Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons Blu-ray Review

"Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons" exhibits a fantastic video presentation on Blu-ray, drawing from its digital origin via the Arri Alexa, overseen by cinematographer Choi Sung Fai. Magnolia's decision to maintain high quality with a BD-50 and a robust average bitrate of 33.97 Mbps substantiates this achievement, ensuring minimal compression and preserving intricate details. The film's 1080p, AVC-encoded image retains the almost film-like texture characteristic of the Alexa. The delicately constructed fairy tale atmosphere benefits from true blacks and well-balanced contrast levels that enhance visual engagement.

Color reproduction stands as a key strength. Vivid hues, including striking greens, emerge beautifully—most notably in scenes like the river attack by the Water Demon. Even mundane elements like dirt and sand are rendered with a slightly elevated aesthetic, while more fantastical settings offer an inviting vibrancy. However, some reviewers noted that the CGI sometimes appeared detached due to seeming overly smooth. Yet, moments showcasing exceptional depth and minimal artifacts provide an immersive viewing experience, albeit with some rendering variances across different scenes.

The digital intermediate source for color timing elevates its fairy tale charm with rightly chosen shades despite the blemishes noted by some. Flesh tones remain consistent and detailed, contributing to the authenticity of character portrayals. While there are variations in black levels impacting depth perception, their contribution to finer details is generally commendable without significant loss. This Blu-ray presentation effectively serves the visual splendor intended by the filmmakers, standing as a testament to Magnolia's judicious handling of digital material through high-caliber encoding practices.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons" features its original 5.1 track in lossless DTS-HD MA in Mandarin, as well as an English dub track. Subtitles are available in English, English SDH, and a variety of other languages including Spanish and French. The sound mix is intricate and powerful, matching the film's dynamic action sequences. Notable highlights include Miss Duan's Infinite Flying Rings, which utilize the entire speaker array for a surround sound experience that is both immersive and exhilarating. The film’s soundtrack by Raymond Wong seamlessly transitions between comedic and action-packed scenes, culminating in a suitably heroic finale.

The audio presentation's dynamics are generally clean, though some users have noted the default volume is set lower than typical, requiring an adjustment upwards. The low-frequency extension is particularly impressive, with impactful bass that enhances key moments such as demon attacks and explosions triggered by flying rings. Surround sound utilization is well-executed, with excellent use of rear speakers during battle scenes and ambient effects that enhance the viewing experience. Dialogue reproduction remains clear and centered throughout the film. This well-rounded audio mix ensures that viewers are fully immersed in both the dramatic and fantastical elements of the movie.

The Blu Ray of "Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons" offers a robust suite of extras that will appeal to fans and cinephiles alike. The disc includes multiple featurettes that delve into various aspects of film production, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes look. These include not only interviews with the cast and crew but also detailed explorations of stunt work, special effects, and choreography. Each featurette is presented in high definition, ensuring a visually engaging experience. English subtitles are provided where necessary. The inclusion of trailers for other Magnolia Home Entertainment releases, along with promos for web services, adds extra value.

Extras included in this disc:

• Behind the Scenes Featurettes: Includes a "play all" option and automatic English subtitles.
• Stunts and Special Effects: Stunt rehearsals and green/blue screen photography compared to finished sequences.
• Cast & Characters: Actors discuss their roles with the director.
• Director Stephen Chow: Cast members reflect on being directed by Chow.
• The Laughs: Humorous moments from the set.
• Production Design: Insights into set and location construction.
• Choreography: Rehearsals of dance numbers.
• Trailer: Theatrical trailer for the film.
• Also from Magnolia Home Entertainment: Trailers and promos for additional films and services.
• BD-Live: Access to more trailers for Magnolia films.

Stephen Chow, a director known for blockbusters like Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle, brings his unique vision to Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons. This 2013 fantasy epic combines classic Chinese literature with cutting-edge special effects, delivering a film that is both visually captivating and narratively engaging. Adapted from a 16th-century novel, the movie explores the origin story of Xuan Zang (Wen Zhang), a bumbling yet earnest demon hunter armed with little more than a book of nursery rhymes. Chow’s decision to stay behind the camera and collaborate with co-director Derek Kwok has resulted in a film celebrated for its blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt moments, despite some criticisms of the CGI effects.

The plot unfolds with Xuan Zang encountering various demon hunters and formidable demons. Among the most memorable characters is Miss Duan (Shu Qi), a fellow demon hunter smitten with Xuan Zang. Their dynamic adds comedic and emotional layers to the film, contrasting sharply with the high-stakes battles against creatures like the Water Demon and Pig Demon. The action sequences are noteworthy, featuring imaginative fighting techniques and memorable character interactions. The narrative cleverly weaves humor with suspense, most notably in a protracted battle similar to classic Spielberg, yet uniquely Chow in execution.

However, the film's CGI has sparked mixed reactions. While some effects impress with their creativity and scale, others fall short by appearing artificial when juxtaposed with live-action elements. For instance, the backgrounds and creatures sometimes have a jarring, video game-like appearance that can break the viewer’s immersion. Despite these technical shortcomings, the film's engaging story, well-choreographed action sequences, and compelling performances ensure that Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons remains an entertaining adventure. Enthusiasts of Chow's previous works will find plenty to enjoy, even if the CGI does not always match their high expectations.

"Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons" on Blu-ray delivers a polished presentation of Stephen Chow's imaginative and thoroughly entertaining film. Visually, the transfer is vibrant with rich colors that bring the fantastical world to life. The audio equally impresses, providing clear dialogue and robust soundscapes that enhance the action-packed sequences and comedic moments. However, the CGI effects do occasionally fall short, lacking the polish seen in higher-budget Western productions. This does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment though, as the film’s unique charm and engaging story remain front and center.

The Blu-ray release includes very light bonus materials, which could disappoint fans looking for an in-depth behind-the-scenes experience or additional context for the film. However, it's worth noting that certain retail versions may include a digital copy, adding some flexibility for viewing preferences. The English dub track is a thoughtful inclusion, making the movie accessible to a broader audience, especially those who may shy away from subtitles.

Even if the rumored sequel never appears (and it almost certainly will), "Journey to the West" is a terrific entertainment: colorful, exciting, often very funny and perhaps most importantly, utterly unlike anything currently playing at the American multiplex. If you want to be entertained, thrilled, and surprised, it's classic popcorn entertainment, with soy sauce instead of butter. Even viewers who hate subtitles are covered because there's an English dub track. Highly recommended.