Shorts Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Shorts" offers an inconsistent experience, reflected in its 1080p/VC-1 transfer with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. While the transfer appears direct-from-digital and free from grain, pops, or scratches, it reveals several shortcomings tied to the film's production. Primaries sometimes lack vibrancy for a colorful kids' movie, and skin tones fluctuate, occasionally making the young actors look synthetic. The contrast shows notable inconsistencies, leading to overly bright areas and black crush, affecting shadow detail negatively. Despite its clean presentation without significant macroblocking or noise, the overall image can feel flat, detracting from the visual engagement.

Technically, edge definition is sharp, and textures are well-defined but inconsistent across scenes. Some shots offer striking clarity, although artifacting and banding present occasional distractions. The source’s bright, cartoonish aesthetic materializes as both a strength and a drawback; while colors are bright and pop on screen, they sometimes border on oversaturation. This vivid presentation inadvertently highlights the film’s dated and budget-constricted CGI effects, reducing the suspension of disbelief. The transfer's technical precision clashes with the compositional elements, which could benefit from a more nuanced depth to elevate beyond mere visual spectacle.

While additional polish in some aspects (e.g., clearer skin tones, balanced contrast) might enhance overall appeal, the current video rendition lacks the sophistication to impress hardcore videophiles. Certain production limitations dampen the visual impact despite a clean and artifact-free transfer. Ultimately, though the Blu-ray video quality is polished and cleanly presented, it fails to fully bring out the intricacies required for a standout high-definition experience.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "Shorts" is rendered through a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 mix that proves to be one of its more commendable aspects. The soundtrack is dynamic and engaging, employing a considerable use of the surrounds that align with the movie's frenetic activity. Dialogue is predominantly clear and intelligible, though it occasionally gets lost amid the more hectic scenes. Surround channels provide a lively backdrop with effective pans, while LFE output bolsters the chaotic soundscape, though it might leave audiophiles yearning for more depth.

The audio truly comes to life post the initial vignettes, particularly during scenes featuring an insta-castle, a botched business soiree, and a ravenous snot monster, taking full advantage of the surround and LFE channels. Directionality may not be spectacular, sometimes risked by a two-dimensional feel, yet maintains stability and effectiveness in dynamics, with exceptionally stable high-pitched sounds. However, despite encompassing a wide range of wacky sound effects that fit the cartoonish nature of "Shorts," the mix at times prioritizes loudness over nuance, potentially overwhelming rather than enhancing the viewing experience.

There are no technical anomalies such as hiss, hum, or crackle evident on this track, confirming a flawless execution in terms of technical precision. Additional language options include French, Spanish, and Portuguese Dolby Digital 5.1 tracks with corresponding subtitles available in English SDH, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. Overall, while the Dolby TrueHD 5.1 mix offers an entertaining and immersive auditory experience consistent with the film's zany tone, it stops short of achieving demo-worthy status due to its lack of subtler nuances.

The extras on the Blu Ray release of "Shorts" are designed to engage younger audiences, offering a mix of practical, behind-the-scenes, and interactive content. Robert Rodriguez fans will appreciate his consistent presence across various features, imparting both filmmaking and culinary skills. The Magic of Shorts (9 min., HD) offers a clip-heavy overview of special effects with a reserved Rodriguez at the helm. Show and Tell (5 min., HD) highlights the film's young cast and their on-set antics. 10-Minute Film School (10 min., HD) provides insightful tips for creating impactful home movies using accessible tools. Meanwhile, 10-Minute Cooking School (10 min., HD) features Rodriguez and his daughter in a charming segment on making Chocolate Chip Volcano Cookies. Noteworthy is that all content is rendered in high definition, enhancing the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Magic of Shorts: Overview of special effects with Robert Rodriguez.
• Show and Tell: Interactions with the film's young stars on set.
• 10-Minute Film School: Tips for enhancing home movies with visual effects.
• 10-Minute Cooking: Chocolate Chip Volcano Cookies tutorial.
• BD Live Enabled
• Digital Copy

"Shorts" immerses viewers in the eccentric suburban world of Black Falls, dominated by the omnipresent Black Box Corporation. The narrative launches into a chaotic adventure as local kids uncover a magical Wishing Rock. This device, rivaling the Black Box's multifunctional prowess, triggers a pandemonium of fantastical events—ranging from booger monsters to ambulatory crocodiles and diminutive aliens. Directed by Robert Rodriguez, the film is segmented into nonlinear chapters, each showcasing hyper-stylized, vibrant productions that cater directly to the whimsical fantasies of its young audience. While the energy and visual spectacle will undoubtedly enthrall children, it lacks depth and coherence for adult viewers.

With elements reminiscent of a Quentin Tarantino film reimagined for kids, "Shorts" draws on Rodriguez's penchant for rapid, animated storytelling. The plot, structured around six episodes, weaves the aspirations and adventures of diverse characters: narrator Toe Thompson (Jimmy Bennett), troublemaker Loogie (Trevor Gagnon), germophobe Nose Noseworthy (Jake Short), and siblings Helvetica (Jolie Vanier) and Cole Black (Devon Gearhart). Amidst the ensuing chaos, James Spader delivers a standout performance as the villainous Mr. Black, infusing a devilish charm into the corporate magnate role. However, beyond the animated hijinks and spectacular CGI, the film’s lessons on responsibility and community feel superficial and lack resonance.

Packed with all conceivable elements to captivate young minds—robots, magic, aliens, and more—"Shorts" is an ADHD-fueled joyride. It plays like an over-caffeinated blend of Spielberg's "Amazing Stories" and nostalgic "Little Rascals" shorts but lacks substance. Rodriguez’s one-man-band approach ensures plenty of visual flare but results in an overall shallow experience. While it might leave parents glancing at their watches, children will leave brimming with excitement. As a cinematic experience, "Shorts" is a testament to youthful imagination run wild, albeit without any profound takeaways for older audiences.

"Shorts" is an energetic, whimsical film that primarily targets young boys aged five to nine. While Robert Rodriguez captures the imaginative spirit of youthful storytelling through the utilization of his children’s ideas, the end result falls short in delivering a cinematic experience that appeals to all ages. Viewers will find the plot to be uninspired and the special effects lackluster. Although frenetic and fun for its target demographic, it does little to charm adults.

The Blu-ray release of "Shorts" is a mixed bag. Its TrueHD audio track delivers a robust auditory experience, but this is counterbalanced by a video transfer that can disappoint those looking for top-tier picture quality. The supplementary features comprise a brief thirty-four minutes of kid-oriented content, providing some additional fun for young viewers but lacking substantial depth or interest for older audiences.

In conclusion, "Shorts" shines in creating an engaging adventure for young children, yet its overall execution and supplementary features leave much to be desired. It is not among the top family films, and may only warrant several viewings if specifically requested by young fans. While children may cheer, parents are likely to find it obnoxious and silly. In comparison to other family film offerings available, this one can be safely skipped.