The Postcard Killings Blu-ray Review

"The Postcard Killings" Blu-ray video presentation is an impressive display of meticulous cinematographic choices, effectively rendered in 1080p. The film was shot on actual celluloid, a rarity in modern filmmaking that imparts a nostalgic visual style with depth and texture. The 2.35:1 aspect ratio ensures a wide, cinematic experience. The filmmakers have utilized natural palettes and lighting to enhance the film's organically moody atmosphere while maintaining crisp contrast and adequate black levels. The transfer is clean, devoid of noise reduction or heavy compression artifacts, offering a natural and unfiltered texture.

The film's color palette oscillates between colder hues, like light blues and silvers, and warmer shades during daylight exteriors, which add vibrancy without appearing overly saturated. Black levels are notably deep and consistent, enhancing low-light scenes without noticeable crush. Detail quality is excellent: individual facial hairs, makeup blemishes, and costume textures are visible, adding a tangible realism. Practical effects, especially concerning the film's more macabre elements, are impressively detailed. Wide shots maintain their clarity without drifting soft, maintaining visual integrity across different scenes.

Technical specifications include an MPEG-4 AVC encoding and a resolution of 1080p, with edge enhancement successfully avoided. Depth perception in various European locales was striking, bringing an immersive experience as if walking alongside the characters. Notably, some scenes may appear to feature noise or debris; however, these instances are likely due to atmospheric conditions such as snow and ice rather than flaws in the transfer process. Overall, RLJ Entertainment delivers a visually compelling disc that reflects both the filmmakers' creative intent and technical excellence.

The Postcard Killings features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that, while not overwhelmingly dynamic, suitably complements the film's dialogue-centric nature. This soundtrack remains firmly front-loaded, reflecting the movie’s emphasis on conversations and narrative flow. The use of LFE and discrete rear-channel effects is notably restrained, primarily supplementing the original score and subtle environmental cues. Despite the limited use of surround sound, the audio recording maintains pristine clarity, ensuring that dialogue, replete with diverse accents, is consistently clear and coherent. English (SDH) and Spanish subtitles are available and fit neatly within the 2.35:1 frame.

In terms of spatial dynamics, the soundtrack effectively utilizes the space during crowded scenes and larger interior settings, creating an engaging audio environment. Action beats and more intense sequences reveal some low-end bass presence, delivering a satisfying rumble without overwhelming the soundstage. However, these moments are infrequent, rendering the overall auditory experience somewhat subdued compared to more action-oriented thrillers. Occasional suspenseful score enhancements and realistic sound effects punctuate this otherwise dialogue-dominant presentation, capturing the atmospheric undertones without compromising the clarity of spoken words.

The audio mastering does not exhibit any noticeable flaws such as damage or poor ADR syncing, maintaining high technical standards throughout the presentation. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track ensures that channel separation is precise, preventing any potential muddling in scenes heavy with dialogue. While the soundtrack may not exploit every potential of its format, it matches the film’s requirements adequately, delivering a clean and well-constructed auditory experience tailored to its dramatic thriller genre.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Postcard Killings" deliver succinct insights into the production, though the content is notably brief and somewhat superficial. The primary featurette runs for approximately seven minutes, offering a mix of interviews with director Danis Tanović, producer Miriam Segal, and key cast members, such as Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Famke Janssen. Topics include the casting process, European shooting locations, and the decision to utilize film over digital video. However, it offers minimal behind-the-scenes details, focusing more on the plot and general production insights. Additionally, a photo gallery containing various on-set stills is available for manual viewing. The disc also includes trailers for other films, though none relate to "The Postcard Killings," raising questions about their relevance.

Extras included on this disc:

• Featurette: Interviews with director, producer, and cast regarding various production aspects.
• Photo Gallery: Collection of on-set stills with manual navigation.
• Trailers: Previews of unrelated films.

"The Postcard Killings," based on the 2010 novel by James Patterson and Liza Marklund, is a mixed bag for fans of the serial killer thriller genre. Directed by Oscar-winner Danis Tanović, the movie stars Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Jacob Kanon, a gritty NYC detective devastated by the brutal murder of his daughter and son-in-law during their European honeymoon. The killings are grotesquely staged to mimic famous works of art, propelling Kanon on a relentless quest across Europe in collaboration with Scandinavian journalist Dessie Lombard (Cush Jumbo). Despite the intriguing premise and strong cast, including the capable Famke Janssen in a smaller role, "The Postcard Killings" struggles to differentiate itself from other genre offerings. Familiar tropes like gory crime scenes and clichéd character dynamics surface frequently, undermining its unique elements.

While the film's dual perspectives and European settings add a fresh flavor, the plot remains predictable, failing to outpace genre staples like "Se7en" and "Zodiac," which it seemingly emulates. Tanović's direction and pacing manage to keep the narrative engaging, though they sometimes slip into slow motion and other overly dramatic techniques that detract from the film's tension. Despite obvious care in crafting a structured narrative with some early clues for replay value, the result is lukewarm: satisfying for a one-time watch but not standout material in a crowded field.

Morgan's performance is particularly noteworthy, injecting genuine pathos and determination into his role as a grieving father and seasoned detective. The European locales beautifully captured lend an air of sophistication, while the film's creative staging of murders—evoking classical art—provides a classy yet disturbing undertone. Ultimately, "The Postcard Killings" offers a competent but unremarkable entry into the genre, buoyed by solid performances and a stylish aesthetic but bogged down by its adherence to familiar formulas.

Danis Tanović's The Postcard Killings, an adaptation of James Patterson's novel, makes a respectable foray into the crowded serial killer thriller genre. Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s compelling lead performance is notably the film’s strongest asset, well-complemented by picturesque European locations and a few solid supporting characters. Despite these strengths, the movie struggles to distinguish itself from its many predecessors, often leaning on clichéd plot elements that hinder its impact.

From a technical perspective, the Blu-ray presentation excels in delivering crisp and clear video quality, enhancing scenic European backdrops, while the audio track ensures an immersive atmosphere, despite lacking the depth some enthusiasts might seek. Unfortunately, the release falters in the special features department, offering only a solitary extra which may leave enthusiasts desiring more.

In conclusion, The Postcard Killings offers enough substance for fans of the genre and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, making it an acceptable time-passer. However, those looking for a groundbreaking addition to the serial killer oeuvre might find it wanting. The Blu-ray’s superior A/V presentation is commendable, though the minimal extras make it a candidate for a possible rental before purchase.