Tigerland Blu-ray Review

Analyzing the video quality of "Tigerland" on Blu-ray presents a nuanced challenge due to the distinctive choices made during its filming. Director Joel Schumacher and cinematographer Matthew Libatique, known for his work on "Black Swan," opted for 16mm film to achieve a documentary-style appearance. This choice results in an image that is inherently softer and grainier than the traditional 35mm film. Adding complexity, the film underwent a bleach bypass process, which desaturates colors significantly, aiming to mimic the gritty realism found in many post-"Saving Private Ryan" war films. However, this combination might misalign with Schumacher’s documentary ambitions. The melding of 16mm’s softness with a subdued color scheme doesn't fully harmonize, leading to an image quality that is less than satisfying on the 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer. The resulting video lacks fine details, and sports grayish blacks that muddle the shadow details, all amid a palette of dim greens and browns.

Further complicating the Blu-ray picture quality is an over-zealous application of edge enhancement, an attempt to compensate for the 16mm film's natural lack of sharpness. This processing introduces unwanted artifacts, such as visible haloing around objects, which becomes particularly egregious in forest scenes where tree bark and branches gain an unnatural outline. Additionally, the treatment of film grain is inconsistent across scenes—some parts exhibit heavy, chunky grain while others appear artificially smoothed over by digital noise reduction (DNR). This inconsistency suggests a sporadic attempt to balance the film's raw, grainy texture with contemporary expectations for smoothness.

While "Tigerland" on Blu-ray undoubtedly surpasses its DVD predecessor in terms of picture quality, there remains room for improvement. A gentler hand in post-processing could potentially offer a more faithful representation of the film’s intentional aesthetics. The application of edge enhancement and DNR detracts from the gritty, immersive experience Schumacher aimed for, leaving viewers with a feeling that the film's visual potential is somewhat unrealized in its Blu-ray incarnation.

Tigerland's Blu Ray audio presentation, featuring a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, offers a unique auditory experience divergent from typical war film expectations. Without the cacophony of actual war scenes, one might think the soundscape barren; however, the track excels in delivering aural clarity and subtlety. The mock-combat sequences, though limited, pack a punch with machinegun fire and the weighty sounds of conflict filling the rear channels, effectively utilizing the subwoofer. Yet, it’s the dialogue that takes center stage, underscored by a surprisingly immersive ambient sound design that captures the essence of military life - from barracks to bars, with outdoor environments coming alive through the surround speakers.

The film's soundtrack remains dialogue-forward, treated with a mix that emphasizes clarity and intelligibility, which speaks volumes about the mix's quality and balance. The ambient sounds, whether it be the murmur of conversation or the natural rustle of the woods, contribute significantly to the spatial realism of the scenes. When Nathan Larson's score weaves into the narrative, it does so with strength and clarity, complementing the on-screen dynamics without overwhelming them. This nuanced audio mix showcases a wide and clear dynamic range that enhances the viewing experience significantly.

Including a variety of dub and subtitle options further broadens the accessibility of Tigerland on Blu Ray, ensuring viewers have ample choice in their viewing experience. The focus on delivering a comprehensive auditory experience is commendable, offering both depth and detail that admirably supports the film's narrative and character-driven moments without reliance on over-the-top aural displays typical of war films. This nuanced approach to sound design not only respects the film's thematic elements but also ensures an engaging viewing experience through its well-orchestrated audio presentation.

The Blu-ray edition of "Tigerland" offers a praiseworthy assortment of extras, enhancing the original DVD content with high-definition exclusives and providing an enriching experience for fans and newcomers alike. Notable for its inclusion are the insightful interview with director Joel Schumacher and a revealing look at the real-life Tigerland, adding layers of authenticity and personal touch to the film's backdrop. The commentary from Schumacher is a treasure trove of filmmaking anecdotes and a glimpse into his unique approach, making it a must-listen. In addition, the screen tests and TV spots retain their charm, with Colin Farrell's casting session standing out as a fascinating watch. While maintaining a direct and succinct approach, these extras successfully deepen one's appreciation for the movie and its historical context.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Joel Schumacher: Includes anecdotes, production details, and insights into Schumacher's direction.
• The Real Tigerland: Vietnam vets share their experiences of the real training area.
• Joel Schumacher: Journey to Tigerland: Schumacher reflects on creating the film.
• Ross Klavan: Ode to Tigerland: The screenwriter shares his personal experiences that inspired the screenplay.
• Featurette: A brief behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film.
• Casting Session with Colin Farrell: Footage of Colin Farrell auditioning for his role.
• Theatrical Trailer
• TV Spot: One Man
• TV Spot: Compelling Review

