Pompeii Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Pompeii" is a visually striking and technically robust experience, particularly in its 1080p/MVC MPEG-4 encode. Shot natively in 3D using the Red Epic digital system, the film boasts excellent natural-looking separation between objects and an impressive sense of depth and space. The scenic, sweeping camera moves of Mount Vesuvius, the city of Pompeii, and the coliseum create a breathtaking sense of vastness. The deliberate stylization anchored in a sepia tone is punctuated by splashes of vivid primary colors, particularly crimson and golden accents. Fine lines and background information are distinctly rendered, giving the picture a highly detailed dimension. Shadow delineation is strong, ensuring discernible detail even in darker scenes, while the presentation is free from artifacts or extraneous noise, maintaining a whistle-clean aesthetic throughout.

For those enjoying the 2D version, blacks are deep and rich with impressive gradational detail, though some nighttime scenes may appear somewhat flat initially. Colors in the 2D transfer are accurate and showcase fiery reds and regal purples with satisfying vibrancy. Vivid primary colors and excellent use of contrast ensure that mixed-content scenes are pleasingly punchy. Facial features, intricate details on clothing, and stone surface textures are showcased beautifully, particularly in brightly lit sequences. The inclusion of a 3D version further enhances the experience with added spatial depth and volume. This immersive aspect is highlighted during key scenes such as the opening titles and the chaotic final act, where elements like ash, smoke, fireballs, and debris effectively pull viewers into the unfolding catastrophe. Despite occasional crosstalk noted in the 3D titles, both versions present a captivating visual experience that stands out in this Blu-ray release.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack for "Pompeii" delivers an impressively dynamic and immersive audio experience. Dialogue is meticulously clear and well-intonated, ensuring that even the subtlest vocal nuances are discernible. The balanced audio presentation effectively engages the entire sound system, creating a spacious soundstage with ample rear channel activity. This, in turn, results in an enriching level of immersion by generating a seamless and cohesive sound field. The dynamic range is spectacular, from the quiet but defining background noises in gladiators' cells to the intense action scenes, where near-field sound effects and robust dynamics fill the room with palpable energy.

The soundtrack shines particularly during the disaster sequences. Explosions, collapsing structures, and the general mayhem of a volcanic eruption dominate these scenes, delivering an awe-inspiring auditory assault that perfectly encapsulates the chaos and destruction. Panning is executed with fluidity and precision, as fireballs and debris fly across the room with convincing off-screen effects. Subtle ambient noises, whether from bustling streets or cheering crowds, further enhance the immersive experience. The LFE channel is frequently active, providing a deeply powerful low-end that adds weight to the on-screen action and rewards listeners with rich bass extension.

The score bleeds into the surrounding channels, maintaining a continuous engagement and bolstering the overall soundfield. Music is reproduced with clarity and precision across the range, supported by a solid low end. This design creates an expansive acoustic environment that effectively supports both dialogue and ambient elements. "Pompeii's" soundtrack may not be as demanding as some other high-end mixes but it significantly tests the capabilities of one's audio equipment, making it a thrilling and satisfying experience from start to finish.

The Blu-ray extras for "Pompeii" provide a comprehensive behind-the-scenes experience that will greatly enhance the viewing of this historical disaster film. The commentary track by Director Paul W.S. Anderson and Producer Jeremy Bolt is both informative and engaging, covering a range of topics from the historical inspiration to technical filmmaking details. The selection of featurettes offers a deep dive into various aspects of the film’s production, including casting, special effects, costumes, and set design. Exclusive deleted scenes add value by providing additional context and depth to the film’s narrative. The most robust feature, "Pompeii: Buried in Time," effectively combines multiple elements into a detailed overview, making it essential viewing for fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Filmmakers Audio Commentary: Insightful track by Paul W.S. Anderson and Jeremy Bolt.
• The Assembly: Brief cast and character overview.
• The Volcanic Eruption: Analysis of practical and digital effects used.
• Deleted & Alternate Scenes: Twenty deleted scenes offering extended context.
• The Gladiators: Stunts: Detailing the gladiator battles and actor training.
• The Journey: Production Design: Focus on set design and historical authenticity.
• The Costume Shop: Overview of wardrobe design with Wendy Partridge.
• Pompeii: Buried in Time: Comprehensive feature on the film's historical and production elements.
• Previews: Trailers for other films.

Pompeii, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, attempts to revitalize the sword-and-sandal genre by blending it with disaster film elements, resulting in a mixed cinematic experience. The plot follows Milo (Kit Harington), a slave-turned-gladiator who strives to save his beloved Cassia (Emily Browning) as Mount Vesuvius erupts. Despite valiant attempts at character development and building dramatic tension, the movie invariably prioritizes visual spectacle over narrative depth. The CGI-driven depiction of Pompeii's destruction is impressive, featuring detailed and realistic sequences that elevate the intensity of the final act. However, the film's insistence on following a formulaic disaster movie framework detracts from potentially more engaging storytelling.

While the film excels in visual effects, it falters in character development and dialogue. Kit Harington and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje exhibit notable chemistry as Milo and Atticus, providing some of the film’s more engaging moments. Emily Browning's portrayal of Cassia, however, feels restricted, constrained by unremarkable dialogue that detracts from her character's potential depth. Kiefer Sutherland’s performance as the antagonist Corvus suffers from miscasting and a lackluster British accent, failing to deliver the menacing presence the role demands. These shortcomings are emblematic of a larger issue where the characters serve more as vehicles for the unfolding cataclysm rather than integral components of a compelling story.

Ultimately, Pompeii is characterized by its thrilling, albeit hollow, spectacle. With each scene designed to crescendo toward the climactic eruption, the film focuses intensively on delivering stunning visual effects at the expense of meaningful characterization and narrative intricacies. It's a film tailored for audiences seeking simplified, visually-driven entertainment, providing visceral thrills but falling short in emotional resonance and intellectual engagement. Pompeii’s legacy in disaster cinema may well be marked by its technical achievements rather than its storytelling prowess.

Paul W.S. Anderson's "Pompeii" is a visually striking, yet ultimately shallow historical disaster film that attempts to blend the genres of gladiatorial epics and romantic dramas. The narrative struggles with a script that prioritizes superficial spectacles over substantial storytelling, featuring recycled scenes of gladiatorial combat and a predictably tepid romance. While the first half of the movie drags with clichéd elements, the final act compensates with an impressive array of computer-generated chaos—an eruption of fireballs, ash, and smoke that provides the film's most engaging moments.

The Blu-ray 3D release significantly enhances the visual experience, showcasing a reference-quality video presentation that makes the disaster sequences more immersive. The audio track is equally impressive, delivering the high-impact sounds of destruction with impeccable clarity and depth. The inclusion of an enlightening collection of supplements further enriches the viewing experience, although these extras are unlikely to appeal beyond the film's core fanbase. The overall package is superb from a technical standpoint, ensuring that any home theater system will render the apocalyptic spectacle with pristine accuracy.

In conclusion, "Pompeii" on Blu-ray 3D serves as an exemplary showcase of high-end audio and visual capabilities, making it a worthy consideration for enthusiasts of the format. However, its narrative deficiencies and reliance on formulaic elements limit its broader appeal. For those seeking mindless entertainment and striking visual effects, this release is recommended. More discerning viewers, however, may find its lack of depth disappointing and would do well to consider a rental first.