Blade of the Immortal Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Blade of the Immortal" is an exemplary showcase of high-definition cinema. Shot by Nobuyasa Kita using Arri Alexa XT cameras, the film achieves an impressively film-like aesthetic despite its digital origins. The opening action sequences are intricately shot in black and white, delivering a textured, classic feel reminiscent of traditional samurai films like "Sword of Doom." As the narrative progresses, the color grading transitions to a period piece style with soft greens and light browns, enhancing the dusty, historical ambiance. However, when brighter colors like primary reds and vivid purples make an appearance, especially in costume design, they pop off the screen with exceptional clarity and sharpness. Overall, the image remains highly detailed, with deep, inky blacks and minimal issues related to crushing or banding.

The AVC-encoded 2.39:1 aspect ratio transfer further exemplifies precision in visual presentation. Details on skin and makeup are meticulously rendered, allowing viewers to appreciate the aging particulars and complex character designs. The dimensional viewing experience ensures that both foreground and background elements are crisply defined, preserving the authenticity of large gatherings and elaborate set decors. High-quality color reproduction is evident throughout, with forest scenes presenting rich greenery and painted faces maintaining their unique characteristics. While some minor banding can be detected, it scarcely detracts from the overall viewing experience. Primary colors, especially deep blood reds, stand out remarkably well, enhancing the film's vividness.

Boasting a clean, bold 1080p transfer, "Blade of the Immortal" offers strong detail clarity that brings the visceral scenes of dismemberment and intricate makeup work into sharp focus. While digital effects occasionally appear more pronounced next to the film’s superb practical effects, these instances are minor and do little to mar the overall superb quality. Black levels and contrast are precisely calibrated, providing a deep sense of dimensionality and depth. Although slight banding may be noticed briefly, it is negligible in the grand scheme of this nearly flawless presentation. Fans of the manga and film will undoubtedly appreciate this high-quality Blu-ray transfer, though one might wish for an uncompressed release on 4K Ultra HD for even greater fidelity.

The audio presentation of "Blade of the Immortal" on Blu-ray is a compelling offering, with dual 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio (MA) tracks available in both English and Japanese. Despite the English dub being serviceable, the Japanese track shines with a more organic and nuanced delivery. The 5.1 mix is noteworthy, featuring dynamic sonic directional shifts that immerse the listener within the action-packed sound stage. While the bass response is slightly softer than expected, it still effectively supports the low-end effects, such as thudding horse hooves and impacts through bamboo walls. The dialogue, particularly the guttural Japanese vocals, is crisp and precise, emanating from the center channel with clarity that enhances the viewing experience. Notably, the panning effects are impressive, adding to the immersive audio environment as characters traverse the screen.

However, some listeners might find that the 5.1 DTS-HD MA mix emphasizes frontal action intensity over a more enveloping surround experience. Surround channels are primarily utilized for atmospheric elements such as ambient outdoor sounds and the occasional echo in wooden interiors. Periodic acts of violence do extend outward, contributing to a sense of spatial dynamics, but overall, the surround activity is restrained. Despite this, the dialogue remains sharp and clear across all scenes, balancing softer banters and fierce war cries adeptly. The sound effects are meticulous, especially during combat scenes with clashing steel, and the score punctuates with vigorous drum cues that provide an occasional punch to the audio landscape.

All in all, this audio mix delivers a polished auditory experience that is well-suited for home theaters. It ensures that both action sequences and quieter moments are rendered with precision and clarity, even if the surround elements are not as pronounced. This balance makes "Blade of the Immortal" a satisfying auditory treat for enthusiasts, accentuating the film’s dynamic range without overwhelming the listener.

The Blu-ray release of "Blade of the Immortal" comes with a comprehensive and impressive array of special features, surpassing standard EPK fare with in-depth insights and extensive behind-the-scenes content. The "Manji vs. 300" featurette explores the intricate choreography and arduous filming process of the film's significant battle scenes, highlighted by Takuya Kimura's comments on the demanding swordplay and complex wire work required. The Cast Interviews segment provides an extensive look at the efforts of the ensemble, backed by considerable behind-the-scenes footage, although the actual interviews are brief. The Takuya Kimura Interview serves as a quasi-production diary, capturing Kimura's intense training and creative contributions. Additionally, the Poster Gallery showcases international promotional art, and both Green Band and Red Band trailers are included.

