Secretariat Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Secretariat" features an impressive 1080p/MPEG-4 AVC video presentation that enhances the viewing experience with its sharp clarity and vibrant colors. The transfer adeptly uses various visual aesthetics to elevate thematic tones, delivering a predominantly uniform presentation. Colors range from sullen to deeply saturated, maintaining appropriate vibrancy without overstepping boundaries. Flesh tones appear lifelike with warm complexional emphasis. The resolution is exceptional, presenting fine details in close-ups and wide-angle shots, especially the beautifully captured farm locations and racing venues. Although black levels occasionally show inconsistency with minor crush in shadows, overall depth, especially during night scenes, remains excellent. A subtle grain permeates the image, lending a pleasing filmic texture, without being intrusive.

However, some minor issues slightly mar the presentation. Black levels can be inconsistent, leading to occasional merging of dark suits, hair, and shadows. Soft focus shots are noticeable but do not detract significantly from the visual experience. Certain race footage shot with lower quality cams demonstrates a drop in standards; this includes slight softening of facial features due to post-production processing. Despite these flaws, Disney's effort in encoding ensures the film retains a fresh theatrical look. Colors are brilliant and contrasting, skin tones are natural, and digital anomalies such as artifacting or banding are minimal. Digital noise is absent, preserving the picture's integrity. From the flying clumps of dirt in race sequences to Lucien's vibrant wardrobe and Secretariat's lush mane, the video presentation on this Blu-ray is a testament to Disney's reputation for high-quality transfers.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for "Secretariat" exemplifies superb audio engineering, balancing robust dynamics with exceptional clarity. From the slightest inflections in dialogue to the thunderous pounding of hooves, the sound mix is meticulously detailed. The surround sound, while not aggressively omnipresent, dynamically enriches racing scenes, creating an immersive, enveloping auditory experience. The soundfield maintains high-level detail underscored by powerful low-frequency extensions that deliver palpably deep bass throughout the listening area.

The track excels in rendering both subtle and intense moments with commanding presence. Ambient sounds like the rustle of hay in the stables and the roaring cheers of the crowd are deftly distributed across rear channels, heightening the realism. Front-channel separation is distinct, providing seamless audio panning that enhances fluency. Dialogue, though occasionally slightly muddled, is generally warm, clear, and intelligible, well-prioritized within the mix. The music score by Nick Glennie-Smith boasts excellent fidelity, filling the room with deep, pure tones that fortify the film's emotive quality.

Ultimately, "Secretariat’s" audio presentation approaches reference quality with its superior dynamic range and naturalistic soundscape. Its ability to translate both the quietest and most frenetic moments into a polished, immersive aural experience sets it apart. The nuanced technical execution ensures that every auditory detail, whether it be subtle background noise or intense racing action, contributes effectively to the overall cinematic experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Secretariat" is complemented by an impressive selection of extras that provide a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look into the making of the film. The disc includes a thorough audio commentary by director Randall Wallace, who shares insights into his attraction to the project, its development, casting choices, and race choreography. Highlighting the package is the engaging feature “A Director's Inspiration,” where Wallace sits down with the real Penny Chenery/Tweedy for a candid 21-minute conversation. Other noteworthy features include detailed explorations of Secretariat’s racing career and achievements, as well as technical dissections of the race sequences. Complementing these are an array of interactive and multimedia options, such as a multi-angle race simulation and a music video by AJ Michalka. These well-produced features make the Blu-ray an invaluable resource for fans and film enthusiasts alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Wallace delivers insights on various aspects of the film.
• Heart of a Champion: A documentary about Secretariat and his owner.
• Choreographing the Races: Examines how race scenes were made realistic.
• A Director's Inspiration: A conversation with Penny Chenery.
• Deleted Scenes: Eight scenes with optional commentary.
• Music Video: “It's Who You Are” by AJ Michalka.
• Secretariat Multi-Angle Simulation: Interactive feature with multiple perspectives.

"Secretariat" is a riveting, emotionally-driven biopic capturing the exhilarating rise of one of horse racing's most legendary figures. Directed by Randall Wallace, the film stars Diane Lane as Penny Chenery Tweedy, a housewife who audaciously takes over her family's struggling horse farm and bets everything on a promising but unproven colt. John Malkovich adds a uniquely compelling touch as Lucien Laurin, the eccentric trainer. The story, rooted in William Nack’s book "Big Red of Meadow Stable: The Making of a Champion," is steeped in the spirit of triumphant underdogs, encapsulating the trials and triumphs of both humans and their valiant equine companion. Each character is an underdog in their own right, which is a bit heavy-handed but simultaneously infuses the narrative with palpable earnestness and vigor.

Visually, "Secretariat" benefits from its period-accurate settings and Wallace's meticulous eye for detail. The skillfully choreographed race sequences are the film's highlight, ingeniously shot to evoke an immersive sense of speed and urgency. From the majestic Kentucky Derby to the historic Belmont Stakes, these sequences encapsulate the thrill of the racetrack, underscored by a rousing musical score that enhances the dramatic tension and emotional stakes. Yet, the film's Achilles' heel lies in its sentimentality; while it succeeds in tugging at heartstrings, its formulaic approach occasionally verges on melodrama.

Performance-wise, Diane Lane offers a restrained yet powerful portrayal of Penny Tweedy, deftly balancing vulnerability and fortitude. Malkovich’s Lucien Laurin infuses moments of levity and depth, making an otherwise predictable narrative more engaging. Though "Secretariat" might not escape conventional tropes of sports dramas entirely, it exudes a heartfelt sincerity that resonates. Ultimately, Lane's embodiment of Tweedy’s unwavering determination and Secretariat’s awe-inspiring races anchor the film as a compelling watch, striking a chord with audiences who appreciate tales of resilience and triumph.

"Secretariat" epitomizes the feel-good underdog sports story, showcasing an earnest period drama filled with endearing characters and thrilling race sequences. While it does tread familiar ground with its narrative and plotting, the film redeems itself through its heartfelt performances and the genuine excitement of the races. The Blu-ray release provides a faithful video transfer with only minor issues, paired with an exceptional DTS-HD Master Audio track that elevates the viewing experience. The supplemental package includes conventional yet satisfying extras, making it a solid offering for fans of the genre.

The film excels in portraying themes of perseverance, heart, and personal evolution, making it a universally appealing tale that the entire family can enjoy. The performances are commendable, and the races are captured with a thrilling intensity that keeps viewers engaged. The script is thoughtful and well-constructed, ensuring a seamless narrative flow. Moreover, the Blu-ray's superb video and audio quality bring the story to life, creating an immersive experience that is both immediate and involving. The extras provide valuable context and history, particularly through insights from Penny Chenery herself, enriching the viewer's understanding of the true events behind the film.

In conclusion, "Secretariat" may not break new ground in its genre, but it stands out due to its sincerity, strong performances, and technical excellence in its Blu-ray presentation. Even if it didn't achieve critical acclaim such as a Best Picture nomination, it remains a highly recommended film for those who appreciate sports dramas and heartfelt storytelling. Whether you are a film enthusiast or a lover of true-life sports stories, "Secretariat" is a worthy addition to your collection.