Mr. & Mrs. Smith Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' offers a mixed bag in terms of its video presentation, displaying both the strengths and weaknesses inherent to modern high-definition transfers. Encoded in 1080p with an MPEG4 AVC format, the transfer showcases an impressive clarity and attention to detail that elevates the visual experience beyond its standard DVD predecessors. The vividness of its colors, from the warm interiors of the Smith’s household to the harsh, sun-bleached deserts, pairs wonderfully with the level of detail captured in clothing textures, background items, and even the fine grains on wooden surfaces. Scenes such as the Smiths' desert showdown or their intricate dance become a feast for the eyes, showcasing crisp textures and a depth that demonstrates the potential of high-definition transfers.

However, not all is perfect in this polished presentation. The transfer suffers from a degree of overprocessing that seems to have become a common decision among filmmakers and transfer engineers alike. This results in an image that, while free of noise and artifacts, appears too clean and sometimes unnaturally polished, occasionally affecting the perceived depth and dimensionality of the picture. Black levels are deep but at a cost to shadow detail, creating moments where characters blend into dark backgrounds, reducing them to almost disembodied entities. Furthermore, minor technical issues such as slight edge enhancement, boosted contrast levels causing hot whites and elevated primaries, and occasional crushing that obscures previously visible background details, are present. These factors combined detract from what is otherwise a visually compelling Blu-ray presentation.

In sum, while the Blu-ray transfer of 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' significantly improves upon earlier DVD releases with its striking clarity, color rendition, and detail, it is somewhat marred by overprocessing and minor technical issues. Fans of the film will appreciate the visual upgrade despite these imperfections, offering a new way to experience the dynamic and detailed world of the Smiths.

The audio presentation of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" on Blu Ray, encoded in 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, is a testament to the power of high-fidelity sound in enhancing the cinematic experience. The mix is dynamic and robust, presenting an auditory landscape filled with crystal clear dialogue, precise spatial accuracy, and a plethora of engaging sound effects that breathe life into each scene. From the onset, the viewer is plunged into an immersive sonic world; beginning with a cacophony in Colombia—characterized by a helicopter's roar, explosions, and distant gunfire—to the subtle, tranquil sounds of rain paired with soft music, illustrating the mix's ability to handle both extremes with finesse.

The audio track shines not only in its explosive moments but also in the quiet ones, where even the low-priority sounds such as clinking silverware in John and Jane’s home are given a distinct place in the soundfield, showcasing the track's meticulous attention to detail. In action-packed sequences, like the final shootout in an Ikea-like department store or a minivan chase scene, the soundstage opens up to deliver a 360-degree experience. Bullet hits sound alarmingly real, debris rains with a terrifying authenticity, and the roar of engines envelops the listener, demonstrating the mix's exceptional use of space and directionality. The use of the LFE channel adds depth and body to explosions and gunfire, making each blast a palpable threat.

Moreover, the dialogue remains impeccably clear and well-prioritized throughout, ensuring that every whisper and shout is intelligible amid the chaos. The DTS track outperforms its Dolby Digital counterparts with superior clarity, depth, and immersion. Its seamless integration of music into the mix further elevates the viewing experience, allowing the score to complement the on-screen action without ever overwhelming it. Overall, this high-definition audio mix sets a benchmark for home entertainment, marrying technical excellence with artistic finesse to create a sonic experience as thrilling as the film itself.

The Blu-ray release of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" brings forward the same set of extras originally seen on the DVD version, albeit with an upgrade to high definition clarity. Among the highlights are commentaries from the film's director Doug Liman and screenwriter Simon Kinberg, as well as producers Lucas Foster and Akiva Goldsman, which offer a mix of engaging insights and occasional redundancy. The technical commentary delivered by the editor, production designer, and visual effects supervisor stands out for its entertaining blend of technical details, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and candid admissions of on-screen errors. The inclusion of three deleted scenes, although in high definition, feels somewhat lackluster compared to the anticipated depth of additional materials hinted at from previous releases. A making-of featurette focused on a central chase scene offers some interest, yet veers into promotional territory. The compilation of theatrical trailers rounds out the extras. This collection, while a direct replication of the DVD's content in terms of supplements, leaves room for speculation about future releases that might include the fuller array of special features seen in the unrated edition.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Director Doug Liman and Screenwriter Simon Kinberg: A feature-length track discussing various aspects of production.
• Commentary by Producers Lucas Foster and Akiva Goldsman: Insights and commentary about the film's production from the producers' perspective.
• Commentary by Film Editor Michael Tronick, Production Designer Jeff Mann, and Visual Effects Supervisor Kevin Elam: A detailed discussion on the technical challenges and solutions encountered during filming.
• Deleted Scenes: Three HD deleted scenes offering more content albeit feeling like a tease for more.
• Fox Movie Channel Presents: Making a Scene: An 8-minute look at the making of a key chase scene, initially produced for cable viewing.
• Trailers: A collection of HD theatrical trailers for "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" and other films.

