Lucky Number Slevin Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Lucky Number Slevin" on Blu-ray is a visual delight, rendered in 1080p via the AVC codec at an impressive average bitrate of 37Mbps. The stylized cinematography benefits from this high-definition transfer, offering exceptional detail and clarity that enhances the textures of various surfaces, from the intricate designs of wall decorations to the facial expressions of the cast. Notably, even the distant views of the architectural dichotomy between The Boss and The Rabbi's towers are presented with sharp lines and no evident smearing, approximating the clarity of looking through a real window. The color grading is handled masterfully, with a natural palette for present-day scenes and a distinct, heavily filtered spectrum for flashbacks, which contributes to the film's unique visual style without veering into over-saturation. The deep blacks and excellent contrast further elevate the viewing experience, providing a nearly three-dimensional depth that makes foreground elements pop against darker backgrounds.

Despite its strengths, the transfer has its detractors, especially when compared to previous versions such as the UK Blu-ray import and the HD DVD release. Some long shots exhibit a disappointing lack of definition, and uneven grain distribution is noticeable in certain cityscape scenes. Additionally, there are moments where softer image quality creeps in, and set lighting can occasionally undermine the overall fidelity of the image, particularly in interior locations like Slevin's apartment. Visibility in shadowed areas can sometimes falter, likely a directorial choice rather than a flaw in the transfer itself. Nevertheless, these issues are somewhat mitigated by the absence of significant source noise, artifacting, or overzealous post-production adjustments.

In summary, while not without its minor faults, "Lucky Number Slevin" on Blu-ray offers a technically admirable and visually stunning experience that surpasses standard DVD quality markedly. Its rich textures, vibrant color palette, and meticulous detail make it a worthy addition to any high-definition collection. However, those with an eye for ultra-fine detail might find certain aspects of this transfer slightly lacking when pitted against other top-tier high-definition releases.

The audio presentation of "Lucky Number Slevin" on Blu-ray, delivered via a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround track, offers an absorbing auditory experience that elevates the film's intricate blend of dialogue-driven narrative and sudden bursts of action. This audio mix not only outperforms its HD DVD predecessor but also provides a richer, more nuanced soundscape, characterized by deeper, natural vocal tones and precise prioritization that ensures every whispered threat or soft utterance is heard with clarity. The low-frequency effects (LFE) provide a robust support, adding depth to the film’s more intense moments without overwhelming the crucial dialogue.

Within the action sequences and the quieter, more conversational moments, the audio track skillfully navigates the dynamic range, ensuring that viewers are equally captivated by the tension of a loaded conversation as they are by the explosive violence. Subtlety is key in this audio mix, with ambient sounds utilized effectively through the rear channels to create an immersive environment. The upscale restaurant scene exemplifies this well, where the background noise of chatter, clinking silverware, and other minutiae contribute to a convincing and engaging atmospheric setting. This attention to detail extends to the handling of the film's soundtrack; jazz-infused musical scores dance lightly around the edges of scenes, enhancing the visual storytelling with an auditory flourish that complements the film's stylish neo-noir aesthetics.

Despite occasionally being front-heavy, the TrueHD track showcases an admirable balance between its various elements, from dialogue clarity to action-packed sequences and ambient background noises. The upgraded audio mix on the Blu-ray edition not only pays tribute to McGuigan’s cinematic vision but also enhances it, creating a compelling audiovisual experience that fans of "Lucky Number Slevin" should not miss. This well-rounded audio prowess ensures that every element from soft, squishy impacts to sharp gunshots is felt with an organic resonance, making for an exceptionally engaging home theater experience.

