Ava Blu-ray Review

Ava" graces the Blu-ray platform thanks to Vertical Entertainment, boasting an AVC encoded 1080p transfer that stretches across the 2.39:1 aspect ratio. While definitive details on the film's shooting specifics remain elusive, with only scant information about the usage of DI processes and Panavision lenses available, it's clear this film was captured digitally with what appears to be a 2K finish. The visual fidelity of "Ava" generally impresses with its clarity and precision, even if it sometimes seems to lack in depth. The color grading and lighting choices, notably including scenes featuring Malkovich bathed in nearly pastel blues, ensure that the palette remains natural yet vivid.

Despite this, the film demonstrates a commendable handling of color, with the palette appearing both natural and vibrant when required. Primaries are particularly well-rendered, with reds being notably evocative, drawing comparisons to striking imagery from "Homeland: The Complete Fourth Season." This similarity is not just superficial, as evidenced by a scene featuring Ava in a costume reminiscent of little red riding hood, which echoes a memorable visual from "Homeland," discussed previously in another review. These choices help in creating arresting visuals that enhance the storytelling.

The transfer is not without its minor flaws. Some establishing shots, presumably sourced from stock footage, exhibit a slightly reduced level of detail compared to the main body of the film. Additionally, instances of very minor crush and occasional noise, particularly noticeable in a nightclub scene featuring a confrontation between Ava and Toni towards the film's climax, can detract from the overall high definition experience. Despite these issues, "Ava" presents a solid video presentation that mostly succeeds in delivering an engaging visual experience to accompany its narrative.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track accompanying "Ava" on Blu Ray is a solid, though not exceptional, effort that shines brightest during its kinetic action sequences. It adeptly handles the dynamic range of sound, from the subtle nuances of dialogue to the aggressive punches of action-packed moments. Especially notable are the sequences involving high-stakes combat and an intense assassination attempt, which demonstrate the track’s capacity to envelop the viewer in a cocoon of immersive audio. The clangs of hand-to-hand combat and the staccato rhythm of gunfire are delivered with precision, creating a palpable tension that elevates the viewing experience.

Throughout the film, dialogue remains crisp and intelligible, a testament to the mix’s balance and clarity. This clarity ensures that every word is heard, regardless of the chaos unfolding on screen, which is crucial for following the film’s intricate plot twists and character dynamics. Additionally, scenes set in vibrant environments, like the raucous dance party in Toni's den, showcase the track's ability to recreate atmospheric sounds, further drawing the viewer into "Ava's" world.

The audio presentation is complemented by optional English subtitles, which are a thoughtful inclusion for those who might need them. Though the track may not break new ground technologically or creatively, its technical proficiency in delivering a clean, problem-free listening experience cannot be overstated. The way it handles both the whirlwind of action and the subtleties of dialogue with equal finesse is commendable, making it a reliable if not groundbreaking companion to the film's visual elements.

The Blu-ray release of "Ava" remarkably stands out for its exclusive extra content, a rarity in today's market where additional features often feel like afterthoughts. This particular edition, contrary to expectations, presents a comprehensive suite of extras that delve into the making of the film, behind-the-scenes footage, and insightful director's commentaries, enhancing the viewing experience considerably. Each supplement is meticulously crafted, providing fans and cinephiles alike with a deeper understanding of the film's production nuances, creative decisions, and the overall vision behind "Ava". The professionalism with which these features are presented is noteworthy, showcasing a dedication to preserving the artistic integrity of the film while offering an enriching complement to the main feature.

Extras included in this disc:

• No supplements are offered on this Blu-ray disc.

Ava," gracing the world of film as the latest offering in the teeming pool of female assassin flicks, embarks on a familiar yet distinct journey marked by its endeavor to blend high-octane action with deep, personal turmoil. Jessica Chastain shines both in front of and behind the camera, embodying Ava Faulkner—a character whose life is a complex web of deadly missions and fraught relationships. The narrative intriguingly maneuvers through Ava's past and present, showcasing her struggles with addiction, familial discord, and an inherent need to forge connections before fatal confrontations. This amalgam of action and drama treads a fine line, at times veering into melodrama, yet it's Chastain's performance that anchors the film, delivering each punch and emotional beat with convincing prowess.

The film's attempt to flesh out a unique identity within the crowded genre involves an intricate storyline involving Ava's mentor Duke, portrayed by John Malkovich, and the friction against Colin Farrell's character, Simon, which introduces a layer of internal conflict within the assassin's network. However, this depth is somewhat eclipsed by occasionally overwrought subplots and a tendency towards soap operatic elements that strain credibility. The narrative's embellishments, including a foray into gambling dens and tangled personal histories, flirt with absurdity, slightly undermining the gravitas introduced by the central character's struggle.

Despite these flaws, "Ava" succeeds in delivering engaging action sequences set against a variety of picturesque locations, hinting at a potentially larger narrative universe that might be explored in future iterations. The film's scenic quality and crisply choreographed combat scenes stand out as highlights, even as the story oscillates between emotional depth and genre clichés. Ultimately, "Ava" walks a precarious line between innovation and tradition, buoyed by a strong lead performance but occasionally hampered by its ambition to be all things at once—thriller, drama, and introspective character study.

In the pantheon of films focusing on troubled female assassins, "Ava" struggles to delineate itself from its predecessors, burdened by a script that overly relies on clichéd elements such as family dysfunction, a history of substance abuse, and psychological turmoil without offering new insights or unique angles. Despite the presence of Jessica Chastain, whose performance remains compelling, alongside veterans like John Malkovich and Colin Farrell, there's a palpable sense of untapped potential. Each actor delivers with professionalism, yet their performances hint at a broader depth that the film's narrative fails to fully exploit. This aspect of the presentation underscores an overarching feeling of dissatisfaction, as "Ava" had the components to be more engaging but settles into a comfortable, if uninspired, rhythm.

On the technical front, the Blu Ray presentation of "Ava" meets the expectations for home entertainment, offering solid visual and audio quality that will satisfy purchasers. The technical execution in transferring the film onto Blu Ray format has been handled competently, ensuring that enthusiasts of physical media receive a product that respects the integrity of the original cinematic experience. However, it falls upon the film itself to captivate and retain viewer interest, a task at which it only partially succeeds.

In conclusion, while "Ava" boasts commendable technical merits on its Blu Ray release and features performances by a capable cast, it ultimately does not distinguish itself within its crowded genre. The film's reliance on familiar tropes without significant innovation or depth results in a viewing experience that, although professionally executed, feels somewhat routine and lacking in memorable impact. For collectors and fans of the actors involved, this release might warrant inclusion in their libraries, yet the film as a whole leaves one pondering what could have been had it pushed beyond genre conventions.