Superman/Batman: Apocalypse Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Superman/Batman: Apocalypse" delivers a 1080p High Definition video rendition in the film's original 1.78:1 widescreen aspect ratio. The animation style used here mirrors that of previous DCU releases, thus inherently limiting the video quality irrespective of the HD format. With vivid colors lighting up the screen—ranging from the deep reds of Superman’s cape to the fiery oranges of Apokolips’ hellish landscapes—the color palette is quite broad and vibrant. Line detail remains consistently bold, enhancing character and object definition amid the proceedings. However, the stylized animation often leads to noticeable softness in backgrounds, creating an unintended pseudo-3D effect that can be distracting.

Despite some high points, the 1080p/VC-1 encode is plagued with several visual inconsistencies and artifacts. Issues such as stair-stepped lines, banding, and rippling artifacts appear prominently, with Gotham skies occasionally resembling scenes out of a videogame. Underwater sequences like Batman’s search for Kara reveal numerous technical glitches including aliasing, pixelation, and fluctuating black levels that range from inky to murky. Faces and other surfaces intermittently suffer from circular bands that alter with motion, further detracting from the visual experience. This inconsistency in picture quality—where some shots shine and others falter—undermines the overall presentation.

Despite these shortcomings, the visual clarity on Blu-ray surpasses the DVD counterpart, offering brighter and more colorful imagery, though this does not equate to a thoroughly successful presentation. Whether it’s due to muddled blacks or pronounced banding, the technical deficiencies are hard to overlook. Consequently, while this Blu-ray brings some improvements over past releases, particularly in color vibrancy and line detail, it still falls short of delivering an exceptional high-definition viewing experience.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix for "Superman/Batman: Apocalypse" is a substantial advancement in the audio presentations for DC Universe titles. Previous releases, like "Superman/Batman: Public Enemies," were limited by standard Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtracks. Fortunately, this iteration brings forth a more robust and technically proficient audio experience. Dialogue flourishes across the frontal array, delivering crisp, clear, and coherent vocal input that sits well within the mix without being overpowered by action sequences. Dynamic range is notable, particularly at the softer end where subtle effects such as a pigeon taking flight or a sword slicing through the air are rendered with precision.

The surround channels are engaged more actively than in prior films, though a degree of front-heaviness persists. Effects such as flying batarangs, firing batgrapples, and sizzling heat vision utilize the surrounds effectively, offering a wholesome auditory experience that immerses the viewer in the superhero spectacle. Rear speaker activity is competent, enhancing key action moments despite an overall lack of continuous ambient immersion. Explosions display reasonable LFE usage but could benefit from more heft for a thrilling impact. The score, while not particularly memorable, complements the material perfectly by providing a suitably patriotic and rousing backdrop.

Key sound elements such as explosions, power blasts, and crumbling buildings are depicted with sharpness and adequate menace. Although rear speaker activity might be somewhat reserved during non-action sequences, the swift and smooth pans along with precise directionality enrich the overall soundstage. Despite dialogue commandeering the center channel effectively and staying clean and crisp within the chaotic scenes, the mix does fall short in creating a fully enveloping atmosphere. Overall, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix adds a significant layer of depth to the film's sound design, delivering a balanced and engaging auditory experience that complements the on-screen action superbly.

The Blu-ray edition of "Superman/Batman: Apocalypse" delivers a robust 72 minutes of supplementary material. Particularly notable are the featurettes on Darkseid and Supergirl, which delve into their origins and significance within the DC Universe. The disc includes a standout DC Showcase short featuring Green Arrow, offering intense action and strong voice performances. However, the lack of production insights—such as commentary or behind-the-scenes documentaries—is a missed opportunity. Complementing these extras are selected episodes from "Superman: The Animated Series," which provide additional context to the main feature. Additionally, previews of upcoming DC projects like All-Star Superman further enhance the package’s appeal.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Fourth World: The New Gods: An exploration of Darkseid’s origins.
• New Gods: Mr. Miracle Pod: Focuses on Mister Miracle and his connection to Darkseid.
• New Gods: Orion Pod: Delves into the story of Orion, Darkseid's biological son.
• Supergirl: The Last Daughter of Krypton: Reviews Supergirl’s evolution across comics and television.
• DC Showcase - Green Arrow: A thrilling Green Arrow short film.
• Superman: The Animated Series Bonus Episodes: Includes "Little Girl Lost" Parts 1 & 2 and "Apokolips Now" Parts 1 & 2.
• All-Star Superman Sneak Peek: A preview of the next DC animated release.
• Trailers and Additional Sneak Peeks: Previews for other DC titles such as "Batman: Under the Red Hood" and "Justice League Crisis on Two Earths."

"Superman/Batman: Apocalypse," the ninth entry in Warner Bros.’ DC Animated Universe, builds on its predecessor with improved action and an engaging storyline that introduces a new Supergirl character. The narrative effectively balances Earth-based events with otherworldly elements, although it struggles with an overabundance of characters, which could be confusing for newcomers. The script adapts Jeph Loeb and Michael Turner's "The Supergirl from Krypton" arc, beginning with Kara Zor-El’s unexpected arrival in Gotham Bay. While Batman remains suspicious, Superman quickly embraces his cousin, leading to friction and evolving dynamics between the characters.

Although the film features superb animation reminiscent of Michael Turner's artwork and intense battle sequences that captivate, it suffers from notable gaps in storytelling. Key subplots and character developments are glossed over or rushed, resulting in a choppy narrative flow. Inconsistent pacing—months pass in seconds, key plot points are resolved with brief dialogue, and some scenes feel unnecessarily prolonged—detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, the film's depiction of female characters has drawn criticism for its reliance on overly sexualized portrayals, detracting from its potential to offer strong female role models.

Performances from the voice cast, especially Kevin Conroy as Batman and Tim Daly as Superman, are praiseworthy and provide much-needed depth to their roles. Despite delivering several memorable interactions and sharp dialogue between the leads, the film’s truncated runtime leaves it feeling incomplete. The inclusion of Darkseid as the antagonist introduces stakes that aren't fully capitalized on, hinting at missed opportunities for richer dramatic tension. While "Superman/Batman: Apocalypse" offers high-octane excitement and some standout moments, it ultimately falls short of delivering a cohesive and mature narrative fitting its PG-13 rating.

"Superman/Batman: Apocalypse" on Blu-ray offers a mixed bag of elements that will stir varying emotions among DC fans. The narrative pace is undeniably fast, but it suffers from truncated character arcs and disjointed plot development, primarily due to Bruce Timm's characteristically short runtimes. Despite this, the interaction and action sequences featuring DC’s iconic protagonists—Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman—deliver ample entertainment and justify a watch. However, the film could have greatly benefited from an additional twenty minutes to flesh out its story more coherently.

The technical presentation on Blu-ray does not meet expectations. The video quality is marred by notable digital anomalies, detracting from the viewing experience. While the DTS-HD Master Audio track impresses with clear and dynamic sound, it is insufficient to veil the disc’s overall shortcomings. The supplementary offerings, including some well-chosen extra episodes from the Superman Animated Series and a standout Green Arrow animated short, are commendable but unable to entirely elevate the package beyond its central flaws.

In conclusion, the Region Free US Blu-ray release of "Superman/Batman: Apocalypse" delivers commendable audio and an appreciable array of extras that will appeal strongly to DC Universe fans. Those previously disillusioned by less satisfactory entries in the franchise may find this a notable improvement, while newcomers might consider this a viable starting point akin to "Batman: Under the Red Hood." Despite its imperfections, it stands as one of the better installments concerning Superman/Batman narratives. Recommended for committed collectors and DC aficionados.