"Mr. & Mrs. Smith" delivers a delightful mix of comedy and action, underscored by the undeniable chemistry between its leads, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Directed by Doug Liman, known for his work on "The Bourne Identity," the film manages to blend moments of genuine humor with thrilling action sequences, without veering too far into the realm of camp. From the outset, the narrative introduces us to John and Jane Smith, a seemingly mundane suburban couple who find themselves in a rut, both unaware of each other's true profession as assassins working for rival agencies. This premise sets the stage for an intriguing exploration of secrets and lies within their marriage. While the artistic direction and the action choreography are commendable, the film does face criticism for leaving some aspects underdeveloped, such as the deeper workings of the organizations the Smiths work for and the missed opportunities to delve deeper into their suburban facade.

The portrayal of John and Jane's life together before and after the revelation of their secrets allows for both actors to shine, making their interactions one of the film's strongest assets. Despite critical skepticism about their on-screen connection and the film's reliance on self-referential humor, Pitt and Jolie's performances bring a palpable energy that keeps viewers engaged. Moreover, Liman's direction ensures that the film doesn't lose its comedic timing amid the high-stakes action, maintaining a balance that appeals to fans of both genres. However, it's worth noting that while the movie excels in entertainment, it does so at the expense of plot depth and character development beyond the lead duo.

The final act of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" has sparked debate over its abruptness and perceived lack of closure, pointing to possible last-minute changes by Liman and his team. This decision might leave some viewers wanting more from their climactic confrontation. Despite this, the film is buoyed by its brisk pace, witty dialogue, and charismatic leads. While it might not redefine its genre or offer profound insights into marriage or identity, "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" finds solid ground as a guilty pleasure that successfully combines elements of action and comedy. True to its nature, the movie's enjoyment is largely subjective, resonating with those who appreciate its blend of lighthearted banter and kinetic action sequences.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" offers a mixed bag that balances its flaws with undeniable strengths. On the one hand, the chemistry between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie is as electrifying on screen as it was in the tabloids, providing a solid backbone for a film that adeptly mixes action, romance, and comedy to cater to a broad audience. The technical aspects of the Blu-ray are commendable, with a video quality that is very good and an audio experience that is excellent, thanks to the DTS HD MA track that significantly enhances the viewing experience. However, this release is notably marred by the absence of extras and special features, including the much-desired Director's Cut and the comprehensive bonus materials from previous DVD releases. This scarcity unfortunately detracts from the overall value of the package, especially considering its higher price point.

Notably, while this Blu-ray version does not include the additional content that accompanied the DVD Special Edition, its superior video and audio quality cannot be overlooked. The transfer is described as gorgeous, and the audio experience as sublime, making a case that this edition significantly outshines its DVD counterpart in terms of technological offering. Despite this, the lack of extras and the omission of an unrated version are points of contention. Even with these shortcomings, fans of the film might still find this edition to be worthwhile for its sheer audio-visual improvement over previous versions, recognizing it as a stepping stone toward a more definitive edition in the future.

In conclusion, while the Blu-ray release of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" leaves room for improvement in terms of additional content and special features, its exceptional video and audio presentation provides a compelling reason for fans to consider adding it to their collection. It straddles the line between being a must-have for enthusiasts of the film and a placeholder for a potential future release that could hopefully offer a more comprehensive package. Ultimately, for those who prioritize picture and sound quality over bonus materials, this edition represents a significant upgrade from the DVD versions, though it comes with the caveat of being perhaps an interim option until a more definitive Blu-ray release becomes available.