Enemy of the State Blu-ray Review

Buena Vista has outdone itself with the Blu-ray release of "Enemy of the State," presenting the film in a manner that far surpasses any of its standard definition DVD releases. This new presentation on a 2.35:1 widescreen 1080p/MPEG-2 transfer showcases the film in outstanding clarity and detail that was previously unattainable. Colors are vivid and striking, yet maintain a natural look, even in scenes utilizing color filters and harsh lighting. Black levels and contrast are masterfully handled, offering a visual depth that enhances every frame. The transfer maintains a grain structure that preserves the filmic look without becoming intrusive, ensuring that texture details, especially in skin tones and backgrounds, are crisply defined.

However, the otherwise pristine transfer is not without its shortcomings. Early segments exhibit source print defects, such as scratches and an apparent bad splice, likely artifacts from an older master used for the transfer. These issues momentarily distract but fortunately do not persist throughout the film. Despite these minor blemishes, the meticulous remastering effort ensures that shadow details remain discernible, and the overall image quality remains artifact-free, barring a few scenes with slight fuzziness in solid color areas.

The technical prowess of this Blu-ray edition is exemplary of how to treat a high-definition transfer. The MPEG-2 encode used here is surprisingly smooth, deviating from the often coarser appearance associated with this format. Fine details are abundantly clear, down to the individual pores on actors' faces, making "Enemy of the State" a reference-quality release by Buena Vista. This Blu-ray not only revitalizes viewer enthusiasm for the film with its splendid video quality but also sets a high standard for future high-definition releases.

The audio presentation of "Enemy of the State" on Blu-ray showcases an impressive PCM track that significantly enhances the viewing experience over older Dolby Digital formats. This uncompressed audio offers a rich and detailed soundscape, perfectly complementing the film’s dynamic action sequences and intense chase scenes. The directional sound is a standout feature, with satellites zooming and whooshing sounds spiraling around the viewer in a manner that is both immersive and impressive. The film’s dialogue remains crisp and clear throughout, never lost amidst the high-adrenaline scenes, ensuring that every word is intelligible. This clarity extends to the finer details of the sound design, where even the subtle effects are cleanly reproduced, from the distinct clank of a microphone to the tearing of tape.

Buena Vista's commitment to uncompressed PCM soundtracks brings "Enemy of the State" to life with a 48 kHz/24-bit encode that emphasizes not just the action, but the detailed sound environment that characterizes this Tony Scott thriller. The balance struck between dialogue, music, and effects is noteworthy, achieving near-perfection in how these elements blend together without overshadowing one another. The low bass performances stand out, providing a depth to the audio that underscores the tension and excitement of the film's more intense moments. Even in quieter scenes, the attention to audio detail is exemplary, enhancing the realism and drawing viewers deeper into the story.

The overall effectiveness of the PCM audio in delivering both the thunderous excitement of action sequences and the subtleties of quieter moments cannot be overstated. The soundtrack’s dynamic range, detailed sound effects, and balanced mix work together to create a highly engaging auditory experience. "Enemy of the State" on Blu-ray exemplifies how high-quality audio can elevate a film, making it not just a visual spectacle but a fully immersive sensory experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Enemy of the State" offer a lean yet insightful glimpse into the making of this surveillance thriller, highlighted by a 29-minute documentary featuring insights from Will Smith, Gene Hackman, Tony Scott, Jerry Bruckheimer, and other key personnel. Although some of the interview content recycles from older electronic press kits, Tony Scott's fresh reflections on utilizing cutting-edge surveillance technology and consulting real-life surveillance experts provide compelling context, especially in shaping Hackman's character. The inclusion of deleted scenes, albeit not significantly enhancing the narrative, together with the movie's theatrical trailer, rounds off the extras. However, the absence of the previously released Unrated Extended Version is felt, leaving viewers with only the original theatrical release and supplementary deleted scenes. Particularly noteworthy is the All Access: Showdown featurette - an 11-minute detailed breakdown of the climactic restaurant sequence, best reserved for after viewing the main feature to avoid spoilers.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes not included in the theatrical release.
• The Making of Enemy of the State: A featurette including interviews and behind-the-scenes insights.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer for the film.
• All Access: Showdown: Detailed breakdown of the final restaurant sequence.

Enemy of the State," presented on Blu-ray, marks a significant upgrade from its previous DVD releases, capturing the essence of this late 90s techno-thriller with renewed vigor. At its core, the film showcases Will Smith's Robert Dean, a lawyer unwittingly tangled in a deadly NSA conspiracy after receiving evidence of political murder. Director Tony Scott, known for his high-octane cinematic style, adeptly balances this with a more grounded approach, catering to the narrative's homage to 70s political thrillers. The result is a compelling mix of action-packed sequences and a plot that smartly taps into the paranoia surrounding surveillance and privacy.

Smith's portrayal of Dean is central to the film's success, highlighting his evolution from an everyman to a heroic figure battling a pervasive government threat. This Blu-ray release not only enhances the visual experience but also underscores Smith's versatility and charm, proving his standing as a bona fide movie star. His dynamic with Gene Hackman, playing ex-spy Brill, adds depth to the narrative, blending wit and suspense in equal measures. The supporting cast, including a notably eerie performance by Jon Voight as the NSA antagonist, complements the leads well, contributing to an atmosphere rife with tension and intrigue.

Technically speaking, the Blu-ray edition of "Enemy of the State" is a revelation. It breathes new life into Tony Scott’s vision, offering clarity and detail that were previously muddled on DVD. From the meticulously crafted action scenes that keep viewers on the edge of their seats to the exploration of surveillance technology that's eerily prescient, this release reaffirms the film's reputation. It's a testament to not only Scott’s directorial flair but also the enduring appeal of a well-told story about one man against the might of an overreaching government.

Enemy of the State" Blu-ray presentation revitalizes a fan-favorite thriller with a polished enhancement that proves the format's robust capabilities. The film, cherished since its original release, gains an impressive dimension through this Blu-ray edition. Despite minor source material flaws impacting video quality lightly, the overall visual experience remains superior, showcasing the transfer's meticulous care. Coupled with a remarkable PCM audio track, the release elevates the auditory experience well above prior versions, emphasizing the dramatic score and nuanced soundscapes that pull viewers deeper into the film's high-stakes narrative.

The protagonist’s likability, portrayed with charm by Will Smith, and Director Tony Scott’s measured approach amplify the film's appeal, transforming a seemingly conventional thriller into an engrossing tale of governmental surveillance. The Blu-ray edition does justice to this dynamic, offering not only an exemplary audio-visual experience but also a selection of engaging extras, albeit modest. The success of this release signals a positive trajectory for Blu-ray quality, reassuring enthusiasts about the format’s vitality amidst a saturated market.

In conclusion, "Enemy of the State" on Blu-ray strikes an ideal balance between preserving the original film’s essence and embracing the technological advancements of home entertainment. The meticulous video transfer, despite slight imperfections, and the superior audio track constitute a notable improvement over previous releases, enhancing overall viewing pleasure. While extra features may not be extensive, the quality of the main presentation confirms that this edition is a worthwhile acquisition for both longtime fans and newcomers alike, underscoring the continuing relevance and appeal of Blu-ray as a medium for experiencing cinema at its best.