R.I.P.D. Blu-ray Review

Universal’s presentation of "R.I.P.D." on Blu-ray is a visual feast that showcases an exemplary high definition 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer. Images are exceptionally clean, sharp, and lifelike, offering a three-dimensional quality that's engaging to watch. The tiniest details, from the wrinkles on Jeff Bridges' face to the pores on Ryan Reynolds' skin, are revealed with pristine clarity, showcasing the digital origins of the film. Colors are vivid, with eye-catching primaries and pleasing secondary hues that enrich the viewing experience. Fleshtones appear natural and exhibit subtle variations among different cast members. However, some minor issues like slight aliasing and occasional artificial sharpening are noticeable but do not extensively detract from the overall quality. Blacks range dynamically and exhibit good depth without any significant crushing or noisy shadows, although they are sometimes less robust than desired.

The color palette presented in its original 2.35:1 aspect ratio is varied and full-bodied, with energetic primaries and bold secondary hues adding warmth and vigour to the comedic elements of the film. However, the contrast tends to clip highlights occasionally, leading to some overexposed whites in certain scenes. Still, the video maintains a balanced visual throughout most of the film. Texture and fine details are maintained well, although practical makeup can lose some luster to softer CGI elements. Moreover, the faint film grain is intact and compression artifacts such as macroblocking and banding are effectively absent. This unblemished rendering ensures a visually satisfying experience despite a few softer sequences and varying quality in CG effects.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track for "R.I.P.D." showcases a highly engaging and immersive audio presentation, with excellent dialogue clarity and striking dynamic range. Dialogue intonation is precise, making even subtle changes perceptible and clean throughout. Christophe Beck's score distributes evenly across the front channels, presenting a broad wall of sound with smooth channel separation that ensures an accurate and balanced soundstage.

The rear channels are consistently active, enhancing the immersion with bustling cityscapes, crowded streets, and the hectic environment of the afterlife police station. Action scenes are particularly impressive, offering a diverse range of sounds, from precise, directional effects to flawless panning of helicopters circling overhead and bullets whizzing by. The LFE channel contributes robust bass that, while sometimes perceived as mild, still provides ample weight and depth during explosions and other high-impact sequences.

Overall, the audio mix is expertly crafted, enveloping the listener with a seamless sound field that brings the action to life. Directional effects are playful yet precise, significantly enriching the viewer's experience. While quieter scenes can occasionally feel front-heavy, the immersive auditory elements and intuitive spatial cues ensure a vivid and highly entertaining soundtrack. Despite minor critiques, such as slightly less impactful low-end frequencies at times, the audio presentation remains a riotous and engaging aspect of the Blu-ray experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "R.I.P.D." provide a robust and immersive behind-the-scenes experience, offering an in-depth look at the film's production. Highlights include exclusive alternate opening sequences which give insight into creative choices, and featurettes like "Filming the Other Side" and "Transferring R.I.P.D." that delve into visual effects and adaptation from the original graphic novel. The gag reel provides levity, showcasing moments where the cast had fun on set. Detailed breakdowns of key scenes through the "Anatomy of a Shootout" and "Walking Among Us" featurettes enhance appreciation of the film's technical crafting.

Extras included in this disc:

• Alternate Openings: Two differing initial sequences featuring Jeff Bridges' character.
• Deleted/Alternate Scenes: Three alternate and one deleted scene.
• Transferring R.I.P.D.: Insights from cast and crew about adapting the original comic.
• Filming the Other Side: Focuses on the use of visual effects.
• Walking Among Us: Explores avatars and deados.
• Bringing the Avatars to Life: Animated storyboards of avatars.
• Anatomy of a Shootout: Detailed look at the film's climactic shootout.
• Nick’s New Avatars: Montage of alternate avatars considered for Nick.
• Gag Reel: Light-hearted outtakes of cast moments.

"R.I.P.D.," directed by Robert Schwentke, sets out to blend supernatural elements with a buddy-cop framework, starring Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges as monster-hunting partners in a bureaucratic Afterlife enforcement agency. The narrative introduces us to Nick Walker (Reynolds), a Boston cop who, after being murdered by his corrupt partner, joins the Rest in Peace Department under the mentorship of seasoned lawman Roy Pulsifer (Bridges). Despite uncovering a planet-threatening plot orchestrated by the undead, the film spirals into a series of derivative clichés, drawing stark parallels to creations such as "Men in Black."

The biggest draw of "R.I.P.D." is undoubtedly its cast. Jeff Bridges infuses his character with a mix of his iconic Dude Lebowski charm and Rooster Cogburn grit, delivering an entertaining performance full of improvisational flair. Conversely, Ryan Reynolds comes across as largely disengaged, providing a lackluster portrayal that does little to elevate the film. Kevin Bacon and Mary-Louise Parker are squandered in underdeveloped roles, further diminishing the movie's appeal. The chemistry and wit expected from such a star-studded ensemble fall flat, leaving much of the dialog and humor ineffective.

From a visual standpoint, "R.I.P.D." is a technicolor spectacle brimming with wildly imaginative CGI and over-the-top action sequences. However, its reliance on these visual effects often feels overwhelming and outdated, reminiscent of early 2000s aesthetics rather than cutting-edge innovation. The Deados, crucial antagonists in this tale, suffer from uninspired designs and poor motion capture, reducing their impact. Overall, while "R.I.P.D." attempts to dazzle with its frenetic pace and vibrant visuals, it ultimately stumbles due to predictable plot points, lackluster character development, and a script that fails to offer any genuine excitement or originality. The result is an admittedly spectacular yet emotionally hollow viewing experience.

"R.I.P.D.," directed by Robert Schwentke, strives for an engaging blend of supernatural action and buddy-cop comedy but often stumbles in the execution. Despite the genuine efforts of Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges, the film suffers from a disjointed screenplay and uninspired direction. Reynolds and Bridges manage to inject some life into their roles, yet the movie's derivative nature and lackluster villains leave it underwhelming. The movie, loosely adapted from Peter M. Lenkov's comic, features impressive CGI and action sequences but falls flat due to underwhelming performances, particularly from supporting actors like Mary-Louise Parker and Kevin Bacon.

Universal's Blu-ray release, however, presents an AV treat for home theater enthusiasts. The video quality is robust, boasting vibrant colors and clear detail that bring the fantastical elements to life. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track complements the picture with immersive soundscapes, offering a demo-worthy experience in terms of audio-visual performance. The supplemental content, though sparse, offers exclusive material that adds some value. Nevertheless, the overall package may be more suited for a rental rather than a purchase, given the film's cinematic shortcomings.

In conclusion, "R.I.P.D." is a mixed bag. While its high-definition presentation on Blu-ray excels, the film itself fails to fully entertain. Diehard fans of the genre or actors may find it worth a watch for its technical merits, but others may want to approach with tempered expectations.