Resident Evil: Retribution Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the Blu-ray for "Resident Evil: Retribution" is a compelling visual experience. The film employs a dark, singular chromatic style that doesn’t typify vibrant colors and high-gloss video quality. However, brighter elements are utilized strategically, accentuated by bold contrast to make key visuals pop. Predominantly darker color schemes and gritty textures are intentionally used to drive the narrative, resulting in a moody and atmospheric viewing experience. Shadow delineation stands out, revealing fine details within dark backgrounds and low lighting scenarios. With stable contrast and deep blacks, scenes encompassing mixed content appear gradationally satisfying with crisp whites and dynamic highlights. Resolution is impeccable, characterized by intricate and definitively rendered detail that provides appreciable dimension and texture.

Furthermore, the Blu-ray 3D transfer retains the high quality of the 2D imagery while enhancing it with remarkable depth and clarity. Colors remain brilliant, balanced, and bright under various lighting conditions—from outdoor greens to neon-lit urban landscapes—maintaining consistency throughout. The image is razor-sharp, with details perfectly defined and clarity that is unbeatable. The 3D attributes are also impressive, offering a consistent sense of depth that enhances the visual narrative, whether through camera shots down long passageways or debris and actions scenes that extend beyond the screen. Instances of crosstalk are minimal and do not detract from the overall experience. This excellent 3D presentation balances natural depth with occasional dramatic effects, making it one of the better live-action 3D transfers available.

The 5.1 channel DTS-HD Master Audio presentation of "Resident Evil: Retribution" on Blu-ray delivers an energetic and immersive auditory experience that fully utilizes the surround capabilities. Bass response is robust, enhancing the dynamic impact of intense action sequences and the accompanying score. Despite the surrounds being mixed slightly on the higher side, potentially affecting the integration between front and rear channels, this does not detract from the overall experience. The clarity and detail of vocal inflections and background sounds are impeccable, ensuring that even subtle nuances are distinct and appreciable.

From the moment the studio logos appear, the dedication to an absorbing full-fledged surround sound experience is evident. The track's aggressive nature is paired with precision in sound placement, making every gunshot and explosion resonate naturally and dominantly across the stage. The immersive soundscape is further elevated by the smallest background elements, such as light natural ambiances and random beeps within the Umbrella testing facility. Musical compositions are seamlessly integrated, with smooth delivery and natural spatial distribution across the listening area. Dialogue clarity remains anchored in the center channel, offering pinpoint precision throughout. This DTS-HD MA 5.1 track epitomizes reference-level quality, providing an exhilarating audio experience that complements the film's high-octane action sequences.

The extras on the Blu-ray edition of "Resident Evil: Retribution" offer a comprehensive array of behind-the-scenes content and interactive features that will engage both casual viewers and series enthusiasts. The audio commentaries range from lighthearted and anecdotal with Paul W.S. Anderson and Milla Jovovich to more detailed and technical with Anderson and producer Jeremy Bolt. Disc 1 features 5 deleted/extended scenes in HD and 3D, along with a set of outtakes. Disc 2 provides several high-definition featurettes that dive into various aspects of production, from directing and character evolution to creature design and stunt work. Notably, the interactive Project Alice database offers an in-depth look at characters, profiles, and film clips. Additionally, fans can explore exclusive content including a set tour, and trailers for Capcom video games.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Writer/Director Paul W.S. Anderson with Mila Jovovich and Boris Kodjoe.
• Audio Commentary: Writer/Director Paul W.S. Anderson with Producer Jeremy Bolt.
• Deleted & Extended Scenes: Includes five scenes like Suburban Attack and Alice Fights Undead.
• Outtakes: Four minutes of bloopers.
• Project Alice: The Interactive Database: Interactive exploration of characters and film clips.
• Maestro of Evil: Directing Resident Evil: Retribution: Eight minutes on Anderson's directorial process.
• Evolving Alice: Examines Alice’s character growth.
• Resident Evil: Reunion: A piece on returning characters.
• Design & Build: The World of Resident Evil: Retribution: Visual effects overview.
• Drop (Un) Dead: The Creatures of Retribution: Features the film’s creatures and zombies.
• Resident Stuntman: Explores stunt choreography.
• Code: Mika: Mika Nakashima discusses her role.
• Resident Evil: Retribution – Face of the Fan: A fan's experience.
• Capcom Game Trailers: Features trailers for Resident Evil 6, Devil May Cry, and Dragon's Dogma.

Milla Jovovich returns as Alice in "Resident Evil: Retribution," the fifth installment of the franchise, where she once again battles the Umbrella Corporation and its hordes of flesh-eating undead. This time, Alice is captured but finds herself in various simulated environments, fighting old adversaries and teaming up with new ones, including game characters like Leon S. Kennedy and Ada Wong. Though the film boasts impressive production values and seamless integration of CGI with live-action, it suffers from a rehashed storyline and a barrage of repetitive action sequences. The movie's plot is thin and the script lacking, diminishing the potential of its original premise.

The film’s visual appeal is undeniable, with high-quality digital filmmaking creating a visually slick experience. The computerized effects merge well with real actors, bursting through meticulously detailed set pieces and costumes. Battle sequences, particularly in the suburban simulation, provide a temporary engaging spectacle. However, the movie ultimately offers a mindless sequence of gunfire and slow-motion acrobatics. Despite its $220 million box office return, this entry's narrative redundancy and character superficiality wear thin for many viewers.

In essence, "Resident Evil: Retribution" epitomizes style over substance, showcasing polished technical prowess while drowning in a lackluster plot. It remains an effortless escapist entertainment for fans craving visual stimulation over depth. While some may find fleeting enjoyment in its choreographed chaos, those expecting a compelling narrative or strong character development will likely find it disappointing.

"Resident Evil: Retribution" continues the franchise's trend of delivering high-octane action but falls short in terms of narrative substance and originality. The plot is thin and serves primarily as a vehicle for elaborate CGI sequences and slow-motion action scenes featuring Milla Jovovich. Fans of the series may find enjoyment in the familiar high adrenaline antics, but for others, it’s a tedious rehash lacking in depth and innovation. This installment arguably represents a nadir for the series, perpetuating its descent into formulaic territory.

The Blu-ray release, however, is a technical triumph. Sony's 3D presentation showcases exceptional visual clarity, with vivid colors and crisp detail that bring the action to life. The audio quality is equally impressive, capturing every explosion and gunshot with precision that serves to enhance the immersive experience significantly. The inclusion of extensive supplemental content adds further value, providing an in-depth look at the making of the film. For those with 3D capabilities, the technical prowess on display here makes this Blu-ray edition worth considering.

In conclusion, while "Resident Evil: Retribution" may falter as a compelling piece of cinema, it excels as a technical spectacle on Blu-ray. The lavish video and audio quality, coupled with comprehensive extras, make this release a must-have for die-hard franchise fans and 3D home theater enthusiasts. However, casual viewers or those seeking substantive storytelling are advised to rent before committing to a purchase.