Horrible Bosses 2 Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Horrible Bosses 2" offers a noteworthy 1080p/AVC-encoded video experience characterized by a vibrant yet occasionally inconsistent visual quality. The film adopts a teal-skewed palette, imparting a cold undertone to skintones that aligns with the director's artistic intentions. Despite minor issues such as slight crush and sporadic clarity hits, the presentation delivers crisp and clean imagery. Close-ups reveal satisfactory levels of detail, though some edge ringing is present. Colors are bright with deep blacks, maintaining stability without encoding anomalies such as macroblocking, banding, or aliasing.

Captured digitally using Arri Alexa cameras, the transfer by Warner Bros. proficiently maintains image quality across various scenes. Outdoor sequences exhibit superior depth and definition compared to softer indoor shots. Black levels are consistent and commendable, supporting the overall aesthetic. The transfer effectively handles colors, delivering vivid and bright visuals without crossing into oversaturation. Flesh tones are generally warm and may appear slightly unnatural depending on the scene context.

The detail extends from stunning exterior shots of LA’s skyline to intricately rendered textures like clothing fabric and character facial features enhanced by sweat and other environmental factors. The presentation achieves a satisfying depth and three-dimensional effect, especially with scenes showcasing skyscrapers or plush interiors where spatial dynamics are well-appreciated. Blacks are uniformly inky, and colors such as greens or lit interiors pop with striking clarity. Throughout, there are no discernible issues with noise or digital artifacts, ensuring an immersive viewing experience.

The audio presentation of "Horrible Bosses 2" on Blu-ray is anchored by a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track that offers a robust and dynamic experience. This track excels in capturing the film's high-energy comedic antics, particularly during its standout car chase sequences, where the sound design really shines. While the soundtrack tends to be front-heavy due to its conversational nature, the audio mix provides rich directionality and ambient noise that envelops the viewer, adding authenticity and liveliness to scenes set in bars and office spaces.

The LFE channel deserves special mention for its effective handling of dynamic low-frequency elements throughout the movie. It admirably supports the thumping beats and bass notes that punctuate various montage sequences, boosting the film's otherwise routine comedic ambiance. Dialogue reproduction maintains clarity and intelligibility, ensuring that each line delivered by the cast cuts through the soundtrack cleanly, although it occasionally struggles to balance with surrounding audio elements.

While the core English DTS-HD MA 5.1 track serves the film admirably, additional Dolby Digital 5.1 audio options in French, Spanish, and Portuguese are available for international audiences. It should be noted, however, that these are only featured in the theatrical cut. Subtitles, on the other hand, span English SDH, Spanish, and French across both iterations of the film. Altogether, the audio track might not redefine surround sound standards for comedies but offers a competent and engaging listening experience for fans of "Horrible Bosses 2."

The Blu-ray extras for Horrible Bosses 2 offer a diverse collection of features that delve into both the creative process and comedic improvisations of the film. While the extended cut provides eight additional minutes, opinions are mixed on its impact. "Endless Laughter Guaranteed" explores the cast's chemistry, although humor is subjective. "Off the Cuff: One-Liners You Didn't See" showcases various takes and alternative lines, but lacks a convenient "Play All" function. Other features include mock infomercials and insights into production scenes, delivering a mostly enjoyable behind-the-scenes look. The absence of an audio commentary with Bateman, Day, and Sudeikis is a notable omission.

Extras included in this disc:

• Endless Laughter Guaranteed!: Insights on cast chemistry and improv.
• Off the Cuff: One-Liners You Didn't See: Thirteen reels of alternate takes.
• Let the Sexual Healing Begin: Mockumentary about a sex addict group.
• Who Invented the Shower Buddy?: A comedic debate on invention authorship.
• Nick Kurt Dale INC: Employee Testimonials: Employees share work experiences.
• It's the Shower Buddy Infomercial: A humorous late-night style presentation.
• High Speed Crash Course: Behind-the-scenes of the car chase sequence.

"Horrible Bosses 2" presents itself as a familiar yet unambitious follow-up to its predecessor, reuniting stars Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, and Jason Sudeikis in another round of chaotic criminal escapades. The film's plot is a straightforward extension of the first movie, with the trio venturing into entrepreneurship only to be swindled and compelled to resort to kidnapping. The narrative serves as a loose framework for comedic improvisation, where the actors' high-energy chemistry shines, although occasionally overshadowed by a lack of script coherence. Despite its reliance on humor for humor's sake, which might not appeal to everyone, the cast's enthusiasm keeps the spirit light and engaging.

Adding to its star power, the film boasts Oscar winners like Christoph Waltz and supporting roles from fan-favorites Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Aniston, and Kevin Spacey. However, this all-star lineup struggles with a plot that feels both thin and directionless. Aniston's performance stands out as the high point, delivering genuine humor amidst otherwise underwhelming comedic attempts. Chris Pine's attempts at comedy fall flat, lacking the refined timing required for effective contribution to the ensemble.

Ultimately, "Horrible Bosses 2" is a mixed bag. It lacks the cleverness and freshness that distinguished its predecessor, largely feeling like an extended sketch rather than a fully realized sequel. The film skews towards R-rated irreverence, reveling in crude humor without adding depth or sophistication—traits that may alienate viewers seeking novelty or substance. Fans of the first film might find solace in the familiar antics and camaraderie, yet newcomers are unlikely to be won over by the sequel's predominantly surface-level appeal.

"Horrible Bosses 2" on Blu-ray is a mixed bag that banks heavily on the comedic chemistry of its lead trio: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, and Jason Sudeikis. The film offers a series of laugh-out-loud moments despite its lackluster plot and pacing issues. The spontaneity and surprise dynamics of Bateman, Sudeikis, and Day shine through, offering shallow yet entertaining comedic sequences. Jennifer Aniston delivers a notable performance, reprising her role with gusto and adding a glimmer to the otherwise faltering narrative.

From a technical perspective, the Blu-ray release by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment excels in delivering a robust audio-visual presentation. Viewers receive both cuts of the film alongside a modest collection of alternate takes and additional content. While it regrettably lacks a commentary track or expansive production documentaries, the extras are satisfactory for fans who enjoyed the original entry in the franchise.

In conclusion, "Horrible Bosses 2" may not appeal to all due to its hit-or-miss humor and unoriginal plot, but it remains an amusing watch for fans of its predecessor. The Blu-ray release merits commendation for its sound technical presentation, offering a worthwhile addition for fans keen to complete their collections. A recommendation hinges on one's affinity for the goofy antics of Nick, Dale, and Kurt.