Click Blu-ray Review

Sony Pictures' release of "Click" on Blu-ray marks a significant moment as the first BD-50 dual-layer disc, setting high expectations for its video quality. The digitally-filmed movie, presented in a 1080p, 1.85:1-framed transfer, delivers a visually pleasing experience that, despite not reaching the pinnacle of high-definition quality, impresses with its crisp, vibrant display. The film's bright, lively colors are a standout feature, bringing a fantastic realism to both indoor and outdoor scenes. Notably, the depth and fine detail within the Newman household and the richly-rendered exteriors contribute to a lifelike viewing experience. Despite some challenges in darker scenes and slight noise across the imagery, the overall presentation maintains a consistently high quality. The fluorescent-lit scenes inside the Bed, Bath, and Beyond store highlight the transfer's ability to reproduce a wide array of colors vividly, enhancing the film's visual appeal.

"Click's" high-definition video origin plays a pivotal role in its Blu-ray presentation. Shot on high-def video rather than traditional film, it brings forth an inherently pristine source material that lends itself well to the Blu-ray format. This choice contributes to the solid black levels, smooth contrast, and absence of overpumped whites, ensuring that details remain visible even in dimly lit scenes. The color reproduction is significantly improved over its standard DVD counterpart, with notably brighter and more detailed imagery. The futuristic sets' almost surreal hues showcase the capabilities of high-definition to deliver ultra-vivid colors that seem beyond real. While some digital noise is evident—akin to digital video's counterpart to film grain—it does not detract from an otherwise stable and consistent transfer.

Considering its role as a BD-50 debut, "Click" lives up to the anticipation surrounding next-gen formats for HD-shot content. It underscores the inadequacy of standard-definition for truly capturing the quality of high-definition source material. Any minor instances of video noise present do not signal compression issues but are rather characteristic of the digital filming medium. The release's wealth of bonus content further illustrates the advantages of the BD-50 format for the Blu-ray platform. Ultimately, despite any hang-ups on whether digital filming impacts the 'cinematic' quality of the image, "Click" showcases very fine video quality indeed, benefiting from its HD origins and setting a commendable standard for future releases in the format.

The audio presentation of "Click" on Blu-ray, featuring a PCM 5.1 uncompressed soundtrack, delivers a robust and detailed auditory experience that stands out in the realm of comedy/drama films. The soundtrack exhibits a high fidelity and clarity that is commendable, with technical specifications being notably excellent. Dynamic range is superior, providing a spacious frequency range alongside strong low-bass extension. This ensures that effects, dialogue, and score are all clear and distinct within the mix, maintaining balance without any one element overpowering the others. Notably, the sound design in the first half of the film may seem less aggressive and primarily dialogue-driven, yet it does not falter in delivering quality sound with effective discrete surround action, especially highlighted by the sound effects tied to the protagonist's magical remote control.

Throughout the film, the audio transitions seamlessly with the narrative shifts— from the more subdued first half to a vibrant second act where the score by Rupert Gregson-Williams takes center stage. Despite some critiques regarding the overpowering score in the rears during key emotional scenes, it's undeniable that the soundtrack strives to enhance the movie's sentiments, even if occasionally bordering on excess. Stereo effects are well-utilized, with numerous instances lending depth to the on-screen action, and dialogue remains anchored in the center channel for clarity. Deep bass moments, such as fireworks and sequences in Bed, Bath, and Beyond, add to the immersive experience without overwhelming the overall mix.

However, there is room for nuanced criticism, particularly regarding dialogue which can come across as slightly bass-heavy and scratchy at times. Additionally, while rear speakers are not consistently engaged, when they do come alive, they offer a dynamic and enveloping sound field that adds to the enjoyment. Despite these minor discrepancies, "Click's" audio offering on Blu-ray stands as a testament to Sony and the Blu-ray format's commitment to delivering uncompressed soundtracks from its inception. The technical prowess displayed here reaffirms that even years after its initial release, the audio quality of "Click" holds up remarkably well, providing an engaging listening experience that complements the film’s emotional and comedic beats.

