Identity Thief Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Identity Thief" features a commendable digitally sourced 1080p/AVC-encoded video transfer that capitalizes on the strengths of the Arri Alexa camera with a strong, stable contrast and superb black levels. The resolution effectively captures finer details across various elements, including people and places, providing an overall depth that stands out. While the film's real-life colors do not pop as much as one might expect, this appears to be a deliberate artistic choice by the cinematographer. Skin tones remain accurate and consistent throughout, contributing to a natural viewing experience. Despite some inherent softness, the textures are nicely resolved, with clean and refined edges.

The video transfer largely avoids common pitfalls such as compression artifacts, banding, aliasing, and other anomalies. There is only a minor issue with crush, but it does not significantly detract from the viewing experience. The film's fine veneer of grain is preserved, maintaining its film-like aesthetic. Overall, "Identity Thief" delivers a robust video performance that aligns with the original digital master, making it an impressive release visually.

The audio presentation of "Identity Thief" on Blu-ray offers a satisfactory DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that, while not overly dynamic, effectively balances dialogue, music, and sound effects. Dialogue is consistently clear and intelligible, free from any prioritization mishaps or noticeable defects like popping or hissing. The surround mix exhibits commendable directionality, occasionally utilizing rear speakers to enhance off-screen voice effects, although the overall sound design remains front-heavy and conversational in nature.

LFE output, though not overpowering, provides ample support during action scenes, lending some oomph when required. Rear speaker usage is relatively engaging for a film of this type, seamlessly integrating ambient noises without overshadowing the main audio elements. The track successfully compartmentalizes the various sound cues, ensuring that every slap, punch, and engine rev is distinctly heard and harmoniously balanced within the overall soundscape.

Additional audio options include Spanish and French DTS Digital Surround 5.1 tracks and a Descriptive Video Service track for the theatrical version. Subtitles are available in English SDH, Spanish, and French. While the audio might not exhibit the sheer power or enveloping nature expected of a high-octane action movie, it remains proficient in delivering a clear and engaging sonic experience that enhances the comedic and dramatic moments of the film.

The Blu-ray release of "Identity Thief" includes a solid set of extras that enhance the viewing experience by offering behind-the-scenes insights and humorous moments from the production. The most substantial featurette is "The Making of Identity Thief," which provides a 17-minute talking-heads overview of how the film was created, albeit in a somewhat promotional style. "Scene Stealing" focuses on the comedic talents of Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy. The "Alternate Takes" segment showcases additional improvised scenes, adding to the laughs. "The Skiptracer's Van Tour" presents a brief yet interesting tour of Robert Patrick's character's van. Unfortunately, the gag reel is disappointingly short at less than a minute, leaving much to be desired.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical and Unrated Cuts: Includes both 112-minute theatrical version and 121-minute unrated cut.
• Scene Stealing: Capturing the humor of Identity Thief.
• The Making of Identity Thief: Comprehensive behind-the-scenes featurette.
• The Skiptracer's Van Tour: Robert Patrick hosts a vehicle tour.
• Alternate Takes: Additional improvised scenes.
• Gag Reel: Brief bloopers and outtakes.
• Digital Copy
• UV Copy
• DVD Copy
• Trailers: Collection of trailers and short advertisements for various comedies.

"Identity Thief" presents a compelling idea at first glance, drawing significant inspiration from classic road trip comedies like "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" and "Nothing To Lose." The plot centers on Denver resident Sandy Patterson (played by Jason Bateman), who discovers that his identity has been stolen by Diana (Melissa McCarthy), leading him on a chaotic journey from Colorado to Florida. Along the way, the film juggles a mix of comedic hijinks and heartwarming moments but only manages to be mildly amusing. Despite the promising concept, the narrative feels weighed down by unnecessary contrivances and mixed genre signals, ultimately failing to maintain a consistent tone.

While Bateman's performance is marked by his characteristic wry sarcasm, playing the ever-trusting yet desperate Sandy, McCarthy's portrayal of Diana becomes overbearing, leading to "McCarthy overkill." Her role feels more effective in small doses, as seen in "Bridesmaids," rather than as the leading force in a full-length feature. The supporting cast, including Robert Patrick as the relentless Skiptracer and T.I. and Genesis Rodriguez as bounty hunters, add layers of complexity but cannot elevate the film beyond its inherent limitations. The blend of humor and attempted heartfelt moments seems forced, leading to a disjointed viewing experience.

The film's execution falters with awkward transitions from slapstick comedy to unconvincing drama, leaving the audience uncertain about how to engage with the characters. The screenplay's failure to make Diana likable or relatable results in a disconnect that paralyzes both the comedic and dramatic elements. Despite sporadic moments of laughter and a few entertaining scenes, "Identity Thief" remains a missed opportunity that struggles to rise above other similar-themed comedies. The cast's efforts are let down by a script that can't fully realize its potential, ultimately delivering an uneven and uninspired movie.

"Identity Thief" on Blu-ray offers a mixed cinematic experience that relies heavily on its leading actors, Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman, to carry an otherwise forgettable comedy. Although it does not fulfill the high expectations set by some of its stars' previous works, it retains a certain charm that makes it enjoyable at least once through. The video quality on this Blu-ray is commendable, delivering a crisp 1080p image that captures the zany misadventures with clarity and precision. The accompanying DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track bolsters the overall experience, providing clear and immersive sound that enhances the narrative.

However, where the Blu-ray falters is in its supplemental content. The lack of substantial extras or in-depth behind-the-scenes material feels like a missed opportunity to elevate this release. Instead, the extras included are relatively sparse and do not add significant value to the overall package. This omission might imply more a lack of investment from the creators rather than a deliberate strategy to retain a focused viewing experience. Prospective buyers might find themselves contemplating whether this disc is worth adding to their collection or if it should be relegated to a rental-only status.

In conclusion, "Identity Thief" on Blu-ray provides a decent home viewing experience, propelled primarily by strong performances from its leading actors and solid audiovisual quality. However, the absence of engaging supplemental content limits its appeal and rewatchability. For fans of McCarthy and Bateman, it might still be worth a look, but for others, a rental might suffice.