The Cell Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "The Cell" on Blu-ray is a standout achievement, showcasing meticulous care in both its technical execution and visual artistry. Photographed by Paul Laufer, who discussed at length in the Blu-ray's production team commentary, the film captures complex, vivid colors and intricate visual storytelling through traditional photochemical processes, later digitized for various effects. This attention to detail is evident in the 1080p, AVC-encoded master prepared by Warner Home Video, which succeeds in maintaining the film's weight and density of imagery. The transfer for this Blu-ray required scanning of a film element, resulting in an exceptionally clear and vivid image that brings Tarsem's visually striking narrative to life.

The color palette is particularly noteworthy, with vividly saturated reds, regal purples and golds, ghostly whites and blues, and intense reddish yellows that dominate scenes across Stargher’s dreamscape and the brutal desert environment. Black levels and contrast are strong with finely rendered grain patterns, although some graininess and edge enhancement artifacts are noticeable in the bright desert scenes at the film's beginning. However, these artifacts are largely confined to these sequences, with the image stabilizing considerably as the narrative progresses into more controlled environments.

Warner's rendition exhibits a warmer overall tone compared to previous releases, with significantly deeper reds and more lifelike fleshtones. This warmth adds a new depth to the viewing experience, particularly when considering MPI's access to reference materials potentially more accurate than those used by Alliance Atlantis for the 2009 edition. While minor speckles of noise are present, they are minimal and do not detract from the overall high quality of this specially crafted Blu-ray edition.

The Blu-ray release of "The Cell" features an exceptional audio presentation, primarily utilizing the English DTS-HD MA 5.1 track, with Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 also available. Howard Shore’s almost atonal score is a standout element, merging traditional orchestration with trance music by the Master Musicians of Joujouka. This combination uses distinctive reed, pipe, and percussion instruments to complement both the surreal mental landscapes of Edward and the sinister fantasies within Stargher’s mind. The recurring motif of water, in various forms such as dripping and rushing, enriches the film’s soundscape, as do the classic sounds from police procedurals like cars, helicopters, and battering rams. The soundtrack's broad dynamic range and deep bass extension enhance the immersive experience, recalling Shore’s work on films like Se7en and The Silence of the Lambs.

The dialogue throughout the film is generally clear, though some of Stargher's darker utterances prioritize intensity over clarity, especially in his imperial alter ego scenes where voices defy physical laws by booming, echoing, and fading in and out. Low-frequency extension is superb; the LFE subwoofer delivers a substantial kick during scenes with deep effects or low voices, adding significant weight to key moments. Surround sound presentation is notably expansive; the rear channels inject substantial depth into scenes set in subconscious realms, making the environment feel more open and dynamic as characters navigate ethereal spaces. Overall, the sound field envelops viewers, offering an aggressive yet non-oppressive auditory experience that ranks close to reference material quality.

Subtitles are available in English SDH, French, and Spanish for accessible viewing. This lossless soundtrack marks a significant improvement, presenting "The Cell" with clarity and impact fit for a cinematic experience.

The extra features on the Blu-ray release of "The Cell" are a comprehensive archive of materials previously available on the New Line Platinum Series DVD. While the transfer quality may not impress all viewers, the depth of content does. The disc includes two insightful commentaries—one by Director Tarsem Singh, rich with behind-the-scenes details and personal anecdotes, and another by the production team, offering a technical perspective. Additional highlights include a documentary on Tarsem's unique visual style, a series of multi-angle visual effects vignettes that dive into the film’s complex imagery, deleted scenes with optional commentary, and trailers. Despite the lack of new or retrospective content, these extras collectively provide a robust understanding of the film's production process and artistic vision.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Director Tarsem Singh: Insightful blend of personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes details.
• Commentary with Production Team: Technically focused discussion featuring key production members.
• Style as Substance: Reflections on Tarsem: Documentary exploring Tarsem’s visual storytelling.
• Deleted Scenes (with Optional Commentary): Includes original ending and controversial scenes.
• Special Effects with Multi-Angle Vignettes: Detailed look at six major special effects sequences.
• Trailers: Includes both theatrical and international versions.

The Cell

Mark Protosevich's screenplay for The Cell took a striking turn in the hands of Tarsem Singh, whose visual prowess brought a novel twist to the serial killer genre. While Protosevich's script included conventional elements reminiscent of Thomas Harris's Manhunter and The Silence of the Lambs, Tarsem elevated them with his unique cinematic vision. The basic premise, wherein investigators enter the killer's mind, is not unprecedented, sharing similarities with films like Dreamscape and episodes like Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’s "Extreme Measures." However, Tarsem's interpretation makes the brain's interior world the focal point, offering a striking visual feast and a departure from conventional narrative logic.

The storyline centers on serial killer Carl Stargher (Vincent D'Onofrio) and the desperate attempts of FBI agents Peter Novak (Vince Vaughn) and Gordon Ramsey (Jake Weber) to locate his latest victim. Their investigation leads them to an experimental procedure developed by Drs. Henry West (Dylan Baker) and Miram Kent (Marianne Jean-Baptiste) that allows Catherine Deane (Jennifer Lopez), a skilled therapist, to enter Stargher's mind. The film’s real allure lies in Tarsem's theatrical presentation of Stargher’s macabre rituals and the surreal landscapes within his psyche, overshadowing even Thomas Harris's darkest imaginings.

Tarsem’s commentary highlights that The Cell is more about elaborate spectacle than authentic dream logic, drawing from an array of artistic influences including H.R. Giger and Damien Hirst. The dream sequences are intricately tied to the narrative, making Catherine’s journey through Stargher’s mind both compelling and disturbing. Lopez’s performance, combined with masterful writing and editing, ensures these surreal images retain their narrative potency. Although Novak’s real-world pursuits keep the stakes grounded, the film ultimately serves as a grand entertainment designed to linger in memory long after viewing.

The Blu-ray release of "The Cell" offers a visually stunning and emotionally intense experience, capturing director Tarsem's unique aesthetic brilliantly. The audio presentation is top-notch, contributing significantly to the immersive experience with pitch-perfect sound effects and a haunting score. However, while the special features are comprehensive, they are mostly ported over from the DVD release. The video transfer is a mixed bag, with certain scenes, particularly in the desert, displaying edge enhancement, aliasing, and other visual anomalies that detract from the overall quality.

Despite its narrative simplicity, "The Cell" remains a compelling exploration of the human psyche, as embodied in surreal and often disturbing imagery. The film's duality—represented by the victimized child and the monstrous adult—offers a stark commentary on trauma and its long-lasting impacts. Even so, some viewers may find the film lacking in thematic depth and overly reliant on its visual flair.

In conclusion, "The Cell" Blu-ray dazzles and disturbs in equal measure. The blend of stunning visuals and powerful storytelling creates a visceral experience deserving of its high-definition treatment. While it may not delve deeply into its thematic content, its audiovisual presentation alone makes it a recommended addition for fans of Tarsem's visionary style.