Better Days Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Better Days" is a commendable showcase of visual fidelity. Utilizing the popular Arri Alexa cameras and encoded at 1.85:1 in AVC, this release from Well Go USA is striking in its realistic portrayal of a diverse array of scenes. The video rests on a stable 2K DI, delivering exceptional sharpness and clarity, especially in close-ups and medium pan shots. Colors range from starkly realistic tones to warmer, more vibrant hues that set the film’s varied moods effectively. Notably, the intricate details visible in bruises and cuts on characters are rendered with startling clarity.

Some caveats exist, however, particularly in specific lighting conditions and certain long-range shots where sharpness slightly wavers. While the students’ bright blue uniforms stand out vividly, night scenes acquire green and yellow tinges that can create minor murkiness in the blacks. Despite these minor flaws, the image quality remains largely consistent and appealing.

Skin tones carry natural variation, though they are somewhat dependent on the specific scene's lighting. Contrast is balanced, although certain darkest moments reveal slight deficits in shadow definition. A minor note of banding is present, but it’s rather limited given Well Go USA's history. Overall, this Blu-ray offers a solid high-definition visual experience that adeptly supports the narrative’s grounded realism while highlighting an admirable level of detail and color accuracy.

The Blu-ray release of "Better Days" features a compelling 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track in Mandarin, with optional English subtitles. This immersive audio presentation effectively supports the film's dramatic elements. The mix predominantly emphasizes the front sound stage, delivering clear and consistent dialogue, which is crucial for this emotionally driven narrative. Ambient sounds, such as the hum of motorized scooters and classroom chatter, enhance the drama without overwhelming it.

Notably, the film excels in using bass effectively, particularly during chase scenes and fights, offering a satisfying depth that complements the visuals. While the track isn't designed for bombastic action effects, its subtlety serves the film’s atmosphere well. Certain sequences, like the stairway chase and noisy classroom scenes, make excellent use of surround channels to create a dynamic listening experience. Additionally, Varqa Buehrer's piano and strings score thoughtfully permeates through side and rear channels, adding an evocative layer to the audio landscape.

Overall, "Better Days" presents an audio mix that is more than sufficient for its dramatic storytelling. Although it occasionally reflects on subtlety rather than spectacle, this DTS-HD MA track ensures an engaging and immersive auditory experience. The balance between dialogue clarity and ambient soundscapes, paired with effective use of bass, should meet audience expectations for an evocative and poignant drama.

The Blu-ray of "Better Days" offers a comprehensive selection of extras that enhance the viewing experience. The highlight is the 'Making Of' featurette, broken down into specific segments focused on Jackson Yee and Zhou Dongyu. The trailers are presented in high-definition quality, with the extras seamlessly transitioning from one to the next, providing an uninterrupted flow. This automatic play function is typical of Well Go USA releases, ensuring a smooth navigation experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making Of: Behind-the-scenes featurettes on the making of the film.
• Jackson Yee: Focuses on Jackson Yee's character and performance.
• Zhou Dongyu: Spotlight on Zhou Dongyu's role and acting process.
• Trailer A: The first promotional trailer.
• Trailer B: The second promotional trailer.
• Trailer C: The third promotional trailer.
• Well Go USA Previews: Previews of other Well Go USA releases.

"Better Days," directed by Derek Tsang, is a hard-hitting exploration of bullying and societal issues within Chinese schools. The film has garnered significant attention due to its critical portrayal of China's group think culture, which led to it being temporarily banned by Chinese authorities. The narrative focuses on Chen Nian, played by Zhou Dongyu, a high school student who becomes the target of relentless bullying after expressing sympathy for a deceased peer. The harrowing depiction of Chen's struggles is reminiscent of other notable works, such as Korea’s "The King of Pigs." Yet, the film’s rawness is both a powerful critique and a disturbing portrayal of the systemic issues within educational institutions.

The intense first half of "Better Days" delves deeply into the trauma that bullying inflicts, showcasing the severe psychological and social consequences. The Chinese education system's pressures are also front and center, highlighting the extreme stress students undergo as they prepare for college entrance exams. This social critique is profoundly accurate, revealing how these societal expectations can cause lasting harm to young individuals. However, the film takes a tonal shift midway through, transitioning into a thriller when Chen Nian forms an unlikely alliance with Xiao Bei (Jackson Yee), a street thug she recruits as her protector.

This shift in genre renders "Better Days" somewhat disjointed, although it maintains an emotional resonance throughout. The thriller elements introduce a visceral shock that mixes uneasily with the earlier dramatic intensity. While this second half may slightly weaken the narrative's initial force, it still captivates by highlighting the lengths to which bullied individuals might go for self-defense and support. Despite its amalgamation of drama and thriller components, "Better Days" succeeds in delivering a poignant message about societal flaws, informed by Tsang’s daring directorial approach, leaving viewers with a bittersweet reflection on the plights faced by today's youth.

"Better Days" is an emotionally charged thriller-drama that strikes a delicate balance between gripping storytelling and raw realism. Directed by Derek Tsang and starring Dongyu Zhou and Jackson Yee, the film delves into the harrowing issue of bullying in China, making it both a poignant and enlightening experience for international audiences. With an aspect ratio of 1.85:1 AVC, the Blu-ray offers commendable visual fidelity, capturing the film’s intricate details and emotive performances. The Mandarin DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track enhances the viewing experience with its depth and clarity, while English and Mandarin (Traditional) subtitles ensure broader accessibility.

The screenplay, adapted from Yuexi Jiu's novel by Wing-Sum Lam, Yuan Li, and Yimeng Xu, intricately weaves a narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Though the film transitions into a procedural format in its latter half, which may divide audience opinions, it continues to deliver unexpected twists that keep viewers engaged. Dongyu Zhou's performance stands out for its emotional intensity, providing a stark and authentic portrayal of distress and resilience. This amalgamation of gritty content and impressive technical execution underscores the film’s value as an important cinematic work.

In conclusion, "Better Days" is not without its flaws; its tonal shifts might not appeal to everyone. However, its earnest depiction of a pertinent social issue makes it a compelling watch. As a product of modern Chinese cinema, it carves out a niche for itself by blending heartfelt narrative with solid technical specifications. For those interested in social dramas that offer both emotional richness and visual allure, "Better Days" is highly recommended.