Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Complete" delivers a 1080p AVC encoded image with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and generally stunning visuals despite some imperfections. The detail is impeccable throughout most of the film, revealing textures that range from the intricate weave of fabrics to the realistic surfaces of leather and metal. There are occasional instances of softness, likely intentional due to visual effects like brightness enhancements or particle effects such as sand and smoke. Nonetheless, the video exhibits high-level detail and a three-dimensional quality, particularly noticeable in scenes like Denzel walking among ruins or Kadaj’s wooded lair, where contrast and black levels are impressively managed.

This Blu-ray's color palette is a compelling blend of muted tones reflecting a post-apocalyptic world and vibrant hues when scenes demand it—such as the flowers in the church or the crimson of Vincent's cape. Contrast and dynamic range are robust, contributing to the film's extraordinary depth and visual pop. However, a recurring issue is the appearance of aliasing on fine lines during certain camera pans and swift movements, an artifact most apparent on larger screens. While some viewers might find these imperfections detracting, they do not significantly diminish the overall viewing experience.

Despite its minor drawbacks, including occasional shimmering/aliasing problems and some artifacting during fast-paced sequences, "Advent Children Complete" remains a visual treat. It offers an exceptionally detailed and vivid animated experience with deep, stable blacks and lifelike textures. The film’s high definition presentation ensures breathtaking imagery, making it a formidable showcase piece for fans of animation and high-quality Blu-ray content alike.

The Blu-ray audio presentation for "Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children" boasts an impressive array of sound options with all tracks available in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 format, including Japanese, English, and French. For purists who prefer authenticity, the native Japanese track is an exceptional choice. The soundtrack exhibits a wide dynamic range, accurately balancing the remarkable score by Nobuo Uematsu with the high energy of the action sequences. The front channels provide a remarkably expansive sound-field, enveloping listeners and fully immersing them in the film’s diverse audio landscape. Dialogue across all language options is presented with clarity and precision, though the Japanese track integrates more seamlessly into the mix.

On the positive side, the mixing utilizes rear channels effectively, creating a realistic surround sound experience that enhances spatial separation and environmental effects. Listeners will appreciate the subtleties in sound design, from the faintest background noises to the directionality of off-screen elements, which add depth to the bustling urban settings. The music is well-integrated and non-intrusive, consistently marrying emotional tones with on-screen action.

However, the audio presentation does have some minor shortcomings, particularly regarding the low-frequency effects (LFE). The bass tends to be more subdued than expected for a film heavy in action set pieces. While there are moments of enhanced bass presence, such as during climactic scenes, it generally lacks the profound impact and shake that could heighten viewer engagement. Despite this, the overall sound mix remains dynamic and immersive, making for a compelling auditory experience that complements the visually stunning animation of "Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children".

The Blu-ray release of "Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children" offers an impressive array of extras, though it omits some features from previous editions. Fans will appreciate the deep dives into the franchise's history and characters, despite the absence of "Last Order" and certain making-of features. The supplements include nostalgic retrospectives with in-game footage, informative character backstories, previews of future game releases, and promotional trailers. These extras are primarily in standard definition, except for the anime episode and game sneak peek, which are presented in high definition. The overall quality of these features, combined with engaging content, provides a comprehensive understanding of the "Final Fantasy VII" universe.

Extras included in this disc:

• Legacy of Final Fantasy VII: Overview of the series' impact and development.
• Reminiscence of FF VII: Recap of the original game’s plot with cut-scenes.
• Reminiscence of FF VII - Compilation: Focus on follow-up games and their narratives.
• On the Way to a Smile - Episode: Denzel: HD anime backstory of character Denzel.
• Sneak Peek at Final Fantasy XIII: HD preview of the upcoming game.
• Trailers: Five promotional trailers for the film.

"Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Complete" navigates the complex terrain of video game adaptation with utmost visual sophistication yet falters in narrative coherence. Succeeding the revered "Final Fantasy VII" game, this extended director's cut incorporates 26 minutes of additional footage, enhancing the film’s emotional and action sequences. These enhancements include over 1000 revised scenes, offering fans of CGI animation a visually stunning experience. The realistic animation is replete with intricate textures and dazzling fight choreography, although motion physics intermittently appear stiff, detracting from the otherwise remarkable technical execution.

Set two years post-game events, the plot orbits around Cloud Strife combating the resurgence of his old nemesis, Sephiroth, catalyzed by a trio seeking Jenova's remains. While the addition of new scenes endeavors to flesh out the narrative, it primarily serves existing fans familiar with the game’s intricacies. Casual viewers may struggle with the convoluted story, riddled with under-explained elements and characters appearing without sufficient introduction. Despite these narrative shortcomings, the film succeeds in delivering high-octane action and emotionally charged moments, satisfying ardent fans while engaging newcomers less critically familiar with the source material.

For those unacquainted with the original game, "Advent Children Complete" can still provide an invigorating visual escapade, though one must suspend expectations of a coherent standalone story. The added content contributes significantly to the film's pacing and depth, making this version a definitive anime experience. While some characters and plot points may remain inscrutable to newcomers, the high-level animation quality and enthralling action sequences present an impressive cinematic achievement.

The Blu-ray release of "Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Complete" provides an engrossing foray into the rich universe of the beloved video game franchise. Technically, the film excels with intricate and highly detailed textures, making close-ups feel lifelike and tangible. The dynamic sound design handles both explosive action and subtle moments with equal finesse, further enhanced by offering both Japanese and English voice tracks in Dolby TrueHD, catering to purists and newcomers alike. While some may find the reused clips in the extras quaint or repetitive, these additions maintain their charm and serve as a fitting homage, particularly to fans of the series.

Visually, the film may not achieve the seamless polish of a Pixar production, but it holds its own with commendable clarity and attention to detail. The extended runtime of this Blu-ray version adds depth without feeling cumbersome, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those familiar with the original release. Although the absence of the "Final Fantasy XIII" demo, included with the Japanese release, is a noticeable omission that might disappoint ardent fans, the overall package remains robust.

In conclusion, "Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Complete" on Blu-ray stands out as a compelling purchase for fans and anime enthusiasts alike. Despite minor shortcomings, the superior audio and video quality underscore the film's potential as a high-definition showcase. While newcomers might initially consider a rental, the sheer visual spectacle and intricate soundscape make it a worthy addition to any collection. Embrace this entry as either a cherished nostalgic revisit or an introduction to the storied world of Midgar; its appeal spans a broad spectrum of viewers.