The Crazies Blu-ray Review

The Crazies" makes a solid entry into the Blu-ray arena with its 1080p, 2.40:1-framed transfer that, while not breaking new ground in high-definition excellence, consistently delivers a top-notch visual experience. This release from Starz/Anchor Bay/Overture impresses with an admirable level of detail across the board—from the textures of wear and tear on weapons to the intricate seams of clothing, the image clarity is commendable. However, it's worth noting that despite the overall sharpness and polish of the presentation, facial textures sometimes come across as somewhat flattened, lacking a certain depth that might detract from an otherwise glossy finish. The film's grain structure remains minimally intrusive, preserving the movie's aesthetic without overwhelming it with noise, though a few scenes may exhibit a thicker grain than others.

Color reproduction on this Blu-ray is handled with care; hues are neither overly saturated nor faded, maintaining a realistic balance that complements the film's tone. Skin tones, too, are rendered with a naturalistic touch. Notable as well is the treatment of blacks—deep, true, and devoid of any loss of detail due to crush or over-brightness, they anchor the visual experience with consistency and quality. While minor aliasing issues on large metallic structures like silos are detectable, these do not significantly mar the overall visual presentation. Absent are any signs of dirt, debris, banding, or blocking that could detract from the viewing experience.

In summary, "The Crazies" on Blu-ray does not perhaps redefine the standards for home cinema showcases but stands as a solid example of high-definition done right. The visual fidelity upholds what fans of the genre and of quality transfers have come to expect, delivering both in detail and in color management. This release might not dazzle to unexpected levels, but it certainly holds its ground with competence and professionalism, making it a pleasing addition for videophiles and fans alike.

The Crazies" arrives on Blu-ray, accompanied by an exemplary PCM 5.1 uncompressed soundtrack that elevates the listening experience to impressive heights. From the get-go, with its opening flash-forward shot, viewers are treated to a robust surround sound presentation that lays the foundation for an audio experience that is as aggressive as it is immersive throughout the film. The audio track shines brightly in its rendition of ambient sounds, particularly noticeable in scenes like the small-town baseball game. Here, the crowd's noise emanates from every speaker, not overwhelmingly but with a natural subtlety and breadth that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the scene. This seamless spatial distribution of sound never feels congested, allowing music, atmospheric effects, and action sequences to resonate clearly and forcefully across the soundstage.

The soundtrack's finesse extends to its meticulous attention to the quieter moments of ambience. Outdoor scenes, for instance, brim with life through the inclusion of faint but pivotal natural sounds, plunging listeners into the very heart of the movie's settings. Yet, it's within the domain of more kinetic action that the audio truly flaunts its prowess. Bass responses are both profound and refined, with explosions and gunshots – shotguns in particular – reverberating with a formidable intensity that's near-tangible. Each blast and detonation is rendered with such clarity and impact that the soundtrack successfully replicates the engulfing sensation of theater-quality sound within the comfort of one's home.

However, it's not without its minor imperfections; a certain scene set within a car wash somewhat stumbles in its auditory conviction, slightly marring an otherwise stellar audioscape. Despite this, "The Crazies" Blu-ray audio presentation stands out as a remarkable feat by Overture Films, offering listeners equipped with high-quality sound systems a truly cinematic auditory experience that is both meticulously detailed and expansively dynamic.

The Crazies" Blu-ray release is distinguished by its comprehensive collection of extras, offering a rich, behind-the-scenes look that will captivate enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Central to these features is the engaging audio commentary by Director Breck Eisner, who discusses a range of topics from the film's inception to its execution, providing an intimate glimpse into the creative process. The assortment of extras dives deep into the film’s making, with a particular emphasis on the special effects and makeup that bring the horror to vivid life. Contributions from both cast and crew complement Eisner's insights, while dedicated segments explore the influence of George A. Romero and delve into the technicalities of visual effects, makeup, and storyboarding. Additionally, motion comics extend the narrative experience, and a selection of trailers and a digital copy offer added value. The extras not only embellish the main feature but serve as a standalone exploration into modern horror filmmaking.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Breck Eisner: An insightful track covering a wide array of topics related to the film's production.
• Behind the Scenes with Director Breck Eisner: Cast and crew discuss the making of the movie.
• Paranormal Pandemics: Focuses on the film's makeup effects.
• The George A. Romero Template: Reflections on Romero's influence on horror cinema.
• Make-Up Mastermind: Rob Hall in Action: Behind-the-scenes look at the film's makeup effects.
• The Crazies Motion Comic Episodes One and Two: Extends the narrative through motion comics.
• Visual Effects in Motion: Showcases the film’s special effects stages of completion.
• Storyboards: Building a Scene: Hand-drawn storyboards for a key scene.
• Behind-the-Scenes Photo Gallery: Collection of on-set photos.
• Trailers: Includes teaser and theatrical trailers for "The Crazies" as well as other films.
• Digital Copy: A digital version of "The Crazies" compatible with iTunes/Mac.

