The Commuter Blu-ray Review

Lionsgate Films presents "The Commuter" on Blu-ray with a highly competent AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a cinematic 2.39:1 aspect ratio. Shot using Arri Alexa Mini cameras and finalized in a 4K Digital Intermediate (DI), this Blu-ray release effectively conveys the film's dynamic visual style, despite its predominantly confined and shadow-laden settings. The transfer handles the frequent slate gray tonalities and dim lighting scenarios present inside the train with commendable precision, though occasionally soft CGI and muted interiors can obscure fine details in key scenes. Notably, outdoor moments are vibrant and offer a refreshing palette contrast, making the most of the available resolution to highlight excellent detail.

Close-ups are particularly striking in this transfer, capturing minute details on Liam Neeson’s expressive face with remarkable sharpness. Some expertly framed shots, paying homage to iconic Hitchcock techniques, showcase the meticulous attention to cinematic detail. Black levels are deep and well defined, contributing significantly to the overall image quality, particularly in dimly lit sequences. Surprisingly, the presentation remains free from significant technical glitches; only infrequent and minor instances of banding are observed, which is rare for Lionsgate Blu-ray releases.

While the repetitive train setting may limit vibrant color opportunities, "The Commuter" still manages to deliver a satisfying visual experience. The precise rendering of facial features and expressive black levels enhance the narrative tension. However, the high-quality transfer can inadvertently make green-screen effects more discernible, especially through the train’s windows. Regardless, this is a robust representation of the film’s intended visual aesthetic, making it suitable for both enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

The Dolby Atmos track for "The Commuter" provides an immersive auditory experience that consistently delivers on the ambiance of the train environment. Background noises, such as the rhythmic click-clack of the train and passenger interactions, are meticulously reproduced. With the build-up of action and intensity throughout the film, the track excels in scenes featuring a train out of control and a dramatic derailment. These moments are characterized by forceful engagement of the LFE channel and precise placement of overhead effects through the Atmos channels. Dialogue is rendered with clarity, and Roque Baños' energetic score envelops the listener via the side and rear channels, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Lionsgate's choice of an Atmos track, also available in 7.1 Dolby TrueHD, distinguishes itself with superior directionality and substantial LFE rumblings, particularly noticeable during fight scenes and the climactic derailment sequence. The audio quality maintains a high standard throughout, with no discernible glitches. In addition to the main Atmos track, the Blu-ray includes 5.1 Dolby Digital tracks in Spanish and French and an English 2.0 Dolby Digital track optimized for late-night listening. There’s also an English Descriptive Audio track, making the disc accessible to a wider audience. Subtitles are available in English, English SDH, and Spanish.

While the audio track is not quite reference-quality, it comes very close, ensuring that most viewers will be thoroughly satisfied with the aural presentation.

The extras contained on the Blu-ray of "The Commuter" provide insightful behind-the-scenes content, although they are relatively brief. "End of the Line" offers a standard Electronic Press Kit (EPK) experience, delivering interviews with cast and crew, including Liam Neeson and director Jaume Collet-Serra, enriched with behind-the-scenes footage. Meanwhile, "Off the Rails" centers on the technical challenges encountered during production, particularly the intricacies of shooting in confined spaces and the specialized rig built for the shoot. Both featurettes, though short, deliver a comprehensive glimpse into the film's production process.

Extras included in this disc:

• End of the Line: Interviews with cast and crew, behind-the-scenes footage.
• Off the Rails: Focus on technical challenges and set construction.

"The Commuter" presents Liam Neeson in familiar territory, portraying Michael MacCauley, an ex-cop turned insurance salesman thrust into extraordinary danger. Routine transforms into chaos as Michael is approached by the enigmatic Joanna (Vera Farmiga) during his standard train commute. The premise—identifying and tracking a mysterious passenger in exchange for a hefty sum—spirals into a plot brimming with absurd coincidences and implausible developments. Director Jaume Collet-Serra crafts a narrative requiring significant suspension of disbelief, compensating with intense action sequences confined to the claustrophobic corridors of the commuter train.

Reuniting with Collet-Serra, Neeson's performance anchors "The Commuter," lending credibility to a storyline teetering on the edge of logic. Comparisons to past collaborations like "Non-Stop" are inevitable, with parallel themes of a beleaguered everyman navigating a web of deception and danger. However, where "Non-Stop" marginalized its plausibility issues, "The Commuter" pushes its plot holes to the forefront. The film accelerates through a series of moral quandaries, showdowns, and perilous stunts that demand little critical thought but offer high-octane escapism.

Technically, the film benefits from Collet-Serra's atmospheric direction and Paul Cameron's precise cinematography. Interior shots, crafted with dedicated rigging, enhance the visceral experience, complementing the relentless pace of Michael's journey. Despite an ambitious attempt at pseudo-philosophical musings on life's grind and inevitabilities, the narrative remains largely driven by action rather than intellect. Fans of Neeson's brand of geriatric action will find familiar comfort here, while viewers expecting intricate suspense may end up more entertained by the film's unintentional comedic highs. Ultimately, "The Commuter" delivers a formulaic yet enjoyable ride, buoyed by Neeson's reliable presence amidst its frenetic implausibility.

The Commuter delivers a high-energy, action-packed ride helmed by Liam Neeson, whose compelling performance anchors a plot that thrives on escalating tension amid a series of improbabilities. The Blu-ray release flaunts excellent technical merits, including crisp image clarity and robust audio dynamics that heighten the intense atmosphere aboard a speeding train—a fitting backdrop for this thriller. The visual presentation revels in finely detailed shots and well-maintained color balance, while the audio mix accentuates the suspenseful score and sound design with precision.

The narrative, while thin and occasionally preposterous, captures attention through its relentless pace and numerous plot twists. Neeson's portrayal, although hampered by a formulaic script, demonstrates his unwavering ability to command action scenes and engage the audience. The supporting cast contributes adequately, but it's Neeson's effortful performance that injects the film with necessary gravitas. Despite the film's recurring lapses into the realm of the absurd, the practical effects and stunt work offer a visceral experience palpable through this quality Blu-ray rendition.

The Commuter is ultimately so relentlessly silly that its high-octane thriller elements are repeatedly undercut. Still, for those looking for an undemanding adrenaline rush, The Commuter will probably suffice handily enough. For those so interested, this Blu-ray offers top-notch technical merits.