Mortal Blu-ray Review

Mortal is presented on Blu-ray courtesy of Lionsgate Films with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The source material appears to have been digitally captured and likely finished at a 2K Digital Intermediate (DI). The film adopts a predominantly cool color grading scheme that emphasizes blues and greens, creating a visually evocative but somewhat unnatural palette. Detail levels are robust throughout, though occasional use of diffusion filters and askew framings lend a deliberate haziness to some scenes. The CGI effects, particularly lightning and fire, are executed proficiently and contribute significantly to the film’s visual impact. Practical makeup effects also are well-integrated, further enhancing the visual experience.

The DTS-HD Master Audio surround mix on the Blu-ray release of "Mortal" is an exemplary presentation, delivering an exceptionally balanced audio experience. Dialogue is clear and precise, with excellent intonation, allowing even subtle vocal nuances to be distinctly heard. The dynamic range is impressive, and the soundstage is notably open, creating a spacious and immersive auditory environment. The active elements in the rear channels significantly contribute to a seamless sound field that enhances viewer immersion. The sci-fi action sequences particularly benefit from robust dynamics that fill the room with energy.

The audio track is engaging, with frequent LFE activity that produces rich and deep bass frequencies, adding a palpable heft to the overall sound delivery. While the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is remarkably effective and engaging, some viewers might note the absence of a DTS:X or Dolby Atmos track, particularly for verticality in the numerous electricity effects featured in the film. Despite this, the rich, rumbly LFE and clear dialogue across both Norwegian and English languages are handled adeptly. Optional English subtitles are available for both languages, ensuring accessibility for all viewers.

The Blu-ray extras for "Mortal" offer a robust and insightful behind-the-scenes experience, capturing both the creative vision and technical craftsmanship of the film. "Dark Hero: The Making of Mortal" is particularly noteworthy, beginning with a spoiler warning and providing 23 minutes of engaging content in 1080p resolution. This featurette includes decent interviews with the cast and crew, giving an in-depth look at the production process, interspersed with various snippets from the film. Additionally, the inclusion of a digital code provides convenient access to the film across different devices.

Extras included in this disc:

Dark Hero: The Making of Mortal: A spoiler-warning featurette offering interviews and film snippets.

Digital Code: Allows access to the film digitally across multiple platforms.

"Mortal" is a sci-fi thriller set in a tranquil Norwegian town that gets disrupted after an American backpacker named Eric Bergland, played by Nat Wolff, finds himself at the center of supernatural events. The narrative gains intrigue as it unfolds almost dialogue-free, showcasing Eric's desperate survival in the Norwegian woods, hinting at his extraordinary yet perilous abilities. The plot thickens following a tragic incident where a local youth perishes after an encounter with Eric, leading to his arrest. By emphasizing the concept of control over supernatural forces, director André Øvredal crafts an engagingly mysterious atmosphere reminiscent of "American Gods," particularly revolving around the identity crises of its characters.

However, Øvredal’s ambitious storytelling often verges into familiar territory, blending romance and melodrama within its sci-fi elements. The relationship between Eric and psychologist Christine, played by Iben Akerlie, is laden with clichés seen in numerous other genres. Both characters navigate their personal traumas, cultivating a bond that mixes predictable narrative beats with the discovery of Eric's god-like powers—highlighted vividly during moments of heightened emotion that trigger his pyrotechnic and electric abilities. The inclusion of a Black Ops team intent on extraditing Eric enhances the tension but follows a conventional chase trope that undercuts the fresh elements introduced earlier.

The film attempts to weave Norse mythology into its fabric, culminating in an over-the-top climax where Eric encounters a legendary artifact and grapples with his godly potential. Øvredal’s intent to channel a Terence Malick-style superhero movie surfaces through the film’s striking natural visuals, although it occasionally falters in execution. The picturesque shots and the thematic connection to nature are commendable yet juxtaposed with dramatic sequences that feel somewhat contrived. Despite these tonal inconsistencies, "Mortal" manages to deliver an intriguing exploration of divinity and human frailty amid the vast Norwegian landscape.

The Blu-ray release of "Mortal" by André Øvredal delivers a compelling, though somewhat clichéd, narrative that teases a deeper mythology. The film's plot hinges on elements that feel familiar, but Øvredal’s direction does manage to maintain a level of intrigue throughout. Some aspects of the story appear underdeveloped, likely setting the stage for potential sequels which could provide the answers left dangling.

In terms of technical execution, "Mortal" is quite impressive. The video transfer boasts sharp detail and vibrant colors, showcasing the film's natural landscapes and special effects with precision. The audio mix is particularly noteworthy, offering robust, immersive soundscapes that enhance the viewing experience. The Blu-ray presentation indeed meets high standards in both visual and auditory realms, making it a technical treat for home cinema enthusiasts.

In conclusion, "Mortal" may not break new ground in storytelling but it compensates with strong technical merits. Despite its reliance on familiar tropes and unfinished plot threads, the film remains engaging and visually captivating. Its Blu-ray rendition ensures a quality home viewing experience, earning a solid recommendation.