Lincoln Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Lincoln" is a demonstration of how meticulously technical specifics and artistic intent can coalesce into an exemplary home viewing experience. With a brilliant 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer, the film captures the essence and nuances of Janusz Kaminski's cinematography and Steven Spielberg's directorial vision with exceptional fidelity. The choice of shooting on 35mm using Kodak Vision3 500T 5219 film and '80s Panavision Super Speed lenses serves to enhance this fidelity, creating a visual experience that's both authentic and evocative. The palette, dominated by subdued blues, greens, and earth tones, perfectly aligns with the period setting, while the implementation of contrast and shadow detail brings depth and texture to every scene without succumbing to crush or loss of detail.

Textural clarity across the board is impressive, from the intricate designs of Rick Carter's production sets to the painstakingly detailed costumes by Joanna Johnston. Lincoln's weathered attire, Tommy Lee Jones' expressive visage, and the battlefield landscapes are rendered with such precision that each fabric weave and facial feature is distinctly visible, contributing to an immersive and almost tactile viewing experience. The intentional softness introduced by the vintage lens choice adds a filmic quality that complements the tones and textures of the period depicted, reinforcing the filmmakers' aesthetic choices without compromising on visual clarity.

Disney/DreamWorks has indeed lived up to the expectations, delivering a Blu-ray presentation that not only showcases the shadow-laden, contrast-rich scenes with immaculate detail but also manages to preserve the historical atmosphere Spielberg aimed to evoke. The absence of banding or any other disruptive artifacts ensures that "Lincoln" not only commands respect for its content but its technical presentation on Blu-ray as well. This is a resounding success in translating cinematic artistry into a home format, setting a benchmark for what viewers can expect from high-definition releases.

The audio section of the Blu-ray release of "Lincoln" is an exemplary showcase of auditory finesse, embodying a mastery of sound that does justice to the film's dialogue-heavy narrative. With a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track, the presentation excels in delivering a sound experience that is both subtle and immersive, bringing the historical ambiance of Lincoln's era to vivid life. Dialogue, whether whispered in the corridors of power or shouted in the heat of debate, is rendered with impeccable clarity and precision. The soundstage is meticulously crafted, ensuring voices not only occupy their correct spatial positions but also resonate with the acoustics of their environments. This precise alignment of audio elements, coupled with a restrained yet effective use of the LFE channel, provides a solid foundation that enhances both the weight and texture of the film's sonic environment.

Attention to detail extends into the thoughtful employment of surround channels, which create a convincing auditory space. The cacophony of the House of Representatives is articulated with such precision that it places the listener in the midst of the action, allowing for an almost tangible feeling of being surrounded by the fervent debates and impassioned pleas that define the film. Side and rear channels are adeptly used to augment this sensation, offering a layer of ambient sounds that contribute to an all-encompassing listening environment. Directional effects and transitions between speakers are executed with a transparency that maintains the flow of audio, ensuring an uninterrupted immersive experience.

Furthermore, the dynamic range presented within this audio track is noteworthy, managing to capture the nuanced variations in volume and intensity without sacrificing clarity or impact. John Williams' emotive score is interwoven seamlessly, elevating pivotal moments with its musical cues that resonate powerfully through each speaker. This thoughtful integration of score and sound design ensures that "Lincoln's" audio presentation is not merely a backdrop but a vital component of the storytelling, engaging the listener fully and enhancing the narrative's emotional depth. Overall, the audio segment of "Lincoln's" Blu-ray demonstrates a commendable balance of technical prowess and artistic sensitivity.

The Blu-ray edition of "Lincoln" encompassing a 4-disc BD/DVD/Digital Copy combination emerges as a comprehensive package for aficionados of the historical epic, offering an insightful dive into the movie's creation and the meticulous efforts to remain faithful to historical authenticity. With nearly 80 minutes of bonus content spread across two Blu-ray discs, this edition notably surpasses the 2-disc version, enriching the viewer's experience significantly. It includes detailed discussions on the developmental genesis of the film, the casting and portrayal of characters by an ensemble cast, and the elaborate production design and costume creation that breathe life into the 19th-century setting. The extras, through various lenses, illustrate Spielberg and his crew's dedication to crafting a film that not only entertains but educates, presenting an immersive journey into Lincoln's presidency. For those deeply interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects and the artistic dedication involved in bringing "Lincoln" to the screen, this edition offers valuable insights meticulously preserved in high-definition featurettes.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Journey to Lincoln: An introduction featuring insights from director Steven Spielberg, producer Kathleen Kennedy, and others, discussing the project's inception and focus.
• A Historic Tapestry: Richmond, Virginia: A brief look at why Richmond served as the primary location for shooting.
• In the Company of Character: An examination of key performances and the actors' approaches to their roles.
• Crafting the Past: Insights into the authentic production design and costume creation.
• Living with Lincoln: A comprehensive exploration of the film's quest for historical accuracy and authenticity.
• In Lincoln's Footsteps: An exploration of the film’s pacing, narrative construction, and unique artistic considerations.

Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln" is anything but a conventional biopic. The film takes a magnified look at the last four months of Abraham Lincoln's presidency, diverging from the broader strokes typically seen in historical narratives to focus intensely on his strategic push to pass the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This decision not only allowed Spielberg to showcase a period of intense political maneuvering and moral fortitude but also gave Daniel Day-Lewis an extraordinary canvas to immerse himself into one of the most compelling portrayals of Lincoln ever committed to film. Day-Lewis, known for his methodical dedication, embodies Lincoln with a nuanced performance that transcends imitation, providing insight into the mind of a leader burdened with the weight of a nation. His portrayal, accentuated by Spielberg's restrained direction and a tightly woven screenplay by Tony Kushner, is a masterclass in acting, earning him a well-deserved Academy Award.

The film's brilliance is not carried by Day-Lewis alone; a formidable ensemble cast supports the narrative with noteworthy performances. Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens and Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln, among others, round out the cast, bringing vibrancy and depth to the political and personal battles waged. Spielberg's direction harmonizes with Kushner's script—based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s book—to deliver dialogue that captures the essence of the period without alienating contemporary audiences. Spielberg's measured approach eschews his often-criticized sentimentality for a more seasoned and subtle touch. While some critics argue that the film's ending might veer into familiar Spielbergian territory, it does little to detract from the film’s overall impact.

"Lincoln" differentiates itself by offering a window into the legislative process and legal nuance, presenting an engaging account of one of American history’s pivotal moments without succumbing to the pitfalls of romanticizing its subjects. The movie manages to be both educational and captivating, blending the complexities of political maneuvering and ethical determination with personal drama. Its focus on a critical juncture rather than a comprehensive overview allows for a profound exploration of Lincoln’s character and the moral dilemmas surrounding the abolition of slavery. The combination of Spielberg’s seasoned direction, Kushner’s thoughtful screenplay, Kaminski’s cinematography, and Day-Lewis’ transformative performance, along with the work of a stellar supporting cast and crew, makes "Lincoln" a standout portrayal of political genius and human perseverance, a notable exception in Spielberg's portfolio that emphasizes restraint over melodrama.

Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln" emerges as a beacon of historical drama, masterfully intertwining the richness of America's past with an uncanny relevance to its present. At its core, the movie thrives on its impeccable pacing and the brilliant portrayal of its iconic characters. Daniel Day-Lewis, in particular, delivers an unforgettable performance as Abraham Lincoln, embodying the character with unparalleled passion and depth. This feat alone marks "Lincoln" as a cinematic accomplishment, but when coupled with Spielberg's sharp direction and the film's meticulous screenplay, it elevates to an even higher echelon. Moreover, the technical aspects of the Blu-ray release do not falter, boasting a flawless audio-visual presentation. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround sound track, alongside a pristine video transfer, ensures that viewers receive an immersive experience. Though the package's 80 minutes of bonus content may seem meager to some, it does little to detract from the overall quality of this release.

The narrative, rich with historical gravitas and political intrigue, also serves as a poignant commentary on modern-day politics. Drawing parallels between the political climate of Lincoln's era and today’s contentious landscape, Spielberg and Kushner inspire a sense of hope and belief in the power of democracy and principled idealism. This synthesis of historical drama and timely relevance sets "Lincoln" apart from other entries in the genre, imbuing it with a profound significance that goes beyond mere entertainment.

In conclusion, "Lincoln" stands out not only as one of 2012’s best films but as a significant cultural artifact. Its harmonious blend of sterling performances, adept storytelling, and technical excellence makes it a must-watch. Despite the modest offering of bonus features, the Blu-ray presentation is near faultless, guaranteeing a viewing experience as impactful as it is introspective. "Lincoln" doesn’t just recount history; it invites its audience to reflect on the enduring values that shape nations, making it a truly important and memorable piece of cinema.