Knives Out Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Knives Out" by Lionsgate Films showcases an impressive AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Captured using various Arri Alexa cameras with a 2K DI, the video quality reflects a meticulous effort to emulate traditional film aesthetics. This leads to a slightly mottled texture, which may evoke mixed reactions. The color palette occasionally leans towards an almost desaturated look, especially noticeable in some exterior scenes. Nonetheless, the transfer excels in delivering high detail levels, vividly bringing out fine fabrics and intricately detailed interiors of the Thrombey mansion—a setting that itself becomes a significant character in the narrative. This meticulous attention to detail extends to shadow elements in the darkest scenes, where minor deficits scarcely detract from the overall visual experience.

Every frame offers an abundance of detail, particularly evident in the costuming and production design. Warm yellow and brown tones dominate, though primary colors like reds and blues are rendered with commendable clarity and vibrancy. Black levels maintain the deep, inky quality that is essential for a transfer of this caliber. The simulation of Steve Yedlin's digitally simulated film look is convincing, although it falls slightly short when compared to its 4K UHD Dolby Vision counterpart. The 1080p Blu-ray rendition doesn't resolve film grain as cleanly, occasionally drawing more attention to its digital nature. However, these nuances are unlikely to affect the viewing experience for most audiences, making this Blu-ray a strong contender for an exemplary home-viewing visual showcase.

The Blu-ray of "Knives Out" features a meticulously crafted Dolby Atmos audio track that enriches the film's overall immersive experience. Despite the film’s narrative not leaning heavily on over-the-top sound design, the Atmos channels are deliberately and effectively engaged. The overhead channels provide sporadic, yet distinctly crucial environmental effects, contributing to key plot developments with subtle overhead thumps that unveil hints in the mystery. Outdoor scenes benefit significantly from heightened surround activity, presenting a multi-dimensional sonic landscape. Dialogue and score are delivered with impeccable clarity, devoid of any issues like distortion or dropouts.

This audio presentation mirrors that of its 4K UHD counterpart, encapsulating a more understated yet effective approach to Dolby Atmos. "Knives Out" leverages Atmos' capabilities to differentiate the spatial characteristics of various settings within the film's primary location—the mansion. The study crime scene feels appropriately confined, whereas the drawing room and other spaces are given depth and breadth through precise sound staging. Front and center channels handle much of the dynamic content, while side, rear, and vertical channels enhance spatial awareness and dimensionality, even during quieter moments. This acute attention to detail ensures each auditory element contributes to the narrative. Dialogue remains consistently clear and precise, with the score seamlessly integrated, highlighting key moments without requiring any adjustment in audio levels.

The Blu-ray extras for "Knives Out" are impressively comprehensive, providing a deep dive into the film's production and thematic elements. With two insightful commentaries, including an in-theater experience with Rian Johnson and an engaging discussion featuring the writer/director, director of photography, and actor Noah Segan, viewers gain valuable behind-the-scenes perspectives. The extensive "Making a Murder" featurette stands out, meticulously covering all phases from script development to final cut. Other highlights include a focused look at costume design, production details, and cinematography. Additional elements, such as deleted scenes with director commentary and unique marketing materials, round out an enticing package for fans and cinephiles alike.

Extras included in this disc:

Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Rian Johnson: Comprehensive insights with technical crew and actor Noah Segan.

In-Theater Commentary with Rian Johnson: Live commentary during a screening.

Deleted Scenes: Features optional commentary by Rian Johnson.

Making a Murder: An extensive exploration of the film's production journey.

Rian Johnson: Planning the Perfect Murder: Insight into screenplay structuring.

Director and Cast Q&A: From a 2019 Westwood screening.

Ode to the Murder Mystery: A fun faux trailer hosted by Rian Johnson.

Meet the Thrombeys Viral Ads: Clever in-universe advertisements.

Trailers: Includes Teaser, Theatrical, and Final Trailers.

"Knives Out" successfully reinvigorates the classic whodunit genre with a modern and inventive twist. Directed by Rian Johnson, the film features an intricate and engaging storyline revolving around the death of the famed mystery writer Harlan Thrombey, played by Christopher Plummer. The plot intricately unfolds following the discovery of Thrombey's body, initially presumed as a suicide. However, the introduction of private detective Benoit Blanc, skillfully portrayed by Daniel Craig, turns the tables as he delves into the labyrinthine layers of family dynamics and potential motives. The story gains remarkable depth as it artfully reveals elements about Thrombey's death, keeping the audience engrossed from start to finish.

The ensemble cast is one of the film’s strongest assets, brilliantly bringing to life each character with distinct personalities and potential motives. Key performances include Jamie Lee Curtis as Harlan's daughter Linda, Don Johnson as her husband Richard, Michael Shannon as Harlan's son Walt, and Ana de Armas as Marta Cabrera, Harlan’s nurse who becomes Blanc’s de facto Watson. Chris Evans stands out as the ne'er-do-well Hugh Ransom, further cementing the complexity of familial ties within the narrative. Johnson expertly uses flashbacks and clever dialogue to quickly establish character backstories and interrelationships, enriching the narrative without losing pace.

Blanc’s southern charm and idiosyncrasies add a unique flavor to the mystery, complemented by humorous elements like Marta’s truth-induced vomiting. This blend of suspense and comedy creates a delightful and invigorating experience. Johnson's screenplay is sharp and witty, punctuated with laugh-out-loud moments and subtle nods to classic literature, indicative of its intelligent design. As each layer of deceit and truth is peeled back, "Knives Out" holds its audience captive with its thrilling blend of mystery and humor, cementing its place as a standout in modern cinema.

"Knives Out" on Blu-ray encapsulates the classic murder mystery genre, delivering an engaging, intricately woven narrative reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s masterpieces. Directed by Rian Johnson, this film transcends the conventional whodunit format by integrating complex interpersonal dynamics and sharp, witty dialogue. The ensemble cast provides a delightful performance that injects life into the narrative, maintaining a gripping pace throughout. The film's ability to blend traditional mystery elements with a modern twist makes it both nostalgic and refreshing.

From a technical standpoint, the Blu-ray version does not disappoint. The transfer showcases a visually striking presentation, with excellent clarity and detail that enhances the viewing experience. The Dolby Atmos audio mix is both immersive and precise, enriching the film’s atmosphere and ensuring that every quip and clue is heard distinctly. Additionally, the Blu-ray release is packed with a comprehensive array of bonus features, offering hours of supplementary content that fans will undoubtedly appreciate. This wealth of extras further solidifies the value of this Blu-ray edition.

In conclusion, "Knives Out" is a compelling film that adeptly balances homage to classic mysteries with innovative storytelling. It stands out as one of the year's most entertaining movies, driven by stellar performances and exemplary technical execution. For mystery aficionados and casual viewers alike, this Blu-ray edition is highly recommended for its superior quality and extensive bonus content. Whether in 4K or 1080p, "Knives Out" is a must-have addition to any collection.