Jigsaw Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Jigsaw" by Lionsgate Films is a notable visual treat, featuring an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the 2.39:1 aspect ratio. Shot with Arri Alexa cameras and finalized at a 2K DI, the transfer is impressively sharp and detailed, which is particularly remarkable given the film's penchant for dimly lit and shadowy scenes. Close-up shots of corpses and wounds are stomach-churningly detailed, offering an almost clinical level of clarity. The omnipresent blue or slate-gray grading typical of modern thrillers does slightly impact detail levels, but it remains minor. Exterior scenes, which are more frequent than in previous Saw films, showcase impressive detail and wide vistas with excellent depth of field.

Color grading varies, with heavy blue and reddish/orange filters used to accentuate different scenes and environments effectively. These filters amplify the respective tones and locations, making the bloody practical effects stand out, ensuring viewers will likely squirm in their seats. Fine details permeate throughout; however, the heavier filters introduce some noise and murkiness. A particular hayseed sequence demonstrates that while the 1080p image is excellent, it’s even more impressive on the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray. Black levels are profound and inky without suffering from crush, and skin tones maintain their natural look relative to their filtered environments. No instances of image instability or compression anomalies were detected, leaving this video presentation with solid marks across the board.

The Dolby Atmos track on the Blu-ray of "Jigsaw" delivers an impressively immersive audio experience right from the start. It begins with a spectacular car crash, setting the tone for the film's visceral soundscape. The mix ensures that every element, from the buzzing of saws to the rattle of chains, is precisely positioned to enhance the horror atmosphere. The surround channels are consistently active, creating an almost continuous sense of immersion that envelops the viewer. Additionally, dialogue, effects, and score are expertly balanced, ensuring clarity and impact throughout the track.

The overhead speakers significantly elevate the listening experience, providing realistic and eerie sounds that contribute to the film's psychological horror. Sharp objects and disturbing noises, such as wires slicing through flesh or gunfire, are judiciously placed above, enhancing the tension and dread. While not absolutely perfect, the Dolby Atmos track achieves near-phenomenal levels of excitement and horror, making it a highly engaging auditory experience for viewers.

The Blu-ray extras for "Jigsaw" offer a rich and immersive experience for fans of the franchise. Notably, the Audio Commentary features producers Mark Burg, Oren Koules, and Peter Block discussing various aspects of production, from casting to visual effects. The I Speak for the Dead: The Legacy of Jigsaw documentary offers an in-depth exploration of the entire franchise with extensive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, providing thorough insight even for those who are not ardent fans. Another engaging inclusion is The Choice is Yours: Exploring the Props, hosted by property master Rick Little Darling. This brief segment dives into the intricacies of the film’s props and set pieces, making it a fascinating watch despite its shorter length.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: With Producers Mark Burg, Oren Koules, and Peter Block.
• I Speak for the Dead: The Legacy of Jigsaw Documentary: Detailed, multi-part feature with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.
• The Choice is Yours: Exploring the Props: A tour of the film’s various props and devices.

Jigsaw, a quasi-reboot of the Saw franchise, attempts to breathe new life into the series after a seven-year hiatus following Saw: The Final Chapter 3D. While it maintains the franchise’s signature elements of elaborate traps and isolated characters struggling for survival, it differentiates itself by incorporating more expansive storytelling and investigative elements. Directed by the Spierig Brothers, the film shifts between scenes of brutal game sequences orchestrated by Jigsaw (Tobin Bell) and a broader narrative involving detectives and forensic examiners attempting to unravel the mystery behind what appears to be a Jigsaw copycat. This juxtaposition creates a dynamic interplay that occasionally ventures into supernatural territory when one victim is found with Kramer's blood under their fingernails, raising questions about Jigsaw's presumed death.

The film interestingly mirrors the cloistered suspense of Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None, particularly in its portrayal of vigilante justice and the twist—where a character miraculously re-emerges to be the hidden instigator—adding layers to the franchise's labyrinthine plot. Despite these narrative efforts, the film falls back into familiar territory with its lineup of morally compromised victims and over-the-top gore, a hallmark that continues to appeal to the franchise’s niche fan base. The grisly depiction of violence reaches its zenith with some particularly disturbing images, including a vividly showcased scene of a sawed-off head, which directors seem to take a visceral delight in framing.

Overall, while Jigsaw does aim to inject character depth and widen its scope beyond claustrophobic settings, it remains tethered to its roots, focusing largely on gore and horror that fans expect. Consequently, those seeking groundbreaking new twists may find it lacking in originality but will still be treated to the franchise’s enduring macabre charm.

"Jigsaw," the latest installment in the Saw franchise, delivers what fans of the series have come to expect: relentless gore and high-tension suspense. The film manages to resurrect the eerie presence of Jigsaw, although it does not bring much in the way of fresh or original material to the table. Nevertheless, it succeeds in maintaining the franchise's distinct atmosphere and gruesome charm, ensuring that fans will find it enjoyable. The 1080p HD video presentation is commendable, offering sharp and vibrant visuals that, while not quite reaching the quality of its 4K Ultra HD counterpart, still provide an immersive viewing experience. The Dolby Atmos track adds an extra layer of auditory depth, rendering every scene with striking clarity.

For those debating a purchase, "Jigsaw" boasts first-rate technical merits. The video quality showcases an impressive level of detail, from the dark, shadowy sequences to the more vividly haunting sets. The audio is equally remarkable, filling each scene with a palpable sense of dread and anticipation. Beyond the feature film itself, this Blu-ray also includes a multi-part documentary that is both informative and engaging, making it a substantial addition to the package even for individuals who may not be ardent followers of the Saw series.

In conclusion, "Jigsaw" adeptly balances its connection to previous entries in the franchise while attempting to carve out a new narrative identity. Despite some questionable story decisions near the end, which might polarize longtime fans, the film remains a thrilling and technically proficient outing. The supplemental content alone could justify the investment for collectors or those intrigued by film production. Overall, this Blu-ray edition offers a well-rounded package that merits a recommendation.