Identity Blu-ray Review

This Blu-ray release of "Identity" showcases a vibrant 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer that stands out with its clarity, depth, and attention to detail. The 2.40:1 aspect ratio frame delivers an image that is consistently crisp, showcasing a rich visual palette that complements the film's suspenseful atmosphere. From the deep, atmospheric blacks to the vivid color saturation, the video presentation does justice to the film's aesthetic, balancing sharpness and color in a way that adds to the narrative without distracting from it. Despite the setting's inherent darkness and subdued tones, the transfer reveals intricate details, whether it's the texture of the motel's aged infrastructure or the subtleties of facial expressions. Flesh tones appear slightly pale, but this minor issue does not detract from the overall quality of the presentation.

Noteworthy is the transfer’s handling of contrast and shadow detail. While deep blacks and excellent contrast contribute to the image's depth, there is a slight tendency towards black crush, which occasionally obscures shadow details. However, this issue is negligible when considering the transfer's overall achievement in image cleanliness and noise-free presentation. The film grain is preserved well, maintaining the cinematic integrity of the original footage without veering into excessive post-production manipulation.

In summary, "Identity" on Blu-ray delivers an exemplary video experience that respects the source material while enhancing it for home viewers. It merges a clean, artifact-free image with a level of detail and color saturation that makes it stand out among contemporary releases. Despite minor quibbles about flesh tones and black crush, this release sets a high standard for video quality, maintaining a faithful yet visually striking representation of the film's atmospheric and gritty setting.

The audio presentation of "Identity" on Blu-ray is a testament to the power of a meticulously crafted uncompressed PCM 5.1 soundtrack, offering an experience that is as compelling as it is immersive. Distinguished by an almost constant atmospheric presence, the sound design ensures that the steady rainfall, which characterizes much of the movie's backdrop, is rendered with remarkable clarity and depth. The listener is enveloped in a rich tapestry of sounds, from the distinct pitter-patter of raindrops on various surfaces to the ominous roll of thunder in the distance. Each auditory element, whether the subtle variations in rain sounds or the impactful boom of thunder, is captured with such fidelity that it enhances the film's moody atmosphere significantly. The use of the rear channels is particularly effective, creating a 360-degree soundfield that pulls the viewer into the center of the stormy narrative.

Furthermore, the audio track boasts exceptional dynamics and directionality, making excellent use of its full sonic range to deliver both subtle ambient noise and powerful low-frequency effects with precision. Scenes involving intense actions, like heavy pounding on a door or an explosion, are underpinned by a robust bass response that adds a visceral dimension to the viewing experience. While the soundtrack excels in these areas, it does have its limitations; for instance, the film's score feels somewhat restrained by its confinement to the front soundstage, missing an opportunity to further enrich the surround sound environment. Nevertheless, dialogue reproduction remains crisp and clear throughout, ensuring that narrative elements are never lost amidst the atmospheric effects.

The Blu-ray release of "Identity" not only showcases the technical prowess of its audio presentation but also highlights the advantages of the format's capacity for extensive audio and subtitle options. This upgrade from standard definition to Blu-ray offers a substantially improved auditory experience, bringing out the subtleties of sound design that make for an engaging home theater viewing. Despite minor qualms about the spatial allocation of the score, this soundtrack stands as a prime example of how sound can dramatically amplify the suspense and intrigue of a film, making "Identity's" audio presentation an exemplary model for immersive cinematic experiences.

The Blu-ray release of "Identity" impresses with a well-rounded selection of extras catering to fans and cinephiles alike, highlighting a commitment to quality both in film presentation and supplementary content. Director James Mangold's commentary is insightful, delving into the intricacies of the film's single-location suspense, the meticulous set design, and his methodological approach to storytelling and character development, despite some perceptions of these characters as archetypal. Similarly, writer Michael Cooney offers an engaging narrative about the script's evolution, emphasizing the thought process behind character motivations and plot dynamics. The inclusion of quality deleted scenes in 1080p with director commentary adds valuable context and depth, presenting cut character moments that some may prefer for a more developed narrative. Additionally, storyboard comparisons provide a visual insight into the transition from concept to screen. However, the Starz on the Set featurette feels somewhat superficial, lacking in substantive analysis or discussion. This package demonstrates a comprehensive effort to bridge the gap between audience expectations and filmmaker intent, despite the absence of theatrical trailers which could have rounded out the collection by providing a marketing perspective on the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director James Mangold: Insightful discussion on film development.
• Audio Commentary with Writer Michael Cooney: Detailed exploration of script and characters.
• Deleted Scenes with Optional Director Commentary: Four character-rich scenes in 1080p.
• Starz: On the Set Featurette: Cast and crew interviews with limited depth.
• Storyboard Comparisons: Visual comparison for three key scenes in 1080p.

