The Endless Blu-ray Review

"The Endless" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Well Go USA with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original 2.38:1 aspect ratio. While exact technical specifications remain elusive, industry insiders and interviews suggest it was primarily shot using RED cameras, likely the Red Dragon, and finished at a 2K DI. Despite its modest budget, the film impresses with a complex visual approach. The grading is intentionally variable, featuring a desaturated palette dominated by ash grays, dusty earth tones, and subtle hints of yellow and green. Sporadic splashes of vibrant primary colors—such as the campfire's warmth or the stark red of blood—offer striking visual contrasts that correlate with the film's mood shifts. Depth is well-handled, particularly in the camp's expansive setting, providing strong dimensionality throughout.

Detail levels are consistent and commendable, even where special effects and lighting conditions pose challenges. Textures such as costumes and facial details are preserved impressively, enhancing the immersive experience. Black levels are generally deep and robust, although occasional mild banding can be observed—a common issue with Well Go USA releases. Similarly, some muted contrast in dusty outdoor scenes introduces a slight haze, but it remains within acceptable bounds.

Color reproduction offers a deceptive nuance; while primarily presenting a dreamlike quality with drained hues, certain scenes showcase flourishing colors that enrich the visual narrative. Flesh tones appear natural and well-textured, contributing to the film's atmospheric integrity. The disc maintains an admirable level of clarity and cleanliness throughout, free from noticeable noise or artifacts. "The Endless" thus delivers a visually intriguing and technically proficient Blu-ray experience that thoughtfully supports its indie sci-fi aesthetic.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for "The Endless" is a solid offering from Well Go USA, complementing the film's deliberate and atmospheric nature. While not laden with heavy action or explosive sound effects, the track excels in its subtlety and precision. Dialogue is crystal clear and centered, driving the majority of the audio experience given the film's dialogue-heavy scenes. The front channels carry most of the weight, punctuated by sudden bursts of activity, such as flocks of birds fluttering or unexpected gunshots, which blend seamlessly with the ambient background noises. Although the LFE utilization is sparse, it enhances the ominous undertones within the score and specific sound effects like car noises.

The surround sound presentation strikes an admirable balance, effectively using ambient noises to create an immersive atmosphere. The rear channels do a commendable job of maintaining this environmental consistency, enriching outdoor dialogue sequences with natural sounds like gusting winds through trees. The fidelity of the track is consistently high with no signs of damage, distortion, or dropouts, ensuring a smooth auditory experience. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track might not be a showcase of bombastic audio, but it is meticulously crafted to fit the film's measured and eerie pacing, culminating in a satisfying auditory experience for home theater setups.

The Blu-ray release of "The Endless" is exceptionally well-rounded with its comprehensive suite of extras that delve deep into the film's production and creative process. The presentation includes an audio commentary by directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, and producer David Lawson Jr., offering valuable insights into the film's origin and its connection to their previous work. A substantial "Making Of" featurette provides a detailed behind-the-scenes look, while an assortment of deleted scenes, outtakes, and a VFX breakdown reveal the intricacies of the film’s visual effects. The disc also features a series of humorous "Ridiculous Extras" that add a light-hearted touch, along with promotional materials like trailers and a Tribeca promo.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Directors and Producer: In-depth insights into the film's creation.
• Making Of: Comprehensive behind-the-scenes footage.
• Behind the Scenes: Features editor Michael Felker and outtakes.
• Deleted Scenes: Various cut sequences.
• VFX Breakdown: Explanation of key visual effects.
• Ridiculous Extras: Humorous additional content.
• Trailers: Includes the official trailer and teaser.

"The Endless" is a thought-provoking film directed, written, and starred in by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead. This intricate narrative centers around two brothers, also named Justin and Aaron, who escape a mysterious UFO death cult, only to return a decade later seeking closure. The primary plot, which unfolds slowly but methodically, hinges on the discovery of strange occurrences at their former commune. As they encounter their old friends who strangely haven't aged and witness an array of bizarre events, a palpable sense of unease builds, leading to a fascinating climax steeped in themes of time loops and Lovecraftian horror.

While "The Endless" may initially appear straightforward, the film is rich with subtext and layered storytelling. It effectively balances mystery and speculative fiction, inviting viewers to piece together its complex narrative rather than spoon-feeding answers. However, some may find this style both a strength and a limitation; the ambiguity can be intriguing but might leave certain threads feeling unresolved. Benson and Moorhead's stellar performance and direction are enhanced by the supporting cast's nuanced portrayals, contributing to a deeply engaging viewing experience. The integration of references to "Resolution," their previous film, adds an additional meta layer for those familiar with their work.

Though its pacing and reliance on character development might challenge viewers expecting conventional horror thrills, "The Endless" rewards patience with intricate world-building and compelling character arcs. The film's deliberate ambiguity encourages multiple interpretations and benefits from repeat viewings. Benson and Moorhead have demonstrated their ability to craft an original and captivating narrative despite limited resources, further solidifying their place as innovative voices in independent cinema.

"The Endless" has garnered significant attention in the horror/sci-fi community, solidifying its status as a cult classic. Directed and written by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, the film impressively maximizes its sub-$100,000 budget. Its Lovecraftian horror narrative captivates viewers with an escalating sense of unease, effective camera work, and a haunting musical score. The portrayal of the brothers' relationship is nuanced and compelling, adding depth to the film's eerie setting. While its unique plot structure may not resonate universally, the film's technical merits and strong character development make it a standout in the genre.

The Blu-ray release from Well Go USA enhances the viewing experience with a 2.39:1 AVC aspect ratio and audio options including DTS-HD MA 5.1 and English DD 2.0. Subtitles are available in English SDH. The runtime of 111 minutes is well-paced, allowing the film's tension to build effectively. Complementing the primary content, the supplementary package is robust and engaging, providing additional context and insight into the film's creation and thematic elements.

In conclusion, "The Endless" is a testament to the ingenuity and talent of Benson and Moorhead. Despite its micro-budget, it delivers a memorable experience that effectively blends horror and sci-fi elements. While it might not appeal to every viewer due to its complex narrative structure, it remains a fascinating watch for genre enthusiasts. This Blu-ray release is highly recommended for its technical quality and comprehensive extras, making it a valuable addition to any collection.