Unthinkable Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Unthinkable" demonstrates solid video presentation with a 1080p AVC MPEG-4 encode in the native 1.85:1 ratio. Close-up shots are particularly impressive, revealing minute skin textures and crisp detailing on various objects throughout the film. Mid-level camera pans exhibit discernible definition, maintaining a consistent sense of depth despite the film’s predominantly gray and cold visual scheme. The color range is deliberately reserved to set the thematic tone, with fleshtones offering a natural, albeit slightly balmy, texture that matches the film's visual aesthetic.

The transfer is sharp and contrasts are spot-on, delivering bright whites and stable, though occasionally elevated, blacks which might appear less dynamic but are appropriate given the visual style of the film. Despite sporadic issues such as minimal aliasing during wide-angle cityscape pans and scenes involving either stock or mock stock footage which introduce disparity in quality, the overall rendering remains clean. Occasionally, instances of light artifacting and ringing were observed, but these imperfections are not overly distracting. A pleasing layer of film grain persists uniformly, adding a cinematic texture that enhances the film's gritty atmosphere.

Ultimately, while "Unthinkable" may not be a visual tour-de-force, this Blu-ray transfer is faithful to the source material. Though it isn't without its flaws—intermittent fluctuation in skin tones and some details being drowned out in darker scenes—the final product remains visually engaging. The minor speckles and slight anomalies here and there underscore the authenticity and rawness that suit the film’s stark narrative.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Unthinkable" is delivered in a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround mix, offering solid technical proficiency with some notable strengths and areas that could benefit from improvement. Dialogue is consistently clear, full-bodied, and well-enunciated, occupying a prominent and coherent position within the soundstage. Nuanced details are articulated with precision, and subtle atmospheric sounds—such as the hum of an overhead fluorescent light and dripping water—effectively enhance immersion during key scenes. However, the surround activity is not particularly abundant and exhibits inconsistency in rendering spatial effects, sometimes leaving the listener anchored to a center-centric audio experience.

The film's score deserves commendation for its smooth, rich, and enveloping quality that brings depth to the listening environment. Dynamic range is appropriately managed, although it rarely reaches levels that are profoundly impactful or memorable. Low-frequency effects are present but not consistently utilized to their full potential, often fading away in significant portions of the movie. Key moments featuring bass and directional effects do add immersive dimension but are sporadic in their presence.

It is also worth noting the limited language options available on this Blu-ray. As the single audio choice is in English with no foreign dubbing or subtitle options apart from English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing, this could be a drawback for non-English speaking audiences. Overall, while the audio mix of "Unthinkable" might not stand out among the greats, it delivers an adequately detailed experience that handles its elements competently without excelling in any particular aspect.

The Blu-Ray extras for "Unthinkable" offer a robust suite of features for enthusiasts. Highlighted by the inclusion of two versions of the film—the original theatrical cut and an extended cut—viewers can appreciate multiple interpretations of the story. The audio commentary with director Gregor Jordan stands out, providing a deep dive into various facets of the film's production, thematic elements, and the director’s perspectives on controversial topics like torture. Although some find Jordan's commentary a bit self-indulgent, it remains highly informative and engaging. Additionally, the disc enhances the viewing experience with BD-Live functionality and Movie IQ, offering real-time updates on cast, crew, and trivia. Fans looking to dive deeper into background details will find this enriching. A variety of high-definition trailers for other films is also available, broadening the entertainment scope.

Extras included in this disc:

• Extended version of the film: A longer cut offering additional scenes and context.
• Audio commentary with director Gregor Jordan: In-depth insights on production, casting, thematic elements, and personal views.
• Movie IQ: Continuous updates on cast, crew, and trivia tied to specific scenes.
• HD Previews: Trailers for films like 'Chloe,' 'Harry Brown,' 'The Square,' 'The Road,' 'Wild Things: Foursome,' 'The Runaways,' and 'The Last Station.'
• BD-Live enabled: Online features enhancing interactivity and additional content.

In "Unthinkable," Gregor Jordan directs a thought-provoking thriller that delves deeply into the contentious subject of torture against the backdrop of a looming nuclear catastrophe. Starring Michael Sheen, Samuel L. Jackson, and Carrie-Anne Moss, the film portrays an intense race against time as FBI agent Helen Brody (Moss) partners with an unyielding expert interrogator known as H (Jackson). Together, they confront extremist Steven Arthur Younger (Sheen), who has planted nuclear bombs in three major American cities. The narrative explores the moral and ethical boundaries of using torture to extract pivotal information and prevent an unimaginable disaster. This suspenseful drama doesn't shy away from showcasing both the grisly reality of torture and the underlying moral complexities, leaving viewers engrossed and introspective.

The performances, particularly from Jackson, Sheen, and Moss, elevate the film's heavy thematic content. Jackson's portrayal of H is menacing yet nuanced, masterfully conveying the internal conflict between duty and morality. Sheen excels as the unyielding terrorist, adding layers of depth to a character that could easily have been one-dimensional. Moss effectively embodies Brody’s moral struggle, injecting a palpable tension into her interactions with H. The film’s technical execution, from its tight pacing to its stark depiction of violence, serves to amplify its central dilemmas without providing clear-cut answers.

While the film adeptly sets up a morally ambiguous battlefield where right and wrong blur, it falters in delivering a convincing psychological thriller experience. The over-reliance on gratuitous violence and somewhat clichéd action sequences dilutes its dramatic impact. However, the core premise of "Unthinkable" remains compelling, sparking essential conversations about the extremes of security measures in times of national peril. Despite its flaws, "Unthinkable" commands attention through its raw depiction of moral ambiguity in modern warfare and the powerful performances that drive its narrative forward.

"Unthinkable" is an intense film that pushes the boundaries of psychological endurance and moral ambiguity. The movie delves into the sinister depths of human fanaticism and the extreme measures taken to combat terrorism, engaging audiences in a profound discourse on torture and ethical dilemmas. Its harrowing depiction of physical trauma and its exploration of soul-wrenching decisions make it a compelling, if unsettling, watch. The film effectively raises crucial questions about the lengths one might go to protect lives, ideals, and a way of life, leaving viewers with much to ponder.

Technically, the Blu-ray release is commendable. Sony's 1080p transfer delivers a crisp, vivid visual experience, capturing the film's intense and chilling aesthetic with excellent clarity. The lossless soundtrack complements the picture well, heightening the film's emotional and psychological impact. However, the absence of a robust supplement section might disappoint those looking for additional insight or features. The film’s direct-to-video status, despite its notable cast including Samuel L. Jackson, suggests a mixed reception likely due to its challenging and divisive content.

In conclusion, "Unthinkable" is a thought-provoking film worth watching, though its replay value may be limited once its central twist is known. The Blu-ray offers solid technical execution but falls short on extras. It’s best approached with the understanding that while engaging and undoubtedly powerful, it might be more suitable for a rental rather than an outright purchase. This is a film that will leave you questioning your principles and the ethical lines we draw in extreme situations.