The Taking of Tiger Mountain Blu-ray Review

"The Taking of Tiger Mountain" is showcased on Blu-ray via Well Go USA, with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer at a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Captured using Red Epic digital cameras in 5K source format, the transfer maintains extraordinary clarity and detail. Close-up shots are particularly impressive, revealing the intricate costuming and detailed production design. The cinematography by Choi Sung-fai skillfully juxtaposes aggressive blue and yellow color grading throughout various sequences, resulting in a visually dynamic experience.

Colors are accurately reproduced and possess a strong vibrance. Red tones are especially pronounced; however, they do not interfere with natural flesh tones. The presentation's sharpness is consistent, although some CGI elements display relative softness. A notable design choice includes artificial grain added to the sequences set in 1946, fostering an aged effect that differentiates these scenes from modern-day segments. This added texture does slightly distort the natural appearance but is minor and contextually relevant.

Overall, black levels are solid with reliable shadow separation, contributing to the film's depth and dimensionality. While the added artificial grain occasionally results in pixellated glints, the presentation remains crisp and well-defined. Despite the absence of a 3D viewing option on this Blu-ray, the 2D version offers an immersive experience, capturing the essence of Tsui Hark's ambitious visual storytelling.

"The Taking of Tiger Mountain" features a Mandarin DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix that balances subtlety with moments of intense action. While the audio track is somewhat subdued compared to other Tsui Hark films, it still delivers a robust and engaging auditory experience. Dialogue is generally relegated to the center channels, where it comes through with exceptional clarity, seamlessly blending with the musical score and other ambient sound elements. The dynamic range is expansive, ensuring that both the serene and chaotic scenes are treated with the appropriate sonic depth.

Action sequences in the film provide a heightened sense of immersion. During these moments, the sound design ensures that every channel is activated, offering impressive placement and impact of sound effects. This immersive quality extends to quieter scenes, which are underscored by less pronounced yet effective environmental sounds. A well-composed score enriches the surround channels, creating a comprehensive and dynamic sound stage. Although there are occasional instances where volume adjustments may be necessary to harmonize dialogue with louder sequences, this minor inconvenience does not detract significantly from an otherwise refined and well-balanced audio presentation.

The Blu Ray extras for "The Taking of Tiger Mountain" provide concise and informative insights into the film's production. The interviews feature high-definition discussions with Director Tsui Hark and key cast members Tony Ka Fai Leung, Zhang Hanyu, Tong Liya, and Lin Gengxin. While the content is spread across multiple participants, making individual segments brief, the collective information offers an engaging look behind the scenes. The trailer included is effective in presenting a compelling glimpse of the movie. Note that all supplements are programmed to play sequentially, starting from any chosen interview and continuing through to the other extras.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interviews: Director Tsui Hark and key actors discuss the film and its production.
• Trailer: A trailer that sets up the movie's premise effectively.

Tsui Hark's "The Taking of Tiger Mountain" is a visually stunning epic interwoven with a potent mix of historical action and contemporary reflection. The film, based on the well-known Chinese novel "Tracks in the Snowy Forest," chronicles a crucial era in 1946 when China grappled with the aftermath of World War II and internal strife. The narrative contrasts the valiant efforts of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) as they confront the ruthless bandit leader Hawk (Tony Leung) and his forces, entrenched in an impenetrable fortress on Tiger Mountain. Lin Gengxin's portrayal of Agent 203, whose true identity is Shao Jianbo, and Zhang Hanyu as the audacious undercover operative Yang Zirong, injects the film with gripping intensity and strategic ingenuity as they seek to reclaim order from chaos.

The film's visual grandeur is both a strength and a point of contention. Originally released in 3D in Chinese theaters, this Blu-ray edition lacks the dimensional aspect, which diminishes some of Tsui Hark’s impactfully designed scenes intended for a three-dimensional viewing. Nevertheless, cinematographer Choi Sung-fai's work ensures that even in 2D, the movie retains its compelling aesthetic and kinetic energy. The juxtaposition of hyperbolic action sequences with a layered storyline allows viewers to experience Tsui's signature style, despite the missed opportunity for a 3D experience in the American release. This presentation choice might disappoint some viewers, depriving them of the visceral spectacle intended by Tsui Hark.

Despite certain historical liberties and an arguably superficial exploration of character motivations and political contexts, "The Taking of Tiger Mountain" excels as a high-octane war drama. The film not only recounts mid-20th century Chinese warfare but also subtly engages in cultural reflection through its modern-day vignettes. Such elements underscore the sacrifices that enable contemporary freedoms, adding depth to its thrilling narrative. Overall, Tsui Hark delivers an engaging and visually appealing film that stands out for its cinematic flair and historical intrigue, though the absence of 3D does limit its full potential.

"The Taking of Tiger Mountain" strikes a remarkable balance between historical reverence and engaging storytelling. Directed by Tsui Hark, this film is based on a true story and unfolds amid a visually impressive backdrop that captivates from the outset. The Blu-ray presentation showcases strong audio-visual quality, although the absence of a 3D option might be seen as a missed opportunity to experience the full intended impact of Hark's elaborate set pieces and immersive visuals. The Blu-ray is bolstered by a few select extras that add value, though they are relatively limited.

The narrative structure presents initial challenges, particularly for Western audiences unfamiliar with the historical context or the multitude of characters introduced in rapid succession. However, once the film transitions to the core conflict within the Tiger Mountain fortress, it becomes more accessible, delineating clear heroes and villains. At nearly two and a half hours, the film’s length feels excessive, especially given the disproportionate time spent on setup versus payoff. Nonetheless, Hark’s directorial prowess ensures that these segments remain fascinating, supported by rich visual craftsmanship.

It's unfortunate that many recent Chinese releases, including some by Tsui Hark himself, haven't garnered sufficient interest stateside to merit a 3D Blu-ray release. This omission is particularly poignant for "The Taking of Tiger Mountain," given its stunning visual achievements. Despite early hurdles and perhaps an overextended runtime, the film eventually settles into a compelling narrative rhythm. Thanks to its well-executed action sequences and the director's distinctive flair for visual storytelling, "The Taking of Tiger Mountain" ultimately commands attention and comes recommended for its technical merits and entertainment value.