Where the Red Fern Grows Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Where the Red Fern Grows," offered by MVD Marquee Collection, features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Although MVD has not disclosed specifics regarding the film elements used, the transfer seems indicative of an older source, offering a slightly digital appearance at times. While some age-related minor damage is discernible, significant wear is absent. The grain structure varies, appearing tight and organic at its best but occasionally becomes clumpy in scenes with bright skies. Despite minor discrepancies, the film maintains a vibrant color palette and delivers precise fine detail in close-ups.

The 2003 film benefits from a decent transfer licensed from Bob Yari Productions. It retains a film-like quality with proper saturation and definition, bringing exterior scenes to life with vivid detail and depth. The Blu-ray is presented with healthy flesh tones and even contrast, suggesting a clean scan of excellent elements, potentially from but not limited to the camera negative. The cinematography remains bright with minimal visible wear. Utilizing a BD-25 with an AVC encode, the mild grain structure is effectively replicated, avoiding any signs of filtering or ringing.

Overall, this Blu-ray disc provides a stable and consistent viewing experience. While not reaching reference quality standards, it exceeds expectations for low-budget productions like this remake. This release captures the essence of the original film through its balanced presentation, preserving its lively and engaging visual storytelling.

The audio presentation of "Where the Red Fern Grows" Blu-ray provides two primary options: a lossy Dolby Digital 5.1 surround track and a lossless LPCM 2.0 stereo track. Audiophiles may lean towards the LPCM 2.0 track, which offers a more robust midrange and low end, surpassing the surround track's performance. The 5.1 surround mix does an adequate job of extending ambient environmental sounds and music into the rear channels. However, it lacks standout channel separation and immersive sound design, making it somewhat pedestrian in execution. Despite this, dialogue is cleanly and clearly rendered without issues such as distortion or dropouts.

While the 5.1 surround mix broadens the soundfield, it falls short in delivering dynamic or attention-grabbing moments. Its performance is characterized by moderate discreteness, with musical elements and ambient effects subtly present in the rear channels but lacking profound impact. Conversely, the lossless stereo LPCM 2.0 track compensates with a tighter bass response and better overall fidelity, suggesting a controlled and more focused listening experience. English subtitles are thoughtfully included, available both in standard and SDH formats, with the latter displaying in a distinctive yellow font to aid visibility.

In conclusion, while the 5.1 Dolby Digital track offers broader spatial effects, the LPCM 2.0 stereo track stands out for its enhanced soundstage and clarity, making it a preferable choice for those prioritizing audio fidelity. Overall, while not groundbreaking in terms of audio design, both tracks maintain intelligibility and acceptable dynamics throughout.

The Blu-ray release of "Where the Red Fern Grows" from MVD's Marquee Collection skillfully retains the original bonus features from its earlier Disney DVD edition. Notably, the extras provide a nostalgic journey into the film’s background and production process. "The Roots of a Classic" offers an engaging interview with Sophie Rawls, widow of Wilson Rawls, presenting insights into the story's adaptation from book to screen. "Lights, Camera, Animals" explores the significant role of animal trainers in the film, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into managing the animal cast. The Blu-ray includes a set of intriguing trailers, both for this film and other MVD releases. These extras effectively enrich the viewer's understanding and appreciation of the film and its creation.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Roots of a Classic: Interview with Sophie Rawls on the book-to-film journey.
• Lights, Camera, Animals: Insights into animal training for the film.
• Trailers: Includes trailers for "Where the Red Fern Grows" and other MVD titles.

The 2003 adaptation of "Where the Red Fern Grows" presents a heartwarming retelling of Wilson Rawls' beloved novel, capturing the essence of the original story with a touch of modern cinematic flair. Set during the Great Depression in the Ozark Mountains, the film follows 10-year-old Billy Coleman, portrayed by Joseph Ashton in his final feature film role, as he dreams of owning two coon-hunting dogs. Ashton delivers a commendable performance, combining scrappiness and vulnerability, vital for the film's emotional core. The narrative is further enriched by a seasoned ensemble cast, including Dabney Coleman and Ned Beatty, whose performances bolster the film's sentimental depth.

The film includes modest contributions from musicians Kris Kristofferson, Mac Davis, and Dave Matthews, although Kristofferson’s role serves primarily as an opening narrative device. Dabney Coleman's portrayal as Billy's supportive Grandpa offers a comforting presence, while Dave Matthews, in his acting debut as Billy’s father, contributes a subdued but effective performance. The film stays largely faithful to its source material, embodying a sincere depiction of family and young Billy's adventures with his loyal pets, Old Dan and Little Ann, as they navigate through both triumphs and trials.

While the film adheres to traditional storytelling values, the direction occasionally falters with its reliance on musical montages to advance the plot. These sequences, underpinned by a folksy soundtrack featuring artists like Alison Krauss and Wynonna Judd, aim to invoke nostalgia but can disrupt the story's pacing. Nevertheless, "Where the Red Fern Grows" remains a touching exploration of a young boy's journey to maturity and his indelible bond with his dogs. With its compatible casting and evocative musical elements, the film succeeds in presenting a heartfelt narrative that resonates with both novel enthusiasts and new audiences alike.

The Blu-ray release of "Where the Red Fern Grows" delivers a heartfelt adaptation of Wilson Rawls' classic novel, capturing the timeless story of a boy and his two beloved hounds. The film benefits from an earnest and sincere portrayal by a seasoned cast featuring Dabney Coleman, Kris Kristofferson, Ned Beatty, and Dave Matthews, which helps breathe life into this poignant tale. While some elements may feel slightly dated or overused, particularly the montages and an unnecessary coda, these moments do not overshadow the emotional core and sincerity of the story. Fans of the original book will find that the film adheres to its primary themes and delivers an emotionally resonant experience.

Technically, the Blu-ray faces some challenges with its video quality, which could have been improved for a more seamless viewing experience. Despite these limitations, the audio presentation is robust, providing clear and well-balanced sound throughout. The disc also includes brief yet enjoyable supplements that enhance the viewing experience without overwhelming it. These extras serve to deepen appreciation for both the source material and its cinematic interpretation.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray edition of "Where the Red Fern Grows" is a moving and faithful representation of the beloved novel. Despite minor drawbacks in video quality and narrative pacing, the film's emotional sincerity and strong performances make it a commendable tribute to Rawls' work. This release will undoubtedly resonate with dog lovers and fans of the book while introducing new audiences to this touching story. Recommended for its honest depiction and heartfelt execution.