Outrage Blu-ray Review

Outrage comes to Blu-ray courtesy of Panorama, presented in a 1080p resolution utilizing the AVC codec and framed in a theatrically accurate 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Panorama continues its trend of high-quality releases with this edition. The film exhibits a sharp and well-detailed image with a robust contrast ratio. Color reproduction is stable and consistent, with naturalistic tones that gain richness when primary colors, particularly red, are on screen. The fine details in the gangsters' suits are clearly visible, and the shadow detail, while not exceptional, holds up well without introducing noise or black crush. Diligent care ensures that heavy compression artifacts and ringing are absent, although there are minor instances of banding.

Close-ups in the film are particularly impressive, boasting exceptional clarity that sometimes resembles photographic quality. Despite the overall high standards, there are occasional slight issues, such as mild desaturation in brightly lit scenes and pans that temporarily lack smoothness. However, these imperfections are minor and do not significantly detract from the overall quality.

Overall, this Blu-ray release from Panorama stands as one of their strongest to date. The video presentation handles a range of scenes effectively, from sunlit garden meetings to neon-lit altercations in underground car parks. Aside from negligible motion issues and minimal concerns about fluctuating skin tones in later scenes, the presentation remains crisp and film-like with a fine layer of grain that enhances its organic feel. This release is unmistakably close to reference quality, making it an outstanding addition to any collection.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Outrage" offers two tracks: Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and Japanese Dolby Digital 5.1, both of which cater exclusively to the film's native language. The DTS-HD variant stands out for its lossless quality, providing a raw and immersive auditory experience. This track manages to convey the intricacies of Takeshi Kitano’s film without succumbing to overly dramatic flourishes. The dialogue is clear and stable, with distinct separation from the background score.

The general sound arrangement is front-heavy; however, when the rear channels engage, particularly during ambiance-laden scenes such as a coffee shop setting, they recreate an immersive environment with meticulous detail. Discreet noises, like the chinking of plates and the running of water, are delivered with a finesse that heightens the immersive experience. The final shootout magnifies this as the bass erupts and the fronts open up to envelop the listener fully. Additionally, Keiichi Suzuki's multi-layered synth score seamlessly ebbs and flows through scenes with subdued intensity, offering a pleasing auditory experience, especially when drums dynamically pop around the listener.

While not necessarily a demo track for high-octane sound effects, the audio design of "Outrage" excels in subtlety and precision. The shootouts resonate crisply, and background industrial noises are handled with exceptional clarity by the lossless audio track. Overall, this audio presentation is a fine aural showcase for Kitano’s cinematic approach, ensuring both dialogue and atmospheric elements maintain their integrity and impact.

The special features for the "Outrage" Blu-ray, located on a separate Region-3 coded SDVD, offer significant behind-the-scenes insights but come with a notable limitation: they lack English subtitles, available only in Japanese and optional Traditional Chinese. This restricts accessibility for non-Japanese or Chinese speakers. The extras, however, are abundant and well-produced, providing an in-depth look into the film's production and promotional events. Essential components such as the Making of Outrage, Roundtable Discussion, and Cast Interviews shed light on the creative process and collaborative efforts of the cast and crew. A region-free SDVD or Blu-ray player is required to view these features.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making of Outrage: In-depth behind-the-scenes featurette.
• Roundtable Discussion: Cast and crew discussion.
• Japan Premiere/Director and Cast Appearance: Coverage of the Japan premiere event.
• Cast Interviews: Interviews with principal cast members.
• Trailer: Theatrical trailer for "Outrage".
• Outrage in Cannes: Highlights from the Cannes premiere.

"Outrage," directed by Takeshi Kitano, marks his return to the yakuza genre with a narrative that, while competent, lacks the existential depth and unique symbolism of his earlier works such as "Sonatine" and "Hana-Bi." The ensemble cast, spearheaded by Kitano himself as the character Otomo, delivers performances that struggle to break through the script's limitations, leaving character development somewhat shallow. Though Kitano’s trademark humor is present, it doesn't quite elevate the film above being a standard crime thriller. The film's violence, though unflinchingly depicted, occasionally feels forced rather than an organic extension of the story.

