Anastasia Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Anastasia" presents a fascinating case study of how a beloved animated feature transitions to high-definition. While some critics have voiced concerns over the transfer quality, it's crucial to address that though it may not achieve the standards of Disney's renowned animated transfers, it still offers a commendable viewing experience. Notably, the 1080p/AVC-encoded video boasts remarkable line detail and fluid animation, with CGI elements integrating seamlessly with traditional 2-D animations to enhance depth perception. However, it's important to acknowledge minor issues such as slight banding in color gradients, particularly noticeable in scenes with complex backgrounds or where impressionist techniques are employed, like the bridge confrontation or the boat ride with pinkish skies.

The color palette of "Anastasia" benefits greatly from this transition to Blu-ray, showcasing a balance that is neither oversaturated nor too tepid. Despite this, viewers might encounter some inconsistencies, like variable color timing in certain scenes or occasional aliasing effects in CGI sequences – issues that might slightly detract from the overall experience. The film’s intrinsic darker tones and earthy hues contrast beautifully with brighter moments, providing a visual richness that fans will appreciate. Yet, certain high-definition enhancements have unintentionally highlighted aspects of Don Bluth’s animation style – such as the more pronounced facial features – which can take some getting used to.

Despite these minor drawbacks, "Anastasia" on Blu-ray is a largely successful effort, presenting a visual feast that far surpasses previous home video formats. While the CG elements may show their age and occasional technical imperfections emerge, these do not significantly hinder the enjoyment of the film. The transformation from VHS to Blu-ray not only magnifies the intricacies and beauty of Bluth's work but also ensures that "Anastasia" remains a visually appealing experience for both new and returning audiences. This Blu-ray edition may not be perfect, but it is a testament to the enduring charm and resilience of its animated world.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray edition of "Anastasia" is a testament to the immersive potential of DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround mix, preserving its auditory enchantment splendidly. The film benefits immensely from this lossless multi-channel audio, showcasing a richly active sound design that makes adept use of the rear channels for both vibrant effects—such as demon bats darting, cars swerving dynamically across the soundscape, and debris from explosive scenes zooming by—and atmospheric sounds that enrich the scene's ambience, like the chilling wintry winds or the buzz of a bustling ballroom. This mix doesn't shy away from delivering substantial low-end frequencies which contribute to an encompassing rumble from the subwoofer, ensuring clarity and depth across the audible spectrum.

Musical scores and songs represent a vital aspect of "Anastasia's" auditory experience, and they radiate with clarity and vigor through this audio mix. Both David Newman's score and the film's vocal tracks are mixed to perfection, ensuring they're not just heard but felt. The central and front channels deliver the songs with such power that they effectively draw the listener into the movie's enchanting soundfield, while the surround channels remain vibrantly active, enhancing everything from song and dance numbers to the ambient noise of pivotal scenes like the harrowing train crash or the climactic battle, adding layers of immersion.

Moreover, dialogue is exceptionally handled, ensuring every word is conveyed with pristine clarity, making it easy for the audience to stay engaged with the narrative flow. Directional audio effects superbly complement this clarity, with meticulously placed sounds such as Bartok's fluttering wings or the ominous echoes of winged daemons moving around the soundstage, enriching the storytelling. The LFE channel adds a robust backbone to the mix, activating during key moments to deepen the impact of visuals with corresponding auditory weight. Overall, this audio presentation not only honors the film's original auditory ambitions but elevates them, making "Anastasia’s" Blu-ray edition a delightful auditory experience.

The Blu-ray edition of "Anastasia" offers a robust package of extras that cater to a wide range of interests, from animation enthusiasts to music lovers. All previous DVD extras have seamlessly transitioned to this release, complemented by new engaging content. The highlight is undoubtedly the audio commentary with directors Don Bluth and Gary Goldman, providing an introspective look into their creative process and the film's production nuances. Fans are treated to a behind-the-scenes journey through "The Making of Anastasia" and "Anastasia: A Magical Journey," offering a comprehensive exploration of the film's animation, story development, and music. Unique additions like "How to Draw with Don Bluth" and two remote control-based games enrich the viewing experience further. The inclusion of sing-alongs, a spin-off film "Bartok the Magnificent," and music videos rounds out a diverse and entertaining collection. Maintaining a professional tone throughout, this Blu-ray release demonstrates a commitment to preserving the film's legacy while embracing new interactive technologies.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Directors Don Bluth and Gary Goldman discuss the creation process.
• Sing-a-Longs: Lyrics provided for "Once Upon a December" and "Learn to Do It."
• Anastasia's Music Box Favorites: Compilation of sing-alongs from various Fox films.
• Russian Stacking Doll Game: An interactive game focusing on sorting nesting dolls.
• Anastasia's Seek and Find: A timed image-matching challenge.
• Bartok the Magnificent: A stand-alone film featuring the character Bartok.
• How to Draw with Don Bluth: A tutorial on drawing main characters from "Anastasia."
• The Making of Anastasia: A detailed documentary covering all aspects of production.
• Anastasia: A Magical Journey: A making-of feature hosted by Aaliyah.
• Making of Journey to the Past Music Video: Behind-the-scenes of Aaliyah's music video.
• Music Video: Journey to the Past by Aaliyah
• Trailers and TV Spots: Promotional materials for the initial release.

