This Means War Blu-ray Review

This Means War" graces the Blu-ray platform with a 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer that stays true to its cinematic release, maintaining the film's original aspect ratio. The visuals, shot on Super 35mm film, present a distinctive graininess that, while contributing to a naturally filmic aesthetic, detracts from the sharpness one might expect from digital or finer-grain film sources. This is particularly noticeable in longer shots that appear softer, though close-ups manage to showcase a commendable level of high-definition detail - from facial features to the textures of clothing. Despite this, the Blu-ray transfer is commendable for its lack of digital noise reduction (DNR) and edge enhancement, opting instead for a color grading that leans towards the vibrant but occasionally suffers from over-saturation and unnaturally warm skin tones. The high contrast and vividness make for a visually engaging experience, without major encoding issues or distractions, even if it doesn't match the sleekness of other titles in the genre.

McG's directorial flourishes bring an extra layer of visual flair to "This Means War," albeit with some contentious choices. The transfer's fidelity to detail in close-ups is impressive, highlighting everything from skin pores to the finer aspects of wardrobe with clear, saturated clarity. However, the film's aesthetic suffers under an exacerbated saturation that renders skin tones unrealistically tanned and sometimes results in blown-out highlights that erase facial details under harsh lighting. While this approach aims to inject a heightened sense of allure into the film, it can also overshadow the naturalistic qualities of the image.

Despite these stylistic quibbles, the Blu-ray presentation of "This Means War" offers a robust visual experience. The encoding efficiently handles shadow delineation and texture representation without falling prey to significant artifacts or shimmering. The overly vibrant palette and occasionally excessive contrast might not appeal to all viewers, but for those who can look past McG's intensified aesthetic sensibilities, the Blu-ray delivers a solid high-definition transfer that captures the theatrical experience with integrity.

The audio presentation of "This Means War" on Blu Ray, featuring a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, provides an engaging, though not groundbreaking, auditory experience. The track excels in delivering a vivid sound landscape during the film’s numerous action sequences, utilizing the rear channels effectively to immerse viewers in helicopter flights, gunfire, and the cacophony of a car crash. Despite these moments of audio brilliance, the mix tends to settle into a more conventional groove during the film's romantic interludes, yet it maintains an ambient authenticity with sounds of nightlife, traffic, and nature seamlessly woven into dialogue scenes. The audio’s dynamic range is commendable, offering clean highs and mids, alongside a subtly powerful bass presence that enriches the overall soundscape without overwhelming it.

Dialogue throughout the movie remains crisp and forefront, ensuring that viewer engagement is continual, without the need for volume adjustments. This clarity comes amidst a score that, while not particularly memorable, is delivered with fidelity and enhances the viewing experience. Furthermore, the Blu Ray edition is laudably equipped with English SDH subtitles and a descriptive audio track, plus an extensive variety of language dubs and subtitles, catering to a wide audience base.

Despite its technical proficiency and the compelling utilization of surround sound to amplify action sequences - including detailed rear channel work during intense fight scenes and seamless audio panning that mirrors on-screen movement - the audio track does not distinguish itself as extraordinary within the action movie genre. It executes with precision, clear explosions, and precisely delivered dialogue but lacks a unique signature that might render it unforgettable. In essence, while "This Means War" delivers auditory engagement with its well-crafted sound design, it does so within the bounds of expectation, rather than exceeding them.

The Blu-ray extras for "This Means War" provide an engaging mix of content that broadens the viewing experience significantly, showing the potential variations and behind-the-scenes aspects of the film's production. Director McG is front and center in much of these, particularly with the audio commentary track, where he delivers a frank, albeit sometimes overly focused on his preferences, discussion about the film’s successes and missteps. The inclusion of six deleted scenes, three alternate endings, and an alternate opening concept showcases the film's developmental stages and what might have been, complete with optional director’s commentary for deeper insights. The uncensored gag reel offers a lighter, more informal glimpse at the on-set atmosphere, while the Bachelorette Party segment extends the narrative beyond its original ending in a fun yet arguably unnecessary way. Overall, these extras paint a detailed picture of the creative processes behind "This Means War," mixing conceptual ambition with practical filmmaking challenges.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director McG shares his candid insights and preferences.
• Bachelorette Party: Extends the story into a post-film celebration.
• Deleted Scenes: Six scenes offering more context and content with optional director commentary.
• Alternate Endings: Three different conclusions to the film, each with optional commentary.
• Uncensored Gag Reel: A compilation of bloopers and line mistakes with uncensored moments.
• Alternate Opening Concept: A pre-visualization of a more ambitious opening scene, accompanied by commentary.
• Theatrical Trailer: The official movie trailer.

