Rigor Mortis Blu-ray Review

Rigor Mortis” is presented on Blu-ray by Well Go USA with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.38:1 aspect ratio. Shot digitally with the Red Epic, this transfer exhibits a distinctive and deliberate color grading that includes almost monochromatic scenes punctuated by bursts of color, adding visual intrigue. The film employs various hues like a jaundiced yellow which adds a garish hue in some scenes reminiscent of malfunctioning fluorescent lights, fostering a unique aesthetic. The meticulous framing by Mak and DP Ng Kai-Ming spotlights select items, such as an alabaster ring, against virtually colorless backgrounds. Fine details shine through even radically filtered scenes, yet some of the CGI, like spectral tendrils, intentionally softens. Contrast has been skillfully pushed to highlight lighter gradients, though this occasionally leads to visible banding, especially in brightly lit scenes.

The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode adheres closely to the filmmakers' intention. Subdued photography favoring a teal-orange palette renders colors cleanly, with primary hues appearing exceptionally vivid. Contrast toning provides an almost black-and-white feel that chillingly complements the horror narrative. While brightness levels are balanced, the very darkest portions of the frame suffer from visible crush, and minor banding persists throughout. However, the 2.35:1 image remains richly detailed, showcasing finely delineated lines and lifelike textures in facial complexions and various household objects. Despite minor encoding imperfections, this Blu-ray transfer effectively preserves the artistic vision of “Rigor Mortis.

The lossless audio mix of "Rigor Mortis" delivers an engrossing and high-quality auditory experience. Utilizing the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks, both in Cantonese and English, the presentation excels in creating a multi-dimensional soundfield that effectively accentuates the film's eerie atmosphere. The surround activity is particularly noteworthy, providing a panoply of discrete effects that enhance the horror elements—from subwoofer-driven low frequencies during jump scares to the unsettling, clear foley effects like squiggling tendrils. Dialogue is clean and intelligible, seamlessly integrated with the eclectic and dramatic score to maintain top-notch fidelity and a broad dynamic range throughout.

The mix makes excellent use of the surrounds, filling the room with creepy and immersive sounds, whether it's the squawks of caged birds or the disturbing noises of ghostly entities. The front soundstage offers a broad and detailed dynamic range, albeit with higher frequencies occasionally appearing slightly too bright. Low bass is potent, reaching ultra-low depths in several instances, although it sometimes feels exaggerated. Despite these minor issues, the overall delivery remains highly engaging, amplifying the film's emotional and thrilling elements.

Overall, "Rigor Mortis" features a well-crafted DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack that significantly enhances its spooky narrative. The audio design's ability to distinguish various effects and sounds ensures a cohesive and gripping aural experience, making it an essential component for maximizing enjoyment of this Hong Kong horror film.

The extras section on the Blu-ray of "Rigor Mortis" is a well-curated assortment that enriches the viewing experience, although it leans on the minimal side. The standout component is the theatrical trailer, which is presented in high definition (1080p) and runs for 2 minutes and 2 seconds. This trailer provides a concise glimpse into the film’s unique atmosphere, showcasing its haunting visuals and intriguing premise. The supplementary content available on this disc, though limited, is produced with high-quality standards, ensuring that fans of the film can relish a polished presentation.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: High definition preview of the film, highlighting key scenes and atmosphere.

"Rigor Mortis," directed by Juno Mak, is a visually striking Hong Kong horror film that pays homage to the 1980s jiangshi cinema, particularly the "Mr. Vampire" series. The plot follows a despondent actor, played by genre veteran Chin Siu-ho, who moves into a dreary apartment complex and attempts to end his life, only to inadvertently unleash malevolent spirits. The film’s narrative, co-written by Mak, Jill Leung, and Philip Yung, weaves an array of subplots involving the building's eccentric residents and their macabre pasts, creating an eerie, dreamlike atmosphere drenched in foggy nostalgia and supernatural threats. Despite some narrative inconsistencies and overly familiar elements, Mak's stylish direction and Man-Ching Ng's evocative cinematography ensure the film's look is unsettlingly beautiful, employing traditional Chinese folklore with a fresh, inventive twist.

"Rigor Mortis" excels in its atmospheric construction but falters in character development and pacing. Chin Siu-ho’s portrayal as a washed-out actor parallels some elements of his real-life persona, adding an intriguing meta-layer. However, the film doesn't flesh out many of the secondary characters adequately. The script presents fragmented storylines, including the involvement of a mysterious albino child and his mentally unstable mother (played by Kara Hui), which sometimes feel disjointed from the central narrative. Yet, the performances by Anthony Chan and Chung Fat as Taoist priests harken back to their roles in the "Mr. Vampire" series, serving as both a nod to fans and integral players in the film's dark rituals.

While the film occasionally struggles with redundancy and a convoluted amalgamation of horror tropes, its commitment to a nightmarish aesthetic and intense visual flair compensates significantly. The heavy reliance on CGI might deter purists preferring practical effects, and the somewhat predictable twist could disappoint seasoned horror aficionados. Nonetheless, "Rigor Mortis" emerges as a commendable rekindling of Hong Kong horror’s past glories, enriched by its sleek stylistic choices and manifold references to cult classics. The film stands as a testament to Juno Mak’s potential as a formidable auteur in the genre.

"Rigor Mortis," directed by Juno Mak, is a visually arresting and stylistically daring homage to the jiangshi films of the 1980s, blending traditional Asian folklore with modern horror nuances. The narrative is teeming with peculiar characters and intriguing plot points, assembling a rich tapestry of supernatural elements. Although it incorporates some overly predictable story beats, the film's eerie atmosphere and oppressive tone succeed in creating a genuinely spooky experience. Notably, it features a robust cast of veteran character actors renowned for their roles in classic horror cinema, adding layers of nostalgia and authenticity. Mak's stylistic flourishes and directorial zeal ensure that even during slower or inconsistent moments, the film remains captivating.

From a technical perspective, the Blu-ray release of "Rigor Mortis" excels. The video quality is commendable, capturing the film's stunning and creepy imagery with clarity and precision. However, it’s the audio presentation that stands out as superior, immersing viewers in the unsettling soundscape crucial for the horror genre. While the Blu-ray package is notably sparse in terms of supplementary materials, this deficiency is mitigated by the sheer quality of the main content, which should appeal to both genre aficionados and newcomers alike.

In conclusion, "Rigor Mortis" is an enthusiastically stylish horror film that pays homage to its cinematic roots while delivering an engaging and visually rich viewing experience. Despite minor predictabilities and a lackluster array of supplemental features, the exceptional technical presentation on Blu-ray makes this release highly recommendable for horror fans.