Wanderlust Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Wanderlust" offers a commendable high-definition visual experience, indicative of a modern release film. The 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer boasts firm resolution with crisp edges, sharp definition, and notable two-dimensional depth, enhancing the overall image dimension. The warm and lush color palette, complemented by the earthy tones of rolling hills and countryside, presents a beautifully rendered visual with revealing delineation and tonal warmth. Fleshtones appear lifelike, displaying natural tonality and detailed complexion among the cast. The application of contrast is bold, and blacks exhibit good dynamic range with discernable gradational highlights adding depth during lowlight scenes.

Visual clarity is consistent throughout, maintaining clean and lifelike edge definition with a fine grain veneer that adds texture without detracting from the overall sharpness. The transfer captures the richly bronzed skintones and earthy shadows without succumbing to technical flaws. Colors remain natural and warm, even when dominant rich oranges and yellows come into play. Crucially, the image is free from distracting artifacting or noticeable technical imperfections such as banding, aliasing, or source noise. There are minimal instances of shimmering which are hardly detracting from the viewing experience.

Overall, the Blu-ray of "Wanderlust" delivers a pleasing and true-to-source high-definition visual. While some shots might register a mild sun-drenched softness, typical for the genre, the majority of scenes maintain strong primaries and consistent contrast. The presentation achieves a delicate balance between clarity and warmth, making this transfer stand out for its meticulous attention to visual detail and color fidelity.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack of "Wanderlust" adeptly handles dialog, maintaining clarity and precision throughout, making sure even whispered lines and off-screen comments come through distinctly. The mix is front-heavy and chatty, consistent with the film's comedic nature. While the rear channels are sparingly used for directional effects, they support Craig Wedren's poppy score and the ambient sounds of Elysium's vibrant forest and community activities. Despite the modesty, there’s genuine finesse in how ambient sounds and background conversations fill the environment, enhancing both allure and absurdity of the setting.

Low-frequency effects are present but subdued, providing occasional support to falls, car crashes, and drug trip sequences without overwhelming the soundstage. The soundtrack does a commendable job of balancing the dynamic range and placing effects appropriately within the acoustic environment. Although "Wanderlust" doesn't exploit the full potential of surround sound technology, its audio presentation is proficient, ensuring comedy fans will feel right at home with its theatrical-like experience. The soundtrack excels in delivering clear dialogue and a well-proportioned atmosphere, though it doesn’t aim to impress with audio pyrotechnics.

In conclusion, while the surround sound experience offered by "Wanderlust" on Blu-ray isn't groundbreaking, it is perfectly adequate for the genre. The DTS-HD MA mix provides an immersive and detailed auditory experience, fitting for a rom-com with a lot of dialog. The dialogue is bright and punchy, with subtle environmental sounds enhancing the film's comedic setting without distraction. Though the LFE channel is modest, it fulfills its role effectively during key moments, rounding out a competent and enjoyable audio presentation.

The Blu-ray extras for "Wanderlust" provide a rich array of content that enhances the viewing experience. The feature commentary, involving director David Wain, Ken Marino, and Paul Rudd, is balanced between insightful filmmaking anecdotes and light-hearted banter, though it could benefit from more frequent humor provided by guest Kevin Pollak's impressions. Noteworthy is "The Bizarro Cut," which re-edits the movie using alternate material, offering a fresh take. The behind-the-scenes documentary, "God Afton!," dives deep into the film’s production elements, while numerous short features like "Line-O-Rama" and "Penis Envy" add levity and behind-the-scenes charm. The inclusion of extensive HD content, along with several tech-specific features like D-Box Motion Code and pocket BLU, make this a comprehensive package suitable for both casual viewers and cinephiles.

Extras included in this disc:

• Feature Commentary: Insights and anecdotes by David Wain, Ken Marino, and Paul Rudd.
• Wanderlust: The Bizarro Cut: Re-edited version with alternate material.
• Gag Reel: Outtakes showcasing bloopers.
• Line-O-Rama: Montage of improvised alternate lines.
• God Afton! Behind the Scenes of Wanderlust: Documentary on film production.
• Penis Envy: Mockumentary about Joe Lo Truglio’s prosthetic.
• The Elysium Campaign: Jordan Peele's Obama parody.
• Wainy Days: Elysium: Short film featuring David Wain.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer for the movie.
• My Scenes bookmark feature
• D-Box Motion Code enabled
• pocket BLU
• BD-Live
• Bonus DVD
• Ultraviolet Digital Copy

In "Wanderlust," George (Paul Rudd) and Linda (Jennifer Aniston) are a Manhattan couple, burdened by the high costs and stress of modern city life. After financial misfortunes force them out of their new Manhattan micro loft, they head to an intentional community called Elysium. What follows is a series of comedic misadventures as they integrate into a milieu of free love, communal living, and quirky characters. Director David Wain, known for his work on "Wet Hot American Summer" and "Role Models," teams up with Ken Marino to create a script filled with humorous moments but tethered to a familiar rom-com narrative. Despite a cast brimming with talent like Justin Theroux and Alan Alda, the plot feels worn and jagged at times, critiquing urban life yet failing to fully capitalize on its comic potential.

Paul Rudd shines with his quintessential everyman charm and uncanny improvisational prowess, anchoring the film amidst its more absurd set pieces. His performance elevates otherwise mundane scenes into memorable comedic moments. Jennifer Aniston, while competent, often appears out of depth, oscillating between detachment and forced enthusiasm. Supporting actors like Malin Åkerman and Kathryn Hahn add to the eclectic ensemble but occasionally slip into caricature, detracting from the film's more grounded humor. While Wain’s penchant for sketch comedy is evident, "Wanderlust" sometimes suffers from disjointed episodic stretches, relying heavily on nudist gags and drug-fueled escapades that seem past their prime.

"Wanderlust" delivers sporadic laughs and quirky charm but ultimately feels like a series of TV sketches strung together rather than a cohesive narrative. While Rudd's improvisational brilliance keeps the film afloat, the lack of substance and novelty in the storyline limits its appeal. Hardcore fans of Wain’s past work may appreciate its eccentric humor, but those seeking more integrated storytelling may find it wanting. Universal's Blu-ray release offers two cuts of the film and includes the standard physical extras, but the movie itself remains an exercise in comedic familiarity rather than innovation.

"Wanderlust" delivers a mixed cinematic experience that, while imperfect, is commendably bolstered by Universal's well-executed Blu-ray release. The film relies heavily on the comedic prowess of Paul Rudd, whose performance manages to uplift the narrative despite its occasionally forced gimmicks. The plot meanders as it drifts into increasingly absurd territory, losing some steam along the way. It doesn’t quite carve out a solid identity, wavering between edgy and sweet without fully committing to either. Nevertheless, David Wain and Ken Marino’s touch brings about sporadic moments of genuine laughter, especially for fans familiar with their work from "The State".

Universal has provided a strong technical presentation with a high-quality video transfer and a robust DTS-HD Master Audio track that enhances the viewing experience. The Blu-ray edition is packed with more than three hours of special features, offering hit-or-miss but extensive behind-the-scenes content and alternate takes that offer fresh perspectives on various scenes. These extras, while sometimes awkward, add value and enjoyment for those who appreciate comedic nuances and the creative processes behind them.

In conclusion, "Wanderlust" may not be groundbreaking among R-rated comedies, but it has its charming moments that are accentuated by Universal's meticulous Blu-ray release. Fans of Paul Rudd and David Wain will find enough to appreciate, especially with the ample bonus materials provided. While not without its shortcomings, this Blu-ray is a worthy addition to any comedy enthusiast's collection.