Source Code Blu-ray Review

Summit's Blu-ray release of "Source Code" delivers a visually stunning experience that may not be perfect but comes incredibly close. Presented in an original 1.78:1 aspect ratio, the 1080p AVC-encoded transfer maintains superb detail with no signs of digital manipulation such as DNR, edge enhancement, or banding. The fine object detail is impeccable, with textures—from the stubble on Jake Gyllenhaal’s face to the fabric of Christina's overcoat—vividly rendered. The color palette is broad and well-represented, even if some skin tones lean slightly towards a reddish hue. Notably, the film retains a fine layer of grain, enhancing its cinematic feel, while the explosion effects appear authentic rather than digitally composed.

The visual presentation benefits from robust black levels that contribute to excellent shadow detail, particularly evident in the dark, confined spaces like train compartments and aircraft cockpits. However, some black scenes may appear a bit too deep and slightly overwhelming. The transfer excels technically with no noticeable issues such as blocking or aliasing, aside from a minor hint near the end of the film which seems inherent to the source material rather than the disc. Moreover, scenes featuring Colter’s blue shirt and various exterior shots provide balanced hues that pop against the film’s generally cool and sterile settings.

Overall, this Blu-ray transfer by Summit Entertainment offers an almost reference-quality video presentation. It's a well-executed effort that's nearly unforgettable for its visual clarity and detail, making it an excellent choice to showcase modern televisions' capabilities.

The audio presentation of "Source Code" on Blu-ray is delivered through a competent and engaging DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. Balanced with precision, the soundtrack brings Chris P. Bacon’s Hitchcockian score to the forefront, immediately setting an electrifying tone for this mind-bending thriller. The music performance is rich, lively, and spacious, fully enveloping the listening area with its crispness and expertly calibrated surround support. Dialogue is consistently clear and coherent, effectively dominating the front channels when necessary, ensuring that spoken elements remain distinct even amidst the more intense sequences.

The LFE is both potent and dynamic, particularly noticeable during the train explosion scenes that recur throughout the film. These explosive moments are executed with such force that they cause tangible vibrations, creating an immersive experience akin to the action happening right next to you. Surround effects are meticulously crafted, capturing even the most nuanced sounds—such as a coffee spill, a soda can opening, or a train ticket being punched—with remarkable clarity and directionality. This attention to detail extends to ambient noises like digitized station announcements and background chatter, enriching the overall soundscape without overshadowing primary audio elements.

While the track is ingrained with the typical auditory cues of an action film, it excels in highlighting understated sounds and subtle atmospheric nuances. This balance between high-energy action effects and refined auditory details makes the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track a highly proficient accompaniment to the visual narrative of "Source Code." Although it may not reach reference-level demo quality, it delivers a full and engaging listening experience that both complements the film's explosive set pieces and enhances its more intricate sonic moments.

The Blu-Ray release of "Source Code" offers a rewarding yet minimal set of extras, comprising a full-length audio commentary and an immersive Picture-in-Picture (PiP) feature. The audio commentary involves Director Duncan Jones, Writer Ben Ripley, and Actor Jake Gyllenhaal, providing an engaging exploration of the film's conception, character development, technical aspects, and on-set experiences. While not groundbreaking, it is both comprehensive and informative. The PiP offering, "Access: Source Code," delivers a rich behind-the-scenes experience. It includes interviews with the cast and crew, visual effects breakdowns, and informative segments on the science of time travel, all intertwined with trivia to enhance the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Duncan Jones, Ben Ripley, and Jake Gyllenhaal discuss the movie's inception, shooting experience, and technical details.
• Access: Source Code: A picture-in-picture feature offering behind-the-scenes footage, cast interviews, expert comments on time travel, and trivia.

Duncan Jones’s "Source Code" showcases his ability to craft engaging sci-fi thrillers, blending high-concept sci-fi with intense human drama. The plot focuses on Afghanistan war veteran Colter Stevens (Jake Gyllenhaal), who finds himself repeatedly living the last eight minutes before a terrorist bomb explodes on a Chicago-bound train. The film harnesses advanced technology called the Source Code, overseen by Dr. Rutledge (Jeffrey Wright) and guided by military liaison Colleen Goodwin (Vera Farmiga). Stevens’ mission is to identify the bomber to prevent a larger catastrophic attack on Chicago.

"Source Code" integrates numerous elements from past sci-fi films but manages to present a story that feels original and gripping. The narrative might initially leave viewers as bewildered as Stevens himself, creating a shared sense of discovery as the mystery unfolds. Though the film borrows from sources such as “Groundhog Day” and echoes "Twilight Zone" episodes with its repeated time loops and psychological intricacies, it is elevated by its well-executed premise and emotional depth. Jake Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of Stevens effectively conveys the turmoil and determination of a man caught between two worlds.

While "Source Code" is not without flaws—the pacing can feel hurried, and its resolution might seem overly neat—it remains compelling through its blend of action and intellectual engagement. The script is meticulously layered, exploring broader themes of identity and redemption amidst the backdrop of urgent thriller elements. The film’s ability to explain its complex scientific concepts in accessible terms enhances its relatability and ensures audience investment. Despite mixed feelings about the film's ending, "Source Code" stands out for its innovative narrative structure, balancing edge-of-the-seat tension with thoughtful character development.

"Source Code" is a masterfully crafted Science Fiction thriller seamlessly blending intellectual depth with mainstream appeal. Directed by Duncan Jones, this film navigates complex themes while delivering a visually appealing and narratively engaging experience. Unlike Jones's previous work, "Moon," which is more of a psychological exploration, "Source Code" falls into the category of big, sweeping cinema that entertains diverse audiences. The movie offers an intense blend of action and suspense, wrapped in a smart, intricate plot that requires thoughtful engagement without overwhelming the viewer.

Summit's Blu-ray release of "Source Code" does justice to the film’s technical achievements. The video and audio presentations are impeccable, enhancing the overall immersive experience that "Source Code" aims to deliver. However, the selection of special features is somewhat limited, potentially leaving some fans wanting more. Despite this, the high quality of the primary content more than compensates for the scarcity of extras.

In conclusion, "Source Code" stands as an enthralling addition to any science fiction enthusiast's collection. Its balance of action and intellectual challenge makes it suitable for both casual viewers and those seeking deeper cognitive engagement. The top-tier Blu-ray presentation only adds to its appeal, making "Source Code" a highly recommended purchase despite its minor shortcomings in supplemental content.