Call of Heroes Blu-ray Review

"Call of Heroes" is presented on Blu-ray by Well Go USA with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The film was produced using various source resolutions, primarily with the Red Epic Dragon, and finished with a 2K digital intermediate. This results in a visually stunning transfer most of the time, characterized by uniformly excellent detail levels. Close-ups display fine details such as flyaway hairs and splinters on wooden sets, while midrange shots retain impressive clarity. However, some sequences, notably those shot with a Go Pro HD or for aerial shots, reveal a dip in quality and sharpness, which can be slightly distracting but appear to be an intentional stylistic choice.

The film’s color palette is varied, with bright and vivid primary colors contributing to its dynamic visual experience. Flesh tones remain accurate and healthy throughout the runtime. Black levels are generally solid and inky, though there are occasions where they soften and flatten the image slightly, particularly in darker scenes graded to blue or yellowish hues. Despite these minor variations, "Call of Heroes" boasts a superb three-dimensional presence, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the film. Collectively, this makes it one of the best-looking transfers from Well Go USA, providing a detailed and immersive viewing experience that complements its intricate production design and costuming.

"Call of Heroes" boasts commendable audio options, featuring Cantonese and Mandarin tracks in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, alongside Dolby Digital 2.0 versions. The 5.1 mixes for both languages deliver similar high-quality experiences, primarily differing only in dialogue looping for specific actors per language track. The mixes excel in providing clean, clear dialogue while skillfully incorporating sound effects and the musical score into a cohesive audio presentation. These tracks display wide dynamic range and high fidelity, encapsulating the viewer in the bustling atmosphere of downtown Pucheng and other dynamic scenes.

Surround activity is a particular highlight, especially during intense fight sequences where directional sound is utilized effectively to create an immersive experience. The surround channels are actively engaged without falling into prolonged periods of silence, ensuring a consistent aural landscape. Imaging is precise, with channel movement enhancing the realism of the on-screen action. By contrast, the Dolby Digital 2.0 tracks lack the same immersive quality and presence, making the DTS-HD MA 5.1 tracks the superior choice for a rich and comprehensive audio experience. In summary, whether you opt for Cantonese or Mandarin, "Call of Heroes" promises a superior auditory journey that significantly enriches the film’s overall impact.

The extras included with the "Call of Heroes" Blu-Ray offer a brief yet insightful glimpse into various aspects of the film's production and key figures involved. Comprised of short featurettes focusing on different production elements and interviews with key cast members, these extras provide valuable context that enriches the overall viewing experience. Each segment, though brief, contributes to a well-rounded understanding of the film's creation from behind the scenes.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making Of: Comprises several brief featurettes, including interviews and behind-the-scenes snippets.
• Pucheng City: Focuses on the production design.
• Eddie Peng: Insights from actor Eddie Peng.
• Wu Jing: Interview with Wu Jing.
• Wu Jing & Eddie Peng: Joint interview segment.
• Louis Koo: Segment featuring Louis Koo.
• Sammo Hung: Insights from martial arts legend Sammo Hung.
• Sammo & Sammy Hung: Father-son interview with Sammo and Sammy Hung.
• Sean Lau: Segment featuring Sean Lau.
• Trailer: The official trailer for "Call of Heroes".

"Call of Heroes" elegantly melds historical authenticity with engaging action, revitalizing the wuxia genre under Benny Chan's deft direction. Set against the backdrop of the Qing Dynasty's downfall, the film plunges us into a chaotic world where a valiant teacher seeks refuge for her students from the ruthless warlord Cao (Louis Koo). The narrative artfully introduces Eddie Peng's Ma Feng, whose humorously unpredictable persona quickly shifts to gravity-defying heroics. The character-driven plot takes a dark turn when Cao's capture leads to unforeseen moral quandaries for Pucheng's sheriff, Yang (Sean Lau), challenging the villagers' resilience.

Expertly choreographed by Sammo Hung, the fight sequences blend whimsical wire-work with intense combat, breathing life into every skirmish. The film's practical effects—rooted in tangible, on-location sets and authentic period costumes—transport viewers to a war-torn early 20th-century China without relying on CGI excesses. This dedication to physical realism lends a gritty texture that enhances the immersive experience. Hung’s wire-work is restrained yet impactful, ensuring the action accentuates rather than overshadows the storyline.

Unlike many contemporary wuxia films that overindulge in spectacle, "Call of Heroes" smartly balances humor and drama, injecting moments of levity into an otherwise serious narrative. Benny Chan avoids simplistic melodrama, opting for a story imbued with sincerity and unexpected depth. Through a well-rounded cast of seasoned martial arts actors and thoughtful production design, the film manages to capture both the epic scale of historical conflict and the intimate struggles of its characters. This distinctive approach renders "Call of Heroes" not just as another addition to the genre but as a standout feature that respectfully nods to classics while forging its own unique path.

"Call of Heroes" delivers a refreshing divergence from the often predictable realm of modern wuxia cinema. The film avoids reliance on CGI spectacle, instead embracing traditional martial arts choreography and practical effects. This results in a viewing experience that feels both genuine and invigorating. The narrative takes unexpected turns, shifting from light-hearted tones to deeper, darker themes that lend complexity and emotional resonance. The moral and philosophical underpinnings further distinguish the film, raising it above typical genre fare.

Well Go USA's Blu-ray release of "Call of Heroes" excels in A/V presentation. The high-definition transfer captures the rich color palettes and intricate details of the impressive set designs, enhancing the overall visual appeal. The audio mix complements the action with precision, delivering clear dialogues and a robust soundscape that immerses viewers in the unfolding drama. However, the release is not without its shortcomings—the special features are notably sparse, detracting slightly from what could have been a more comprehensive package.

Despite these minor drawbacks, "Call of Heroes" stands out as a must-watch for both martial arts aficionados and general audiences alike. Its strong technical merits and engaging storyline make it an exceptional entry in the wuxia genre. Highly recommended.