The Lovely Bones Blu-ray Review

Paramount's Blu-ray presentation of "The Lovely Bones" offers an unparalleled visual experience that sets a high standard for high-definition transfers. Every frame of the 1080p, 2.35:1-framed transfer bursts with life, showcasing vibrant, natural colors that enrich every detail, from the nuanced textures of clothing and foliage to the intimate intricacies of everyday objects. The image's heavy golden tint, while adding a stylistic flourish, does not detract from the overall clarity and depth of the picture. This depth, combined with impeccably sharp detail and spot-on black levels, creates a three-dimensional effect that is as startling as it is beautiful. Scenes are rendered with such lifelike precision and dimensionality that even mundane items stand out with stunning clarity. Despite a faint hint of banding in isolated instances, these minor flaws are easily overshadowed by the transfer's overwhelming fidelity and the pristine condition of the print.

Attention to detail is paramount in this transfer, where even the most intricate patterns and textures are displayed with absolute definition. This level of detail extends to every corner of the screen, allowing viewers to appreciate the subtlest elements of the film's visual narrative. From the realistic depiction of CGI elements to the accurate rendering of black levels and color delineation, every aspect is executed with precision, making it an exemplary demonstration of Blu-ray's potential. The landscapes of Susie's heaven, though CGI, are handled with care, maintaining the director's stylized vision without sacrificing authenticity or clarity.

Technically flawless and devoid of any distracting anomalies or source noise, this video presentation stands as a testament to Blu-ray's capability to deliver an immersive and visually spectacular experience. Whether showcasing the remarkable landscapes or the film's more intimate settings, this transfer remains consistently impressive, establishing "The Lovely Bones" Blu-ray as essential viewing for both fans of the film and aficionados of top-tier home theater presentations.

The DTS-HD MA 5.1 lossless soundtrack of "The Lovely Bones" on Blu-Ray presents an audio experience that, while not achieving the pinnacle of perfection observed in the video quality, delivers a remarkably high-quality auditory journey. This soundtrack is defined by its generally reserved and contemplative nature, yet it demonstrates an ability to become more pronounced and powerful when the film’s narrative requires. Such dynamic range makes it an ideal complement to the movie's dramatic tones. The soundtrack excels in creating a vivid, immersive atmosphere, capturing the essence of environments with impressive fidelity - from the ambient sounds in a bustling mall or a school hallway to the meticulous detail heard in the background noise of a police station. The soundscape crafted here does more than just fill the room; it constructs a living, breathing world, enhancing the storytelling through meticulous sound design. Dialogue is crystal clear, ensuring that the whispered tones and voiceovers are heard with clarity and strength, underscored by Brian Eno's haunting score which is handled with meticulous care.

Attention to ambient detail contributes significantly to the audio presentation's success, affording audiences a textured auditory experience that breaks away from reliance on excessive bass or overwhelming action sequences to engage its listeners. However, the soundtrack doesn't shy away from emphasizing select moments with well-placed low-frequency effects (LFE), such as the impactful thuds of a large safe or the dramatic intensity of thunder and lightning, which punctuate the narrative at key points. This controlled use of LFE adds depth without dominating the soundtrack, maintaining a balance that complements the film's nuanced approach.

In sum, "The Lovely Bones" DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack offers a richly textured and immersive audio experience that enhances the film's dramatic landscape. Its strength lies in its ability to convey subtlety and depth, maneuvering between quiet introspection and moments of powerful sound with ease. Fans of the film will find the audio presentation engrossing, adding another layer of engagement to an already compelling story. While it may not be the go-to demonstration for sheer audio power, it stands as a testament to how a more restrained and thoughtful approach can elevate a film's overall impact.

Paramount's Blu-ray release of "The Lovely Bones" packs its extras on a dedicated second disc, emphasizing the depth and breadth of the filmmaking process without the inclusion of commentary tracks. The highlight is the monumental three-hour documentary, "Filming 'The Lovely Bones'," offered in full HD with subtitles available in multiple languages. This documentary, neatly divided into three segments covering different stages and locations of the filming process, offers an unparalleled, chronological exploration inside the shoot. Initiated by an introduction from Peter Jackson, who along with Screenwriter/Co-producer Philippa Boyens, provides extensive narration throughout the view of the production. Viewers are treated to an exhaustive account, from day-to-day scheduling to intricate details of visual effects shoot, making it a captivating experience for cinephiles and fans alike. Despite the absence of trailers or commentary, the sheer scope and intricacy of these extras render this release a treasure trove for those fascinated by movie-making.

