Contact Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Contact" brings a largely successful 1080p/VC-1 encoded transfer that markedly improves upon its outdated DVD counterparts. Notable is the image's retention of a natural filmic quality, with a thin yet authentic layer of grain persisting throughout most scenes. The print appears clean, aside from a few scattered white specks and occasional contrast wavering. The 2.40:1 aspect ratio supports a crisp and detailed picture, particularly enhancing the depth and texture essential for a film set significantly in outer space. Fine textures in facial details and textiles are rendered with commendable clarity, offering an immersive viewing experience.

However, certain technical issues are present. Contrast and black levels are generally solid but can verge on being overly aggressive, occasionally crushing shadow details and rendering some colors overly heated—most notably reds and greens. Additionally, specific scenes, particularly the climatic beach sequence involving green screen compositing, display signs of digital manipulation. Jodie Foster's face in this segment appears smoothed out to blend better with the artificial background, with noticeable oversaturation and ruddy skin tones. Despite these color issues, the overall flesh tones remain fairly natural, except for some warmer instances possibly intended as stylistic choices, especially in childhood flashback scenes.

Overall, the Blu-ray format provides a substantial upgrade from previous DVD releases, delivering an engaging and mostly true-to-source visual representation of "Contact." Nonetheless, some minor imperfections may be apparent to more discerning viewers, though they rarely diminish the overall enjoyment of this iconic film.

The audio presentation of "Contact" on Blu-ray is encapsulated in a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround track that demonstrates both strengths and occasional weaknesses. Standout moments include the frenetic wormhole sequence, where the circular rotors of the machine sweep through the rear channels, creating a slow strobing effect accompanied by significant LFE resonance. This showcases the exceptional sound design capabilities at specific intervals. However, during other scenes, particularly those with potential for robust atmospheric effects—like rainstorms—the rear channels often remain underutilized, leaving viewers desiring more thorough immersion.

Despite these inconsistencies, the mix benefits from a solid dynamic range that aptly prioritizes Alan Silvestri's magnificent score and dialogue. The opening shot is another auditory highlight, presenting an aural montage of noises that emerges as an expertly executed sound design moment. Throughout the film, ambient sounds are subtly distributed across the surround channels, contributing to an overall engaging experience even in quieter, dialogue-driven scenes. Notably, the signal from space possesses a complex profile with unexpected bass that enriches the narrative's auditory texture. Clarity and fidelity remain consistent, reinforcing the story's tension and drama effectively.

As the narrative progresses, the filmmakers' strategic restraint in audio design pays off, culminating in a climactic sequence replete with aggressive surround activity and powerful bass waves. These sonic fireworks underscore the precision of the Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track in capturing the film's pivotal moments, ultimately delivering a potent audio experience despite its more subdued passages.

The Blu-ray edition of "Contact" preserves all the integral special features from its original DVD release, providing an informative and substantial experience for film enthusiasts. Commentary tracks from Jodie Foster, Robert Zemeckis, and others offer a blend of thematic analysis, technical insights, and production anecdotes, serving as essential listens for fans. The Making Of featurettes delve into the intricate VFX work and scene creation processes, highlighting efforts to achieve scientific realism and notable technical feats. Additional extras include high-speed compositing reels and CGI previsualization clips, ensuring this edition stands out in today's high expectations of bonus content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary Tracks: Insightful discussions by Jodie Foster, Robert Zemeckis, Steve Starkey, Ken Ralston, and Stephen Rosenbaum.
• The Making of the Opening Shot: Detailed breakdown of the iconic opening sequence.
• The Making of the NASA Machine Destruction: Layer-by-layer VFX analysis.
• The Making of the Harrier Landing: Demonstrates complex environment transformations.
• High-Speed Compositing Reel: Explains VFX compositing techniques.
• Machine Fly By, Hadden's Plane, and NASA Control Room: Brief CGI previsualization clips.
• 5.1 Music-Only Track: Isolated Alan Silvestri’s score in Dolby Digital 5.1.
• Trailers: Original suspenseful trailers for the film.

"Contact," directed by Robert Zemeckis and based on Carl Sagan's celebrated sci-fi novel, stands as an exemplary exploration into the intersection of science and faith. The film delves into humanity's quest for extraterrestrial intelligence through the experiences of Dr. Ellie Arroway (performed superbly by Jodie Foster), a dedicated SETI researcher. Working from the Arecibo Observatory and later the Very Large Array in New Mexico, Ellie discovers a signal from the Vega star system containing a sequence of prime numbers—a definitive sign of intelligent life. This discovery sets off a series of events involving bureaucratic challenges, religious fanaticism, and ultimately, an interstellar voyage that challenges Ellie's staunch scientific rationalism.

Technically, "Contact" is a triumph. Zemeckis employs an array of visual techniques—from seamless CGI enhancements to complex camera maneuvers—that elevate the storytelling without overshadowing it. The opening sequence alone, a nearly four-minute unbroken shot that pulls back from Earth to the far reaches of the universe, effectively contextualizes human existence against the cosmic backdrop. Despite some of the special effects showing their age, particularly in scenes involving the intricate machine and a Harrier jet landing, the film's overall visual presentation remains compelling. The use of practical effects alongside CGI ensures a grounded feel amidst the high-concept sci-fi elements.

The narrative's treatment of science versus faith is nuanced and thoughtful, avoiding didacticism. The dichotomy is embodied in Ellie and Palmer Joss (Matthew McConaughey), whose personal beliefs reflect broader philosophical debates. The film posits that both realms seek truth and understanding, suggesting that science and religion can coexist. While Alan Silvestri’s score at times feels overly sentimental, it is used judiciously enough to not detract significantly from the experience. Despite minor flaws, such as some dated technological elements and a slightly trite climax, "Contact" remains a poignant and intellectually stimulating piece of speculative fiction that speaks to both our curiosity and our sense of wonder about the universe.

The Blu-ray release of "Contact" offers a visually impressive and sonically rich presentation, enhancing the intricate fabric of this thought-provoking sci-fi film. With the director's meticulous attention to detail, the transfer's high definition visual clarity truly brings out the breathtaking cinematography, giving renewed vibrancy to each scene. The audio quality is equally excellent, with a finely balanced soundscape that immerses viewers into both the subtle nuances and explosive moments of the narrative.

Although the supplementary materials may not be extensive, they are thoughtfully curated, providing valuable insights into the film's production and thematic depth. Jodie Foster's audio commentary stands out as a highlight, offering a compelling behind-the-scenes perspective that enriches the viewer's understanding of the film. These elements collectively underscore the care given to this Blu-ray release, honoring the film's legacy while offering fresh avenues for appreciation.

In conclusion, as it examines the slim, Venn diagram-style overlap between science and religion, and prompts us to look to the sky in wonder, Contact is, in my view, one of the better sci-fi films of the 1990s. Fans will be glad to see that the movie has received a decent treatment on Blu-ray, and I do encourage everyone to listen to Jodie Foster's excellent audio commentary. Recommended, with no reservations.