Hidden Figures Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Hidden Figures," released by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, delivers an exceptional video experience in 1080p with an AVC encoded transfer and a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The film, shot on both 35mm and Super 16mm, exhibits impressive fine detail and a rich, film-like quality. The opening flashback sequences feature a sepia tone that alongside the Super 16 stock, yield a slightly grittier image. However, the contemporary scenes set in 1961 burst with detail and clarity, particularly in close-up shots.

Character placement and depth of field are rendered meticulously, providing a sense of dimensionality that enhances the narrative storytelling. Black levels are profound and consistent, offering deep, inky shadows that do not compromise detail. Colors are vividly reproduced with special attention to the hues in the characters' wardrobes which contrast elegantly against the more muted NASA setting. The overall color palette, including vibrant blue skies and lush green foliage, adds to the visual feast without unwanted softening or noise.

The Blu-ray features an ultra-fine grain structure that preserves the film’s authentic look, while the contrast remains sharp with beautifully bright whites and true-to-life brightness levels. Even in scenes mixing with archival footage or minimal CGI, as seen with satellite sequences, the image maintains an organic, seamless appearance. Facial textures and environmental details such as lettering on chalkboards and the intricacies of mid-20th-century office equipment stand out clearly, underscoring the thoughtful production design. This Blu-ray transfer is an excellent representation of the film's visuals, offering an engaging and immersive viewing experience.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Hidden Figures" boasts a superb DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track that excels in delivering an immersive and engaging sonic experience. The mix features a well-balanced soundstage, with notable separation and clarity across channels. Dialogue is consistently clear and prioritized, even amid the more bustling scenes that reflect the chaotic environment of NASA's Mission Control. The score, a collaboration between Hans Zimmer, Pharrell Williams, and Benjamin Wallfisch, enriches the auditory experience, frequently filling the side and rear channels with resonant orchestral elements. However, Pharrell Williams' contributions to the score have drawn mixed opinions regarding their overall impact.

Low-frequency extension is subtle but effective, particularly during key moments such as rocket launches where the bass provides a palpable sense of power without overwhelming the viewer. While the floorboard-shaking LFE is somewhat restrained during scenes like blastoffs, it compensates with occasional powerful bursts, exemplified by Mary's wind and heat stress test sequence involving the Mercury capsule. The surround sound presentation is dynamic and occasionally understated, bringing life to ambient environmental sounds such as wildlife, church gatherings, and the bustle of NASA offices. These discrete effects create an inviting acoustic environment that enhances the overall ambience of the film.

The strength of the audio mix lies predominantly in the front soundstage, which offers impressive fidelity and acoustic detail. The mid-range frequencies are particularly well-realized, giving the music a robust presence that integrates seamlessly with on-screen action. The soundtrack’s use of both source cues and traditional underscore adds depth and engages listeners by enveloping them in a rich auditory landscape. Additionally, when utilizing a receiver's DSU function, the score effectively bleeds into the front heights, contributing further to the enveloping soundfield. Despite its occasional restraint in certain areas, this DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track excels in providing a thoroughly satisfying auditory experience.

The extras for the Blu-ray of "Hidden Figures" offer an insightful mix of production behind-the-scenes, historical context, and engaging commentary. The standout feature, "It All Adds Up," is a detailed documentary split into five parts, blending EPK elements with genuine interviews and historical analysis. The inclusion of an audio commentary by director Theodore Melfi and actress Taraji P. Henson, though occasionally monotonous, provides further depth to the film’s production narratives. Additionally, the brief but informative “Hidden Figures: Filming in Georgia” segment provides a tour of the film’s shooting locations. Deleted scenes come with optional commentary from Melfi, enhancing them with contextual insight. A still gallery and the theatrical trailer complete this comprehensive set of extras.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director Theodore Melfi and star Taraji P. Henson discuss story and production.
• It All Adds Up: Documentary on making the film with cast & crew interviews and historical context.
  • No Limits – The Life of Katherine Johnson
  • The Right People for the Job
  • Recreating an Era
  • A Spiritual Journey – The Music of the Film
  • Moving the Decimal – Honoring Katherine Johnson
• Deleted Scenes: With optional commentary by Theodore Melfi.
• Hidden Figures: Filming in Georgia: A look at the film’s locations.
• Gallery: Auto and manual advance options.
• Theatrical Trailer

"Hidden Figures" masterfully brings to light the overlooked contributions of three African American women, Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe), to NASA’s early space program. Historically set against the backdrop of the Cold War and the Space Race, this film is anchored by its poignant character portrayals and incisive commentary on societal norms. Henson’s portrayal of Katherine Johnson is particularly notable, effectively navigating the character’s exceptional mathematical acumen within a framework of racial and gender discrimination. Meanwhile, Spencer and Monáe deliver equally compelling performances, emphasizing the resilience and determination required to overcome institutional biases. The narrative occasionally employs creative liberties for dramatic effect, yet it doesn’t detract from the film’s emotional depth or historical significance.

The film adeptly sets the cultural stage of the 1960s with scenes like the opening encounter with a white policeman, showcasing the casual racism prevalent during that era. Director Theodore Melfi balances these moments of tension with instances of quiet triumph, depicting the women’s perseverance amid systemic oppression. While some critics note that the film's portrayal of supportive figures like Kevin Costner’s Al Harrison might gloss over harsher historical realities, these characters help underscore the social challenges these women faced. The production design efficiently replicates the era's atmosphere, with meticulous attention to period-specific details, enhancing the story's authenticity.

Despite minor historical inaccuracies and some reliance on biopic clichés, "Hidden Figures" succeeds due to its heartfelt performances and its timely message about equality and recognition. The film’s integration of technical and narrative elements makes complex mathematical problems visually engaging while highlighting significant socio-political issues of segregation and discrimination. Enhanced by a lively soundtrack and well-executed special effects, "Hidden Figures" not only presents an inspirational story but also serves as a poignant reminder of an era when institutional barriers could not eclipse genuine talent and determination.

"Hidden Figures" stands out as a masterful biographical drama that has rightfully earned widespread acclaim, becoming a surprise sleeper hit of the year. The film vividly chronicles the monumental contributions of three African American women within NASA during the Cold War period. The performances across the board are extraordinary, serving to elevate the compelling and poignant storyline. The narrative deftly balances struggle and triumph, crafting a heartwarming tale that resonates with audiences and unites them in admiration of these unsung heroes.

From a technical standpoint, the Blu-ray release boasts exceptional quality. The video presentation is sharp and visually pleasing, capturing the period details and emotions with clarity. Audio performance is equally impressive, delivering a rich and immersive experience that complements the on-screen action. While the supplementary materials included may be somewhat light, they still add value and context to the primary feature. As a complete package, the Blu-ray succeeds in offering both an outstanding film and a satisfying home viewing experience.

There are some elements in "Hidden Figures" that could be viewed as extraneous, and the film occasionally overflows with subplots. Nevertheless, these minor issues do not detract from the overall impact. With powerful performances driving a commanding storyline, "Hidden Figures" triumphs. The film’s technical merits are robust, making it highly recommended.