King of Thorn Blu-ray Review

"King of Thorn" serves as a visually captivating offering on Blu-ray, presented by FUNimation Entertainment with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This high-definition display excels in delivering razor-sharp line detail and articulate character design, featuring unique and compelling CGI elements. The digital rendering maintains a seamless integration of these graphics, which, when initially perceived as slightly artificial, find their justification within the narrative context. Despite its intentionally dark ambiance, accentuated by deep emerald greens and pale skin tones that at times invoke an almost monochromatic palette, the overall animation quality remains top-tier.

The Blu-ray presentation of "King of Thorn" in 16×9 1080p HD is standard for high-definition content but manages to stand out with impeccable clarity and definition. The lack of vibrant primary colors does not detract from the experience; instead, it enhances the film’s atmospheric intensity. This release serves as a stellar example of how well-executed CGI can anchor a production, balancing the storyline’s complexity with visual splendor. In essence, this disc exemplifies reference-quality anime, ensuring that every frame is delivered with precision and visual acuity.

King of Thorn features impressive Dolby TrueHD 5.1 tracks in both Japanese and English. Both language mixes are nearly identical, aside from the voice work, which includes clear British and Australian accents in the English version. The audio fidelity is exceptional, delivering clean and clear dialogue with a wide dynamic range. Surround activity excels, especially during scenes with marauding beasts, providing abundant LFE and vivid, immersive soundscapes.

Both the Blu-ray and DVD versions impress with their soundtracks; the Blu-ray uses Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround while the DVD employs Dolby Digital surround tracks, both available in English and Japanese. Viewers can enjoy the excitement and dynamics these tracks offer, ensuring an enthralling audio experience that enhances the evocative underscore and maintains clarity throughout the narrative. English subtitles are also available, providing a reliable option for accessibility.

The Blu Ray extras for "King of Thorn" provide a comprehensive and engaging look into the film's creation and promotion. Notable highlights include an insightful Q&A session held at Cinema Sunshine Ikebukuro featuring director Kazuhoshi Katayama and producer Yasumasa Tsuchiya answering audience-submitted questions about the film's adaptation from manga. An interview with Katayama, hosted by anime critic Ryusuke Hikawa, provides further depth, highlighted by moments of humor as Katayama describes the film's accessibility. Additional promotional materials, including multiple trailers and TV spots, round out the collection, offering a complete view into the film’s marketing strategy. Unfortunately, while the presence of original manga creator Yuji Iwahara adds prestige, his limited screen time leaves viewers wanting more insight from him.

Extras included in this disc:

• Talk Event at Cinema Sunshine Ikebukuro: A Q&A session addressing audience questions about the film.
• Director Interview: Anime critic Ryusuke Hikawa interviews director Kazuhoshi Katayama.
• Pilot Film: Initial promotional video akin to a trailer.
• Original Trailer: Theatrical trailer for the film.
• Overseas Trailer: International promotional trailer.
• TV Spot: Short television advertisement.
• U.S. Trailer: Trailer for the U.S. market.
• Previews for other FUNimation Entertainment Releases: Additional promotional content for other titles.

"King of Thorn," a captivating adaptation of Yuji Iwahara's manga, navigates a distinctively thorny narrative that challenges audiences with its intricate storyline and compelling visuals. The plot engages viewers in a post-apocalyptic scenario where a group of individuals, selected via lottery, is placed in cryogenic sleep within a repurposed Scottish castle laboratory to withstand the ravages of the Medusa virus. Awaking to a landscape dominated by monstrous flora and terrifying beasts, the few survivors, including the central figure Kasumi, must unravel the mystery behind their dire situation. The film employs influences from diverse sources including "The Matrix" and the "Alien" franchise, creating an often confusing yet fascinating viewing experience.

Technically, the film intricately weaves together survival horror elements with thought-provoking sci-fi themes. As the characters, particularly Kasumi and the enigmatic Marco Owen, navigate through this labyrinthine horror-infested environment, viewers are compelled to pause and ponder over several befuddling plot twists. The narrative frequently blurs the lines between reality and illusion, a device reminiscent of "The Matrix Revolutions." Consequently, some plot developments may puzzle even the most attentive viewers. These narrative complexities, coupled with rich visual storytelling and thematic depth, result in an engaging yet occasionally incoherent experience that demands multiple viewings for full appreciation.

Director Kazuyoshi Katayama infuses "King of Thorn" with profound philosophical undertones and enough suspense to keep viewers on edge. Despite some convoluted plot points and lapses in logic that may challenge comprehensibility, the film's dynamic animation and compelling survival scenario make it a standout in contemporary anime. For those willing to embrace its ambiguity and intricate structure, "King of Thorn" offers an absorbing journey replete with enigmas and spectacle, reinforced by its ability to maintain viewer engagement through its thought-provoking content and visual prowess.

"King of Thorn" on Blu-ray offers an engaging blend of horror and science fiction, drawing audiences into a complex narrative enriched by its unique approach to storytelling. The storyline intertwines a viral outbreak with the mythic tale of Sleeping Beauty, creating a compelling plot that keeps viewers intrigued throughout. Distinctive and well-developed characters add depth to the narrative. However, if dissected too critically, the plot may appear to unravel under logical scrutiny. Despite this, the film maintains gripping engagement due to its originality and the fascinating premise.

Visually, "King of Thorn" is a remarkable achievement. The animation quality is top-tier, characterized by fluid movement and meticulous detail, which is magnificently showcased in this Blu-ray edition. Accompanied by an excellent audio track, the immersive sound design heightens the tension and adds layers to the viewing experience. Both the visuals and the sound meticulously craft a chilling atmosphere that is central to the film's appeal. The supplementary materials included in this package round out the offering, providing additional value and deeper insight into the making of this intricate piece.

In conclusion, while "King of Thorn" may present logical inconsistencies when scrutinized in detail, it remains an exceptionally compelling and visually stunning work. The Blu-ray edition enhances this experience through superb picture and sound quality, supported by valuable additional content. This package comes highly recommended for fans of innovative animation and those seeking a distinctive narrative juxtaposing myth and science fiction.