Identity," released in 2003 and directed by James Mangold, emerges as a beacon of ingenuity in the often predictable realms of horror and psychological thrillers. In an age dominated by the overt gruesomeness of films like the "Saw" series, "Identity" distinguishes itself by opting for a more cerebral approach, coaxing viewers into its labyrinth of suspense and mystery without resorting to shock-value horror. The film's narrative, tightly woven around a group of stranded travelers during a stormy night at a remote motel, unfolds with a palpable tension that eschews clichés, relying instead on a superbly crafted atmosphere of dread and anticipation. With a storyline that cleverly masquerades as a conventional slasher before unveiling its deeper, more intricate layers, Mangold encapsulates viewers in a masterful display of storytelling that keeps its true intentions obscured until the opportune moment.

Characterizations in "Identity" are meticulously rendered, with a cast that brings depth and complexity to their roles, ensuring that the audience remains invested and intrigued by the unfolding events. The ensemble, including John Cusack, Ray Liotta, and Amanda Peet among others, excel in their performances, effectively conveying the gradual unraveling of their psyche as the narrative progresses. Mangold's direction is precise and purposeful, using the storm both as a literal and metaphorical backdrop to the escalating tension, enriching the film with a noir-esque quality that amplifies the suspense. The plot's deliberate pacing and strategic reveals are complemented by an atmosphere that accentuates the sense of isolation and imminent danger, making the motel setting itself a character in this unnerving dance of death.

The true brilliance of "Identity" lies not just in its plot twists or the skilled performances but in its ability to elevate the genre without disparaging it. Mangold navigates the tricky waters of horror with respect and understanding, delivering a film that is as much a nod to the aficionados as it is accessible to those outside the genre’s fan base. The narrative's reliance on anticipation and psychological unease over graphic violence marks "Identity" as a standout "thinking person's horror film," compelling not only for its story but for its examination of human nature under duress. While it may sidestep traditional horror elements for some, its Hitchcockian flair for suspense and surprise solidifies its position as a memorable and smartly executed thriller.

Identity," a film that both grossed a respectable $51,000,000 at the domestic box office and remains an underappreciated gem in horror and mystery genres, proves itself as a must-watch. Despite not frequently appearing on many top lists, this movie excels with its clever storytelling, masterful direction, and standout performances by an all-star cast. It navigates the fine line between being a contemporary slasher and a sophisticated thriller with grace, courtesy of its intelligent script and inspired direction. The Blu-ray release by Sony amplifies the viewing experience, boasting high-quality video and audio transfers that capture the movie’s atmospheric tension brilliantly. The overall technical presentation is noted for being nearly impeccable, setting a benchmark for how genre films should be treated in home media formats.

The Blu-ray supplements, although anticipated to be more plentiful, do contribute value to the overall package, further enhancing the appreciation for this modern classic. Fans of diverse cinematic tastes—from those who typically steer clear of the slasher genre to aficionados of psychological thrillers and Hitchcockian tales—will find "Identity" a compelling watch. Its blend of a suspenseful narrative with a twist ending, elevated by an exceptional ensemble cast, secures its position as a high-caliber film not just within its genre, but across contemporary cinema.

In conclusion, Sony’s Blu-ray release of "Identity" is highly recommended for both fans of the genre and cinephiles looking for a finely crafted thriller that stands out for its intelligence and technical prowess. The film itself is a bold, engaging piece that deserves recognition among the best of horror and mystery films. With stellar video and audio quality enhancing the gripping tale and outstanding performances, this release is an essential addition to any collection, offering both an exceptional viewing experience and a deeper appreciation for the art of suspense.