New World Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "New World" by Well Go USA is exceptional, showcasing an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Filmed with Red One cameras, the movie's visuals boast incredible fine object details and an extremely well-defined image. Close-ups reveal every pore and facial hair with impressive precision, while colors are exceptionally saturated and accurate during natural sequences, highlighted by strong contrast that enhances darker scenes. The film occasionally employs unique color grading, such as a cobalt blue sequence, which minimally compromises detail but adds to the film's stylistic approach.

No noise is present throughout the transfer, and the impeccable clarity remains consistent, displaying fine details from facial features to clothing textures, extending even to background elements. The movie's digital filming technique is evident in the distinct lack of grain, contributing to its virtually flawless image quality. Contrast levels remain high, with robust black levels and precise whites that maintain the image's crispness without distortion. Colors are vivid and sometimes super-saturated, creating a visually stunning but non-subtle presentation. This super-saturation, though potentially distracting at first, complements the film's intense visual narrative.

Despite its overwhelming strengths, the sheer clarity combined with certain lighting techniques can occasionally result in a flatter image, momentarily affecting depth perception. These occurrences are brief but noticeable, similar to the oversaturated moments that could take viewers out of the story temporarily. Nonetheless, these minor flaws are significantly outweighed by an otherwise unique and gorgeous image that demonstrates a near-perfect pursuit of visual excellence.

The Blu-ray of "New World" features a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix in the original Korean, delivering an immersive and intricately designed audio experience. The sound mix excels in providing a broad dynamic range and exceptional fidelity. Foley effects are meticulously placed around the side and rear channels, creating an enveloping sound field that significantly enhances the atmosphere. This attention to detail is particularly evident during the film's intense scenes, such as the elevator showdown, where visceral sound design combines with a bass-heavy score to create a captivating auditory experience. Despite the dense sonic environment, dialogue remains clean and well-prioritized, ensuring clarity even in busy segments.

In this gangster drama, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track underscores the film's gritty realism with remarkable clarity and immersion. The track's handling of violent sequences—including shootings and brawls—enables each sound effect to shine without overshadowing the clear dialogue. Ambient sounds, whether emanating from boardrooms or parking garages, are distinct and authentic. For instance, the reverberation of voices and noises like car engines or screeching tires through the rear channels adds depth to these environments. The occasional use of front channels to deliver heavy, rich bass further enhances the realism without distortion.

Overall, the audio mix provides a balanced soundstage that elevates the film without overwhelming it. The combination of immersive surround effects, clear dialogue, and rich atmospheric elements showcases a sophisticated balance that aligns perfectly with the film’s dramatic and action-packed narrative. By maintaining an even keel, the audio presentation ensures that every element complements each other, resulting in a cohesive and engaging auditory experience.

The Blu Ray extras for "New World" offer a concise yet engaging exploration into the film's behind-the-scenes dynamics. The "Making Of" featurette, presented in high definition, showcases a blend of typical production insights and amusing outtakes, highlighting actor Choi Min-sik’s playful on-set demeanor. Additionally, the disc includes a photo gallery rich with high-definition stills from the set, providing a visual deep dive for fans. The supplements are seamlessly authored to play consecutively, ensuring a smooth viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making Of: Fun behind-the-scenes footage and bloopers featuring Choi Min-sik.
• Picture Gallery: High-definition photographs from the filming.
• Theatrical Trailer: The official trailer for the movie.

"New World" opens with a stark and brutal scene that sets an intense tone for the film. The disfigured face of an informant taking his last desperate breaths sets the stage for an experience that recalls the gritty realities of Martin Scorsese's "The Departed" and its precursor, "Infernal Affairs." The film utilizes a densely layered narrative and a somewhat frenetic first act to immerse viewers into the morally complex world of Ja-sung (Lee Jung-jae), an undercover cop deeply embedded within Gold Moon, a sprawling crime syndicate masquerading as a legitimate corporation.

As the head of Gold Moon meets an untimely end in a car accident, the power vacuum incites vicious infighting among rival factions, setting off a chain reaction of scheming and betrayal. Overseeing these events is Police Chief Kang (Choi Min-sik), who compellingly manipulates events from behind the scenes, ensuring that Ja-sung remains involved under immense emotional strain. Director Hoon-jung Park adeptly crafts this intricate web of deceit with a screenplay that builds suspense through gradual revelations, maintaining consistent tension throughout its runtime.

While "New World" features moments of raw violence, including a standout scene set in an elevator that is both visually and emotionally jarring, it is the film’s deliberate pacing and incremental plotting that hold attention. Park’s directorial finesse allows smaller, nuanced performances to simmer before culminating in explosive climaxes. Yet, the film is not without its clichés and overly complex plot points that sometimes feel wearable in the genre. Characters may occasionally come off as secondary to the plot’s twists, leaving limited room for deeper emotional engagement. Nonetheless, it balances familiar tropes with engrossing storytelling, making "New World" a noteworthy addition to the crime thriller genre.

"New World" provides a rich and intricate narrative that demands undivided attention, especially during its initial convoluted half-hour. However, film viewers who invest in this early complexity are rewarded with a gripping plot filled with unexpected twists, keeping the audience on edge until the very end. Director Park skillfully weaves a tale where alliances and character motives shift unpredictably, contributing to a compelling storyline bolstered by powerful performances. The character arcs, while somewhat archetypal, reveal layers of depth that captivate and retain viewer interest.

Visually, the Blu-ray presentation of "New World" is nearly flawless. The image quality is exceptional, exhibiting stunning clarity, color balance, and depth. The audio track complements the visual experience with clear dialogue and a robust sound design that enriches the film's atmosphere. While the disc sparsely includes supplementary materials, the superior audiovisual experience compensates for this shortfall.

In conclusion, "New World" requires viewer patience but ultimately delivers a sophisticated and immersive cinematic experience. The Blu-ray's high-quality video and sound substantially enhance this gripping narrative. Despite its familiar thematic elements and occasional predictability, the film's presentation is impressive, making it a highly recommended addition to any collection.