Zoolander 2 Blu-ray Review

"Zoolander 2" dazzles on Blu-ray with an impressive 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode that breathes life into every meticulously crafted frame. The transfer exhibits an exceptionally sharp and detailed picture, particularly in close-ups where facial features, make-up, and even pores are revealed with remarkable precision. The high-fashion costumes benefit significantly from this sharpness, showcasing every intricate fabric detail. While the majority of the film boasts excellent clarity, there are intermittent instances of softer, occasionally smeary details that detract slightly from an otherwise stellar presentation. These minor blemishes do not overshadow the transfer’s ability to reveal lifelike textures across various settings, including harsh deserts, winter landscapes, and rich European backdrops.

Presented in its original 2.35:1 aspect ratio, the transfer offers a wide array of richly saturated colors that align perfectly with the fashion-centric theme of the movie. Primary colors explode off the screen, enhancing the film’s buoyant and energetic feel, while softer pastels maintain a brilliance that keeps the mood high. This vibrant palette is balanced by deep black levels that retain detail even in the darkest scenes. However, flesh tones occasionally appear exaggerated with a slight reddish tint, potentially attributable to Dan Mindel's warm cinematography. Despite this minor issue, the contrast remains spot-on, ensuring excellent visibility even for background elements. Subtle light noise is present but does not detract from the overall quality of the transfer. Fans will undoubtedly find the presentation both visually striking and engaging.

The audio presentation of "Zoolander 2" on Blu-ray is notably robust, featuring an extraordinary DTS:X soundtrack that maximizes the film's engaging qualities. Utilized in an 11.1 configuration, the soundtrack seamlessly incorporates overhead channels to the 7.1 setup, delivering an expansive and dynamic auditory experience. The musical elements shine with tight, loud, and precise delivery; lows are notably deep and booming, highs effectively piercing, and midranges settle in lifelike clarity, even at high volumes. This meticulous sound design ensures that both the front channels and surrounds contribute to an immersive audience experience, with exceptional atmospheric activity providing continuous, ambient engagement.

The object-based mixing particularly excels during action sequences where sounds of car crashes, jet roars, and descending helicopters create a strikingly realistic and powerful audio landscape. Although the overhead channels could offer a bit more depth during such moments, they still add a fuller sensation that transcends typical 7.1 tracks. Dialogue remains clear and consistently positioned in the center channel, ensuring it never gets lost amidst the intense soundscape.

Complemented by an equally impressive 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio for those not equipped with DTS:X capabilities, the track breathes life into both action-packed and quieter moments. The sound of helicopter blades overhead, bullets whizzing through the room, and motorcycles zooming is conveyed with flawless panning and fluidity. Atmospheric details such as whispers at a runway show or distant bird chirps add to a continually active and lively soundfield. Theodore Shapiro's score intricately integrates with sound effects to build an engaging three-dimensional space, highlighted by stable mid-ranges and thunderous low-end bass that adds considerable weight to each explosion and action sequence.

"Zoolander 2" delivers an engaging set of Blu-ray extras that delve into the franchise's history, the filmmaking process, and the comedic vision behind the character. From retrospective looks at the original film's enduring cult status to behind-the-scenes insights on shooting in Rome, the featurettes offer valuable context and entertainment. Noteworthy is the tribute to series co-creator Drake Sather, providing an emotional backdrop to the film's humor. Additionally, the inclusion of a spoof advertisement adds a comedic flair synonymous with the Zoolander brand.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Zoolander Legacy: Explores the original film's legacy and audience expectations for the sequel.
• Go Big Or Go Rome: Captures the decision to film in Rome and showcases its stunning locations.
• Drake Sather: The Man Who Created Zoolander: Reflects on Sather's life, career, and impact on the franchise.
• Youth Milk: A satirical commercial for a facial cream.

"Zoolander No. 2" attempts to replicate the magic and humor of the original but falls short, succumbing to a convoluted and overly ambitious plot that moves away from the charm and wit of its predecessor. Picking up years after the first film, Derek Zoolander (Ben Stiller) is living in isolated despondence until a chance to return to modeling and reunite with his estranged son propels him back into the fashion world. Joined by his former friend Hansel (Owen Wilson) and Interpol agent Valentina Valencia (Penélope Cruz), Zoolander gets embroiled in a murder conspiracy connected to the deaths of celebrities, setting a tone that wavers between darkly brooding and ludicrously over-the-top.

The film revs up with a ridiculous yet engaging death scene featuring Justin Bieber, promising a wild ride that, while initially entertaining, quickly devolves into a sluggish and unfocused narrative. Numerous cameos and star-studded appearances, including Benedict Cumberbatch's outrageous portrayal of the supermodel All, inject some notable moments but are often scattered and inconsistent in their impact. The primary cast, especially Stiller and Wilson, deliver performances that recall the irreverent charm of the original, yet they can't entirely salvage a script that struggles under the weight of its own ambition.

Indeed, the film brims with extravagant production designs, satirizing the fashion industry's absurdity through costumes and set pieces that are as outlandish as they are visually striking. However, as the plot unfolds, involving an elaborate scheme concerning the Fountain of Youth and misguided revenge, it becomes increasingly incohesive. Despite sporadic bursts of humor and a handful of memorable scenes, "Zoolander No. 2" ultimately lacks the consistency and tight narrative required to sustain its comedic momentum, leaving even the most loyal fans somewhat disappointed by its indulgent silliness.

Zoolander No. 2 struggles with the common pitfalls of sequels, unable to reach the highs of its predecessor. The cast, composed of both familiar faces and new additions, brings energy and dedication to their roles. While the script initially captures the essence of the original with a well-balanced tone, it soon becomes bogged down by excessive nonsense and over-the-top gags. The film is engaging in parts, particularly during the first half, but the later segments fall short, leading to an overall uneven viewing experience.

For die-hard fans of the original Zoolander, this sequel offers a similar dose of burlesque humor and slapstick antics. The film attempts to satirize the fashion industry and make cultural references, though many of these jokes fail to hit the mark. There are moments of clever humor sprinkled throughout, but they are often overshadowed by less successful comedic attempts. Despite this uneven comedic tone, Zoolander No. 2 remains a divisive sequel that might only satisfy the most loyal enthusiasts.

Paramount's Blu-ray release of Zoolander No. 2 boasts high-quality audio and video, enhancing the viewing experience significantly. However, the supplementary materials are rather lackluster, comprising only a few featurettes that do little to enrich the overall package. Given these mixed aspects, it is advisable that potential viewers rent the film first to gauge personal interest before purchasing.

In conclusion, Zoolander No. 2 is a commendable attempt at rekindling the charm of the first film but stumbles with an inconsistent script and hit-or-miss humor. Its Blu-ray presentation shines in technical quality yet falls short in additional content. While it might be worth checking out for fans of the original, casual viewers are likely better off opting for a rental.