Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde" arrives in its original 1:85:1 aspect ratio via an MPEG-4 AVC-encoded BD-50. Regrettably, fans will find this to be the same subpar transfer initially released by MGM in 2011. The transfer is marred by inconsistencies such as frequent white speckles and occasional hairline scratches over the camera lens. At times, the image resembles a DVD upconvert, with colors lacking sharpness and details not as pronounced as desired. The primary issue appears to be light digital noise reduction, which attempts to smooth out the rough, grainier patches but ultimately results in a less rich and natural grain structure.

The video bitrate of the main feature averages 35,000 kbps, with the entire disc clocking in at 42.13 Mbps. Unfortunately, the disc feels dated and dirty at times, suffering from a sour resolution that fails to provide the level of detail expected from a mid-2000s film on Blu-ray. The grain structure seems unnatural as if it's hovering over the image rather than being integrated into it. This phenomenon creates a distracting glass texture effect.

Amid these shortcomings, however, the colors stand out with a vibrant selection of outfits and an abundance of pink. The color palette is further enriched by warm lighting in certain scenes, particularly within the Congressional chambers. Despite this vibrancy, the contrast often goes too far, resulting in heavy clipping that robs potential detail and causes unattractive blobs of white on the screen. In summary, this Blu-ray lacks the clarity and detail one would expect from a modern release, leaving much to be desired for the discerning viewer.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde" offers both a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround (2908 kbps, 24-bit) and a downcoverted DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo mix (1645 kbps, 24-bit). The uncompressed 5.1 mix delivers a warm and engaging auditory experience with notable separation in the satellite speakers. This is especially evident during crowd scenes like The Million Dog March on Washington, where the range and depth are commendable. Song numbers in the non-diegetic soundtrack further exhibit excellent range and clarity.

Both audio tracks handle dialogue well, with clear and balanced delivery. The 5.1 mix stands out for its ability to fill the soundstage, incorporating voices effectively into the stereo channels and adding depth to indoor speeches through pleasing echoes. In contrast, the 2.0 stereo mix understandably feels more constrained but still manages to deliver a decent auditory experience. Ambient effects and crowd chants are well-positioned in the rear channels, although the low-end impact from the soundtrack is marginal. Optional English SHD subtitles add an extra layer of accessibility, conveniently manageable through menu or remote controls.

Shout Factory's Blu-ray of "Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde" includes a comprehensive set of extras, mostly recycled from previous MGM releases, with the sole addition being a new interview with Jessica Cauffiel. The features are presented without subtitles, focusing on various aspects of the film’s production and cast insights. The new interview offers candid remarks from Cauffiel, particularly discussing the rigors of her role and the future prospects of the franchise. The other materials, such as the commentary featuring Jennifer Coolidge, Jessica Cauffiel, and Alanna Ubach, provide a delightful behind-the-scenes look despite their older resolution (480i). Noteworthy features include extensive making-of documentaries and a selection of deleted scenes and bloopers that complete the viewer's experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Actors Jennifer Coolidge, Jessica Cauffiel, and Alanna Ubach: Engaging discussion by main actors.
• NEW Interview with Actor Jessica Cauffiel: Insights about her role and potential sequel.
• Blonde Ambition: Comprehensive making-of feature.
• Stars and Stripes, Never!: Examination of design elements.
• Elle's Anthem: Focus on the film's score.
• Deleted Scenes: Unused footage from the film.
• Gag Reel: Humorous outtakes.
• We Can by Leann Rimes Music Video: Promotional music video.
• Hair Apparent: Featurette on Reese Witherspoon’s hairstyles.
• Puppy Love: Short featurette.
• Pretty in Pink: Look at production design.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer.

"Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde" sees Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) transition from Harvard Law School to Washington, D.C., in her quest to end animal testing. The plot is set into motion when Elle discovers her Chihuahua's mother is being used for cosmetic testing. Determined to bring justice, Elle becomes a lobbyist advocating for a bill to stop such practices. Despite her vibrant personality and determination, Elle faces various logistical hurdles and political opposition, making the storyline feel remarkably thin and padded. The film’s attempt at political satire through Elle's unconventional methods falls flat, aiming for humor that often feels clumsy and misguided.

Director Charles Herman-Wurmfeld employs visual gimmicks such as split screens and montages to inject energy into the film, but these techniques fail to mask the narrative's superficiality. Sally Field and Regina King are notable talents wasted in roles that lack depth, while secondary characters like Jennifer Coolidge and Elle's other sidekicks don't add meaningful substance. The movie occasionally touches on significant themes, such as workplace sexism, yet fails to treat them with the seriousness they demand, opting instead for superficial comedic moments.

The movie’s reliance on juxtaposing Elle's bright, optimistic demeanor against the jaded world of politics could have been compelling, yet it often dives into absurdity rather than insightful commentary. Despite fleeting moments of charm and heart, the sequel struggles under the weight of its own forced whimsy, ultimately reducing complex issues to trivial matters. The result is a film that is more endearing in intention than execution, failing to recapture the spirited essence of its predecessor.

Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde" presents a sequel that struggles to match the charm and wit of the original. Despite its best efforts, it falters with a concept that lacks depth and necessity. The narrative feels contrived, primarily serving as a vehicle for Reese Witherspoon's character to explore Washington, D.C., in a series of shallow storylines instead of focusing on significant plot or character development. The decision to postpone the much-anticipated wedding of Elle and Emmett in favor of a political escapade seems more a gimmick than a credible plot device.

From a technical standpoint, Shout delivers a Blu Ray performance that mirrors the previous MGM release. The video quality remains mediocre, providing an adequate but unremarkable viewing experience. On a positive note, the audio presentation is commendable, delivering above-average sound clarity and dynamics. However, these technical merits are not enough to elevate the experience of watching a fundamentally flawed film.

In conclusion, "Legally Blonde 2" suffers from an idle premise and lacks substantive content, relegating it to the realm of forgettable sequels. While completists of Reese Witherspoon's work might find some value here, its inclusion in the Legally Blonde Collection feels more like filler. Its appeal is limited; no amount of heart can redeem its place in cinematic obscurity.