The 2010 remake of George A. Romero's "The Crazies" presents itself as a fine specimen within the contemporary landscape of horror cinema, encapsulating a blend of slick production qualities, intense sequences, and a narrative that, while familiar and somewhat predictable, manages to captivate and entertain thoroughly. Situated in the small Iowa town of Ogden Marsh, the film unfolds against a backdrop of idyllic American life swiftly plunged into chaos by an inexplicable madness gripping its residents, leading to a tense survival thriller that skilfully navigates the terrains of fear, paranoia, and societal breakdown. This portrayal benefits immensely from strong performances, particularly by Timothy Olyphant and Radha Mitchell, whose characters' desperate struggle for survival anchors the narrative amidst the ensuing pandemonium.

Director Breck Eisner's rendition differentiates itself from Romero's original by focusing less on social commentary and more on the immediacy of action and personal tribulation faced by its protagonists. This approach crafts a more intimate and visceral viewer experience, emphasizing the practicalities of survival in a world gone mad over the underpinning causes or critiques thereof. Despite its conventional plot advancements and reliance on genre tropes, "The Crazies" excels through its ability to maintain tension and deliver a polished visual experience accompanied by well-constructed action scenes that keep audiences engaged from start to finish. The film's pacing is particularly commendable, establishing its premise quickly before immersing viewers into a relentless narrative momentum that rarely falters, ensuring a gripping watch.

While it may not delve deeply into the thematic richness or societal critique often associated with Romero’s works, this adaptation stands on its own merits as a compelling piece of genre filmmaking. It thrives on its taut direction, effective character portrayals, and a keen sense of how to leverage horror and action elements for maximum impact. The movie’s technical aspects, including its crisp Blu-ray presentation, contribute significantly to its overall impact, making it a noteworthy and enjoyable entry for fans of the genre, as well as those with an appreciation for remakes that respect their source material while carving out their unique identity.

The Crazies" Blu-ray presentation skillfully marries high production values with an engaging cinematic experience, defying the negative expectations typically associated with remakes. This film distinguishes itself through its adept direction, compelling performances, and well-orchestrated action sequences. While it may not delve deeply into the social commentary that enriched Romero's original, it compensates with a polished aesthetic, more dynamic action, and enhanced special effects that collectively outshine its predecessor. The pace is brisk, ensuring viewers are consistently entertained and on edge—elements crucial for success within the Survival/Action/Horror genre.

Starz/Anchor Bay's Blu-ray release of "The Crazies" doesn't skimp on quality, providing an audio-visual treat that elevates the overall viewing experience. The technical excellence of the Blu-ray presentation is evident, boasting crisp visuals and immersive audio that encapsulate the viewer within the intense, unsettling atmosphere of the film. Coupled with a well-curated selection of extras, this Blu-ray release adds depth to the viewing experience, offering insights into the film's production and further engaging fans of the genre.

In conclusion, "The Crazies" Blu-ray is a testament to how a remake can not only pay homage to its origins but also surpass them in execution and entertainment value. Its superior technical presentation, combined with a high-octane narrative and commendable acting, makes this Blu-ray a must-have for aficionados of the Survival/Action/Horror genre. Whether you're new to "The Crazies" or revisiting it, this Blu-ray edition affords a definitive viewing experience that is both exhilarating and technically impressive. Highly recommended for those looking to bolster their collection with a film that delivers thrills, chills, and a visually stunning presentation.