venturing into the extras of 'Dolan's Cadillac' Blu-ray, we're offered a backseat into the mind's behind this dark tale, albeit without venturing too deep into the rabbit hole. The Behind the Wheel of Dolan's Cadillac featurette presents itself as a rare mirror into the production's soul, touching upon the themes and challenges with honesty if not exhaustive depth. Coupled with B-Roll footage, these extras kindle a respect for the cinematic craft, while subtly lamenting what might have been: a deeper dive into the adaptation of Stephen King's harrowing story. Yet, in its brevity, it manages to satisfy a certain curiosity, making the featurette and the accompanying B-Roll not just supplementary but essential glimpses into the vengeance-driven heart of 'Dolan's Cadillac'.

The audial tapestry of 'There Be Dragons' is a symphony of roaring canons and whispered faith, finely tuned to the pitch-perfect DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. In moments of clenched introspection, a window swings open with a spiritual breeze, as clear and discernible as the cacophony of gunfire that defines its more turbulent scenes. This Blu-ray navigates the sonic landscape with an artisan’s precision—dialogue pierces through the atmospheric compositions, ensuring no whispered prayer gets lost in the thunder of conflict. It's in these auditory details that the film finds its true groove, offering an immersive experience that's as engaging in its silence as it is in its uproar, painstakingly balancing the scales of sound to serve both the bombastic and the serene.

Among the marshaled extras, Wes Bentley’s Facing Your Dragons stands out as a beacon of introspection—an actor's meditation that pierces the heart of the film’s thematic armor. The deleted scenes, albeit a curious exploration, underscore the meticulous curation behind the final cut. These additions embroider the edges of Joffé's vision, offering a glimpse into the intricate process of creating a film that ambitiously aspires to couple the ravages of war with the solace of spirituality. While the film, wrapped in solemn historical reverence, occasionally succumbs to the weight of its own ambition, these Blu-ray features invite us into a deeper understanding of its creation—be it through Bentley's revelations or the silent narratives of removed scenes.