Superman: Unbound Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Superman: Unbound" on Blu-ray displays a mix of impressive attributes and notable technical issues. The high-definition rendering ensures that images exhibit excellent visual depth, with deep, rich color fidelity and bold, defining contrast. The tack-sharpness of the visuals, coupled with stable and enriching blacks, enhances the overall viewing experience by providing crisp edges without any distracting signs of edge enhancement. Instances of aliasing and banding are non-existent in many scenes, contributing to a generally stable and immersive visual experience.

However, the 1080p/AVC-encoded video presentation suffers from some recurrent issues typical of Warner Bros. Animation releases. Aliasing frequently appears, with lines pixelating and images occasionally softening when the virtual camera moves in or out from hand-drawn elements. This results in minor to moderate macroblocking and banding in backgrounds and even on animated characters in the foreground. The razor-thin line art, differing from the thicker comic book lines seen in other DC Universe animated movies, exacerbates these problems. While some of these issues are inherent to the source material or the encoding process, they collectively detract from an otherwise polished presentation.

In conclusion, while the Blu-ray presentation of "Superman: Unbound" outshines its DVD counterpart with vibrant colors, striking contrasts, and revealing details, it ultimately falls short of perfection due to visible technical inconsistencies. While these may not be immediately apparent to the average viewer, discerning videophiles will likely find these anomalies distracting and indicative of missed opportunities for a truly flawless high-definition experience.

The high-resolution DTS-HD MA soundtrack of "Superman: Unbound" is expertly crafted, featuring exceptional headroom and crystal-clear rendering. The well-balanced presentation seamlessly blends dialogue, sound effects, bass, and music, delivering a dynamically satisfying surround sound experience. Detailed and resplendent, the track offers punchy bass and engages listeners with a relatively enveloping mix, enhancing the action-packed sequences. The LFE channel exhibits substantial depth, making explosions and superpowered battles resonate with assertive low-end impact.

Complementing these robust elements, the rear speakers contribute effectively, amplifying the immersive audio landscape. While the sound design can feel limited and slightly two-dimensional, it remains crisp and clear throughout the film. Explosions, alien invasions, and combat scenes create an engaging soundscape that is both hearty and thrilling. However, quieter moments may lack ambient detail and subtle directionality. Nonetheless, for an action-oriented animated movie, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track of "Superman: Unbound" ensures an enjoyable auditory experience.

The Blu Ray of "Superman: Unbound" comes packed with a comprehensive set of extras that dig deep into the film's origins and influences. The audio commentary features insights from director/producer James Tucker, screenwriter Bob Goodman, and comic writer Mike Carlin as they discuss the film's production and its foundation on the Geoff Johns comic, "Superman: Brainiac". The standout featurette, "Brainiac: Technology and Terror," provides an extensive analysis of one of Superman’s most formidable adversaries. Additionally, "Kandor: History of the Bottle City" offers a detailed exploration of the iconic miniaturized Kryptonian city. For fans of the animated series, the disc includes four bonus episodes. Other extras include a digital comic excerpt from "Superman: Brainiac" and various trailers.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio commentary: With Mike Carlin, Bob Goodman, and James Tucker.
• Kandor: History of the Bottle City: Featurette on Kandor's origins.
• Brainiac: Technology and Terror: In-depth analysis of Brainiac.
• From the DC Comics Vault: Four episodes from Superman: The Animated Series.
• Digital Comic Excerpt: Pages from "Superman: Brainiac".
• Trailers
• Bonus DVD
• Ultraviolet Digital Copy

"Superman: Unbound" revitalizes the classic Brainiac narrative with improved storytelling, voice acting, and animation compared to its predecessor, "Superman: Brainiac Attacks." The film captures Superman's struggle to balance personal relationships while defending Earth from Brainiac, an all-knowing android determined to collect cities for his intergalactic collection, including Supergirl's home city of Kandor. The narrative efficiently builds suspense, showcasing Clark Kent's (Matt Bomer) dual responsibility towards his cousin Kara (Molly Quinn) and his love interest Lois Lane (Stana Katic), as each character navigates their own emotional and physical challenges amidst the looming threat.

One of the film's standout elements is its stellar voice cast. Matt Bomer brings a serious yet warm portrayal to Superman, balancing his roles as a caring cousin, a boyfriend, and a hero. Stana Katic excels as Lois, combining intelligence and vulnerability with an authentic conviction that enhances her character’s resilience and relatability. Molly Quinn delivers a compelling Supergirl by deftly blending teenage angst with heroic resolve. John Noble's Brainiac remains menacing and cold, adding a satisfying layer of villainous gravitas to the plot. The interactions between characters are convincingly brought to life with animation that matches their voice performances intricately.

However, the film's script and pacing falter as action subsumes emotion, leading to a finale that feels more like a routine action sequence than an impactful climax. Although the initial setup promises an engaging character-driven narrative, it eventually devolves into repetitive fight scenes reminiscent of "Dragon Ball Z," losing some depth. Despite these drawbacks, "Superman: Unbound" successfully elevates itself above previous missteps in the franchise, offering an engaging, although not fully satisfying, addition to the DC Universe Animated Original Movies repertoire. More screen time could have allowed for a richer exploration of themes and a more memorable conclusion.

"Superman: Unbound" offers an engaging 75-minute romp that combines dynamic animation with excellent voice acting. While the story itself suffers from pacing issues and an underwhelming climax, the action sequences and character dynamics keep the audience entertained. The film's visual appeal is somewhat marred by inconsistent video quality on Warner's Blu-ray release, which, despite being problematic, doesn't entirely detract from the experience. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track helps to elevate the overall presentation with its immersive soundscapes, adding layers of depth to the narrative's key moments.

The Blu-ray package excels with a solid selection of special features that provide additional value, including behind-the-scenes content and interviews that fans of Superman will find particularly enjoyable. The professional quality of voice work is commendable and elevates the film above its narrative shortcomings. The high-octane action sequences make it an enjoyable experience for both die-hard comic enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

In conclusion, "Superman: Unbound" is a mixed bag that, while not without its flaws, offers enough excitement and special features to make it a worthwhile addition to any superhero film collection. Given its reasonable price point and overall entertainment value, it stands as a solid blind buy for fans of the genre. Just keep your expectations in check, and enjoy it for what it is—a punchy, comic book-inspired thrill ride.