Session 9 Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Session 9" by Scream Factory, an imprint of Shout! Factory, features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, exploiting the early adoption of the Sony CineAlta HDW-F900 camera technology. This technological choice marks "Session 9" as a pioneer in digital filmmaking, showcasing its ambition towards embracing high-definition clarity in the nascent stages of digital cinematography. Despite its groundbreaking approach, the transfer exhibits a mix of exceptional sharpness and detail, particularly in well-lit close-up scenes, alongside the unavoidable limitations of early HD video capture such as a somewhat flat, video-like aesthetic. Furthermore, motion-related anomalies like slight blur or banding occasionally surface, reflecting the era's technological constraints.

Detail preservation is commendable across varying lighting conditions, with natural and robust color palettes shining in less manipulated scenes. However, certain sequences, notably those with intentional color grading or those reliant on minimalist lighting (i.e., flashlight illumination in dark corridors), expose the digital medium's inherent drawbacks like diminished shadow details and sporadic noise. It’s noteworthy how the use of natural lighting underlines the eerie ambiance of the film, yet simultaneously challenges the definition in darker scenes. Such visual elements contribute to a documentary-like feel, enhancing the overall creepiness.

Although some issues like image instability during rapid panning or tracking, and occasional noise intrusions are observed, they don't significantly detract from the viewing experience. The Blu-ray transfer is undeniably superior to previous DVD releases, making this perhaps the best rendition of "Session 9" available for home video. Enhancements in clarity, depth, and color fidelity are evident and laudable, signifying a thoughtful transfer process that respects both the film's original digital cinematography roots and its atmospheric storytelling.

The Blu-ray release of "Session 9" boasts an exceptional DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix that captivates with its focus on the more nuanced aspects of sound design, steering clear of the conventional horror approach that leans heavily on booming sound effects during sudden scares. Instead, it crafts an atmosphere filled with tension and foreboding through the meticulous use of subtle sounds, such as the eerie drip of water in a hydrotherapy tub, and the film's moody musical score. Dialogue is handled with care, ensuring clarity and maintaining a balance that never allows the background score or ambient sounds to overpower it, achieving an equilibrium that enhances the film's haunting narrative.

Interestingly, while it may come as a surprise given the industry's trend towards more immersive surround sound formats, 'Session 9' does not feature a traditional 5.1 surround sound upgrade. However, it stands as evidence that such an enhancement is not strictly necessary to create an unsettling and immersive audio experience. The English DTS-HD MA 2.0 track exhibits a broad range of auditory textures from clear and concise dialogue to the subtle yet effective use of stereo channels that contribute to a constant undercurrent of dread. This is complemented by scoring from Climax Golden Twins, which adds layers to the auditory experience without overwhelming the essential sound elements.

Furthermore, the audio mix demonstrates a keen attention to volume levels and imaging, ensuring a consistent listening experience that negates the need for any manual adjustment once an optimal volume is found. This deliberate engineering encourages viewers to keep the volume at a level that fully immerses them in the disturbing and ominous soundscape crafted for "Session 9". This precise control over audio elements, from atmospheric sounds to musical cues, contributes significantly to the film's overall suspenseful atmosphere, demonstrating that even with a 2.0 mix, audio can be deeply effective in enhancing the psychological horror experience.

The Blu-ray extra features for "Session 9" offer a comprehensive and insightful dive into the making of this psychological horror masterpiece, notably through its detailed documentaries and commentaries. The standout feature, "Return to Danvers: The Secrets of Session 9," presents an exhaustive series of interviews brimming with background information, emphasizing the eerie atmosphere of the Danvers Insane Asylum and the challenges of working with a tight budget. It is complemented by the "Horror's Hallowed Grounds" episode, which takes viewers on a tour of the now-infamous filming location. Fans will appreciate the inclusion of deleted scenes with optional commentary, revealing an interesting subplot that didn't make the final cut, as well as a behind-the-scenes comparison in "Story to Screen." The archival piece, "The Haunted Palace," gives a nod to the alarming history of the shooting location, making these extras a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Return to Danvers: The Secrets of Session 9: An in-depth documentary featuring numerous interviews and background information.
• Horror's Hallowed Grounds: A tour of the Danvers State Hospital location used in the film.
• Deleted Scenes/Alternate Ending: Features an optional commentary track.
• Story to Screen: A look at storyboards and behind-the-scenes footage.
• The Haunted Palace: An archival documentary on Danvers Insane Asylum.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer for the film.
• Audio Commentary with Director Brad Anderson and Co-Writer/Actor Stephen Gevedon: Covers all aspects of the film's production.

