Full Metal Jacket Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Full Metal Jacket" provides a superb 1080p/VC-1 transfer, showcased in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. This iteration builds upon the remaster created for the 2012 Digibook version, distancing itself from the poorly received 2006 predecessor. The transfer's sources trace back to Kubrick's original photography, resulting in filmic softness, inherited inconsistent grain, and a washed-out palette that authentically reflect the director’s vision. Although minor edge halos persist, the overall image quality stands strong, preserving the movie’s integrity.

The video presentation excels in detail, offering sharp and vivid close-ups that highlight individual hairs, wrinkles, and stitching in uniforms. Colors are vibrant, enhancing the visual experience from the Marine barracks to Vietnam’s war-ravaged landscapes. Skin tones appear natural, complemented by deep, inky black levels that add depth to the frame. Despite minor halos, this remains the best visual presentation of "Full Metal Jacket" to date.

The Blu Ray release of "Full Metal Jacket" offers a compelling audio experience, though it defaults to a lossy Dolby Digital 5.1 mix upon initialization. However, users can switch to the uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround track via the menu, a feature consistent with the 2007 and 2011 releases. The dialogue is clear and intelligible, albeit slightly thin and hollow. While effects like gunshots and explosions don't possess the same impact as in modern films, they remain clean and pronounced, with sturdy LFE output and substantial rear speaker activity. Sounds such as rolling tanks, machine gun sprays, and ambient battlefield noises enrich the viewing experience, even as the track stays true to the film's original mono roots.

In addition to the primary English audio tracks, there are numerous options available in other languages, with comprehensive subtitles for accessibility. The choice between a lossless Dolby Digital 5.1 and an uncompressed LPCM 5.1 mix is a significant upgrade from the film's original mono mix. These options allow war sounds—gunshots, screams, and explosions—to be effectively dispersed through the rear speakers. The sound effects are refined to ensure they are impactful without being overwhelming, while ambient noises are rendered clearly. Dialogue is consistently crystal clear and free from any distortive artifacts such as pops or hisses. Moreover, the robust LFE and wide dynamic range contribute to an immersive audio experience. The score and soundtrack enhance the overall audio quality without overshadowing other elements, earning this presentation high marks.

The Blu-ray extras for "Full Metal Jacket" provide an enriching delve into the film's production and the meticulous nature of Stanley Kubrick’s filmmaking. Highlighted by the documentary Stanley Kubrick's Boxes, viewers gain a unique glimpse into the legendary director’s archive and the extensive cataloging process, showcasing his obsessive attention to detail. The audio commentary, while fascinating due to contributions from author/screenwriter Jay Cocks and actors Adam Baldwin, Vincent D'Onofrio, and R. Lee Ermey, suffers from a lack of cohesion as participants were recorded separately. On the bright side, the segment "Between Good and Evil" offers insightful reflections from cast member Matthew Modine and others on various production aspects and Kubrick's directorial style, remarkable for any serious fan of the film. Below is a detailed list of the extras included:

Extras included in this disc:

• Stanley Kubrick's Boxes: Eccentric documentary exploring the extensive catalogue of Kubrick's personal archives.
• Full Metal Jacket Audio Commentary: Separate recordings from key cast and crew, offering mixed reflections on the film.
• Between Good and Evil: Interviews and behind-the-scenes insights with Matthew Modine and cast.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer for the film.

Stanley Kubrick's "Full Metal Jacket" stands as an exceptional war film that maintains its powerful grip on viewers even after multiple re-releases. Adapted from Gustav Hasford's novel "The Short-Timers," the film is a masterclass in examining the brutal realities and inherent dualities of warfare. It unfolds in two distinct acts, beginning with an unflinching portrayal of Marine boot camp, brilliantly brought to life by R. Lee Ermey’s unforgettable performance as Gunnery Sgt. Hartman. The relentless and dehumanizing training strips recruits of their individuality, preparing them for the chaos that awaits.

Transitioning to the war itself, Kubrick focuses on a marine named 'Joker' (Matthew Modine), capturing the relentless moral complexities soldiers face. The latter half of the movie adeptly explores how different marines adapt to the grim realities of combat—some become sadistic, some remain cautious, while others maintain a dark sense of humor. Vincent D’Onofrio’s portrayal of Pvt. Pyle is hauntingly transformative, embodying the devastating effects of such intense conditioning and warfare. The thematic richness extends to Kubrick’s ingenious use of Mickey Mouse symbolism, subtly critiquing the absurdity and inhumanity of war.

Complemented by an exceptional 60s soundtrack, Kubrick’s cinematography adeptly captures the film’s dual tone, merging dark comedy with brutal seriousness. His meticulous attention to visual detail underscores the irony and horror of war, enhanced by striking performances that elevate the narrative's existential inquiry into human nature. This blend results in a compelling examination of humanity under duress, reaffirming "Full Metal Jacket" as a timeless cinematic achievement in the war genre.

'Full Metal Jacket' stands as a seminal war film, showcasing Stanley Kubrick's unparalleled directorial prowess. The 25th Anniversary Edition DigiBook enhances the viewing experience with superb video and audio quality upgrades that depict the film's iconic scenes with remarkable clarity and precision. The high-definition transfer is exceptional, boasting a crisp, clean picture that captures every gritty detail of the Vietnam War's grim reality. The sound design, featuring an enhanced DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 remix, ensures an immersive auditory experience that heightens the tension and drama of Kubrick's narrative. However, while these technical improvements elevate the cinematic experience, the additional content leaves much to be desired.

The DigiBook includes a 60-minute documentary that, intriguingly, does not focus specifically on 'Full Metal Jacket', but rather on Kubrick's broader oeuvre. While this may appeal to ardent Kubrick enthusiasts and completists, the absence of new, film-specific extras may disappoint those seeking deeper insights into this particular masterpiece. The archival documentaries and commentary track remain valuable inclusions, but they are carryovers from previous releases.

In conclusion, this iteration of 'Full Metal Jacket' is a must-have for dedicated collectors and those who have yet to add this classic to their Blu-ray repertoire. Its technical enhancements solidify its place in any serious collection, despite the limited new content. For existing owners debating an upgrade, the decision hinges on one's prioritization of audiovisual improvements versus fresh supplemental materials. Nonetheless, 'Full Metal Jacket' remains an essential viewing experience, lauded for its unflinching portrayal of war's human toll and its continued relevance in cinematic history.