Synchronic Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Synchronic" by Well Go USA features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer at a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The resulting image is predominantly sharp and well delineated, showcasing excellent texture and clarity. The digital intermediate (DI) resolution appears to be in 2K, though this is not officially confirmed. Despite the copious amount of tweaking evident in the picture, the overall quality remains impressively high.

There's a slightly desaturated, grainy look that provides texture but marginally deflates fine detail, especially in midrange and wide shots. Intentional degradations in image quality are present in specific elements, such as the travel documentation videos created by the character Steve. CGI effects depicting shifts through different time periods are well executed and add a dynamic visual element to the film. Notably, despite significant variances in lighting, there are no discernible issues with banding, reflecting a carefully managed post-production process.

The audio presentation of "Synchronic" on Blu-ray features a richly immersive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that notably showcases its prowess during the time-travel sequences. These segments are highlighted by deeply engaging and sometimes cacophonous soundscapes, particularly in the latter part of the film when Steve tracks down Brianna. The surround channels are actively employed to create a convincing and enveloping atmosphere, with outdoor scenes across various historical epochs benefiting from meticulously placed ambient environmental effects.

Throughout the film, dialogue remains consistently clear and easily discernible, a testament to the precise audio mixing. This ensures that even amidst the more complex auditory environments, the spoken word cuts through effectively. For those who may need it, optional English subtitles are available. The quality of this DTS-HD Master Audio track elevates the overall viewing experience, making it both technically impressive and highly engaging.

The Blu-ray of "Synchronic" impresses with a solid array of extras that enrich the viewing experience by providing valuable insights into the film's production process. The Audio Commentary with the directors and producer is both engaging and informative, shedding light on their creative choices. The Making Of featurette offers a comprehensive look at both cast and crew contributions. The Previsualization segment includes fascinating previews from Benson and Moorhead. The VFX Breakdown details impressive effects used to visualize time travel. The Deleted Scene and the Alternate Ending, explained by the directors, add depth to the narrative with a touch of humor. Additionally, viewers get a glimpse of promotional content through teasers and trailers, although the automatic progression of these extras might surprise some.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Directors & Producer: Informative and engaging commentary track.
• Making Of: Comprehensive behind-the-scenes featurette.
• Previsualization: Insight into preliminary visual concepts.
• VFX Breakdown: Examples of visual effects.
• Deleted Scene: Brief but notable scene featuring Steve and his doctor.
• Alternate Ending: Humorous explanation and scene.
• Trailers: Promotional content including a teaser.

"Synchronic" by filmmakers Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead offers an intriguing blend of science fiction and emotional drama, with a storyline revolving around the relationship between two EMS workers, Dennis (Jamie Dornan) and Steve (Anthony Mackie), in New Orleans. The narrative cleverly uses the backdrop of a chaotic city impacted by a designer drug called Synchronic to explore deeper themes of friendship, mortality, and existential dread. Visual storytelling is enhanced significantly by well-crafted special effects, though the film’s emotional core remains the relationship between the two central characters rather than the sci-fi elements alone.

The film opens with an unsettling vignette showcasing the drug's mind-altering—or potentially reality-altering—effects, setting the tone for the surreal journey ahead. The visual sequences depicting these drug-induced experiences are impressively executed, utilizing an upgraded VFX budget to create compelling, if occasionally under-explained, hallucinatory landscapes. Throughout, Steve grapples with a terminal brain tumor and the disappearance of Dennis's daughter Brianna after she takes the drug, creating a poignant throughline that anchors the film's more fantastical moments.

However, the narrative does fall short in areas, particularly with certain underdeveloped subplots and characters that feel more like narrative devices than fully fleshed-out figures. The creators’ attempts to intertwine personal and science fiction elements sometimes result in contrived circumstances and puzzling detours. Specifically, Steve’s impulsive decision to experiment with Synchronic and the somewhat cumbersome exposition surrounding its mechanisms can feel forced. Despite these shortcomings, the performances of Dornan and Mackie imbue the film with considerable emotional weight, helping to deliver a melancholy and quasi-satisfying conclusion that complements its meditative themes on time, loss, and connection.

Synchronic offers a compelling visual experience with its expertly crafted special effects, which significantly enhance the film's overall appeal. Despite some deficits in the storytelling, particularly in character development and emotional depth, the innovative visuals help to sustain viewer interest. The narrative follows Steve and Dennis, whose arcs are somewhat underdeveloped, yet remain engaging due to the intriguing premise and strong performances. Fans of "The Endless" will find familiar thematic elements and may appreciate this film for its exploration of time and existence.

Technically, the Blu-ray release is robust, featuring impressive image clarity and color accuracy that showcase the film’s striking visual design. Sound quality also stands out, providing clear dialogue and an immersive audio experience that complements the film’s atmosphere. This release marks a rare high point for Well Go USA, delivering a well-rounded home viewing experience.

In conclusion, while "Synchronic" may struggle to fully connect on an emotional level, its technical strengths and captivating visual effects make it a worthwhile addition to any sci-fi enthusiast’s collection. The supplementary materials included with the Blu-ray provide valuable insights into the film's production, making it a comprehensive package for fans and newcomers alike.