Anastasia," the ambitious project born from the collaboration of animators Don Bluth and Gary Goldman with 20th Century Fox, aimed to directly challenge Disney's dominance in the animated film sphere. This film, a fantastically loose rendition of the Romanov family saga, embarks on a fairy tale journey, diverging sharply from historical accuracy to weave a story filled with fantasy, adventure, and musical splendor. Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, it tells the tale of Anastasia, voiced by Meg Ryan, who, suffering from amnesia, embarks on a voyage to rediscover her royal lineage, guided by the conman Dimitri, portrayed by John Cusack. Bluth and Goldman’s creation attempts to marry the allure of Disney storytelling with a distinct animation style, featuring grand musical numbers and a darker narrative tone that distinguishes it from its competitors.

The film, while echoing Disney in its structure—complete with a strong-willed protagonist, a mystical villain in Rasputin, and adorable sidekicks—never quite achieves the magical charm associated with Disney classics. Yet, it stands out through its willingness to embrace darker elements and its Broadway-esque musical interludes. The character of Anastasia emerges as a resilient and independent figure, though her assertiveness occasionally borders on excessive. The portrayal of Rasputin, despite being a menacing figure in history, leans towards the comically ineffectual in the film, mitigating the potential for genuine threat. Furthermore, Bluth's commitment to exploring more somber facets of storytelling is evident in the film's visual style and thematic choices, setting a unique tone that diverges from the more polished and brightly colored aesthetic characteristic of Disney animations post-Bluth.

Despite these creative endeavors, "Anastasia" failed to secure a lasting foothold in the competitive animation landscape, highlighted by Fox Animation Studios’ closure shortly after its release. Nonetheless, it represents a significant chapter in the evolution of animated feature films, illustrating the impact of healthy competition on creative innovation. The movie encapsulates Bluth’s legacy of intertwining realism with fantasy, creating an animated experience that is both a commendation of and a departure from traditional Disney fare. As a product of its time, "Anastasia" embodies the quest for identity and belonging amidst turmoil, framed within an enchanting narrative that challenges and pays homage to its Disney predecessors.

In the Blu-ray presentation of "Anastasia," the legacy of Fox Animation Studios—despite its tumultuous history—is brought back into the limelight. Notably, the studio’s brief revival in 2009 for the production of Wes Anderson's "Fantastic Mr. Fox" offered a glimmer of hope for its longevity. "Anastasia," standing as a formidable attempt by Fox to challenge Disney's reign during its original release, now finds a new life in high definition. Although it couldn't shift the powerhouse that is Disney, "Anastasia" continues to garner a loyal fanbase, particularly among those who admire Don Bluth's work. The Blu-ray edition underscores this resilience, offering a visually stunning and auditory pleasure that demands attention from animation enthusiasts.

The film’s transfer to Blu-ray is praiseworthy, not only for respecting the original artistic vision of Don Bluth but also for presenting it in a manner that both newcomers and longtime fans will appreciate. While there are minor flaws in the video presentation, they are far outweighed by the overall quality of the visuals and the exceptional audio experience. For fans of Bluth, the inclusion of numerous extras provides an invaluable deep dive into the creative process behind "Anastasia." This Blu-ray does not just serve as a means to relive the film but as an educational resource that enhances one’s appreciation for Bluth’s artistic contributions.

Conclusively, the Blu-ray edition of "Anastasia" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and artistic merit of Don Bluth's work, all while breathing new life into a classic tale. Its excellent video and audio presentation, coupled with a wealth of supplementary material, make it an indispensable addition to any animation aficionado's collection. Whether you're revisiting this cherished film or experiencing it for the first time, "Anastasia" on Blu-ray offers a compelling case for why it remains a notable and beloved work in the realm of animated cinema.