Appleseed: Ex Machina Blu-ray Review

"Appleseed: Ex Machina" arrives on Blu-ray with an impressive, though not unparalleled, 1080p High Definition video presentation that faithfully adheres to its original aspect ratios of 1.85:1 and 1.78:1 widescreen. This CGI marvel transitions seamlessly to the Blu-ray format, showcasing a level of detail that brings its futuristic world to vivid life. The animation quality is mostly stellar, with acute shading, intricate layering in characters’ hair, and a rich, vibrant color palette that bursts with realism. However, the film does exhibit occasional softness in some scenes, a slight inconsistency that detracts from an otherwise pristine visual experience. Such moments, appearing softly focused or slightly veiled, may stir debate over their intentional nature given the film's high fidelity elsewhere.

Warner Brothers presents this cinematic journey with a visual feast for the eyes, where the darkest scenes boast as much clarity and detail as those awash in light. Black levels are described as solid, enhancing the overall depth of the image, though a few reports of contrast wavering in select shots have been noted – albeit as a minor distraction. The animation excels in rendering from the broad cityscapes down to the minutiae, such as the reflective quality of armor and the natural vibrancy in characters' eyes, lending a stunning realism to this animated world.

Despite these minor imperfections, this release is celebrated for its exceptional color reproduction and sharpness. The CG animation means that any flaws are more noticeable, yet this does not significantly mar what is largely considered a top-notch visual spectacle. From the lush detail visible in dark scenes to the bright and natural colors that leap off the screen, "Appleseed: Ex Machina" on Blu-ray is both a testament to the potential of high-definition animation and a satisfying experience for aficionados and newcomers alike. Attention to detail is paramount here, with vivid depictions that elevate the viewing experience – making it one of the finest animations to grace the Blu-ray format.

Appleseed: Ex Machina's Blu-ray release features Dolby Digital 5.1 audio tracks in both the original Japanese and the English dubbed versions, along with various other languages in 2.0 stereo. The audio presentation, although lacking a high-definition, lossless mix, is commendable for its clarity and dynamic range. Dialogue is sharp and prominent, evenly distributed across the frontal channels, ensuring that every line is discernible amidst the chaos of gunfire and explosions. The action sequences benefit from an active surround sound environment, with sounds of bullets, clashes, and atmospheric city noise enveloping the viewer. The mix effectively utilizes the LFE channel during intense moments, though it falls short in delivering consistently deep and impactful bass.

The sound field created by the Dolby Digital tracks is engaging, filled with a plethora of effects that range from subtle background noises to overpowering explosions and gunfire. However, some of the heavier sound effects and bass notes feel somewhat restrained, lacking the full-bodied depth that a lossless mix might have offered. Scenes that should shake the room with their sonic intensity at times come across as underwhelming. The score, with its eclectic mix of styles, complements the film's varied pacing and adds a unique layer to the audio landscape, albeit within the constraints of the lossy audio format.

In summary, while Appleseed: Ex Machina's Blu-ray audio presentation showcases a well-executed Dolby Digital 5.1 mix that excels in clarity and surround sound activity, it misses the mark by not providing a lossless audio option. The tracks deliver a solid auditory experience, particularly in terms of dialogue and overall balance, but the absence of a TrueHD track means that audiophiles and discerning fans are left wanting more. The depth and detail in low frequencies are notably lacking, which detracts from what could have been a fully immersive audio experience.

The "Appleseed: Ex Machina" Blu-ray presents an extensive collection of extras that are a treasure trove for both newcomers and long-time fans of the Appleseed series and anime aficionados in general. The disc features a riveting commentary track with Jerry Beck and the film's producer, Joseph Chou. Chou's in-depth discussion encompasses the film's origins, the innovative use of CGI and motion capture technologies, and the evolution of anime in the U.S., offering insightful background that enriches the viewing experience. Additionally, the disc includes several high-quality documentaries: one focuses on the collaboration between John Woo and Shinji Aramaki, another delves into the advancements in animation since the 2004 "Appleseed" movie, a third provides a look at the series' creator, Shirow Masamune, and the last explores the cultural exchange between East and West. These carefully crafted extras not only enhance the understanding of "Appleseed: Ex Machina's" production but also celebrate the broader impact and collaboration within the animation industry.