The extra features of the "Lucky Number Slevin" Blu-ray provide a diverse and engaging suite of content that extols the film's craft, characters, and creation. Viewers will appreciate the candid insights from the cast and crew in "Making Lucky Number Slevin," offering a genuine look behind the scenes, complemented by the rich, character-driven discussion between Josh Hartnett and Lucy Liu. The deleted scenes, including an alternate ending, stand out for their contribution to character depth and narrative potential, though some exclusions are understandably necessary. The director's commentary offers an in-depth exploration of the film's aesthetic and narrative choices, despite occasional clarity issues, while the additional commentary track showcases the remarkable chemistry between Hartnett and Liu, offering both entertainment and enlightenment. These supplements, including the essential theatrical trailer, though not groundbreaking in volume or uniqueness, effectively enhance the Blu-ray release of "Lucky Number Slevin," making it a valuable addition for fans and cinephiles alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making Lucky Number Slevin: A featurette including interviews with the cast, crew, director, writer, and producer focused on character motivation and behind-the-scenes moments.
• Intimate Conversation with Josh Hartnett and Lucy Liu: A candid discussion between Hartnett and Liu about their roles and involvement in the film.
• Deleted Scenes: A collection of deleted scenes including some humorous moments and an alternate ending, with an optional director's commentary.
• Director’s Commentary: Director Paul McGuigan offers a deep dive into the production details and creative decisions behind the film.
• Additional Commentary: A commentary track featuring actors Josh Hartnett and Lucy Liu along with comments from writer Jason Smilovic, providing insights into the acting process and character development.
• Theatrical Trailer: The high-definition trailer for "Lucky Number Slevin.

Lucky Number Slevin," a film that unabashedly treads the complex lines of crime noir, emerges as a compelling narrative peppered with sharp dialogue and led by an ensemble cast that redefines the genre. The movie intertwines the lives of Slevin Kelevra (Josh Hartnett), ensnared in a lethal case of mistaken identity, with those of rival mob bosses The Boss (Morgan Freeman) and The Rabbi (Ben Kingsley), amidst the backdrop of New York City. Director Paul McGuigan masterfully crafts a cinematic experience that is both visually arresting and intellectually stimulating, weaving together themes of fate, identity, and revenge with a stylistic nod to the noir classics and a modern twist reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino’s narrative ingenuity.

At the heart of the film's success are the performances. Hartnett delivers a multifaceted portrayal of Slevin, with Freeman, Kingsley, and Bruce Willis supporting with equally memorable roles that bring depth to the twisted plot. The chemistry between characters, especially when juxtaposed with Lucy Liu's role as the precocious neighbor, injects a vital dose of humanity into the high-stakes drama. Moreover, the script, lauded for its cleverness and intricate storytelling, employs witty banter and complex character arcs to elevate the film beyond a conventional crime story. McGuigan’s direction ensures that the narrative's pacing keeps viewers engaged, while his aesthetic choices in art direction contribute significantly to the atmosphere, emphasizing the film’s attention to detail and its distinct visual style.

Despite its ambition, "Lucky Number Slevin" is not without its flaws. Attempts to mimic Tarantino-esque elements sometimes fall short, resulting in moments that feel more like caricature than homage. Nonetheless, these occasional missteps do not detract from the film's overall quality. McGuigan's work stands out for its originality and ability to entertain, making "Lucky Number Slevin" a refreshingly unique entry in the modern noir genre. With a narrative that commands attention from start to finish and a cast that delivers with every line, it’s a film that not only pays respect to its influences but also carves out its own legacy.

Lucky Number Slevin" stands out as a distinctive gem in the crime fiction genre, masterfully woven with sharp wit and complexity that triumphantly surpasses the mundane thresholds of typical shoot-em-ups. It's a film that brilliantly balances drama and comedy, supported by an ensemble cast delivering performances that are nothing short of stellar. As this Blu-ray edition makes its way onto shelves, it not only promises but delivers an unparalleled viewing experience, boasting a video transfer that significantly outshines its DVD counterpart and is complemented by an impressive Dolby TrueHD audio track. This early release from the Weinstein Company sets a high benchmark for quality, with absolutely no technical flaws to detract from the immersive experience.

Beyond the film's intrinsic merits, this Blu-ray edition is fleshed out with a selection of supplements that add considerable value. Among these, an exclusive featurette stands out, offering insights that fans of the genre will find both engaging and enlightening. The amalgamation of a visually attractive transfer, superb audio quality, and a well-curated collection of bonus materials makes this release a must-have for aficionados of modern noir and crime dramas. Its layered narrative, replete with unexpected twists and acute tension, ensures that "Lucky Number Slevin" retains its relevance and appeal, marking it as one of the decade's paramount films.

Conclusively, "Lucky Number Slevin" on Blu-ray is an exemplary showcase of how a film should be presented for home entertainment. It serves as a testament to the capabilities of the Blu-ray format, marrying visual and auditory excellence with compelling supplementary content. This edition is highly recommended, not only as a worthy addition to any collection but also as a compelling introduction to those unacquainted with the film's ingenuity. Whether you're revisiting the intricate plot or experiencing its twists for the first time, this Blu-ray offers an unrivaled cinematic journey.