The Message Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray transfer of "The Message" suffers from several substantial technical shortcomings. The most glaring issue is the alteration of the original 2.39:1 aspect ratio to a 1.78:1-framed presentation, significantly compromising the artistic intent and visual scope. Further compounding the dissatisfaction is the 1080i presentation, contrary to the advertised 1080p, resulting in subpar image quality. The AVC MPEG-4 encode fails to maximize potential clarity and detail, despite the print’s reasonably good condition. Consequently, viewers are left with a lifeless and uninspired visual experience, marked by a flat color palette that lacks vibrancy and essential visual detail.

The technical deficiencies extend to the consistency and quality of the image. Although black levels are commendably deep, other areas such as contrast manipulation falter, often resulting in a fluctuating visual experience with some sequences appearing well-balanced and others falling flat. Notably, several scenes are plagued by softness and blur, indicating insufficient restoration efforts. Additionally, issues such as minor jaggies, telecine judder, combing, and mild ghosting detract significantly from the viewing experience. While colors exhibit some boldness with warm secondary hues, there's an overall lifelessness to the presentation that negates any benefit.

The potential for a truly vivid presentation was squandered by the mishandling of technical aspects and encoding choices. Although moments of distinct detailing and clarity exist, they are overshadowed by pervasive grain, sporadic noise, edge halos, and a scrubbed-down appearance that fails to breathe life into the film’s imagery. In conclusion, the transfer governance is marred by poor choices that culminate in a disappointing video presentation, significantly diminishing the visual experience "The Message" intended to deliver.

The audio presentation of "The Message" Blu-ray offers a mixed bag of experiences. The primary DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, while somewhat serviceable, often showcases a range of issues that limit its effectiveness. Reverberating dialogue tends to struggle with stage balance, and certain sequences introduce low rumble effects that detract from clarity. The musical delivery in this 5.1 track occasionally veers towards harshness and shrillness, contributing to a less-than-pleasant listening experience. Though battles are portrayed with understandable chaos, the resulting sound often lacks realistic spatial dispersion, creating a jumbled mix that the listener must navigate.

In contrast, the uncompressed LPCM 2.0 stereo soundtrack provides a superior audio experience more faithful to the film's original design. The soundstage in this format feels cleaner and broader, offering a more welcoming auditory environment. Dialogues are precise and maintain good directionality and movement across the channels. This track excels in its balance and spatial separation but is not without minor flaws. Instances of limited dynamic range are noticeable, where mids can sound flat and highs appear slightly clipped. Nonetheless, it is the more preferable option compared to the DTS-HD MA 5.1, offering a satisfying and accurate sonic portrayal appropriate for the film’s vintage.

The Blu-ray release of "The Message" excels in its video and audio presentation but is significantly lacking in bonus features, rendering it a barebones release. The disc does not provide any additional content such as behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, or commentary tracks, which results in a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the historical and cinematic context of this classic film. Enthusiasts seeking supplemental materials will be disappointed by the absence of extras, limiting the overall value of the release for collectors and fans alike.

Extras included in this disc:

None: This Blu-ray release contains no additional content or bonus features.

Moustapha Akkad's "The Message" is a remarkable example of epic historical storytelling, masterfully depicting the early history of Islam and the rise of the Prophet Muhammad. In a bold directorial choice, Akkad adheres closely to Islamic tradition by never showing Muhammad or giving him a voice in the nearly three-hour film. Instead, the story unfolds through third-person narrative and innovatively uses a second-person point-of-view, providing a unique and engaging perspective that enhances the religious and cultural authenticity of the narrative. This artistic approach not only respects religious sentiments but also enriches the viewer's understanding of Muhammad's revered status.

The film's cinematography is another standout feature, where Akkad switches between intimate close-ups in moments of personal interaction and sweeping wide shots during large battle scenes. This provides a balanced yet immersive visual experience. The battle scenes, like those during the skirmishes between Meccans and Muslims, are particularly well-executed, showcasing Akkad's adeptness at directing large-scale action sequences. Conversely, some moments where characters break the fourth wall, such as during the Battle of Badr, can be slightly disorienting but largely add to the film's immersive quality.

Anchoring these technical achievements is a strong cast led by Anthony Quinn, whose portrayal of Hamza lends the film a grounded authenticity. Johnny Sekka as Bilal and Damien Thomas as Zayd contribute significantly to the spiritual gravitas of the story. Michael Ansara and Irene Papas also deliver compelling performances as key figures opposing Muhammad before their eventual conversion. The film's conclusion is both emotionally powerful and thought-provoking, cementing its status as a classic in historical cinema. Despite some issues with the Blu-ray presentation's aspect ratio, "The Message" remains a must-watch for those interested in well-crafted historical epics.

"The Message" is a monumental film, chronicling the creation of Islam and its prophet Muhammad, directed by Moustapha Akkad. This epic is brilliantly engaging with a unique narrative approach, as Muhammad remains unseen and unheard throughout, showcasing Akkad’s visionary storytelling. The film effectively uses distinctive camerawork to tell this spiritually and historically significant story. However, the Blu-ray release regrettably falls short in multiple technical areas.

Anchor Bay's Blu-ray release of "The Message" suffers from disappointing video quality, marred by an incorrect aspect ratio that detracts from the viewing experience. While the audio is presented in better lossless format, it fails to fully compensate for the visual shortcomings. Additionally, the release lacks any supplementary materials, depriving fans of deeper insights into the film's production and historical context. This lack of extras is a missed opportunity to enrich the overall package for viewers.

In conclusion, "The Message" remains a high-quality film that gracefully handles a challenging subject with profound respect and artistry. Unfortunately, this Blu-ray edition does not do justice to Akkad’s masterpiece. For those who value cinematic preservation and historical accuracy, this release is inadequate. The film is highly recommended for its content, but this particular Blu-ray release is not. The potential for a more fitting edition that honors the film's significance remains unfulfilled.