Unforgettable Blu-ray Review

The AVC-encoded (1.85:1 aspect ratio) presentation of "Unforgettable" showcases a visual style that embraces soft cinematography, which may not always cater to heightened sharpness. However, the detailing remains competent. Facial specifics are clear, emphasizing the wear and tear on characters, particularly highlighting Liotta's portrayal of illness. The set decorations and graphic crime scene sequences provide ample texture, while street distances are rendered effectively. Colors are adequate with primary hues intact – exploring vivid blood reds and the green shades of medical offices, along with golden hues during memory sequences. Delineation handles frame information well, though some minor instances of debris and banding are detectable.

Though Kino Lorber's Blu-ray releases can be inconsistent due to their reliance on studio-distributed transfers, "Unforgettable" stands out with a pleasant transfer from 20th Century Fox that retains the original filmic look while enhancing details and sharpness. The image is free from major dirt or debris incidents, though grain and occasional noise are evident in most scenes. Colors exhibit vibrancy without oversaturation, maintaining consistent and natural skin tones. While black levels may not achieve super-inky depths, they are sufficiently decent to avoid compromising the viewing experience. Overall, this transfer maintains the authenticity of the theatrical release, offering a satisfying visual presentation that, although not groundbreaking, remains true to its source material.

The 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track for "Unforgettable" delivers a surprisingly robust sound mix for a thriller. Dialogue is generally clear and well-separated from other elements, ensuring that exchanges are fresh and secure without dipping into uncomfortable highs or muddy lows. Surround channels are actively engaged, creating an immersive experience with notable panning effects, such as overhead helicopters. Environmental sounds, like rain and fire, are effectively rendered with a circular hold, while the instrumentation drives the film's mystery with confidence. The low-end frequencies are particularly impressive, providing a solid rumble that enhances bass-heavy stings and explosions. This well-crafted atmospheric soundscape deepens the overall viewing experience.

However, the mix is not without its flaws. The aggressive nature of the 5.1 DTS-HD track sometimes overshadows the spoken word, which primarily emerges from the front center speaker. During quieter scenes, the dialogue volume often dips to the point where manual adjustments are necessary. Additionally, enhanced echoing effects in drug-induced memory sequences contribute to this inequality in sound levels. Despite these issues, the dynamic range effectively enriches the film's musical score and ambient sounds, adding considerable impact to the presentation. Low-frequency effects (LFE) are distinct and strong, rounding out the immersive soundfield.

For those seeking alternatives, a 2.0 DTS-HD English track is also available, broadening accessibility options. Subtitling in English is provided, enhancing the viewing experience for all audience members. Despite some mixing disparities, this audio track remains quite impressive for a catalogue release, particularly from Kino Lorber. It provides an engaging auditory experience that enhances the immersive quality of "Unforgettable."

The Blu-ray release of "Unforgettable" delivers a solid collection of extras that delve into the making of the film. The Making Of featurette offers a promotional glimpse into the movie with interviews from Ray Liotta and Linda Fiorentino, reminiscent of the 1996 EPK, positioning the film as a gripping thriller. The Star & Crew Sound Bites segment provides individual interviews with key cast members, highlighting character motivations and the director's vision, albeit in a promotional tone typical of on-set discussions. The Unedited B-Rolls is the standout feature, presenting an unembellished look at the production process with multiple takes and directorial interactions, showcasing the intricacies of filmmaking. Additionally, the original Theatrical Trailer includes notable elements like the Nat King Cole song, adding nostalgic value to this comprehensive extras package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making Of: Archival promotional featurette with cast interviews.
• Sound Bites: Cast and crew interviews focusing on character and directorial insights.
• Unedited B-rolls: Behind-the-scenes footage highlighting production processes and collaborations.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer with elements not seen in the film.

"Unforgettable," directed by John Dahl, attempts to blend the director's knack for smart thrillers with a bigger studio budget. The film, however, ends up as a mixed bag, reminiscent of many 90s high-concept movies. The narrative follows medical examiner David Krane (Ray Liotta), who becomes fixated on an experimental memory drug to uncover the truth about his wife’s murder. Liotta’s intense portrayal piques interest initially, and the film excels in crafting a suspenseful police procedural tinged with sci-fi elements.

The initial half of "Unforgettable" delivers intriguing tension, driven by a credible performance from Liotta and a gripping score by Christopher Young. The concept of a memory drug that allows Krane to experience his wife's death firsthand is both eerie and fascinating, effectively utilized by Dahl to create a sense of dread and urgency. Krane’s descent into near-madness, as the serum takes its toll on his health, offers some genuine moments of suspense and emotional weight. The movie’s first act is competently executed, balancing noirish undertones with thrilling momentum, climaxing with a well-orchestrated chase sequence.

However, the film falters dramatically in its second half. The narrative devolves into clichés and predictable plot devices, detracting from the initially compelling premise. The introduction of stereotypical thriller elements, such as the extended villain monologue and convoluted plot twists, severely undermines the promising start. These elements culminate in an over-the-top climax that feels out of place and diminishes the overall impact. Despite solid performances and an engaging setup, "Unforgettable" struggles to maintain coherence and originality throughout, turning a promising thriller into a somewhat forgettable endeavor.

'Unforgettable' on Blu-ray offers a mixed cinematic experience that balances intriguing concepts with noticeable flaws. The film features an interesting premise wrapped in the familiar trappings of police thrillers, which might both entice and frustrate viewers. The storyline follows David's gripping chase, driven by sacrificial motives that infuse the narrative with a commendable level of excitement. However, the movie regrettably stretches beyond its optimal runtime, diluting its initial intensity and falling prey to formulaic developments and overly predictable twists.

Technically, the Blu-ray presentation does justice to the film's cinematography, offering clear and detailed visuals that enhance the viewing experience. The sound design is equally robust, complementing the on-screen action with immersive audio quality. Character portrayals are a notable strength, with solid performances from well-cast actors who bring depth to their roles. Despite the film’s repetitive elements and predictable plot turns, these technical qualities and actor performances provide some redemption, making the Blu-ray a worthwhile addition for genre enthusiasts.

Perhaps the best way to initially experience 'Unforgettable' is to shut it off after an hour, pretending the resolution provided at this time is enough to cover for the entire picture. That way, all the thrills and strangeness of the effort will feel exciting and focused, supplying a sharp sense of David's chase and sacrifice. The rest of the overlong feature will only ruin initial positivity toward Dahl and the production, who willingly torch everything that works about 'Unforgettable' to play into dreary formula and ridiculous reveals, souring the entire viewing experience.