Redemption Blu-ray Review

Redemption" shines on Blu-ray, courtesy of Lionsgate Films with its AVC encoded 1080p presentation, which vividly brings to life the director's vision in an aspect ratio of 2.40:1. The digital cinematography, masterfully executed by Chris Menges, dives deep into the nitty-gritty aesthetics of London's underbelly. Menges' use of a cool blue palette enhances the film’s atmosphere, creating a visual tone that captures the essence of its setting with an impressive attention to detail. Particularly noteworthy is the way the Blu-ray manages to maintain a high level of contrast and sharpness across various lighting conditions. In scenes that are swathed in the darkness of night or tucked away in dimly lit corners, the detail remains remarkably clear.

The strength of this presentation goes beyond just the technical prowess of its contrast handling or sharpness. Scenes that bask in daylight showcase an exemplary level of clarity and color saturation, pushing the visual storytelling further. The colors are vivid, yet they remain true to the film's intended palette, enhancing the realism and depth of the scene without ever feeling oversaturated or intrusive. This careful balance ensures that each frame not only serves the narrative but does so with a remarkable level of visual fidelity.

What sets this Blu-ray apart is its stability and precision in image quality. There are no discernible stability issues, ensuring a viewing experience that is as immersive as it is smooth. The meticulous attention to detail, from the composition of each shot to the technical execution of the video transfer, makes "Redemption" a standout example of how a film can be elevated in its Blu-ray incarnation. The combined efforts of Lionsgate Films and Chris Menges have resulted in a video presentation that is both a technical marvel and a true testament to the film's gritty, atmospheric storytelling.

Redemption" delivers an audio experience through its lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that is as intricate as it is aggressive, encapsulating the viewer in a sphere of sonic depth that ranges from the undercurrents of London's bustling streets to the thunderous chaos of warfare. Designed meticulously to transition smoothly between serene moments of silence and the eruptive soundscapes of combat, the audio supervises an immersive journey. The film's auditory landscape is enriched by Dario Marianelli's compelling score, which seamlessly extends into the background, enhancing the emotional intensity without overwhelming the primary audio elements. The dialogue, crucial for following Joey's turbulent journey, is rendered with exceptional clarity, ensuring that every whisper and shout is intelligible against a backdrop of urban clamor and battlefield tumult.

The technical prowess of "Redemption's" audio presentation is notable for its refined mix that expertly juggles environmental sounds with high-stakes action sequences. This dynamic range showcases a thoughtful design that can whisper in subtlety before roaring into intensity, mirroring the protagonist's fluctuating state of mind. The fidelity of the recording guarantees that each element, from the subtlest ambient noise to the overpowering explosions that echo Joey's memories of Afghanistan, is captured with pristine clarity. This ensures a realistic representation of the film's varied settings, from the tight confines of urban decay to the open desperation of combat scenes.

Overall, the audio section of "Redemption's" Blu Ray edition stands as a testament to the power of sound design in storytelling. It navigates the complexities of auditory expression with grace, balancing between the nuances of quiet despair and the outright pandemonium of war. The film benefits significantly from its audio treatment, which not only elevates the visual experience but also deepens the emotional resonance of Joey's journey from darkness to, potentially, redemption. Each element, from score to environmental sound, dialogues to dynamic shifts, is handled with a fidelity that speaks to a high-quality production value, making it a commendable example of audiovisual craftsmanship in contemporary cinema.

The extra presentation on the Blu-ray of "Redemption" offers a concise yet engaging glimpse behind the curtain, primarily through its standout extra, the Behind the Scenes Featurette. This particular piece, although standard in its approach, provides valuable insights into the film's conceptualization and execution, focusing particularly on the character of Joey. It is enriched with interviews from cast and crew, interspersed with dynamic on-set footage and selected scenes from the movie, enhancing the overall appreciation for the film's creative process. The featurette serves as a testament to the collaborative effort involved in bringing "Redemption" to life, making it a must-watch for fans and cinema enthusiasts alike interested in the complexities of film production.

Extras included in this disc:

• Behind the Scenes Featurette: A brief exploration into the filmmaking process, featuring interviews and on-set footage.

In "Redemption," Jason Statham departs from his conventional action hero persona to embody Joseph Smith, a tormented veteran grappling with severe PTSD upon his return from Afghanistan. This portrayal diverges significantly from Statham's typical roles, showcasing him not in the throes of relentless combat but as a battered individual facing the harsh realities of homelessness in London. The opening scenes present an unrecognizable Statham – disheveled, beaten, and far removed from the polished action figure audiences are accustomed to. This film, also known as "Hummingbird" in the UK, situates Statham within a moral gray zone, challenging him to navigate a life marred by trauma and societal neglect.

Directed and written by Steven Knight, "Redemption" marks Knight's directorial debut, weaving a narrative that straddles social consciousness and thriller genres. The film explores the life of Joey as he serendipitously finds refuge in an abandoned luxury apartment, setting off a chain of events aimed at piecing his life back together while seeking retribution for his friend Isabel. Along this journey, Joey's interaction with three pivotal women – Isabel, Sister Cristina, and his estranged wife Dawn – adds layers to the narrative, though at times diluting the film's focus. Knight's script touches on themes of moral ambiguity and redemption amidst the backdrop of London's criminal underworld, juxtaposing Joey’s personal vendetta with his humane inclinations.

Despite its ambition and Statham's commendable performance, “Redemption” suffers from a lack of directional clarity. The film attempts to mesh various elements – psychological depth, vengeance, and romantic entanglements – but occasionally loses its narrative momentum. The portrayal of Joey's PTSD, depicted through disjointed snippets and metaphoric sequences involving surveillance drones dubbed 'hummingbirds,' offers a poignant yet incomplete glimpse into his psyche. Knight's exploration of surveillance and inner turmoil through such imagery highlights a broader commentary on visibility and vulnerability. However, the film's execution remains somewhat fragmented, wandering through its thematic alleys without fully realizing its potent potential.

The Blu-ray release of "Redemption" presents an intriguing case of ambition meets execution, with mixed yet notable results. The collaboration between Jason Statham and director Steven Knight brings forth a film that, while challenging the expectations of both their fanbases, encapsulates a unique cinematic endeavor. The movie's narrative diverges significantly from the well-trodden paths of genre cinema, offering a complex exploration of themes that might not fully satisfy those seeking Knight's signature socio-political commentary or Statham's iconic action sequences. However, it's this very deviation from the norm that imbues "Redemption" with a fascinatingly unique identity amidst a sea of conventional offerings.

Technically, the Blu-ray edition of "Redemption" excels, providing viewers with an audio-visual experience that is both immersive and impressive. The video quality is outstanding, showcasing the film's cinematic palette with clarity and depth, while the audio presentation enhances the overall viewing experience, ensuring that the film's nuanced sound design and score are rendered with precision. These technical merits contribute significantly to appreciating the film's ambitious narrative and stylistic choices, offering an optimal home viewing experience that likely surpasses standard digital streaming capabilities.

In conclusion, "Redemption" on Blu-ray is a commendable release that succeeds more in its technical aspects than in its divisive narrative ambitions. While the film itself may not completely satisfy every viewer's expectations, particularly those of die-hard fans of Statham and Knight, it stands as a testament to the potential of cinema that dares to venture beyond conventional boundaries. The high-quality video and audio presentation on this Blu-ray makes it worth considering for a rental, if not for its daring approach, then for the opportunity to experience a film that strives to be different in an industry often criticized for its reliance on formulaic content.