Willow Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Willow," celebrating its 25th anniversary, is a marvel in video restoration and a testament to the care and attention to detail applied during its transfer process. Boasting a 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer supervised by George Lucas, the video quality is exemplary, presenting a significant upgrade from previous DVD versions. The print appears pristine without any physical blemishes, despite some negligible brightness fluctuations and a minor presence of noise reduction. Fortunately, these do not detract from the overall viewing experience; grain is preserved, enhancing the filmic texture without any digital noise reduction (DNR) smearing or edge enhancement issues. Colors are accurately adjusted, maintaining natural skin tones and balanced contrast, all contributing to a sharp and natural image that respects the cinematic integrity of the original film.

The blend of Adrian Biddle’s original cinematography with modern digital restoration techniques has resulted in a presentation that pays homage to the movie's visual style while enhancing its clarity and detail in high definition. Although "Willow" features effects that might not dazzle by today’s standards, the restoration work ensures that these sequences blend seamlessly with the improved visual fidelity of the rest of the film. Textures in clothing and facial expressions are remarkably clear, and despite the film generally favoring a softer look, this Blu-ray edition offers a definitive visual upgrade that fans will appreciate.

Colors on this Blu-ray are rendered with precision, embracing a palette that enhances the film’s fantasy elements without appearing oversaturated. The faithful reproduction of pastel hues and earth tones, alongside vibrant primaries, offers visual depth that complements the storytelling. Furthermore, contrast is masterfully managed, with crisp whites and deep blacks enhancing every frame. The layer of grain contributes to an authentic cinematic experience, ensuring that both shadows and highlights are detailed meticulously. This release not only presents "Willow" in its best-ever home video version but does so in a way that respects the film's original aesthetic qualities and visual intentions.

The Blu-ray release of "Willow" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound track that enlightens George Lucas and THX's commitment to superior sound design, ensuring an audibly immersive experience from the very beginning. The meticulous engineering of the audio presentation is evident throughout, as it excellently utilizes the entire soundfield. This immersive soundscape is achieved through the seamless blending of clear, upfront dialogue with an array of background ambiances—ranging from the environmental sounds of birds and wind to the more acute noises such as the growls of dogs or the cries of a baby. This comprehensive auditory engagement is complemented by James Horner's magical and potent score, which adeptly fills every speaker, enhancing the film’s epic narrative without overwhelming it.

Significant digital enhancements have evidently been applied to the soundtrack, refining the quality of the original sound design to produce an even more detailed and captivating audio experience. The rear channels are alive with continuous, discrete sounds that convincingly envelop the listener, whether it be through the subtle rustlings of wildlife, the whiz of arrows, or the encompassing roar of fire. This lossless mix not only amplifies the film's immersive qualities but also meticulously balances it with a dynamic range in the front channels that showcases an impressive separation of sounds. The clarity and separation allow for a nuanced appreciation of both Horner's score and the intricate sound effects during action sequences, with no hints of distortion or noise.

Moreover, the soundtrack displays an exceptional dynamic range, from the robust punchiness of its low-end that adds depth to musical scores and gravity to action scenes, to its clear and intelligible dialogue that never gets lost amidst the film's auditory complexities. The DTS-HD Master Audio track furthers the enchantment of "Willow" on Blu-ray, presenting a well-rounded and engrossing sonic experience that both honors the film's legacy and enhances its modern home theater appeal.

This Blu-ray extra presentation of "Willow" is a treasure trove for fans and newcomers alike, offering an in-depth look at the behind-the-scenes magic that went into the making of this fantasy classic. Through a variety of meticulously curated features, viewers are treated to deleted scenes, with director Ron Howard providing context and insights into what could have been, including intriguing subplots and early visual effects efforts. The making-of documentary, spearheaded by Howard, along with contributions from George Lucas, as well as a focus on the groundbreaking special effects work by Dennis Muren, highlights the innovative techniques and challenges faced by the team. Warwick Davis' personal video diaries add a uniquely intimate perspective on the filming process, while a brief showcase of the film's matte paintings offers a glimpse into the artistry behind its iconic settings.

