Gods of Egypt Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Gods of Egypt," offered by Lionsgate Films, boasts an impressive AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the 2.40:1 aspect ratio. The film was digitally captured using Red Epic Dragon cameras at an original resolution of 6K, but utilizes a 2K digital intermediate (DI). Despite this downscale, the presentation remains robust, particularly highlighted by vibrant and substantial CGI elements. Green screening – or more precisely, blue screening as noted in bonus materials – plays a major role in the visual effect production. As a result, many CGI backgrounds present a slightly misty, soft appearance typical of this technique. However, large VFX elements like the iconic sand snakes maintain excellent texture and detail. Scenes feature dynamically varied color grading, with ruddy brown-red hues in select sequences and traditional blue grading in underworld scenes, enhancing the visual narrative without compromising detail levels.

In terms of real-world elements such as cast details and practical props, the Blu-ray transfer excels with exceptional clarity and precision, rendering crisp details from facial pores to intricate fabric textures. The color palette is impressively dynamic, delivering a wide range of tones that enrich complex scenes and provide a fulfilling visual experience. Contrast remains solid and consistent throughout, while black levels achieve convincing depth without noticeable banding or crushing. Minor aliasing issues appear at the edges of CGI wings on some gods but are minimal and likely attributable to rendering nuances. If one's interest lies in meticulously crafted visual effects and a high-quality transfer, "Gods of Egypt" on Blu-ray stands as a technically proficient and visually rich offering, even if the CGI elements underscore a somewhat synthetic aesthetic.

The DTS:X (DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 core) audio presentation of "Gods of Egypt" delivers a high-octane experience that meets, and occasionally exceeds, expectations for special effects blockbusters. From the start, the surround sound dynamics are robust, with intricate sound effects effortlessly flowing throughout the surround channels. These effects, particularly during the film's extensive set pieces, help create an immersive environment that draws viewers into the action. Overhead activity is notably effective as well, such as when Set's fantastical plane maneuvers overhead, adding a layer of spatial realism. The LFE (low-frequency effects) are relentless and potent, providing deep bass that punctuates explosive scenes and enhances dramatic moments like Ra's fiery bursts.

Dialogue clarity is generally strong, although the mix sometimes uses excessive reverb to amplify the voices of gods and goddesses, inadvertently making them harder to discern amidst the louder sequences. This aspect, while evoking a sense of grandeur, can occasionally detract from dialogue intelligibility. Nonetheless, the fidelity and dynamic range of the track remain impressive, allowing the sound elements to be distinct yet cohesive.

During intense sequences, the audio mix pulls no punches with its aggressive and immersive approach. The surround channels are fully utilized, offering not just ambient noise but a rich tapestry of sound that builds a full auditory landscape. Standout moments include the precision of the panning effects as the gods clash in mid-air battles, where spatial audio cues accurately track their movements across the screen. Though some might find the mix overambitious at times, it undeniably captures the frenetic pace and scale intended for a blockbuster of this nature. Fans of loud, all-encompassing audio experiences will find much to appreciate in this bombastic, yet meticulously crafted sound mix.

The extras on the Blu-ray for "Gods of Egypt" deliver a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the film’s production. With a mix of interviews, promotional material, and technical showcases, the features collectively provide a solid exploration of the film’s creation. Standout segments include "A Divine Vision," which delves into the challenges faced during production design and visual effects, and "On Location: Shooting in Australia," offering a rare glimpse into the real-world locations used alongside extensive CGI work. Other extras such as "A Battle for Eternity: Stunts" and "Transformation: Costume, Make-Up and Hair" enrich the viewer's understanding of the meticulous effort involved in crafting the movie’s aesthetic and action sequences.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Storyboards: Animatics for two scenes.
• A Divine Vision: Creating a Cinematic Action Fantasy: Insights on production design and SFX.
• Of Gods and Mortals: The Cast: Interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.
• Transformation: Costume, Make-Up and Hair: Focus on costumes, makeup, and hair.
• On Location: Shooting in Australia: Coverage of actual filming locations.
• The Battle for Eternity: Stunts: Fight choreography footage and animatics.
• A Window into Another World: Visual Effects: Interviews and SFX coverage.

