Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" is a visual triumph, exhibiting superb high-definition video quality with remarkable clarity and detail. The film, captured digitally, takes full advantage of the Blu-ray format, delivering a pristine and reference-quality experience. Close-up shots reveal exquisite details in facial features and textures, while mid-level camera pans offer excellent depth and dimension. The color rendering is natural and vivid, with punchy primaries and accurately delineated fleshtones. The contrast is bold and well-applied, enhancing colors and whites without losing detail, while the blacks are deep and gradational, contributing to a dynamic visual experience even in mixed lighting conditions.

Warner's 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer does an excellent job handling muted shadows and complex lifelike textures. Despite dealing with a more somber color palette, the image retains a natural warmth that is both inviting and disarming. Black levels are satisfying, contrast is consistent, and edge delineation is finely resolved. Fine textures are exceptionally detailed, from the peach fuzz on a child's face to the individual strands of hair. Moreover, the subtleties of the cinematography are highlighted, giving the image a 3D-like presence without actual 3D technology, thanks to the intelligent use of lenses and focus.

Overall, the visual presentation maintains a sharp and crisp image throughout, despite occasional minor aliasing. Issues such as edge enhancement, DNR, artifacts, banding, and noise are notably absent, ensuring an undisturbed viewing experience. The filmmakers' intention for a realistic look is well-preserved with accurate black levels and natural shadow delineation. This Blu-ray offers an exceptional video quality that will satisfy even the most discerning viewers.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack of "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" presents a rich and subtly immersive audio experience that complements the film's intricate narrative. This track boasts excellent dynamic range and clarity, effectively utilizing the entire surround platform to enhance thematic elements. Alexandre Desplat’s evocative score is superbly integrated, weaving through the mix to enhance emotional depth without overshadowing the dialogue. The sound design deftly captures the bustling ambiance of New York City, with discrete and atmospheric effects such as passing traffic, sirens, and wind rustling through foliage, creating a highly realistic listening environment.

Dialogue remains crisp and intelligible, firmly anchored in the center channel, ensuring clear distinction and balance within the front soundstage. The surround channels are utilized sparingly yet effectively, contributing to an overall immersive experience without being overbearing. Interior acoustics are convincingly portrayed, with hushed conversations maintaining clarity even amidst subtle environmental sounds. The low-frequency effects channel supports this with palpable bass that underscores scenes needing dynamic impact, although it remains nuanced enough not to overwhelm quieter moments.

Particularly noteworthy are the sound effects tied to Oskar’s narration and emotional states. During intense scenes, such as moments of near panic, the audio mix employs dynamic channel-spanning effects that heighten the visceral impact, placing the viewer in the thick of emotional turmoil. Instances like the vase shattering encapsulate the complexity and precision of the sound design. Overall, while the audio presentation may not immediately stand out for casual viewers, audiophiles will appreciate the refined, immersive experience it offers, meticulously designed to elevate the film's storytelling.

The extras on the Blu-ray of "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" provide insightful behind-the-scenes material that enrich the viewing experience. Director Stephen Daldry, along with key cast and crew members like Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock, delve into the complex adaptation of Jonathan Safran Foer's novel, focusing on casting choices, film production challenges, and storytelling techniques. The standout feature, "Max von Sydow: Dialogues with the Renter," offers a unique perspective on the filming process without the usual interviews or commentary. However, while rich in quality, the extras could benefit from additional features such as director commentary or deleted scenes to create a more comprehensive package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close: Behind the scenes look at film adaptation.
• Finding Oskar: Casting and training of young actor Thomas Horn.
• Ten Years Later: Emotional retrospective involving Daniel McGinley.
• Max von Sydow: Dialogue with the Renter: Production documentary revealing Daldry's filmmaking process.
• Bonus DVD
• Ultraviolet Digital Copy

Adapted from Jonathan Safran Foer's bestselling novel, “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” details the poignant journey of Oskar Schell, an inventive eleven-year-old grappling with the loss of his father in the September 11th attacks. The film, a divisive yet strikingly emotional piece, is helmed by director Stephen Daldry and screenwriter Eric Roth. The plot revolves around Oskar's discovery of a key in his deceased father's belongings, spurring an intense search across New York City to find the corresponding lock. Thomas Horn delivers a convincing portrayal of Oskar, whose condition on the autism spectrum adds depth to his introspective and often solitary quest. The narrative leverages Oskar's unique perspective to navigate both personal and national grief, and although this adaptation exudes an effort to connect on an intimate level, it occasionally delves into over-sentimentality and manipulation.

The film's cinematography by Chris Menges accentuates the raw emotions at play, with visually compelling sequences that are as stunning as they are heartbreaking. The performances keep the viewer anchored—Tom Hanks as Oskar's father embodies paternal warmth, while Sandra Bullock portrays a mother numbed by grief with remarkable restraint. Additionally, Max von Sydow stands out with a nuanced performance as The Renter, a mute stranger whose silent empathy contrasts with the cacophony of Oskar's turbulent world. Despite requiring suspension of disbelief to accept a young, socially impaired child safely roving the city's expanse alone, the story remains compelling largely due to these powerful performances.

"Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" weaves through flashbacks and present-day hurdles, portraying not just the trauma of 9/11 but also the universal struggle with loss and healing. While it may falter under the weight of contrived emotions and occasionally unconvincing character thoughts funneled through adult perspectives, its core remains emotive. The film invites viewers to reflect on their personal grief and resilience in the face of profound loss, albeit not without a generous nudge from its storytellers.

"Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" on Blu-ray exudes a potent blend of grief and healing through the eyes of a young boy coping with the loss of his father in the 9/11 attacks. The film, directed by Stephen Daldry, evokes profound emotional responses through its focus on personal and collective tragedy. Some viewers may find the film's sentimentality overpowering, though others will likely be drawn into the deeply human story it tells. Warner Bros. has delivered a striking video presentation with vivid detail and rich colors that embody the crowded and emotionally charged streets of New York City. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track provides a robust auditory experience, enhancing the film’s emotional impact.

On the technical front, the Blu-ray's picture quality is near-perfect, marred only by minor aliasing issues that don't detract significantly from the viewing experience. The audio quality supports and elevates the narrative but has room for more dynamic range to fully encapsulate the immersive environment of the film. While the special features package is somewhat lacking in breadth, the HD extras offer valuable insights and enhance the overall package. Warner has crafted an excellent but not flawless disc that projects the movie’s emotional gravity effectively.

In conclusion, "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" is a divisive yet powerful film that warrants a viewing. Whether you walk away feeling manipulated or genuinely moved, it’s difficult to remain indifferent to its heartfelt storytelling and technical finesse. The Blu-ray release is commendable, delivering an enriching audiovisual experience that complements the film's poignant narrative. Regardless of your ultimate emotional response, this Blu-ray/DVD/Ultraviolet combo pack comes highly recommended for both its cinematic and technical merits.