Extras included in this disc:

• Willow: Deleted Scenes with Ron Howard: Howard discusses and shows deleted scenes and subplots.
• The Making of an Adventure with Ron Howard: A look into the creation of "Willow" featuring interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.
• From Morf to Morphing with Dennis Muren: A documentary on ILM's early digital effects in the film.
• Willow: An Unlikely Hero - Personal Video Diary of Warwick Davis: Davis shares his experiences and personal footage from the production.
• Matte Paintings: A montage displaying the film's matte painting composite shots.

Willow," George Lucas's whimsical and dark 1988 adventure, predates Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" with its rich tapestry reminiscent of Tolkien's Middle Earth, yet carved a niche of its own in the pantheon of fantasy cinema. Helmed by Ron Howard, coming off his successes with "Splash" and "Cocoon," and penned by Bob Dolman, the film weaves the archetypical hero's journey into an engrossing narrative that melds sorcery, prophecy, and a perilous quest with a heart. It stars Warwick Davis in a compelling portrayal of Willow Ufgood, a Nelwyn farmer turned unlikely hero, who embarks on a quest that challenges the very fibers of his being and spirit. Despite its initial lukewarm reception, "Willow" has emerged as an enduring cult classic, captivating audiences with its blend of tenderness, humor, and darkness, much like other children's movies from the era. It’s marked by both a love for adventure and an underlying sense of moral and personal growth.

Technical achievements of the film notably include groundbreaking visual effects by Industrial Light & Magic, showcasing an impressive blend of practical and pioneering digital effects—most memorably the CGI morphing sequence that, while dated by today's standards, was revolutionary for its time. These technical marvels complement the storytelling, enhancing the fantastical elements without overshadowing the narrative's heart. The performances, particularly from Davis and Val Kilmer as the roguish Madmartigan, bind the tale with an infectious charisma and depth. Their dynamic fosters not only comedic relief but also showcases themes of friendship, courage, and redemption. Jean Marsh's over-the-top portrayal as the antagonist adds to the film’s unique charm, blending menace with a caricature-like theatricality.

The movie stands as a testament to Lucas’s vision before his much-debated Star Wars prequels, a reminder of his capacity to capture imaginations with simple yet profound tales. Admittedly hampered by pacing issues and some less appealing comic relief (namely the Brownies), "Willow" nevertheless manages to engage and entertain, serving as a warm throwback to the golden age of ’80s children’s fantasy films. Its place in cinematic history is further solidified by appreciations for the technical innovations it brought to film making and its successful portrayal of an endearing epic journey that champions the idea that heroism knows no size.

The Blu-ray release of "Willow" secures its place as a cherished artifact for fans of '80s fantasy cinema, melding a wave of nostalgia with a timeless tale that holds its charm across generations. Directed by Ron Howard and underpinned by memorable performances from Val Kilmer and Warwick Davis, "Willow" captivates with its heartfelt narrative and endearingly outlandish characters, despite the dated special effects which rather than diminishing its allure, enhance its vintage charm. The 20th Century Fox's remastering efforts bring this 1980s gem to life in high definition, boasting a near-perfect video transfer that honors the original's visual poetry. The audio presentation is notably impressive, offering a sonic experience that complements the visual feast. Moreover, the Blu-ray edition enriches the viewing experience with an array of special features including deleted scenes and Davis' engaging video diaries, alongside other treasures from the archives.

For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the Blu-ray package offers more than just a trip down memory lane; it serves as an entry point into a world where fantasy and adventure intertwine seamlessly. Though some may argue about its predictability and the odd irksome character, these elements do not detract from the overall enjoyment but instead add to the film's character and authenticity. New additions to this anniversary edition suggest that there's always something more to discover within "Willow's" enchanting universe, underlining its lasting appeal.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray release of "Willow" not only preserves the movie's mystical qualities but also enhances its accessibility for today's audiences with superior visual and audio upgrades. Whether you're a returning aficionado or introducing the next generation to its wonders, this edition is a compelling acquisition, balancing nostalgic value with technical excellence. Its enduring charm, supported by both technological finesse and heartfelt storytelling, reaffirms "Willow's" place in the pantheon of fantasy cinema, making it a must-have for collectors and fans alike.