Extras included in this disc:

• Feature Commentary with Jerry Beck and Joseph Chou: A deep dive into the film's making and anime's history in the U.S.
• Team-Up: John Woo and Shinji Aramaki: Exploration of the collaboration between Woo and Aramaki.
• Revolution: Animating 'Ex Machina': Insights into the animation improvements over the 2004 "Appleseed."
• The Appleseed Chronicles: An overview of the franchise's history and its creator, Shirow Masamune.
• East Meets West: Examination of cultural influences between Japan and the United States in anime.

"Appleseed: Ex Machina" emerges as a visually stunning and energetically paced continuation of the Appleseed saga, fulfilling the expectations of seasoned fans while offering an accessible entry point for newcomers to the genre. The movie, presented in high-definition on Blu-ray, showcases its impressive animation and design with crystal-clear clarity and vibrant colors, complemented by a dynamic audio track that underscores the action-packed sequences and immersive environments. The involvement of John Woo adds a distinct flair to the film, with his signature action styles—slow-motion bullets, dramatic gunplay, and acrobatic combat—beautifully integrated into the animated format. This sequel not only retains the spirit of its predecessor but also enhances the franchise's appeal through these technically superb presentations.

Set in a post-war future where the utopian city of Olympus stands as a beacon of hope, "Appleseed: Ex Machina" dives deep into the lives of E.S.W.A.T. officers Deunan and Briareos, exploring their personal and professional challenges in this meticulously crafted world. The introduction of Tereus, a bioroid created from Briareos' DNA, adds layers of emotional complexity to the narrative, pushing the boundaries of the story's exploration of identity, love, and duty. The film does an admirable job balancing high-octane action with these profound themes, making it not just a visual feast but a thought-provoking tale that resonates with a sense of humanity amidst its futuristic setting.

For those unfamiliar with the Appleseed franchise or even anime in general, "Appleseed: Ex Machina" serves as an excellent gateway. Its straightforward approach to storytelling, combined with well-established characters and a richly developed universe, ensures that viewers are neither overwhelmed nor lost. While it pays homage to classic elements of sci-fi and action films, it stands out for its unique blend of mythology, cutting-edge animation, and compelling narrative. Whether you're drawn to it for its artistic merits or its engaging plot, this film promises a remarkable experience that showcases the potential of anime in high-definition media.

"Appleseed: Ex Machina," presented on Blu-Ray, is a title that does more than merely grace the collection of anime enthusiasts; it serves as an intriguing gateway for newcomers intrigued by the genre. Its presentation is a vibrant testament to the confluence of various styles, ranging from John Woo’s cinematic flair to the dystopian elements reminiscent of "The Matrix," and even shadowing the mechanical dynamism found in "Transformers." This eclectic mix not only enhances the viewing experience but also broadens the appeal of the anime genre to a wider audience. While the film efficiently bridges various stylistic elements, it stops short of igniting a fervent passion for anime in viewers unacquainted with the genre. Nonetheless, it stands as a solid entry point worth exploring, especially for those willing to delve deeper into anime's visually eclectic storytelling methods.

The Blu-Ray edition of "Appleseed: Ex Machina" shines in its video and audio delivery, boasting very good quality that enhances the overall viewing experience. However, one notable shortfall is the absence of a lossless or uncompressed audio option for the original Japanese track, a detail that may disappoint purists or those seeking the most authentic auditory experience. Despite this, the disc compensates with a commendable selection of supplements aiding both newcomers and seasoned fans alike in navigating the intricate world of "Appleseed." These additions are indeed valuable in contextualizing the film's place within the broader anime landscape.

In conclusion, "Appleseed: Ex Machina" on Blu-Ray represents a worthwhile acquisition for both anime aficionados and those new to the genre. While it adeptly amalgamates diverse cinematic styles and delivers a solid audio-visual experience, it slightly falters by not providing an uncompressed audio option for the original Japanese track. Nevertheless, its strengths, particularly in facilitating an understanding and appreciation of anime through substantial supplementary content, solidify this release as recommended viewing. It’s a series that invites exploration, promising an enriching addition to any film library.