FernGully: The Last Rainforest Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" in 1080p AVC-encoded format, adhering to a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, represents a significant step up from its DVD predecessor. The improvement in the visual experience is immediately evident through enhanced brightness and a more vivid color palette, capturing the lush greens of the Australian rainforest and the deep blackness of Hexxus' sludge persona with greater efficacy. While the animation's inherent focus limitations and mild sharpening are more apparent, the crisp image quality largely contributes to a more engaging viewing experience. The texture of the traditional animation remains prominent, although this understandably means that imperfections such as dust particles and minor judder are also more noticeable.

Nevertheless, the transfer is not without its drawbacks. The source print exhibits occasional flicker, debris, and white speckles, which moderately detract from the overall high-definition presentation. Such issues highlight that the title did not undergo exhaustive restoration efforts characteristic of major studios like Disney. Despite these imperfections, the black levels are satisfactory, preserving depth and distance effectively, and the color fidelity presents a darker, more natural aesthetic than previous releases.

Overall, while the video transfer for "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" does not reach the lofty restoration standards set by Disney's older animated classics, it is far from mediocre. The Blu-ray offers a cleaner and brighter visual experience compared to the DVD, with some care evidently invested in the transfer process. However, there remains room for enhancement to truly optimize it for HD viewing.

The audio presentation of the "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" Blu-ray offers a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track that enhances the film's overall appeal. The immersive sound experience pulls viewers into the heart of the rainforest, with a dynamic mix of ambient sounds, musical elements, and diverse vocal personalities. The track excels in creating a circular activity, especially noticeable from the opening thunderstorm to the chaos of the loggers' actions, fostering a hearty sense of immersion. However, there is limited broad directional movement, and while the dialogue is clear, it occasionally sounds thin due to the original recording constraints. The musical score and various sound effects effectively complement the visual spectacle, though they hit a few shrill lows that could feel somewhat shallow.

Low-end frequencies are particularly impressive for specific scenes, adding substantial depth to moments when humans demolish parts of the forest, with the sub-woofer rumbling every time a tree crashes down. Musical numbers, including Batty's rap, benefit from an accompanying bass that ensures they resonate powerfully without disrupting overall balance. Rear speakers vividly capture the forest life and Alan Silvestri’s memorable score, augmenting scenes where trees fall, and birds and animals flee. This newly updated lossless mix, characterized by an aggressive surround sound experience and well-integrated ambient sounds, will certainly satisfy fans of the film, delivering nuances and audio depth previously unheard in earlier releases.

The extras included in the Blu-Ray of "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" offer a robust, albeit previously released, set of supplementary features that delve deep into the film's production nuances and creative challenges. The audio commentary by director Bill Kroyer, art director Ralph Eggleston, and coordinating art director Susan Kroyer stands out for its technical insights and animated discussions, highlighting both the CGI techniques and the meticulous effort behind specific scenes. Noteworthy features include an explorative comparison between script and storyboard in "Seed of the Story" and the comprehensive making-of documentary, "From Paper to Tree," which combines historical interviews with later reflections. Fans and animation enthusiasts will appreciate the "Toxic Love" multi-angle presentation and Tone Loc’s animated music video. This set of extras is essential for anyone interested in animation production processes.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Director Bill Kroyer and Team: In-depth discussion on animation techniques and production stories.
• Seed of the Story: Script to Screen Comparison: Analysis of several sequences with optional commentary by screenwriter Jim Cox.
• From Paper to Tree: Official making-of featurette with interviews from cast and crew.
• Toxic Love: Multi-angle presentation of the villain's musical number.
• Original Featurette: Quick overview of the film's production basics from 1992.
• Music Video (If I’m Gonna Eat Somebody): Tone Loc’s performance combining animation and film clips.
• Trailers and TV Spots: A collection of original theatrical trailers and TV advertisements.

"FernGully: The Last Rainforest" remains a distinctive piece of '90s animation, often mistaken for a Don Bluth film due to its compelling themes and visual style. Directed by Bill Kroyer, who previously worked on the visual effects for "Tron," FernGully melds CG-animation with brightly painted designs, resulting in an engaging microcosm that has retained its charm over the years. The narrative, adapted from Diana Young's stories, constructs an inviting miniature world where protagonist fairy Crysta (voiced by Samantha Mathis) and her companions, including the memorable Batty (voiced by Robin Williams), navigate the forest's spiritual and physical dangers. The film's pressing themes of deforestation and pollution resonate strongly, underscored by Tim Curry's sinister portrayal of Hexxus—a smoke and sludge monster representing environmental destruction.

The screenplay wisely balances its dire message with a sense of wonder and adventure. Written by Jim Cox, it introduces human elements through Zak (Jonathan Ward), a teenage logger shrunk to fairy size by Crysta’s misguided spell. The lighthearted script, combined with vibrant animation and nuanced characters, manages to soften its ecological warnings while maintaining their gravity—never feeling overly preachy. However, despite its best efforts, some aspects show their age. The film’s score by Alan Silvestri feels lackluster, and several songs—despite being performed by noted artists like Sheena Easton and Johnny Clegg—haven’t aged well. Even so, Robin Williams' and Tim Curry’s musical contributions add notable flair.

Ultimately, "FernGully" is a visually engaging film that reaches for lofty thematic goals without losing its audience. Its bold environmental message resonates as much today as it did upon its release in 1992, benefiting from a unique blend of earnestness and whimsical storytelling that can still capture the imagination of both nostalgic adults and new young viewers alike.

The Blu-ray release of "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" is a visual and auditory treat that effectively brings the enchanting world of FernGully to modern audiences. The transfer to high-definition does wonders for the film's vivid animation, with colors appearing more vibrant and detail being meticulously preserved. The presentation ensures that the captivating visuals, which include lush rainforests and fascinating characters, are showcased in the best light possible. In terms of audio, the Blu-ray delivers a rich and immersive experience. The sound design, punctuated by a compelling score, enhances the action-packed sequences and the overall magic and wonder of the film.

"FernGully" also impresses with its narrative core, balancing entertainment with potent environmental messaging. The storyline may seem straightforward, focusing on the dangers of deforestation and environmental neglect, but it manages to impart these themes in a manner that's accessible to children, while still resonating with adults. The runtime of about 70 minutes is utilized efficiently, maintaining a brisk pace that keeps audiences engaged without overindulging in its moralistic tones. The characters are charming and endearing, contributing significantly to the film's overall appeal. This balance of action, wonder, and thoughtful messaging speaks volumes to the filmmakers' commitment to crafting a meaningful yet enjoyable experience.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" successfully revitalizes this classic for today's viewers. There's not much to "FernGully" beyond a sense of discovery. The film is shockingly short (70 minutes), but that's not a complaint, with Kroyer refusing to belabor the messages of the picture, maintaining a concentration on wonder and action to support ideas on environmental rape and the true price of greed. It's simplistic enough to get through to children in need of illumination, while potent enough to keep adults attentive and concerned. Despite its grim reality, "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" remains a highly amusing feature, which is perhaps most important of all. A spoonful of sugar helps this medicine go down in a fulfilling way, with 20 years of environmental awareness only supporting the importance of the movie's cry for planetary care.