The Cat Returns Blu-ray Review

Shout Factory's Blu-ray release of "The Cat Returns" features a breathtaking 1080p encode that closely mirrors the previous Disney edition, with both maintaining an original 1.85:1 theatrical aspect ratio. The presentation is vivid, with the beautiful watercolor animation taking center stage. The MPEG-4 AVC-encoded video transfer boasts an average bitrate of 29999 kbps, close to Disney's bitrate of 31.30 Mbps and bolstered by a total disc bitrate of 41.17 Mbps. This high bitrate results in a superbly crisp and clear image, devoid of any digital artifacting or manipulation, allowing the intricate details and vibrant palette to really stand out.

The color palette is dominated by soft pastels, punctuated by occasional primary colors that enhance the overall visual experience. The transfer skillfully preserves the rich contrast and finely defined lines, particularly noticeable in nuanced elements such as character whiskers, the crows, and intricate food textures. Black levels delve deep and inky, contributing to the detail-rich imagery that sustains audience immersion. Moreover, with the film’s relatively short runtime of 75 minutes followed by its division into thirteen chapters, the encode benefits from a generous allocation of bitrate space, ensuring the visual quality remains uncompromised throughout.

The audio presentation of the Blu-Ray release of "The Cat Returns" demonstrates exceptional quality, consistent with high standards in audiovisual media. Both the English and Japanese tracks are encoded in 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, designed to deliver a detailed and immersive sonic experience. Notably, the Japanese track exhibits a slightly richer tone compared to its English counterpart, offering a “fuller” auditory experience while maintaining a clean and clear dialog. The meticulous balance of vocal clarity and surround sound activity in both tracks ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the film's unique auditory landscape.

The detailed 24-bit DTS-HD Master Audio encodings emphasize the pristine quality of both language options, with a slight edge given to the Japanese track for its less “modern” but equally rich auditory texture. The soundtrack fills all channels effectively, enveloping the viewer in a captivating sound field that enhances both the musical score and special effects. The LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) provide subtle but noticeable enhancement during key sequences such as Muta's confrontation and the tower explosion, adding depth without overpowering other elements.

In addition to the primary languages, there's a Dolby Digital 5.1 (448 kbps) track available in French, though it does not match the auditory detail of the DTS-HD options. English SDH subtitles, along with accurate translations for Japanese and French dialogues, cater to diverse viewing preferences. Overall, this Blu-Ray audio experience showcases the expertise of Studio Ghibli and Shout Factory in delivering an immersive and well-rounded auditory presentation.

The Blu-Ray extras for "The Cat Returns" offer a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look into the production of this beloved film. The Feature-Length Storyboards span over an hour, presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, providing a detailed visual journey of the film's narrative development. The Making of The Cat Returns documentary is presented in standard definition but delivers an insightful 34-minute overview of the film's creation. Fans will appreciate the intimate look into the voice acting process in the Behind the Microphone featurette, also in standard definition and running for nine minutes. The package is rounded out with Original Japanese Trailers and a series of TV Spots, effectively marketing the film's original release. Additionally, an informative and visually engaging Exclusive Booklet includes an interview with director Hiroyuki Morita and statements from producer Toshio Suzuki, supplemented by seven color stills.

Extras included in this disc:

• Feature-Length Storyboards: Complete storyboards in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen.
• The Making of The Cat Returns: A 34-minute behind-the-scenes documentary.
• Behind the Microphone: A 9-minute featurette on voice acting.
• Original Japanese Trailers: Trailers showcasing the film's original promotion.
• TV Spots: Select TV spots from the film's release.
• Exclusive Booklet: Including interviews and color stills.

Studio Ghibli’s The Cat Returns, directed by Hiroyuki Morita and now reissued by Shout! Factory, stands as a whimsical detour in the Ghibli oeuvre. Distinct for its lighthearted storytelling and unique visual style, this film ventures into delightful fantasy while imparting themes of self-identity and personal growth. The narrative kicks off with Haru, an ordinary high school student who after saving a mysterious cat, gets thrust into the enchanting world of anthropomorphic felines. The cat, revealed to be a prince, thanks Haru by arranging a series of fantastically bizarre events, ultimately leading to an unintended engagement with him. Desperate to escape her fate, Haru's journey introduces viewers to memorable characters like the gluttonous but loveable Muta, and the charmingly gallant Baron Humbert Von Gikkingen.

While the storyline cleverly intertwines reality with whimsical fantasy, some narrative elements, notably the "live in the moment" theme voiced by the Baron, feel somewhat underdeveloped. Although intended to be a profound message, it gradually loses relevance as the plot progresses. What remains constant, however, is the delightful charm and visual appeal that Ghibli films are renowned for. The Baron, modeled after a European gentleman heroically aiding Haru, and Muta's endearing yet brusque personality provide significant depth to the film’s character palette. Haru herself embodies a blend of traditional femininity with resolute strength, mirroring Ghibli's signature touch of resilient heroines who strive against adversity without shedding their inherent qualities.

Overall, The Cat Returns may not present as potent a narrative as Miyazaki’s or Takahata’s masterpieces, but it captivates with its sheer whimsy and heartwarming character dynamics. Its re-release by Shout! Factory ensures that fans can continue to enjoy this quirky story in high-definition, equipped with both visual clarity and immersive sound that honors the original aesthetic and narrative charm.

"The Cat Returns" Blu-ray release by Shout Factory is a delightful addition to any Studio Ghibli collection. This film, directed by Hiroyuki Morita and written by Reiko Yoshida, stands out with its sweet and charming narrative, filled with adorable animals and rich fantasy elements. Anne Hathaway, Elliot Gould, and Cary Elwes offer stellar voice performances that enhance the overall experience. The 1.85:1 AVC aspect ratio ensures a beautifully crisp visual presentation, while the audio options, including English and Japanese DTS-HD MA 5.1 tracks, provide an immersive sound experience.

Technically, the Blu-ray boasts excellent video quality with vivid colors and sharp details that bring the whimsical world to life. The audio quality is equally impressive, delivering clear dialogues and dynamic soundscapes that complement the enchanting storyline. Special features included in this release enrich the viewing experience, offering fans deeper insights into the making of the film and its unique artistic style.

"The Cat Returns" is sweet and charming, bubbling with adorable animals and rich fantasy. While distinct from Miyazaki’s imaginative creations, it exudes a different yet equally captivating charm. Studio Ghibli’s track record of high-quality releases continues here, with excellent video, great audio, and robust special features. This Blu-ray is a must-buy for any Studio Ghibli fan or those new to anime. The Shout Factory release, priced at $17, is a cost-effective alternative to the out-of-print Buena Vista disc, making it highly recommended for both collectors and new viewers alike.