This Means War," a Blu-ray presentation by 20th Century Fox, merges the dynamic duo of Chris Pine and Tom Hardy, alongside Reese Witherspoon, in a rom-com that attempts to blend sleek spy antics with the heart-fluttering beats of a romantic comedy. Director McG endeavors to stitch together a narrative that catapults CIA operatives FDR (Pine) and Tuck (Hardy) from the adrenaline-pumping corridors of international espionage into the equally treacherous realm of romantic rivalry. However, this high-concept conceit stumbles, grappling with the suspension of disbelief as these two ostensibly dashing agents engage in an over-the-top battle over Witherspoon's character, employing an arsenal of CIA resources, from surveillance bugs to thermal imaging, in what unfolds as a baffling misuse of government assets for personal vendettas.

The film, ensconced in a veneer of action-comedy, struggles with its footing in realism—be it Tuck's immersion into online dating or FDR's implausibly upscale bachelor pad, which the script stubbornly tries to justify through cinematic visuals rather than narrative cohesiveness. These elements conspire to paint a picture of opulence and modern dating that feels outdated and hard to digest. Moreover, McG’s directorial style brings a certain aesthetic discord that further muddies the waters, toggling erratically between chase sequences and intimate moments in a manner that leaves the viewer yearning for consistency.

Despite boasting a cast that mixes action stalwarts with rom-com royalty, "This Means War" fails to leverage its star power effectively. The chemistry among Pine, Hardy, and Witherspoon rarely ignites, hampered by a script that oscillates between trying to kindle romantic sparks and igniting explosive action without truly committing to either. The movie, thus, teeters on the edge of being a forgettable foray into an already crowded genre space where both the love story and spy thriller elements needed a sharper execution to truly make a mark. The Blu-ray edition, while offering both theatrical and extended cuts, does little to amend the film’s foundational flaws—leaving much to be desired in this convoluted mix of love and espionage.

This Means War" lands on Blu-ray with a presentation that sparks debate among viewers. Lauded as a potential Valentine's Day charmer for those seeking a blend of romance and comedy, the film's transition to home video has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that its box office allure doesn't translate well into the realm of repeat home viewings, suggesting a diminished appeal over time. Despite boasting a trio of charismatic leads, the movie is critiqued for relying heavily on their star power while skimping on script depth, rendering it a quintessential example of Hollywood's formulaic approach to the romantic comedy genre. However, for enthusiasts undeterred by these criticisms, the Blu-ray does not disappoint in technical merits, providing a strong audiovisual experience complemented by an array of entertaining extras, albeit appealing principally to a niche audience of diehard rom-com aficionados.

The consensus on film quality is notably divided. While some humor manages to break through the otherwise mundane blend of action and comedy, it's insufficient to offset the general sentiment that the movie is an unremarkable addition to the actors' portfolios. This perception extends to the technical aspects of the Blu-ray itself, deemed proficient but ultimately falling into the category of generic amidst the vast sea of home video releases. Special features, including commentary from director McG, stand out as a silver lining for those inclined towards behind-the-scenes content, yet this alone is unlikely to shift the overall lukewarm reception.

In conclusion, "This Means War" on Blu-ray appears to cater to a specific audience: those either devoted to the lead actors or seeking a light rom-com to pass the time, with low expectations regarding innovation or script quality. While technically solid in presentation and extras, the film struggles to transcend its initial cinematic reception, remaining at best a fallback option among home video selections. Its juxtaposition of commendable technical execution against a backdrop of critical ambivalence encapsulates its position as a product of Hollywood's entertainment conveyor belt, resonating with a niche market yet failing to capture a broader appeal.