The "Click" Blu-Ray offers an engaging array of extras, all in pristine high-definition, making it a noteworthy release for fans and newcomers alike. The commentary, led by Adam Sandler alongside director Frank Coraci, screenwriter Steve Koren, and executive producer Tim Herlihy, offers insightful banter and a deep dive into the film's creation, special effects, and HD video production, presenting a well-rounded auditory experience. The seven featurettes, while brief with a total runtime of about 31 minutes, range from entertaining (such as "Humping Dogs" and its behind-the-scenes look at the movie's canine performers) to the technical aspects of makeup, set design, and futuristic cars. Meanwhile, the four deleted scenes provide a quick, enjoyable glimpse into what might have been, with "Loser Guy Returns" standing out as particularly amusing. This supplemental package is elevated by its full HD presentation, setting a new standard for next-gen format releases.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Featuring Adam Sandler, Frank Coraci, Steve Koren, and Tim Herlihy.
• Make Me Old and Fat: Behind-the-scenes look at makeup effects.
• FX of 'Click': Exploration of the film's special effects.
• Design My Universe: Insight into the set design.
• Cars of the Future: Overview of futuristic car designs.
• Humping Dogs: Commentary on the film's dog-related humor.
• Director's Take: Cast and crew discuss working with Frank Coraci.
• Fine Cookin': Compilation of outtakes featuring Adam Sandler.
• Deleted Scenes: Four scenes not included in the final cut.

"Click," starring Adam Sandler, is a film that ambitiously attempts to navigate the space between slapstick humor and heartfelt drama, arriving at a destination that may leave viewers perplexed by its sharp tonal shifts. Sandler plays Michael Newman, an overworked architect who stumbles upon a universal remote control that allows him to fast-forward, pause, and rewind his life. The concept, overflowing with potential for both comedy and introspection, unfortunately, falls short on its promise, devolving from an intriguing sci-fi premise into a predictable moral lesson about life's precious moments.

In the first act, the movie indulges in crude humor and gags centered around the magical remote control, with scenes that marginally stand out due to their creativity. However, these initially amusing sequences soon wear out their welcome, as the novelty of the premise is overshadowed by a lack of substance in the laughter they aim to provoke. The film's ambition for profundity becomes most evident as it transitions into its second half, where it abandons its comedic roots for a darker, more reflective tone. This sudden shift not only confounds audiences but also dilutes the impact of its intended message about valuing every moment of life.

Critics and audiences alike might find themselves torn over "Click." While its attempt to blend genres shows a daring side of Sandler, echoing a trend among comedians seeking dramatic depth in their careers, the execution leaves much to be desired. Despite moments that genuinely aim to pull at the heartstrings—aided by performances from a support cast that includes Christopher Walken and heartfelt scenes with Henry Winkler—the film struggles to harmonize its dual identities. The juxtaposition of juvenile humor with attempts at deep emotional resonance creates a discordant viewing experience. As "Click" plays out this balancing act, it serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities involved in mixing comedy with drama, raising questions about the efficacy of such endeavors in Sandler's filmography.

"Click" emerges on Blu-ray as a unique artifact within both the realms of Adam Sandler's filmography and the historical development of Blu-ray technology. Critics might argue that the film serves as a cautionary tale in scriptwriting and pacing, with its narrative cohesion coming across as an afterthought. Despite these criticisms, "Click" manages to resonate with its audience through a combination of heartfelt intentions and a technical presentation that does not disappoint. This Blu-ray edition shines with an impressive audio and visual transfer that showcases what the BD-50 format can achieve. The introduction of the disc as the first BD-50 Blu-ray sets a significant milestone, representing a leap forward in the capabilities of home media technology, especially with its plethora of high-definition extras enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Click" has undoubtedly raised the bar for what consumers can expect from the format. The film's darker narrative elements in its latter half may diverge from Sandler's typical comedic path, presenting a challenge in tone that not all audiences will appreciate. However, the quality of the Blu-ray edition cannot be understated; it brings together a robust video transfer and dynamic sound quality that demonstrates the potential power of high-definition media. Fans of the film and collectors alike will find value in this release, not just for its historical significance as the inaugural BD-50 disc but also for its comprehensive selection of extras, all presented in stunning high definition.

In conclusion, while "Click" might not appeal universally due to its split-tone narrative and sometimes haphazard execution, this Blu-ray edition represents a pivotal moment in home entertainment technology. It is unequivocally a must-have for die-hard fans and collectors interested in owning a piece of Blu-ray history. Beyond its cinematic critique, this release stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of digital media, ideally suited for those who appreciate technical innovation and are keen to witness the full capabilities of their home theater systems.