Wolf Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and granted a 1080p transfer, Mike Nichols' "Wolf" makes its way to Blu-ray via Indicator/Powerhouse Films, employing the same master previously used for the North American release in 2009. Unfortunately, this older master does little to impress, exhibiting a lack of depth and disappointing flatness in many of the nighttime scenes, which make up a substantial portion of the movie. Efforts to manage grain seem to have adversely flattened it across the board, a treatment reminiscent of other older Sony masters, leading to a presentation that leaves details wanting on larger screens. Despite these issues, the release is not marred by problematic sharpening, and it maintains stable and well-saturated colors, albeit with missing nuances and visible black crush impacting overall visual balance. Image stability remains one of the few commendable aspects.

The visual presentation struggles with uneven quality throughout. Although opening titles showcase potential with impressive clarity, the image quality soon diminishes, plagued by softness, thick grain, and faded colors, particularly noticeable in darker scenes disturbed by mosquito noise. However, the absence of overt digital enhancements helps preserve a film-like texture. Contrast appears muted in interior shots resulting in a flattened aesthetic, but exterior scenes display better definition with lush greens enhancing warmth and a moonlit lake scene standing out due to its beautiful depth and clarity.

Detail in close-ups fluctuates, achieving high-definition feel only sporadically, revealing the artificiality of the studio-shot portions more than ever. Despite these shortcomings, there's an undeniable upgrade in the image that fans might appreciate for its attempts at fidelity to the film-like experience. The exterior scenes and the sparingly crisp moments offer a glimpse into what could have been a superior transfer, yet the overall inconsistency and technical limitations underpinning this release prevent it from achieving excellence.

The "Wolf" Blu-ray offers two audio tracks: the English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and the English LPCM 2.0, each catering to different viewer preferences. The LPCM 2.0 option impresses with its depth, clarity, and dynamic range, displaying a balance and cleanliness in dialogue that suggests a thorough remastering effort. This track presents an immersive experience that belies its age, providing a testament to the care taken in preserving the film's auditory integrity.

The 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, while robust and featuring Ennio Morricone's score in full-bodied richness, encounters some challenges in maintaining a balanced listening experience. The track leans heavily towards the front, with well-defined stereo separation and ambient effects contributing to an engaging surround sound environment. However, the overemphasis on certain shock effects and the varying volume levels can distract from the dialogue, requiring judicious volume adjustments by the listener. Despite these issues, moments of deep bass enhance key scenes, adding a welcome gravitas.

Both tracks offer their unique advantages, from the 2.0's surprising depth and clear dialogue to the 5.1's compelling but occasionally problematic soundstage. Subtitles are thoughtfully provided, ensuring accessibility for all viewers. While neither track is without its faults, together they encapsulate the film's sonic ambitions, delivering a broadly satisfactory auditory experience that complements the visual presentation of "Wolf.

The Blu-ray release of "Wolf" presents a compelling selection of extras, catering to fans and newcomers alike, with all features compatible with North American players, including the PS3. The highlight is undoubtedly "The Beast Inside: Creating Wolf," a new documentary offering deep insights into the film's creation, featuring interviews with key personnel like Douglas Wick and Rick Baker. Archival interviews provide personal reflections from the cast and crew, enriching the understanding of the film's production process. Additionally, the inclusion of original trailers, B-Roll footage, an expansive image gallery, and a limited edition booklet with essays and critical responses further enhances the collector's experience. However, it's notable that the disc doesn't include any supplements from other films like 'The Da Vinci Code: Extended Cut' or 'Ghostbusters,' focusing solely on content directly related to "Wolf."

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original trailer for Wolf.
• B-Roll Footage: Archival footage from the shooting of Wolf.
• The Beast Inside: Creating Wolf: A documentary on the creation and style of Wolf.
• Interviews: Archival interviews with the director, cast, and crew.
  • Mike Nichols
  • Michelle Pfeiffer
  • James Spader
  • Kate Nelligan
  • Producer Douglas Wick
  • Screenwriter Jim Harrison
  • SFX Artist Rick Baker
  • Production Designer Bo Welch
• Image Gallery: Collection of original promotional materials for Wolf.
• Booklet: A limited edition booklet with new essays and critical responses.

Mike Nichols’ "Wolf," a venture into the horror genre, stands as a distinctive piece that plays at the intersection of werewolf lore and a nuanced examination of human transformation. Released in 1994 and now reissued on Blu-ray by British label Indicator/Powerhouse Films, this cinematic piece diverges from traditional horror staples, opting for a narrative infused with literate charm and eloquent mystery. Amidst the backdrop of New York's publishing elite, the film traces the metamorphosis of William Randall, played by Jack Nicholson, from a respected editor to a being intertwined with the primal instincts of a wolf. Despite its struggle to maintain a steady tone, "Wolf" distinguishes itself through impeccable casting and a blend of genres that injects fresh life into the werewolf legend.

The film's journey is marked by cinematographic elegance, thanks to Giuseppe Rotunno's lensing, and an atmospheric score by Ennio Morricone, elevating it beyond mere horror towards something akin to corporate satire and commentary on human instincts. As Randall grapples with his newfound senses and abilities, brought upon by a wolf's bite, his personal and professional life spirals into chaos. Encountering betrayal within his workspace and complexities in his marriage, Nicholson delivers a performance that oscillates between subtlety and the overt monstrousness his transformation entails. His chemistry with Michelle Pfeiffer's Laura offers moments of tenderness, presenting a counterweight to the film’s darker undertones.

"Wolf" navigates its plot with a deft balance between the grim and the humorous, allowing audiences to engage with its premise beyond the constraints of horror. It cleverly critiques societal norms, particularly within the cutthroat world of corporate America, and presents a protagonist who becomes revitalized by his affliction. Though perhaps not the pinnacle of Nichols' directorial endeavors, "Wolf" stands as an intellectually stimulating experience that merges gothic horror with introspective drama, framed by outstanding performances and a memorable artistic direction. Its release on Blu-ray affords both new audiences and longtime fans the opportunity to revisit this unique cinematic experiment with augmented clarity and appreciation for its finer details.

The Blu-ray release of "Wolf" is a mixed bag that delivers strong points for enthusiasts of the film and its production while presenting noticeable shortcomings in video quality. The compilation is notably enriched by a well-curated selection of bonus features, which remains its most significant selling point. Admirers of Mike Nichols' work and the film's stellar cast will find the inclusion of various archival interviews alongside an exclusive documentary by Fiction Factory, known for their high-quality output, particularly appealing. These materials offer a substantial insight into the making and legacy of "Wolf," elevating this release above mere film presentation.

On the downside, the video transfer for this release relies on an older master, originally used by Sony Pictures in 2009 for the North American market. This reliance on a dated source material results in a visual experience that doesn't quite meet the expectations for current high-definition standards, potentially diminishing viewer enjoyment. Furthermore, despite "Wolf's" engaging script and vibrant performances—most notably a quintessential, maniacal turn by Jack Nicholson—the overall technical delivery of the Blu-ray (covering video and audio quality) may not suffice for audiophiles and cinephiles seeking an upgrade from previous versions.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray release of "Wolf" stands out for its enriching bonus content, offering a deep dive into the film's production and enduring appeal through documentaries and interviews. However, it is somewhat let down by its reliance on an older video master, which does not showcase the film in the best possible light. Collectors and fans may find the release worthwhile for its special features alone, but those prioritizing technical specifications might feel left wanting. Ultimately, the release serves as a valuable yet imperfect addition to a genre aficionado's collection.