Hands of Stone Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Hands of Stone," presented in a 1080p transfer using the AVC codec, delivers a mostly rewarding high-definition experience with some noteworthy highlights and minor issues. The theatrical aspect ratio of 2.40:1 is faithfully adhered to, enhancing the visual appeal. Sharpness is commendable for the most part, though there are occasional lapses in focus, which may distract some viewers. The color palette is generally rich and vibrant, with reds standing out particularly well, and skin tones rendered in a believable range from warm to pasty, depending on the scene. Black levels remain deep and accurate, contributing to the overall contrast which is applied consistently throughout.

However, there are a few caveats worth mentioning. Source noise occasionally spikes, especially noticeable in lower light scenes, which can be mildly annoying. The digital source sometimes results in a flat image with smudgy frame edges, although these instances are rare. Banding, while present, is minimal and barely noticeable. Despite these minor issues, the image retains enough detail to satisfy, with skin and clothing textures appearing naturally complex and intimate.

In terms of audio, the lossless track truly shines during the film's intense fight scenes, providing a believable 360-degree soundstage. The low end delivers impactfully with punches and percussion, while the musical elements are mixed to create a pleasing auditory experience. English subtitles in white are easy to read during Spanish dialogue exchanges, and the movie is conveniently divided into 16 chapters for easy navigation. While not the most impressive Blu-ray on the market, the transfer by Anchor Bay certainly meets expectations and provides a visually rich and engaging viewing experience.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "Hands of Stone" makes a notable impact through its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack. Particularly during the film's boxing matches, the sound mix excels in creating an immersive experience with roaring crowds and the visceral force of punches landing effectively within the 360-degree soundstage. The low-end frequencies deliver a substantial punch, while musical elements maintain a pleasing blend throughout the track. Besides the fight scenes, protests in Panama and other action sequences similarly benefit from a rambunctious and encompassing stage, drawing the listener into the chaos with remarkable precision.

Dialogue is consistently clear and well-focused in the center channel, ensuring intelligibility amidst the more dynamic elements of the mix. While the sound effects outside of the pivotal scenes lack some of the complex channel manipulation seen during fights, they still manage to complement the visuals effectively. Angelo Mill's background score is serviceable, if not particularly standout, and integrates suitably within the wider soundscape, maintaining balance without overshadowing critical auditory elements. Although a bit aggressive and lacking some finesse at times, the mix offers enough sonic activity to satisfy most listeners.

The Blu Ray release of "Hands of Stone" boasts a variety of engaging extras that offer a deeper dive into the film and its production. The standout featurette, Roberto Durán: A Boxing Legend, A Nation’s Pride, provides an in-depth exploration of the movie's themes, historical context, and actor preparation, with insights from both cast and crew. Additionally, viewers can enjoy eight deleted scenes that expand on the backstory and character development, as well as two distinct lyric videos for the song "Champions," performed by Usher and Ruben Blades in English and Spanish respectively. The package also includes a UV digital copy code for added convenience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Roberto Durán: A Boxing Legend, A Nation's Pride: An in-depth look at the characters, historical context, and actor preparations.
• Deleted Scenes: Eight scenes offering extended narrative elements.
• Champions Lyric Video feat. Usher: Lyric video for the song "Champions" in English.
• Champions Lyric Video feat. Ruben Blades: Lyric video for the song "Champions" in Spanish.
• UltraViolet Copy: Digital copy code included for additional viewing flexibility.

Jonathan Jakubowicz's Hands of Stone offers an intimate look at Panamanian boxing legend Roberto Durán, effectively portrayed by Edgar Ramirez. The film chronicles Durán's journey from a hard-hitting powerhouse to a complicated national icon, focusing on a key decade in his life. As he rises through the ranks, the narrative also dives into his rocky partnership with trainer Ray Arcel, portrayed by Robert De Niro, and a high-stakes rivalry with Sugar Ray Leonard, played by Usher Raymond IV. Though Ramirez delivers a compelling performance that dives deep into Durán's complex persona, the screenplay suffers from fractured storylines and overused sports movie clichés, unable to elevate itself beyond a conventional biographical drama.

Hands of Stone shines in its technical execution, particularly within the boxing ring. The fight scenes are visceral and immersive, making audiences practically feel each punch. However, the movie falters in delivering a cohesive narrative structure. It tackles various subplots—Durán's enduring resentment towards America due to personal history, his tumultuous relationship with his wife Felicidad (Ana de Armas), and the uneasy mentorship with Arcel—without sufficiently developing its central character's emotional depth or motivations. The direction fails to compellingly navigate these diverse elements, resulting in a film that feels more like an obligation of biographical beats rather than an explorative character study.

Performances across the cast are noteworthy; De Niro is earnest as the seasoned trainer Arcel, while Usher's take on Sugar Ray Leonard is charismatic and show-stealing. Ana de Armas provides a captivating presence as Felicidad, enhancing the film’s domestic interludes. Despite excellent production values and a talented cast working tirelessly to invigorate this narrative, Hands of Stone remains hamstrung by its pedestrian approach to an otherwise fascinating subject matter, ultimately presenting a dramatized but shallow portrayal of Roberto Durán’s storied career.

"Hands of Stone," a biographical depiction of legendary boxer Roberto Durán, delivers a compelling exploration of its central character's nuanced complexities. While the film navigates through Durán's pivotal life events and career highlights, it sometimes feels as though it is going through the motions rather than providing an in-depth dissection of his psychological framework. The broader narrative occasionally lacks intimacy, suggesting certain elements are added out of obligation rather than a desire for detailed storytelling.

Performance-wise, "Hands of Stone" excels with committed portrayals that elevate the material. The fight scenes are notably well-composed and executed, bringing a visceral energy that boxing aficionados will appreciate. However, the film falls short when it comes to thoroughly exploring the supporting characters surrounding Durán, limiting the audience's investment in their arcs. Anchor Bay's Blu-ray release features impressive video quality and aggressive audio presentation, enhancing the viewing experience.

In conclusion, "Hands of Stone" is a satisfactory entry in the sports biopic genre. It shines with solid performances and technical execution, particularly in its fight sequences, but lacks the depth needed to fully explore its complex protagonist and his world. Despite these shortcomings, fans of biographical sports films and boxing dramas may find it a worthy addition to their collections.