Out of Time Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Out of Time" from MVD Visual's Marquee Collection delivers a notably enhanced video experience compared to previous releases. Utilizing an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.40:1, this new edition offers a brighter overall palette and materially improved detail levels throughout. The presentation boasts consistent sharpness and fine detail, particularly evident in the plethora of extreme close-ups that reveal impressive precision in elements such as hair and pores, even in dim lighting conditions. A few minor signs of age-related wear and tear, such as specks and flecks, are present but do not significantly detract from the overall quality. The location photography truly shines in this version, making it the preferred choice for fans of the film.

However, some issues do persist, notably with handling the extensive contrast inherent to the Miami sun-soaked settings. Although whites occasionally clip, leading to slight erosion in fidelity, black levels remain dense without succumbing to crush, providing a well-balanced visual experience. Prime lighting conditions reveal heavy fine detail, especially in close-ups that capture facial textures with remarkable clarity. The master does exhibit some limitations, including detectable edge enhancement, resulting in halos around contrasting edges and an unnaturally sharp appearance in exteriors. Grain is elevated, appearing coarse and raw at times, and there's visible print damage, including notable scratches and spots of dirt. Additionally, the Blu-ray's color saturation edges slightly too far, causing primary colors to bleed, particularly reds. Despite its flaws, the transfer avoids introducing digital artifacts, maintaining a credible overall integrity.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Out of Time" demonstrates competent but mixed results. Central to this is the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which maintains the qualities observed in the previous MGM release. Notably, there isn't a significant amount of low-frequency effects (LFE), though they do emerge in moments such as during the fire scene that engulfs the Harrison home. Ambient environmental sounds are effectively placed within the surround channels, enhancing a sense of immersion. However, the prioritization of dialogue occasionally falters during busier scenes, slightly detracting from the overall clarity.

In addition to the primary DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, the Blu-ray offers an array of audio options including English 2.0 LPCM, as well as Spanish and French 2.0 Dolby Digital tracks. The 5.1 track gives a modestly convincing surround experience, notably supporting Graeme Revell’s distinctive blues-infused score. Both dialogue and sound effects are delivered with clarity and precision, free of distortions, clipping, or other audio anomalies. Conversely, there's a notable absence of ambient liveliness in scenes set in Miami, with minor audio elements scarcely populating the stereo channels while rear channel activity remains dormant apart from certain action scenes like gunshots during the finale.

Fidelity-wise, the audio retains its integrity without showing signs of age. Dialogue remains sharp and intelligible, though the overall dynamic range is rather limited, resulting in consistent but somewhat lackluster volume levels. Accessibility-wise, the disc includes optional subtitles in multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, Chinese, and Korean. It should be noted, however, that these subtitles contain numerous typographical errors, which might present challenges for those who rely on them.

The Blu-ray of "Out of Time" offers a well-rounded array of extras that enhance the viewing experience through insightful content and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Director Carl Franklin delivers a compelling audio commentary that enriches the film's understanding. The "Out of Time Crime Scene" featurette provides above-average interviews, adding depth to the film's production narrative. Despite the mislabeling of singular outtakes as "outtakes," the inclusion of various screen tests from actors like Sanaa Lathan and Dean Cain provides a fascinating peek into the casting process. Character profiles, though somewhat dated in presentation, offer valuable context through text and picture-in-picture interviews with the director and writer. Additionally, the disc features a photo gallery and trailers for other releases, rounding out a substantial set of bonus content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Director Carl Franklin: Insightful commentary track.
• Out of Time Crime Scene: Informative featurette with interviews.
• Outtakes: Short outtake.
• Photo Gallery: Collection of film-related photos.
• Sanaa Lathan Screen Tests: Casting footage.
• Dean Cain Screen Tests: Casting footage.
• Character Profiles: Brief profiles with text and interviews (Matt Lee Whitlock, Alex Diaz, Anne Merai Harrison, Chris Harrison, Chae).
• Trailers: Includes "Out of Time" trailer and others.

"Out of Time" reteams Denzel Washington with director Carl Franklin, delivering a concoction of sun-soaked Miami locales, affairs, drug money, and perilous temptation. Washington stars as Matt Whitlock, a small-town Florida police chief embroiled in a convoluted web of deception while navigating a messy divorce with his detective wife Alex, portrayed by Eva Mendes. Despite the presence of an engaging star cast—Washington’s nuanced performance as Whitlock and Mendes’ fiery portrayal—"Out of Time" often meanders in its pacing and plot complexity. While its Hitchcockian homage is evident through innocent-man narratives, its reliance on outdated technology like PDA GPS systems and fax machines instantly dates the film.

The movie struggles with an overly contrived storyline, spilling crucial plot points too early, deflating the tension that drives a thriller. Sanaa Lathan’s Anne-Merai begins as a mere sex object manipulated for suspense, eventually turning into an improbable perpetrator in a twist that diminishes her victimhood. Dean Cain's Chris Harrison and Mendes' Alex add layers to the urban tableau, yet their character arcs remain secondary to Whitlock’s predicament. Nevertheless, the film manages intermittent moments of intensity, particularly during scenes set in the bustling police station, where technical gadgets amplify the palpable sense of impending doom.

Ultimately, "Out of Time" lacks the sheer vigor and sustained tension that characterizes memorable thrillers. Washington's and Mendes' performances anchor the narrative, but they're unable to escape the impact of the film's slow opening and disjointed storytelling. The most compelling sequences lie in the second act, with Whitlock's increasing desperation marked by a growing stack of lies amid personal and professional turmoil. Yet as the climax approaches, the movie reverts to predictable tropes, reducing its potential to rise above a standard early-2000s thriller.

"Out of Time,” directed by Carl Franklin, presents a complex narrative driven by Denzel Washington's compelling performance. The film captivates with its portrayal of a conflicted hero and the breathtaking Florida locations that serve as a vivid backdrop. However, the plot's predictability could be deterring for those seeking intricate twists, especially with a villain whose identity is clearly telegraphed early on. Moreover, the reliance on John Billingsley's character, Chae, for comic relief tends to become less effective over time.

This release from MVD sharply encapsulates the essence of "Out of Time" with superior encoding and an array of supplementary features, making it an excellent revival of the somewhat overlooked thriller. Despite criticism for its derivative nature and slow pacing, the film’s craftsmanship—guided by Franklin’s direction and Washington’s towering presence—delivers an engaging reason to invest emotionally in the story. The Blu-ray's enhanced visual and audio quality ensures that these aspects are appreciated to their fullest extent.

In conclusion, "Out of Time” offers a blend of strong performances and vivid locales, albeit wrapped in a somewhat predictable package. Despite its flaws, the film warrants re-evaluation, thanks in part to MVD's Blu-ray re-release which does justice to this hidden gem with refined technical attributes and ample bonus content. For fans and newcomers alike, this edition comes highly recommended as the definitive version to own.