Traffik Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Traffik" is delivered by Lionsgate Films with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.40:1 aspect ratio. This modern digitally shot film, captured primarily with Alexa cameras, displays a finely detailed picture quality that captures the essence of the original cinematography. The use of Steadicam and some handheld shots presents a dynamic viewing experience, albeit with occasional softness due to camera movement. It’s worth noting that the film’s color grading is predominantly neutral, with the infusion of blue, green, and yellow tints during darker scenes. This can give rise to milky blacks and less natural skin tones at times. Nevertheless, standout sequences—such as the intense confrontation between the Sheriff and Brea, and the vibrant scene where Brea emerges into the sunlight—highlight the transfer's impressive clarity and sharpness.

Despite a few shortcomings in shadow detail, especially during prolonged dark scenes where it can be challenging to discern finer elements, the transfer maintains a warm, burnished palette during daylight and magic hour sequences. While banding instances are sporadically noticeable in dimly-lit outdoor shots, the absence of compression anomalies ensures an overall solid visual experience. The presentation expertly handles a variety of lighting conditions, maintaining high levels of detail and smooth gradients. Thus, while not flawless, this Blu-ray transfer effectively conveys the film's visual narrative with commendable prowess.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Traffik" features a robust and dynamic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that actively engages the listener. Dialogue is consistently crisp and clear, even with frequent instances of whispering. The mix displays notable dynamic range, effectively transitioning from quiet, subdued moments to powerful and vibrant sequences, highlighted by Geoff Zanelli's compelling score. Surround channels are continuously active, reproducing ambient sounds such as forest activity and directional gunshots with impressive accuracy.

The LFE channel is utilized effectively, bringing weight and power to gunshots and providing a robust midrange kick, particularly from the score. Distinct set pieces—most notably the car-motorcycle chase through a scenic canyon—are executed with precision, enhancing the immersive experience. While not necessarily the pinnacle of audio tracks, "Traffik" excels in delivering a clear, energetic, and well-balanced audio mix that significantly enhances the viewing experience.

The Blu-Ray extras of "Traffik" provide insightful behind-the-scenes content, effectively adding value for enthusiasts and those interested in film production. "Journey into the Depths: Making Traffik" delivers a standard but engaging Electronic Press Kit (EPK) containing solid interviews and a comprehensive look at the film's creation. On the other hand, "Deon & Dante: The Look of Traffik" offers a more focused and intriguing exploration of the film’s visual aesthetic, featuring notable contributions from cinematographer Dante Spinotti. These features contribute to a deeper understanding of the creative processes and technical intricacies involved in bringing "Traffik" to life.

Extras included in this disc:

• Journey into the Depths: Making Traffik Featurette: Standard EPK with insightful interviews.
• Deon & Dante: The Look of Traffik Featurette: Detailed look into the film's cinematography with Dante Spinotti.

"Traffik," unlike Steven Soderbergh’s similarly titled "Traffic," is a modern thriller tackling the grim reality of sex trafficking. Director Deon Taylor was inspired by a news bulletin marking Sacramento as a prime location for such crimes. Despite this compelling premise, the movie suffers from predictability and lacks the genuine thrills that its subject matter demands. The film opens powerfully with a jarring scene of a young woman being trafficked, setting a somber tone. Unfortunately, it quickly diverges to introduce Brea (Paula Patton), a journalist embroiled in her professional setbacks and personal uncertainties. Her planned getaway with boyfriend John (Omar Epps) soon derails when their retreat is interrupted by sex traffickers seeking incriminating evidence accidentally acquired by Brea.

"Traffik" shows moments of tension, particularly during interactions with the menacing biker gang led by Red (Luke Goss). However, these moments are undermined by erratic tonal shifts and underdeveloped subplots. The film’s script, aiming to blend social commentary with a traditional home invasion narrative, struggles to maintain coherence. The cast delivers solid performances, with Paula Patton's intense portrayal of Brea standing out, and Luke Goss convincingly embodying the villainous Red. Yet, the characters often fall into cliché roles, such as the corrupted deputy sheriff played by Missi Pyle, who adds a layer of implausibility.

The cinematography by Dante Spinotti elevates the film aesthetically, capturing the lush Californian countryside and contrasting it sharply with the grim underworld of human trafficking. Though the narrative falters, the third act injects some much-needed intensity, offering a glimpse of what the film could have achieved had it consistently embraced its darker themes. Nonetheless, "Traffik" ultimately fumbles in delivering a truly engaging or innovative thriller, falling into familiar and overplayed tropes that dilute its critical message.

"Traffik" presents an ambitious attempt to merge a home invasion thriller with the dark subject of human trafficking, though the execution falls short of its potential. The film's storyline, while conceptually intriguing, struggles to cohesively blend these elements. Despite this, viewers can appreciate commendable performances from the main cast, particularly Paula Patton, who brings a compelling presence to the screen. Dante Spinotti’s cinematography stands out, offering visually appealing sequences that enhance the overall viewing experience despite the script's shortcomings.

The technical presentation of "Traffik" on Blu-ray is commendable. The video quality, captured in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, delivers a sharp and finely detailed image. Accompanied by an English DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track, the auditory experience is immersive and well-balanced. Subtitles are available in English SDH, English, and Spanish, catering to a broad audience. However, the absence of substantive extras or bonus content may disappoint collectors seeking additional insights into the film’s production or behind-the-scenes features.

In conclusion, "Traffik" is not an exceptional film, but it offers enough entertainment value for a one-time watch. Its length of 96 minutes is fairly brisk but could have been tighter with less focus on unnecessary subplots. Lionsgate has delivered a technically solid Blu-ray release, though the scant supplemental features limit its appeal as a definitive purchase. For those intrigued by the trailer or seeking a suspenseful rental, "Traffik" serves as a suitable option.