Chicago Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Chicago" uses an AVC MPEG-4 encoding with a 1080p resolution and an aspect ratio of 1.85:1, offering a visually compelling experience. This version, although possibly not a brand-new transfer, presents a more polished and vibrant picture compared to its earlier iterations. The image exhibits a captivating sparkle, particularly noticeable in specific scenes, enhancing the overall stability and clarity. While there remains a noticeable grain layer that enriches the film's nostalgic atmosphere, the picture remains impressively sharp. Some softened elements are evident due to the original smoky scene lighting, but these do not detract from the film's authenticity.

The depth of the image is especially pronounced during theater sequences, providing impressive visual layering that enhances viewing immersion. While black levels are generally strong, some dark scenes present challenges, such as a courtroom moment where the pinstripes on Richard Gere's jacket become apparent only in select movements. This phenomenon is more noticeable with advancements in Blu-ray technology. Color reproduction in this transfer is remarkable, featuring satirical hues that amplify the film's neo-noir aesthetic, especially highlighted by the bold reds like those on the "Roxie" sign.

Flesh tones are strikingly rendered throughout varying scenes, showcasing texture, pores, and makeup with impressive clarity. Each lighting setup consistently delivers natural and warm skin tones that add depth to the characters’ appearances. The maintained grain layer adds nostalgic texture without introducing unwanted noise or artifacts, solidifying this Blu-ray presentation of "Chicago" as visually satisfying and respectful to its theatrical roots.

The Blu-ray release of "Chicago" delivers an outstanding audio experience, significantly enhanced by the new Dolby TrueHD 7.1 mix. This upgrade from the previous PCM uncompressed mix adds depth to the soundtrack, with noticeably stronger vocals and effective use of surround channels. The soundtrack, which earned an Academy Award for Best Sound, truly shines in this format, immersing viewers in a captivating auditory experience. The TrueHD mix intensifies the film's atmosphere by delivering robust low-frequency effects (LFE) and utilizing surrounds for dynamic effects, ensuring an engaging and enveloping soundscape.

In addition to the English 7.1 Dolby TrueHD, the Blu-ray also includes English 5.1 Dolby Digital and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital tracks, offering a variety of listening options. The dynamic range is remarkable, with a seamless blend between sound effects, ambient noises, and primary action, ensuring no single element overwhelms the others. The soundtrack plays creatively with the available channels, expertly placing voices and instruments throughout the surround field. Notably, in a prison scene, ambient sounds of a guard locking cells are artfully circulated through the speakers in a precise sequence, enhancing the realism of the environment.

Dialogue reproduction is expertly balanced, particularly during musical numbers where it harmonizes seamlessly with the orchestral accompaniment. The mix ensures that vocals maintain clarity without overshadowing other elements, contributing to a cohesive and immersive musical experience. This meticulous attention to detail across all audio components makes "Chicago's" Blu-ray audio track one of the most impressive catalogue releases to date.

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The Extras section on the Blu-ray release of "Chicago" is extensive and caters to fans of the musical genre, although the content largely consists of pre-existing material. The included audio commentary by Director Rob Marshall and Screenwriter Bill Condon remains a highlight, providing insightful details into the film’s choreographic and narrative dimensions. Notably, "Chicago in the Spotlight: A Retrospective with Cast and Crew," exclusive to this edition, offers a comprehensive behind-the-scenes exploration of the film’s journey, featuring input from key figures such as Rob Marshall and Renée Zellweger. Additionally, the disc offers Extended Musical Performances, albeit presented in 4:3 letterbox format, allowing for an immersive appreciation of the film's visual and aural craftsmanship through behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and rehearsals.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insightful discussion by Rob Marshall and Bill Condon.
• Chicago in the Spotlight: In-depth retrospective with cast and crew.
• Extended Musical Performances: Behind-the-scenes insights into musical numbers.

The Blu-ray release of "Chicago" delivers an engaging cinematic experience that echoes the vibrancy and excitement of its theatrical roots. Rob Marshall's adaptation remains faithful to the essence of the stage musical, transforming it into a visually dynamic film that captivates audiences with its stylized representation of the Roaring 20s. The musical's narrative, centered on Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, deftly weaves themes of fame, ambition, and betrayal, fortified by energetic musical numbers. The film successfully pays tribute to the classic musicals of Hollywood's Golden Age while rejuvenating the genre for contemporary viewers.

Performance-wise, "Chicago" thrives on its strong ensemble cast. Renee Zellweger embodies Roxie with a commanding yet nuanced portrayal, balancing ambition and vulnerability. Catherine Zeta-Jones's performance as Velma is equally magnetic, capturing the screen with charisma and seduction; her role stands out as a pinnacle in her career. Richard Gere, though more subdued, provides a solid performance as the shrewd lawyer Billy Flynn, and John C. Reilly delivers a crowd-pleasing turn as Amos Hart. The cast's vocal performances are commendable, with each actor contributing to the film's infectious energy and emotive stories.

"Chicago" may not herald a return to the timeless musical classics, but it carved a niche within the modern era of cinema with its clever choreography and astutely staged sequences. Its renewed relevance is a testament to its quality and appeal, rekindling interest in musical adaptations. Although comparisons can be drawn to other significant musicals like "Moulin Rouge," "Chicago" stands as a formidable contender for its rich storytelling and canny blend of cinematic spectacle with faithful homage to its stage origins. As evidenced by its accolades, including multiple Oscars, "Chicago" resonates with audiences, both familiar with and new to musical theater.

The new SteelBook release of "Chicago" on Blu-ray offers the same content as the previous Lionsgate Diamond Edition release, presenting no significant upgrade to entice owners of the earlier version. While the packaging may attract collectors keen on this SteelBook design, the disc itself remains unchanged, lacking the enhancements seen in recent home entertainment releases, such as 4K resolution and Dolby Atmos sound.

This re-release appears as a minor attempt to reignite interest in the film rather than a genuine effort to enhance its audiovisual quality to modern standards. For those who have never owned "Chicago," this edition serves as a practical addition, presenting the film in a visually appealing package. However, it falls short of expectations for those looking for substantial enhancements in video and audio fidelity.

In conclusion, while it may appeal to collectors or newcomers, this SteelBook release offers little incentive for existing owners to upgrade. One might only consider purchasing if they have an affinity for the packaging, but as a product, it misses an opportunity to deliver the quality improvements that audiences have come to expect in 2023.