The Island Blu-ray Review

"The Island" arrives on Blu-ray with an exceptional 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer, framed at 2.40:1, that vividly replicates the visual style of Michael Bay. The high-definition video presentation features striking colors and detailed resolution, excelling in both close-ups and mid-level pans. The contrast is boldly applied, enhancing dynamic quality in brighter sequences, while blacks remain deep and noise-free, although lacking gradational subtlety for infinite depth. The film retains a purposeful grain texture, which, although occasionally more prominent in darker scenes, remains unobtrusive throughout.

The transfer's standout feature is its remarkable color palette, transitioning seamlessly from sterile grays and whites in the cloning facility to vibrant desert landscapes and colorful cityscapes. Facial textures and clothing details are distinct and lifelike, although at times Scarlett Johansson's appearance can seem slightly plastic. Fine detailing shines through due to the fine layer of film grain, yet some scenes might appear unnaturally sharp. Minor issues include warm flesh tones, occasional blocky backgrounds, and hints of aliasing in certain backdrops.

Overall, "The Island" offers a top-tier video presentation that will satisfy both ardent fans and casual viewers alike. Its minute technical imperfections do little to diminish the high quality and engaging visual experience provided by this Blu-ray release.

Paramount delivers a profound audio presentation with the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for "The Island" on Blu-ray. This soundtrack showcases an aggressively potent dynamic range, making it imperative to play it loud on a system designed to handle such power. The chase sequence beginning in chapter 12 is a standout, producing seismic, room-rocking sound levels. The delivery of effects such as cars crashing and bullets flying creates an immersive, high-energy experience. In terms of dialogue, it is reproduced with clarity and exacting precision, maintaining lucidity even amid explosive sequences.

The surround channels feature detailed, robust soundscapes, seamlessly integrating ambient sounds like blowing steam and dripping water, alongside vigorous music and high-octane action effects. Despite occasional shakiness in the low end, the track maintains superb directional correlation and dynamic energy throughout. Explosions and gunshots are particularly impactful, delivering crisp, hearty, and dangerous auditory experiences. The surround effects, including motorcycles revving and heavy machinery churning, contribute to an engaging three-dimensional soundscape that heightens real-world realism.

Overall, this DTS-HD MA 5.1 track excels in delivering a full-bodied and exhilarating audio experience befitting a Michael Bay film. While it may not reach absolute sonic perfection due to minor low-end stability issues, the soundtrack's exceptional clarity, surround integration, and powerful bass make for an upper-tier entry in home theater audio presentations. Perfect for those looking to showcase their system's capabilities, it guarantees an enriching auditory experience that places the listener at the center of the action.

The Blu-ray release of "The Island" includes a notable set of extras, headlined by a detailed audio commentary from director Michael Bay. Bay navigates through the film's visual design, set construction, cast assembly, plot intricacies, and real-life inspirations. Although his commentary may have some prolonged silences and not reveal groundbreaking insights, it remains engaging for devoted fans. Complementing the commentary are three featurettes in standard definition, carried over from the previous DVD release, each providing valuable behind-the-scenes content. These featurettes focus on dynamic action sequences, thematic story development, and the significance of animatics in production, making them informative and appealing to those interested in film-making processes.

Extras included in this disc:

Commentary by director Michael Bay: An in-depth look at various aspects of the film's production.

The Future In Action: Focuses on the creation of action sequences and actor involvement.

The Making of The Island: Covers story themes, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews.

Pre-Visualization: Forward Thinking: Showcases the use of animatics in the film's development.

Michael Bay's "The Island" presents an intricate blend of science fiction, action, and philosophical inquiry, delivered with the director's signature flair. The plot follows Lincoln Six Echo (Ewan McGregor) and Jordan Two Delta (Scarlett Johansson), who discover they are clones living in a sterile futuristic facility designed to harvest their organs. The film's first half delves deeply into the controlled and propagandist environment of the facility, exploring themes of human agency and ethical dilemmas. Bay impressively balances this setup with meticulous story-building and thematic depth, emphasizing drama over spectacle. The second half shifts gears into high-action territory, integrating meticulously crafted action sequences without compromising thematic continuity.

"The Island" distinguishes itself through its narrative structure, allowing action to naturally evolve from the storyline rather than the other way around. This thoughtful approach is a testament to Bay's directorial versatility, showcasing his ability to manage both action and dramatic elements effectively. The film meticulously questions the moralities surrounding cloning and exploitation, presenting a terrifyingly plausible future of technological control and loss of individual freedom for the benefit of an elite few. McGregor and Johansson deliver compelling performances, blending physicality with emotional nuance, while the supporting cast, including Sean Bean and Djimon Hounsou, solidifies the film's narrative heft.

Incorporating elements reminiscent of "Logan's Run," "The Island" successfully merges philosophical musings with high-octane action, creating a finely balanced film that is both thought-provoking and thrilling. Bay's adeptness at transitioning from a slow-burn mystery to relentless action ensures that the film always maintains narrative coherence and emotional gravity. While it may not redefine the genre, "The Island" stands out within Bay’s oeuvre for its thematic ambition and dramatic execution. The movie deftly communicates a substantial message about human and technological interdependence, making it a standout entry worth revisiting for fans and critics alike.

"The Island" Blu-ray release by Paramount is an exemplary presentation that marries compelling storytelling with unparalleled audio-visual experience. Directed by Michael Bay, this film expertly traverses the boundary between meaningful narrative and high-octane entertainment, making it arguably one of Bay's most well-rounded efforts to date. The film's futuristic premise is both hauntingly plausible and accentuated by the exhilarating action sequences that have become Bay's hallmark. Despite minor critiques regarding its length, "The Island" holds strong as a commendable piece of cinema, offering an engaging blend of story, themes, and well-integrated action.

The technical quality of this Blu-ray release is near demo-worthy. The video presentation is sharp and vivid, capturing every detail with astounding clarity, a significant upgrade from previous DVD releases. The audio quality complements the visuals perfectly, providing an immersive experience that showcases the sound design and score with high fidelity. The package also includes the same extras as the DVD release, along with a notable addition: a detailed audio commentary track by Michael Bay himself, offering valuable insights into the film's production.

In conclusion, "The Island" Blu-ray is a highly recommended purchase for both fans of the film and those who appreciate high-quality home entertainment experiences. It stands out not just within Michael Bay's filmography but also as a robust release in the Blu-ray format. With its strong technical presentations and added extras, this Blu-ray edition ensures "The Island" will remain a staple in any collection for years to come.