Extras included in this disc:

• Manji vs. 300: In-depth look at major battle scenes with insights from Takuya Kimura.
• Takuya Kimura Interview: Production diary focusing on Kimura's swordsmanship training and on-set involvement.
• Cast Interviews: Behind-the-scenes footage and brief on-set conversations with cast members.
• Poster Gallery: Seven designs from various countries.
• Original Trailers: Both American Green Band and Red Band trailers.

Takashi Miike's Blade of the Immortal is a blood-soaked celebration as his 100th directorial endeavor, adapted from the beloved manga series. The film follows the immortal samurai Manji (played by Takuya Kimura) as he grapples with his eternal curse and a quest for vengeance. The movie opens with a powerful black and white prologue, showcasing Manji's brutal confrontation with government officials and the tragic loss of his sister Machi (Hana Sugisaki), elucidating the curse bestowed upon him by mysterious holy blood worms. The narrative propels forward 50 years to a revenge-driven young girl, Rin (also played by Hana Sugisaki), whose quest to avenge her parents’ death at the hands of the Itto Ryu martial arts sect leads her to enlist Manji as her bodyguard.

Miike masterfully blends elements of period piece epic, anime, and visceral exploitation film, resulting in a visually and emotionally impactful experience. While maintaining a distinct feel of episodic encounters familiar to manga fans, the film presents unique and memorable adversaries encountered by Manji and Rin. Each fight scene is dynamic and diverse, from battles with an immortal monk to a burn victim adorned with severed heads. Despite this repetitive yet necessary structure, Miike infuses enough dramatic tension to keep audiences engaged. The layered character arcs of both heroes and villains add depth, gradually shifting perceptions and offering sympathetic dimensions.

Blade of the Immortal isn't Miike's most refined work, but it successfully balances graphic ultraviolence with substantial character development. Though some may find the frequent amputations and bloodshed numbing over its hefty 140-minute run time, others will appreciate the commitment to adapting Hiroaki Samura's intricate world meticulously. Visually arresting and thematically rich, including contemplative moments that dig beyond surface-level carnage, the film stands out as a robust adaptation and a fitting testament to Miike's prolific career.

"Blade of the Immortal" serves as an exceptional showcase of Takashi Miike's 100th film, blending intense action sequences with a keen character focus. The narrative, derived from Hiroaki Samura's manga and scripted by Tetsuya Oishi, embeds itself in samurai folklore while offering a visceral experience that's both visually and emotionally engaging. The blend of political intrigue and personal vengeance provides depth, although the political aspects may not captivate as strongly as the physical confrontations. Nevertheless, the film’s climactic showdown epitomizes Miike's patented brand of organized chaos, filled with extraordinary combat choreography and a copious display of severed limbs.

From a technical standpoint, Magnolia Pictures presents "Blade of the Immortal" in a stunning 2.39:1 AVC aspect ratio, boasting a crisp and vibrant image transfer that accentuates the film’s meticulous cinematography. The audio mix, available in both English and Japanese DTS-HD MA 5.1, delivers an immersive auditory experience that complements the on-screen action beautifully. Subtitles are offered in English SDH, English, and Spanish to cater to a broader audience. The Blu-Ray release date of February 13th, 2018, marks a significant addition to any Miike aficionado’s collection. Though the extras are somewhat minimalist, they are not entirely lacking, providing enough to satisfy enthusiasts without overwhelming them.

In conclusion, "Blade of the Immortal" is a thrilling cinematic experience that combines the stylized violence of Tarantino with the rich depth of anime and samurai epics. Despite its extended runtime, Miike's direction ensures a captivating narrative filled with memorable characters and breathtaking visuals. The Blu-ray release underscores this experience with stellar visual and sound quality, making it an indispensable piece for fans of revenge tales and Miike's distinctive filmmaking style. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a bloody and exhilarating journey through feudal Japan’s dark underbelly.