Tigerland," directed by Joel Schumacher in a notable departure from his earlier, glossier filmmaking style, represents a significant shift in Schumacher's career post the "Batman & Robin" debacle. Opting for a stark, anti-war narrative set against the Vietnam War backdrop, the film diverges from traditional war movie tropes, focusing instead on the pre-war experiences of soldiers training in a Louisiana boot camp designed to simulate Vietnamese battlegrounds. This film, imbued with a gritty, documentary-like aesthetic achieved through handheld 16mm cameras and minimalist lighting, reflects Schumacher's experimental approach influenced, albeit loosely, by the Dogme 95 movement. The story centers around the rebellious draftee Roland Bozz (Colin Farrell), who emerges as a complex character, rejecting the military's conformity while displaying profound empathy and leadership.

Schumacher's choice to cast relatively unknown actors at the time, including Colin Farrell in a career-defining role, Shea Whigham, and Michael Shannon, adds to the film's authentic and raw feel. Farrell’s portrayal of Bozz is both gripping and nuanced, with his internal moral conflict and disdain for the war underpinning the film's anti-war sentiment. "Tigerland" eschews the grandiosity of heroic war tales, opting instead for a nuanced exploration of sacrifice, camaraderie, and the absurdity of war bureaucracy as seen through the eyes of its characters. The screenplay by Ross Klavan, based on his own experiences, lends credibility and depth to the film’s narrative, steering clear of clichés and focusing on personal stories of resilience and the fight against dehumanization within the military apparatus.

Overall, "Tigerland" marks a profound pivot in Schumacher’s filmography towards more substantial storytelling, showcasing his ability to craft compelling narratives outside of mainstream Hollywood expectations. The film's raw portrayal of soldiers grappling with their roles in an impending war they neither support nor fully understand offers a poignant and critical examination of the Vietnam War era. Through innovative cinematography and compelling performances, Schumacher provides a gritty and realistic lens on the complexities of war and leadership, making "Tigerland" a standout film in the war genre.

In the Blu-ray presentation of "Tigerland," a lesser-discussed gem among Vietnam-era films, we are given a chance to revisit director Joel Schumacher's commendable work in a format that offers both strengths and areas for improvement. Unlike its more renowned counterpart, "Platoon," "Tigerland" provides a unique narrative focus, staying within the confines of a military training base and avoiding the actual battlegrounds, which affords a distinctive perspective on the war through the eyes of its pre-combat characters. These roles, brought to life by actors who have since come into their own fame, highlight the film's importance in exploring the personal battles and preparations of soldiers before their wartime experiences. The addition of new special features by Fox is a welcome enhancement, providing viewers with deeper insights into the making and significance of the film.

However, the Blu-ray release is not without its shortcomings. The 1080p video transfer displays a tendency towards edge enhancement, which may detract from the overall visual experience for those hoping for a reference-quality presentation. Such technical details are pivotal for enthusiasts looking to showcase the capabilities of their home theater systems, and in this aspect, "Tigerland" may fall short of expectations. While the supplemental content is enticing, especially for fans and those interested in the film's production and historical context, these additions alone might not justify the upgrade if pure visual quality is the primary criterion.

Conclusively, "Tigerland" on Blu-ray stands as a noteworthy addition to the collection of any aficionado of Vietnam-era cinema or Joel Schumacher’s directorial portfolio. The film's unique narrative approach combined with commendable performances makes it deserved of attention. However, potential buyers should temper their expectations regarding the visual transfer quality. It remains a solid purchase for those drawn to its special features and the novelty of revisiting an undervalued piece of cinematic history, albeit with reservations about its suitability as a showpiece for home theater demonstrations.