Technically, the Blu-ray release by Panorama is commendable. The film is presented in the wide Kowa Scope (2.39:1), which captures Tokyo's metropolitan underbelly with Katsumi Yanagijima's sharp cinematography. Yoshinori Ohta’s editing ensures a cohesive narrative flow, complemented by the minimalistic yet effective score from Keiichi Suzuki. Audio quality is solid, providing an immersive experience befitting an earthy crime drama, with well-balanced sound effects crafted by Senji Horiuchi and Kenji Shibazaki. However, potential importers should note the extras lack English subtitles, limiting accessibility to non-Japanese speakers.

For longtime fans of Kitano and the yakuza genre, "Outrage" offers moments of intrigue and classic Kitano chaos. Yet, despite its engaging shootouts and power struggles, the film's overall execution feels derivative, echoing earlier yakuza narratives rather than setting new benchmarks. The high production values and Kitano’s flair for original killings prevent it from being a mere conventional crime drama, though its dark cynicism can become overbearing. Ultimately, "Outrage" stands as a testament to Kitano's unique style and as a serviceable addition to his filmography, even if it doesn't fully recapture the magic of his masterworks.

` Review 1: Outrage is a visually striking film that effectively showcases Takeshi Kitano's signature style. The narrative focuses on intricate gang dynamics and brutal violence, offering a compelling experience for fans of gangster cinema. Despite occasional pacing issues, the film maintains tension and excitement. The Blu-ray presentation excels in clarity and color accuracy, enhancing the viewing experience.

Review 2: The Blu-ray release of Outrage delivers an outstanding audiovisual performance. The film's high-definition transfer is exemplary, capturing every detail of Kitano's meticulously framed shots. The sound design, with its emphasis on naturalistic effects and strategic use of silence, also benefits from the uncompressed audio track. Overall, this is a must-have for collectors.

Review 3: While Outrage may not break new ground in the gangster genre, it is a solid entry from Takeshi Kitano that retains many of his thematic obsessions. The film's polished cinematography and dynamic score are well-preserved on this Blu-ray edition. The disc also includes a substantive making-of featurette, which adds value for enthusiasts of Kitano's filmography.

Review 4: Kitano's Outrage stands out thanks to its methodical plot and intense action sequences. The Blu-ray's video quality is pristine, with vibrant colors and sharp contrast that do justice to the director's visual storytelling. Audio clarity is equally impressive, making it an immersive viewing experience. This release comes highly recommended for its technical merits alone.

The Blu-ray release of Takeshi Kitano’s Outrage provides a masterful visual experience. The pristine high-definition transfer captures every meticulously framed scene with remarkable clarity and color accuracy, enhancing Kitano's signature style. The dynamic score and uncompressed audio track further elevate the film's powerful impact by emphasizing naturalistic sound effects and strategic silences. The technical expertise evident in this presentation makes it an essential addition to any cinephile's collection.

Outrage is a compelling crime narrative that delves deeply into the intricate dynamics of gang violence and loyalty. While it does not introduce groundbreaking elements to the genre, it effectively showcases Kitano’s thematic preoccupations and stylistic flourishes. The movie maintains tension and excitement throughout, although occasional pacing issues may be noted. Enthusiasts will appreciate additional content like the substantive making-of featurette which offers deeper insights into the film’s production.

In conclusion, Outrage will particularly appeal to longtime fans of Takeshi Kitano and those who appreciate his early crime films. Although the narrative material may sometimes lack originality, the film remains engaging and entertaining. The Panorama Blu-ray release is particularly laudable for its excellent audiovisual performance. This Blu-ray edition of Outrage comes highly recommended for both its cinematic qualities and its outstanding technical presentation.