Unknown Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Unknown" delivers an impressive 1080p High Definition video presentation, remaining faithful to the original theatrical aspect ratio of 2.4:1 widescreen. Detail is exceptionally sharp across all sequences, whether captured in interiors or exteriors, daytime or nighttime. The cold, teal-tinged palette intensifies the film's atmospheric tension without distorting skin tones or losing vibrancy in key scenes, such as the rich reds and warm oranges of the nightclub sequence. Black levels are robust, showing no signs of bleeding or digital defects, while grain is minimal and never intrusive. However, a slightly less clinical palette and deeper 3D pop could have elevated the transfer to a perfect score.

Technically, the 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer maintains a high standard of visual fidelity throughout. Fine textures are exceptionally well-resolved, from Liam Neeson's rugged stubble to the intricate brickwork of Berlin's architecture. Edge definition is precise without any troublesome ringing, and delineation remains revealing without any significant issues like banding or aliasing. The video presentation is sleek and glossy, befitting a modern action thriller, despite the abundant use of teal color timing. Whites occasionally burn too hot, especially during explosions, but this minor drawback doesn't detract from an otherwise near-demo-worthy transfer.

Overall, "Unknown" benefits from a sleek, high-definition presentation that captures both the grandeur of its urban setting and the nuanced textures of its characters' faces. With remarkably consistent black levels, accurate skin tones, and minimal compression anomalies, Warner's 1080p transfer stands as a benchmark for Blu-ray quality in action thrillers.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for "Unknown" is engineered to perfection, delivering a soundscape that significantly enhances the viewing experience. Dialogue reproduction is crystal clear and balanced, with discernible whispers and resonant shouts emanating deftly from the front and center channels. The mix prioritizes voices effectively, ensuring that no line of dialogue is lost amidst the intense action sequences or subdued settings. Effects are numerous, ranging from subtle background noises at a party to the thunderous cacophony of a car crash, all rendered with precise directional effects and smooth cross-channel pans.

Warner's lossless audio presentation excels in creating immersive environments, especially during high-intensity scenes involving car chases and confrontations. The rear speakers deliver lifelike ambient sounds and low-frequency effects come alive, particularly during chaotic moments, further enhancing immersion. The dynamic range is invigorating, offering both restrained low-end output for suspenseful scenes and robust LFE action that punctuates the more adrenaline-fueled sequences. John Ottman and Alexander Rudd's score complements the overall sound design, although it occasionally competes with the dense soundscape.

In summary, "Unknown's" audio mix is a comprehensive, engaging, and powerful aural experience that matches its visual counterpart. Ambient sounds, directionality, and dialog clarity are impeccably balanced, wrapping the listener in a fully-realised auditory environment that provides both subtle nuances and explosive moments of sound intensity. This DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix is a compelling reason alone to revisit "Unknown," showcasing commendable technical proficiency and an immersive audio journey.

The Blu-ray edition of "Unknown" offers minimal supplementary material, comprising two brief, promotional featurettes. Both featurettes essentially function as flashy, barebones Electronic Press Kits (EPKs) and include repetitive content. "Liam Neeson: Known Action Hero" provides a clip-heavy overview with the stars commenting on their experiences working with Neeson and touching upon the film in general. "Unknown: What is Known?" similarly consists of promotional interviews and commentary about the movie, often repeating excerpts from the first featurette. Although these extras are scant and perhaps even throwaway, they do add some value to an otherwise basic presentation.

Extras included in this disc:

• Liam Neeson: Known Action Hero: A clip-heavy promo featurette with commentary from the stars about working with Neeson and the film itself.
• Unknown: What is Known?: Another promotional featurette with talking heads discussing the movie’s appeal, with some repeated interviews from the first featurette.

"Unknown" is an ambitious, albeit flawed, attempt at an intricate action-thriller that stumbles under its own convoluted premise. The plot centers on Dr. Martin Harris (Liam Neeson), who wakes up from a car accident-induced coma in Berlin, only to find his wife (January Jones) doesn't recognize him and another man (Aidan Quinn) has taken his identity. The film’s attempt to weave together elements of notable action-thrillers like "Frantic," "Total Recall," "The Bourne Identity," and "Taken" ends up feeling more like a chaotic patchwork than a cohesive narrative. Despite an intriguing setup, the story quickly becomes bogged down by improbable twists and illogical plot holes. Director Jaume Collet-Serra keeps the tension high, but the uneven pacing and derivative nature of the screenplay prevent "Unknown" from achieving its potential.

In terms of performance, Liam Neeson anchors the film with a committed portrayal of a man grappling with lost identity, memory gaps, and mounting threats. Neeson's dynamic role shifts from desperate husband to action hero and back again, maintaining audience engagement despite the questionable narrative coherence. Support from cast members like Diane Kruger, Bruno Ganz, and Frank Langella adds some depth, although January Jones's performance falls flat and generic. Technically, the Blu-ray transfer offers impressive video and crisp audio, ensuring that visual and sound elements are delivered with high fidelity. However, the disc’s sparse extras may disappoint fans looking for more behind-the-scenes insights.

Ultimately, while "Unknown" delivers periodic bursts of engaging action and suspense, it's marred by its improbable storyline and erratic pacing. Its performances and technical packaging are commendable, but genre enthusiasts might find it more suitable as a rental rather than a must-own addition to their collection. The film holds moments of near-brilliance but ultimately struggles under the weight of its ambition and derivative elements.

`Unknown' is a solidly crafted thriller with strong performances, but ultimately proves forgettable due to its implausible plot and logical inconsistencies. The narrative echoes the 'Bourne' franchise, but lacks the finesse and coherence to stand on its own merit. However, where the film falters, Warner Bros.' Blu-ray release excels, delivering an impressive AV presentation that truly showcases the capabilities of modern home theater systems.

The visual presentation is near flawless, providing a sharp, detailed image with vibrant colors and deep blacks. It's a testament to high-quality Blu-ray standards that will undoubtedly serve as a reference disc for picture quality enthusiasts. The audio track is equally impressive, offering a dynamic range that captures both the subtleties of dialogue and the booming, high-octane action sequences with precision. Unfortunately, the special features fall short, lacking in both quality and quantity. The extras seem like an afterthought, failing to add any substantial value to the overall package.

In conclusion, while 'Unknown' may not leave a lasting impression as a thriller, Warner's Blu-ray release manages to elevate the experience with its top-notch audio and video quality. For those interested primarily in the film's technical presentation, this disc is well worth the investment. If it's cinematic brilliance you're after, however, you might want to consider a rental first.