Amores Perros Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Amores Perros" by Criterion, presented in its authentic aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC for a sharp 1080p transfer, marks a significant improvement over previous releases. Under the vigilant supervision of director Alejandro G. Iñárritu and cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, the newly minted 4K master not only respects but enhances the original cinematic vision with a level of clarity and depth previously unseen. The meticulous effort invested into this release is palpable, as it corrects and elevates the visual narrative through superior handling of overexposed lighting, refining the nuanced details that were once overshadowed or entirely missing in older versions.

This Criterion edition showcases a notable advancement in grain management across the film's varied segments, presenting the diverse contrasts and lighting techniques in a more organic and visually appealing manner. Contrast enhancements shine through in both daylight and night scenes, improving shadow definition and overall image integrity. Moreover, the introduction of a recalibrated color scheme breathes new life into the visuals, correcting past inaccuracies with more naturalistic hues and balanced whites, thus rectifying erstwhile issues and presenting a more authentic representation of the film’s intended aesthetic. Such improvements not only augment the film's visual fluidity but also ensure a richer, more immersive viewing experience.

The substantial upgrades evident in Criterion’s release bring “Amores Perros” closer to its original glory and artistic intention. From corrected color balances to refined grain exposure, the painstaking restoration guarantees a transformation that transcends mere technical enhancement, offering viewers an unparalleled cinematic experience. The attention to detail in this Region-A locked Blu-ray edition caters to aficionados seeking to experience Iñárritu’s masterpiece in its most pristine form yet, a testament to Criterion’s commitment to excellence in film preservation.

The Blu-ray release of "Amores Perros" features an exclusive Spanish DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, complemented by optional English subtitles for its audience. Despite initial expectations among audiophiles for an Atmos inclusion, the current lossless audio presentation impressively holds its ground, leaving little to no room for complaint regarding its fidelity and immersive capabilities. Through a meticulous delivery of sound, the track masterfully handles scenes rich in detail – take, for instance, the jarringly authentic car crash episode that showcases the precise distribution of audio across channels, enveloping the viewer in a cocoon of cinematic realism.

However, it's not just the high-intensity moments where the audio track shines; it's also in the subtler segments where ambient sounds and background noises play pivotal roles. The natural dynamic fluctuations observed stem from an organic assemblage of sounds that are intrinsic to the film's soundscape, faithfully reproduced by the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track without succumbing to distortion or encoding mishaps. This adherence to the original sound design illustrates a commitment to capturing the essence of "Amores Perros," ensuring viewers experience every auditory nuance as intended by its creators.

Despite the absence of an Atmos track, it's crucial to recognize that the provided DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track does not merely serve as a default option but rather as a finely tuned auditory experience that respects and elevates the source material. Through its delivery, the track maintains a professional and engaging auditory presence, reinforcing the film's narrative impact and emotional depth without overshadowing them. Suffice to say, the audio presentation on this Blu-ray not only meets but in many aspects, surpasses expectations, rendering it a commendable component of the overall release.

The Blu-Ray extras for "Amores Perros" provide a comprehensive exploration into the making and impact of this seminal film, unparalleled in detail and depth. From new programs featuring insightful discussions with director Alejandro G. Iñárritu and key cast members, to raw production footage and deleted scenes with optional commentary, these extras illuminate the film's intricate narrative and powerful themes. The addition of music videos directed by Iñárritu himself, alongside a video essay and a vintage trailer, enriches the viewer's appreciation of the film's artistic achievements. The detailed booklet rounds off the package, offering critical essays that deepen the context and understanding of "Amores Perros". This collection is a treasure trove for film enthusiasts and scholars alike, meticulously curated to preserve the legacy of Iñárritu's groundbreaking debut.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Vintage trailer for Amores Perros with music, Spanish text, and English subtitles.
• Alejandro G. Iñárritu and Pawel Pawlikowski: Discussion on the making, key themes, and impact of Amores Perros.
• Amores Perros: Reunion: Actors and director recall their work on the film and its influence on their lives.
• Prologo: Footage from rehearsals with directorial observations by Alejandro G. Iñárritu.
• Perros, Amores, Accidentes: Research and raw footage from production, including graphic content.
• Gustavo Santaolalla: Video interview about the film's soundtrack conception.
• Music Videos: Three music videos related to the film, two directed by Iñárritu.
• Video Essay: Written and narrated by critic Paul Julian Smith, exploring the film's themes.
• Deleted Scenes: Three scenes with optional commentary by Iñárritu and cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto.
• Booklet: Illustrated booklet featuring essays by critical thinkers on the film and its significance.