'Session 9' stands out as a quintessential example of how atmosphere, setting, and adept storytelling can collaborate to forge a memorable horror experience. Directed by Brad Anderson, the film draws inevitable comparisons to classics like 'The Shining', primarily for its eerie setting within the real, historically rich, and supposedly haunted Danvers State Insane Asylum in Massachusetts. Unlike the fictional Overlook Hotel, Danvers brings its own disturbing past to the fore, enhancing the film's psychological terror. The film smartly navigates through its chilling narrative without relying heavily on gore but rather on a profound psychological angle, replete with a sense of foreboding and angst. The involvement of characters such as Gordon and Phil, portrayed by Peter Mullan and David Caruso respectively, in an asbestos abatement assignment at the asylum sets the stage for a tale that is both personal and haunting.

The film intricately weaves personal dilemmas and professional hazards, presenting a group of characters each with their own backstory and relational tensions. As the crew discovers old audio recordings of a patient named Mary Hobbes, they begin to experience unsettling occurrences, hinting at the asylum’s dark secrets. The structure of the movie—doling out character insights through artful asides against the backdrop of their ominous workplace—generates an escalating sense of dread. This slow burn approach allows the audience to delve deeply into the characters’ psyches, markedly enhancing the impact of their eventual unraveling. The use of the real-life decaying Danvers Asylum not only grounds the story in a palpable realism but also serves as a silent protagonist, underscoring the narrative's chilling progression.

While certain early reveals may somewhat diminish the climax's potential surprise, 'Session 9' commendably sustains its suspense through meticulous pacing and atmospheric tension rather than resorting to gratuitous frights. The film’s dedication to building mood—an oppressive ambiance punctuated by moments of intense psychological horror—showcases Anderson’s skillful direction. Coupled with a script that respectfully acknowledges its inspirations while carving out its own niche within the horror genre, 'Session 9' successfully stands as a study in dark, methodical cinema that does more with an unsettling location and well-crafted characters than many films achieve with far greater resources.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Session 9" by Scream Factory elevates a film that is already esteemed for its enveloping setting and the palpable ominous atmosphere it expertly crafts. While some viewers might find fault with minor logical inconsistencies within its narrative, the movie's strengths lie in its clever direction, adept writing, and the commendable performances of its cast. It shines on technical aspects, offering admirers an excellent audio and visual experience that honours the film's original digital source. Supplemental materials are a strong suit for this release, with Scream Factory curating a blend of both nostalgic DVD extras and new, insightful interviews along with behind-the-scenes footage.

A revisitation or first-time viewing is bound to reaffirm or instigate appreciation for "Session 9" as a distinguished horror film. At a time when horror genres often veered towards parody, "Session 9" stood out for its genuine ability to unsettle and disturb, characteristics that remain potent today. The commendable A/V presentation successfully captures the eerie mood and enhances the viewing experience, making it clear that Scream Factory's efforts have been meticulous. The inclusion of both legacy and newly acquired special features enriches the overall package, offering deep dives into the movie's creation and impact.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "Session 9" is a compelling acquisition for enthusiasts of psychological horror and cinephiles alike, proving to surpass expectations in both content and presentation quality. Its strengths not only lie in its superior technical merits but also in the depth of the supplementary content provided. This edition not only pays homage to the film's original allure but elevates it, solidifying "Session 9" as a must-have for collectors and newcomers eager to experience one of the early 2000s' most unsettling narratives in its best form yet.