Central Intelligence Blu-ray Review

"Central Intelligence" offers an exceptional video presentation on Blu-ray, perfectly complementing the source material with its 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode. The digitally photographed movie leverages a 2.8K resolution capture to deliver stunningly resolute and stable images, boasting crisp details and exquisite subtle refinement. Colors are deeply saturated, with eye-catching vitality and well-delineated depth. The contrast is dynamic yet balanced, with respectable black levels that allow discernible detail even in low lighting and shadowed scenes. Additionally, the video quality remains free of compression artifacts, showcasing an overall excellent visual experience.

Facial textures in "Central Intelligence" are meticulously detailed, revealing every fine nuance, blemish, and line. Close-up shots capture individual hairs and skin pores with striking clarity, while environmental details—from school gymnasiums to exterior vegetation—exhibit impressive sharpness and density. The film's colors shine with brilliance and vitality, delivering one of the best non-HDR presentations available. Natural greens and other vibrant colors stand out, particularly in well-lit scenes, sustaining true-to-life skin tones across various complexions.

The 2.40:1 aspect ratio presentation maintains pristine video quality throughout. The black levels are inky and precise, ensuring shadows render fine details without loss. Textural details in clothing and surfaces remain realistic, adding considerable depth to the image. With vivid colors that enhance the animated feel of the movie's comedic elements, this Blu-ray transfer exemplifies modern digital perfection—having superb visibility of background information and consistent pitch-perfect contrast. Warner Brothers has produced a top-tier Blu-ray presentation that will undoubtedly impress viewers seeking high-quality visual nitty-gritty for their home entertainment setup.

The audio presentation of "Central Intelligence" on Blu-ray boasts an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack that immerses the viewer into the film's vibrant world. From the very beginning, the mix reveals its prowess with the explosive delivery of En Vogue's "My Lovin' (You’re Never Gonna Get It)," leveraging every channel effectively. The sound field is enveloping, with crisp, descriptive dialogue and an appreciable front-to-rear balance. Dynamic range is robust, empowering action sequences with palpable low-frequency presence. Instrumental clarity and vocal precision remain consistently high, ensuring an engaging listening experience.

Throughout the film, the sound design showcases its capacity to handle both subtle and intense moments adeptly. Action scenes, notably from the 39-minute mark, are executed with remarkable force, featuring gunshots bursting with pronounced potency and a solid low end. The background ambiance during quieter moments—whether it's distant traffic or office chatter—enhances the overall immersiveness. Despite some instances of clipping in the upper ranges, which can be occasionally distracting, the mix largely maintains its spaciousness and clarity.

While the low-end response may lack the profound depth typically desired in action films, it remains functional and balanced within the broader soundscape. The mix's strength lies in its ability to deliver clear and well-prioritized vocals, even amidst the most intense action sequences. Overall, "Central Intelligence" presents a top-tier 5.1 audio experience that complements its visual storytelling with a layered and spirited sound field that is both dynamic and engaging.

The "Central Intelligence" Blu-Ray extras deliver a robust and engaging array of features, encompassing both rated and unrated versions for viewers seeking additional depth. Expert commentary from Director Rawson Marshall Thurber and Editor Michael L. Sale provides detailed insights into the film's production and editing decisions. Highlights include a substantial collection of alternate scenes, totaling over 70 minutes in the unrated cut, showcasing extended sequences not seen in the theatrical release. The gag reel offers a humorous glimpse behind the scenes with notable improvisational prowess from the cast, while the Line-O-Rama and Dance Off extras bring out the actors' playful side. A time-lapse feature illustrates the meticulous effort behind a quick clean-up scene, rounding out this comprehensive suite.

Extras included in this disc:

• Director Audio Commentary: Informative track with insights from the director and editor.
• Alternate Scenes: Extensive collection showcasing unseen extended sequences.
• Line-O-Rama: Montage of improvised alternate takes.
• Dance Off: A fun display of dance moves by the cast.
• Gag Reel: Entertaining collection of on-set blunders.
• Couch Time Lapse: Quick clean-up scene execution.

"Central Intelligence" follows former high school student Calvin Joyner (Kevin Hart), now an unsatisfied accountant, as he is pulled back into the life of high school outcast-turned-CIA operative Bob Stone (Dwayne Johnson). Stone, once the bullied Robbie Weirdicht, enlists Calvin's help to thwart a plot involving national secrets. What ensues is a journey through shoot-outs, double-crosses, and espionage. Hart, typically known for his loud comedic style, successfully transitions into the role of a straight-laced everyman. His chemistry with Johnson is palpable, creating a dynamic reminiscent of classic buddy comedies. Hart’s controlled performance allows Johnson to embrace his character's quirky nature, lending an unexpectedly heartfelt touch amidst the action and slapstick humor.

The film leans heavily on action-comedy tropes akin to "21 Jump Street" and "The Other Guys," featuring well-executed stunts and humorous one-liners. Director Rawson Marshall Thurber adeptly balances energetic chase scenes with character-driven moments, even amid familiar genre clichés. Johnson’s portrayal of Bob Stone stands out, intertwining physical comedy with a genuine sense of vulnerability rooted in his character’s high school trauma. Scenes where Johnson’s flamboyant bravado clashes with Hart’s calculated panic bring out the best in both actors. Amy Ryan’s role as a CIA agent adds further depth, showcasing her ability to deliver exposition with wit and precision.

Technically, the Blu-ray presentation is well-executed, offering both the 107-minute theatrical version and a 116-minute unrated cut. The added scenes primarily enhance character moments and comedic elements. Though the film's plot may appear contrived at times, the robust performances from a talented cast ensure sustained engagement. "Central Intelligence" highlights the evolution of its leads while maintaining a brisk pace and delivering consistent laughs and action thrills.

"Central Intelligence" excels with its engaging mix of action and comedy, deftly balanced by Director Rawson Marshall Thurber. The film leverages the unique chemistry between Kevin Hart and Dwayne Johnson, creating a dynamic interplay where Hart’s straight-man routines contrast effectively with Johnson’s unexpectedly nerdy yet confidently portrayed intelligence agent. Despite a predictable plot, the characters’ development and the film's energetic pacing keep the viewer entertained. Johnson's nuanced performance adds an unexpected layer of depth, making this more than just a standard buddy cop flick.

The Blu-ray edition of "Central Intelligence" delivers a superior audiovisual experience. Universal's release is impressive, showcasing reference-quality video and pristine lossless audio that bring the film’s robust action and comedic moments to life. The disc includes both the PG-13 theatrical version and an extended unrated cut, catering to a broader audience. Special features complement the main feature well, with a substantial collection of alternate and deleted scenes, alongside an insightful commentary that enhances the viewing experience.

In conclusion, "Central Intelligence" is a solid entertainer that balances humor and action with commendable performances from its leads. The Blu-ray package is robust, providing high-quality video and audio, plus a rich assortment of extras that make it a worthwhile addition to any collection. Whether you're a fan of the leads or simply looking for an entertaining blend of comedy and action, this release is highly recommended.