Alejandro G. Iñárritu's groundbreaking film "Amores Perros," presented on Blu-ray by Criterion, provides an unflinching look into the lives intertwined by fate and the consequences of love driven by desperation. The film's narrative is split into three interconnected stories, each exploring different facets of love and betrayal in the gritty backdrop of Mexico City. With impeccable performances by Gael García Bernal, Marco Perez, Vanessa Bauche, Alvaro Guerrero, Goya Toledo, and Emilio Echevarría, the film navigates through the complexities of human emotions set against a society marred by poverty, social insecurity, and corruption. The technical execution of the movie, enhanced by Rodrigo Prieto's cinematography and Gustavo Santaolalla's haunting score, further immerses the viewer into Iñárritu's meticulously crafted chaotic world.

The Criterion release boasts of superior video and audio quality that brings out the raw intensity and beauty of Iñárritu's vision. The plethora of bonus features, including new interviews with the cast and crew, deleted scenes with director and cinematographer commentary, and an insightful booklet with essays, enriches the viewing experience by offering deeper understanding into the film's creation and its thematic relevance. In contrast to its previous releases, notably the Lionsgate Films edition in the United States, this Blu-ray edition stands out for its attention to the cinematic elements that make "Amores Perros" a compelling watch, ensuring that the subtitles do not hamper the viewing experience for non-Spanish speakers.

The intertwining tales of "Amores Perros," from Octavio's misplaced affection and descent into the brutal world of dog fighting to Daniel and Valeria's tragic love story marred by a life-altering accident, and finally to Chivo's poignant journey of redemption, are portrayed with an unyielding honesty. Iñárritu’s adept storytelling coupled with the cast's powerful performances makes for a riveting experience. Noteworthy is the film’s gritty realism and how it avoids descending into melodrama, choosing instead to present a raw and unvarnished look at societal flaws. The Blu-ray presentation captures this essence perfectly, presenting "Amores Perros" as not only a significant piece of cinema but as an important commentary on the human condition within a particular socio-political context.

Alejandro G. Iñárritu's directorial debut, "Amores Perros," emerges as a beacon of cinematic brilliance in Criterion's latest Blu-ray release. This 2000 masterpiece, often overshadowed by Iñárritu's subsequent blockbusters, offers a raw and intimate glimpse into the mosaic of life in Iñárritu's homeland, encapsulating a narrative depth and emotional intensity unmatched in his later works. The personal touch Iñárritu lends to "Amores Perros" arguably elevates it above his other films, including the highly lauded "21 Grams." The new release benefits immensely from a meticulous 4K restoration, ensuring that every frame conveys the original intensity and grittiness of Iñárritu's vision.

Criterion has not only delivered a visually stunning version of "Amores Perros" but has also adorned it with a treasure trove of exclusive and archival bonus features. These additions offer fans and newcomers alike a profound insight into the film's creation, Iñárritu's directing philosophy, and the cultural context surrounding the movie. The dedication to preserving and enhancing the film's quality and relevance is evident, making this Blu-ray a must-have for cinephiles who appreciate the convergence of technical excellence and compelling storytelling.

In conclusion, Criterion's release of "Amores Perros" on Blu-ray is an exemplary case of how a film can be rejuvenated for both new audiences and longstanding fans. The outstanding 4K master brings an unparalleled clarity to Iñárritu's vibrant portrayal of life's complexities, while the rich array of bonus content enriches the viewing experience significantly. This release is not just recommended; it is, without a doubt, a vital addition to any serious film collection, marking a celebratory moment for one of cinema's most compelling voices.