"Gods of Egypt" is an ambitious spectacle that strives to offer a reimagined take on Egyptian mythology but stumbles more often than it soars. Helmed by Alex Proyas, the film juxtaposes visually arresting effects with a lackluster narrative, struggling to maintain coherence and engagement. The story centers around Horus (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) and his quest to reclaim the throne usurped by his uncle Set (Gerard Butler). However, despite the film's focus on grand visuals, including gods towering over mortals, golden blood, and flying boats towing the sun, it never quite transcends its superficial appeal. Notably, the prologue lingers excessively on exposition, detracting from the overall pacing.

The movie's key weaknesses lie in its earnest yet erratic approach to the source material. While observing ritualistic iconography and mythological elements with a mix of solemnity and whimsy, the performances are inconsistent. Gerard Butler's steadfast Scottish accent and hammy villainy contrast sharply with Geoffrey Rush's more humorous and animated portrayal of Ra. This disconnect between characters' tones undermines the film’s seriousness. The interaction between human and divine, lauded for its visual ingenuity, lacks narrative substance, while set pieces such as female warriors on giant fire-breathing serpents feel more like gratuitous displays of CGI than integral parts of the story.

Despite these shortcomings, some may find "Gods of Egypt" entertaining in an unintentional way. Its erratic plot, reminiscent of a video game, offers escapist appeal, particularly through visually sumptuous sequences. The film does manage to inject occasional humor, albeit unintentional at times, which provides fleeting relief from its otherwise grave tone. Geoffrey Rush's portrayal of Ra is a notable highlight that brings a glimmer of delight amidst the overall narrative chaos. However, these moments are too sparse to wholly redeem a film burdened by overambition and underwhelming execution.

The "Gods of Egypt" Blu-ray release offers a visually stunning presentation despite the film's numerous shortcomings. Director Alex Proyas's ability to create a visually dazzling spectacle is apparent, with the film featuring elaborate set designs, grandiose special effects, and a color palette that keeps the viewer's eyes occupied. However, this visual feast can't compensate for the film's lackluster storytelling and subpar performances. There are moments when one might find themselves more captivated by the technical ingenuity than by the actual plot progression.

From a technical standpoint, the disc performs excellently. The video quality is exceptionally crisp, capturing even the most intricate details of Proyas’s elaborate sets and CGI landscapes. The audio is equally impressive, with an epic soundtrack that enriches the overall viewing experience. These aspects make the Blu-ray a worthwhile acquisition for enthusiasts who prioritize technical excellence over narrative substance.

At a recent dinner party, I managed to spill some very greasy food on a chair and I turned to the hostess and said, I'm sorry, you can hate me for being a slob. She jokingly responded (at least I'm hoping it was a joke), Oh, Jeff, there are so many reasons to hate you, being a slob is way down the list. Similarly, there was a bit of umbrage when a lot of pretty white folks were hired to play Egyptians in this film, but given the overall lumbering qualities of Gods of Egypt, that may actually be one of the less contentious issues many audience members will have with it. The sword and sandal epics of yore were typically not cinematic masterpieces (there were exceptions, of course), so maybe a bit of slack cutting is warranted with regard to Gods of Egypt as well. The story may be patently ridiculous, and the performances questionable, but the film is definitely a sight to behold (director Alex Proyas, whatever his perceived or real faults, can typically be relied upon to provide a visual feast). I can't outright recommend the film, but will state for those willing to ignore its (many) faults, there's a ton of incredible visuals to enjoy, as well as a typically epic soundtrack. In any event, technical merits are generally very strong for those considering a purchase.