Extras included in this disc:

• Introduction By Peter Jackson: The director gives an overview of the special features arranged chronologically.
• Filming 'The Lovely Bones': A comprehensive three-part documentary detailing the filming process in the USA and New Zealand, alongside the visual effects photography.

Peter Jackson's adaptation of "The Lovely Bones" presents a visual and emotional journey that, while striking, straddles the lines between the mystical and the unsettling. The film's Blu-ray presentation by Paramount is remarkable for its transfer quality, enhancing the movie's captivating visuals and intricate details which are central to Jackson's storytelling technique. This movie diverges from Jackson’s familiar epic spectacles, offering instead a narrative that's deeply personal and introspective, though it retains his signature grandiosity in visual style. The portrayal of Susie Salmon's afterlife is notably vibrant, employing a plethora of colors and effects to create a world that's as enchantingly ethereal as it is hauntingly surreal.

The performances in "The Lovely Bones" are profoundly engaging, with Saoirse Ronan leading with a sensitive portrayal of Susie, enveloped in a tragedy that resonates through her narration. Stanley Tucci’s depiction of George Harvey is chillingly effective, earning accolades for his transformation into the sinister neighbor. Despite this, the film navigates through its narrative amid pacing issues and at times overly dramatic presentations, which might detract from its core emotional impact. Notably, the use of special effects to craft Susie’s afterlife, while visually impressive, has drawn mixed reactions for its digital sheen which, to some, feels at odds with the film’s darker themes.

The technical aspects of "The Lovely Bones," from its cinematography to the ethereal score, are meticulously crafted, contributing to a sensory experience that is undeniably striking. However, it’s the balance between the visually stunning and the narratively profound where the film fluctuates. It embodies a kind of reverse-psychology; its most visually fantastical elements occasionally overshadowing its narrative depth. Thus, while "The Lovely Bones" stands out for its ambitious visual tapestry and strong performances, its storytelling executions invite varied interpretations, reflecting Jackson’s audacious approach to a complex, heart-wrenching tale.

The Lovely Bones," directed by Peter Jackson, presents itself as a polarizing adaptation that showcases an intriguing blend of genres, albeit with mixed execution. Among its strengths, Jackson's directorial prowess shines through, as he crafts a visually striking film that balances the grim subject matter with vibrant, fantastical elements reminiscent of directors like Tim Burton or Terry Gilliam. This distinctive visual style, paired with strong performances, ensures the film commands attention. However, the narrative suffers from pacing issues, particularly in the latter half where it jostles between the earthly and the ethereal, contributing to a somewhat disjointed viewing experience. Not all viewers will appreciate this melding of the murder mystery with surreal afterlife explorations, marking "The Lovely Bones" as a film that defies simple categorization and elicits strong, divergent reactions.

Paramount’s Blu-ray release of "The Lovely Bones" is undeniably commendable, particularly in its technical aspects. The 1080p video presentation is cited as a benchmark for quality, dazzling with clarity and vividness that elevate the film's unique visual flair. The audio quality complements this visual feast well, delivering an immersive experience that fans of the movie will find gratifying. The package is further enriched by a robust selection of bonus materials, although some may lament the absence of a director’s commentary which could have offered deeper insights into Jackson’s vision.

In conclusion, while "The Lovely Bones" may navigate through its narrative with a wavering grasp, its Blu-ray release stands out for its exemplary technical presentation and supplemental features. The film itself remains a topic of debate, but for aficionados of Jackson’s work or collectors seeking top-tier Blu-ray experiences, this release merits attention. Nonetheless, prospective buyers new to the film may want to explore it first before committing, given its polarizing nature. Whether "The Lovely Bones" is a masterpiece or a misfire is subjective, but its physical release undeniably sets a high standard for home cinema enthusiasts.