Momentum Blu-ray Review

The 1080p transfer for "Momentum" is indicative of a lower-budget action film, offering a robust digital presentation within its limitations. The film's image clarity is commendable, with complex facial features and detailed clothing lines appearing well-defined. The digital presentation tends towards a mild glossiness and a certain flatness, yet the broad excellence of the transfer prevails. While the film predominantly features a bluish/gray tint typical to many modern action movies, escape scenes utilize a more vibrant palette, highlighting brighter automobile shades, red blood, and various clothing hues effectively. Black levels are deep and flesh tones remain consistent and natural throughout the runtime.

Despite its overall competence, the transfer is not without minor issues. Occasional noise creeps into darker scenes, and slight banding can be detected. However, blurriness never mars image clarity, and other potential eyesores like aliasing and macroblocking are notably absent. The environmental details in expansive settings such as banks, hotels, and warehouses are supported by the transfer's solid image integrity, although the predominantly indoor and night scenes slightly limit the depth and visual dynamism available in the few outdoor daylight sequences.

The presentation strikes a balance between delivering a clear yet somewhat unspectacular visual experience. "Momentum" is presented in a 2.40:1 aspect ratio, effectively utilizing this format to maintain a level of visual competence throughout. While it may not astound viewers with breathtaking visuals, it consistently avoids major errors or glitches, presenting the film at a respectable standard for Blu-ray transfers within its genre and budget constraints.

The audio presentation of "Momentum" on Blu-ray boasts a robust Dolby TrueHD 5.1 lossless soundtrack that impressively handles the film's extensive audio demands. The dynamic auditory experience kicks off with powerful percussion that immerses the viewer into the action-packed narrative. Audiophiles will appreciate the defined placement of gunfire, which is full-bodied and commanding, as well as car crashes that deliver a sonic blend of twisting metal and shattering glass across the soundstage. Ambient noises, whether indoor or out in the bustling city, are rendered with clarity, contributing to a detailed and enveloping auditory tapestry.

In addition to its immersive action sequences, the track excels in dialogue clarity and balance. Spoken words are consistently clear, well-prioritized, and naturally centered. The soundtrack’s ability to seamlessly blend dialogue with ambient sounds and musical scores heightens the overall viewing experience. Anchor Bay has effectively crafted an audio track that rivals even major Hollywood productions in its execution. While it might not set the benchmark for reference-quality audio, this soundtrack remarkably enhances the film's intensity and engagement through its carefully constructed audio elements. Subtitles are also available in English SDH and Spanish, further complementing the accessibility and inclusivity of the audio presentation.

The Blu Ray of "Momentum" includes a noteworthy extra that is essential for fans and cinephiles interested in the filmmaking process. "Momentum: Behind the Scenes" offers an immersive exploration into director Stephen S. Campanelli's debut. The featurette includes insightful commentary from Campanelli, alongside stars Olga Kurylenko and James Purefoy. It covers various aspects such as the decision to name characters after U.S. Presidents, the intricate choreography of fight scenes and stunts, and an array of technical details about the shoot. Enhanced by extensive on-set footage and film clips, this behind-the-scenes look provides a comprehensive overview of the film’s production.

Extras included in this disc:

• 'Momentum': Behind the Scenes: A 23-minute featurette diving into director Stephen S. Campanelli's filmmaking process, complete with cast interviews and technical insights.

"Momentum" catapults viewers into a high-octane experience right from the get-go with an elaborate bank heist, where the perpetrators are decked out in futuristic black gear. Director Stephen S. Campanelli, known primarily for his work as a camera operator in many of Clint Eastwood’s films, makes an ambitious but flawed directorial debut. The movie stars Olga Kurylenko as Alex Farraday, a sleight-of-hand expert caught up in a convoluted chase for a flash drive containing sensitive information accidentally lifted during the heist. Morgan Freeman provides a brief but impactful presence as a corrupt politician, and James Purefoy stands out as the relentless antagonist, Mr. Washington.

The film's emphasis on relentless action sequences comes at the expense of substantial plot development. Each scene is meticulously shot, contributing to an aesthetic that is both polished and engaging. The Cape Town location adds an exotic backdrop that complements the film’s high-stakes nature. However, narrative clarity and character depth are secondary concerns. The screenplay's predictability detracts from the overall impact, offering little beyond a string of visually impressive but narratively hollow spectacles. Action enthusiasts will find some merit in the choreography of gunfights and car chases, but those seeking more than surface-level thrills may end up disappointed.

Despite these shortcomings, there is something undeniably watchable about "Momentum." The pacing is brisk, with non-stop action holding attention for its 96-minute runtime. The cast, particularly Purefoy and Kurylenko, elevates the material with commendable performances despite its limitations. Kurylenko especially manages to convey a degree of emotional depth amid the chaos. Although hardly groundbreaking and often verging on style over substance, "Momentum" provides sufficient adrenaline-fueled entertainment for audiences in search of a fast-paced, albeit superficial, action flick.

"Momentum" is an action-filled spectacle that thrives on high-paced sequences and adrenaline-pumping moments. It navigates through a familiar narrative characterized by breakneck speed and sleek style that. While the plot lacks depth and originality, the film's primary draw lies in its rapid-action scenes and the dynamic performance of its main cast. The chase sequences are executed vividly, and there is a palpable intensity in almost every frame. This is a film that aims to captivate viewers with an aggressive, kinetic energy rather than a compelling storyline.

Anchor Bay's Blu-ray release of "Momentum" makes a notable impact in terms of technical quality. The video presentation stands out with its clarity, offering sharp and detailed visuals that enhance the overall viewing experience. Complementing the vibrant visuals is an aggressive audio track that ensures the action sequences hit with the intended force. The surround sound engulfs the viewer, making every explosion and car chase more immersive. However, this release is somewhat sparse on additional content, featuring only one supplementary feature.

In conclusion, "Momentum" is an action film best suited for audiences seeking a fast-paced and visually engaging distraction from more substantial storytelling. It strikes the right chords for those who appreciate slick production values and intense action but falls short of offering much beyond that. The Blu-ray release does justice to the film's visual and audio demands, making it an ideal rental for enthusiasts of high-octane cinema. While it may not earn a spot among the classics of the genre, it provides sufficient entertainment for a single viewing.