The Counselor Blu-ray Review

"The Counselor" graces the Blu-ray format with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a widescreen 2.40:1 ratio, a presentation that showcases the meticulous and stylish intentions of director Ridley Scott and cinematographer Dariusz Wolsky. Shot on the high-fidelity Red Epic cameras, this transfer flawlessly delineates the harsh, yet beautiful, landscapes spanning from Texas to Mexico, with seamless continent-hopping that Scott reveals in his commentary. The video quality is pristine, displaying a sharpness that elevates the film’s lush visual narrative. Color grading plays a pivotal role, with outdoor sequences immersed in an amber hue that brilliantly evokes a southwestern ambiance, contrasting with scenes tinted in a sickly green to enhance the narrative mood. Despite these varying color schemes, the detail remains consistently sharp, highlighting the fine textures in the environment and the elaborate details of costumes designed for Bardem and Diaz, among others.

Detail retention is exemplary across the board; facial complexions look natural, barring a deliberately exaggerated tan on Bardem, allowing viewers to see every pore, wrinkle, and the individual threads of clothing, enhancing the film's gritty reality. However, there's a slight critique regarding contrast levels in certain scenes, such as the diamond sequence, where a deeper shadow detail could have augmented the visual depth further. The contrast and brightness calibration is predominantly spot-on, maintaining well-balanced visuals that keep the picture alive and engaging, though there are moments when black levels seem somewhat lacking in depth. This minor flaw does little to detract from the overall excellent quality of this high-definition transfer.

Encapsulating the essence of Ridley Scott’s visual storytelling, the Blu-ray transfer of "The Counselor" stands as a testament to the capabilities of modern digital cinematography and home video encoding. The MPEG-4 AVC encoding retains striking clarity and detail across varied landscapes and scenes, from stark desert terrains to luxurious interiors. Colors pop vibrantly, especially in outdoor sequences and meticulously designed costumes, lending both energy and fidelity to Scott’s atmospheric narrative. Black levels are generally well-handled, ensuring dark scenes retain detail without significant loss. Although minor noise and artifact issues are virtually nonexistent thanks to the proficient use of the Red Epic camera, enhancing the film's visual depth and clarity in ways that both newcomers and aficionados will appreciate.

"The Counselor" Blu-ray audio presentation is remarkable for its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix, delivering an immersive environment right from its first scenes to the dramatic climax. With a soundscape that encompasses everything from the subtle whisper of desert winds to the roaring engines and pulsating gunfire, the audio mix does an exceptional job in immersing the viewer in the film's tension-filled world. The dialogue maintains clarity and prominence, ensuring that every word is heard amidst the bustling background, while Daniel Pemberton's unique score envelops the listener, enhancing the film's atmosphere through the effective use of the surround channels.

The technical aspects of the audio presentation shine, particularly in its handling of dynamics and low-frequency effects. The dynamic range is broad and articulate, with the audio mix displaying a meticulous separation of frequencies, which results in a crisp and detailed listening experience. The low end is notably impactful, providing a substantial weight to the film's music and action sequences without overwhelming the clarity of dialogue.

Subtlety and precision define the soundtrack's delivery, from its robust front soundstage to its reserved yet effective rear channel activity, creating a nuanced sonic landscape. Off-screen effects and dialogues are strategically placed, ensuring a seamless audio transition across the channels. This nuanced approach extends to the film's more atmospheric moments, with ambient sounds adding depth and realism to the soundfield. Additionally, the inclusion of multiple language tracks and subtitles ensures accessibility for a broad audience. Overall, "The Counselor's" audio presentation is a meticulously crafted experience that significantly contributes to the film's suspenseful and engaging atmosphere.

The Blu-ray release of "The Counselor" impressively caters to aficionados and newcomers alike with its carefully curated extras that delve deeper into the film's fabric. Ridley Scott's trademark dedication shines through in both the theatrical and unrated extended cuts, each housed on separate discs with unique supplementary materials bolstering the package. Of notable mention is "Truth of the Situation: Making The Counselor," an exhaustive, in-depth exploration combining Ridley Scott's insightful commentary with 13 featurettes seamlessly integrated into the film's extended cut. This addition alone, exclusive to the Unrated Extended Cut disc, transforms the viewing experience into an engaging masterclass. Also included are the "Viral Pieces: Uncut," short films providing a tantalizing glimpse into the world of "The Counselor" through its characters, enhanced with high-profile cameo appearances. Trailers, TV spots, and an UltraViolet copy of the film round out the treasure trove, making this Blu-ray a commendable collection for any cinephile.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical and Unrated Extended Cut Versions: Two versions of the film presented in high definition.
• Viral Pieces: Uncut: A trio of short films featuring key characters from the movie.
• Theatrical Trailers: A collection of three cinematic previews.
• TV Spots: Ten promotional TV clips.
• Truth of the Situation: Making The Counselor: An extensive behind-the-scenes look combined with Ridley Scott's commentary and 13 featurettes.
• UltraViolet Copy of the Film: Digital version for easy access and viewing.

In "The Counselor," Ridley Scott directs an original screenplay by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Cormac McCarthy, marking a significant divergence from the conventional narrative structure found in many of today’s films. This collaboration delivers a dense and morally complex drama that is as intellectually challenging as it is visually captivating. The film focuses on a high-powered lawyer, known only as The Counselor (played by Michael Fassbender), who becomes entangled in a high-stakes drug trafficking operation between Texas and Mexico. The ensemble cast, including Penélope Cruz as the naïve Laura, Cameron Diaz as the calculating Malkina, Javier Bardem as the erratic Reiner, and Brad Pitt as the seasoned middleman Westray, brings to life McCarthy’s intricately crafted, dialogue-heavy script with performances that capture the bleak and oftentimes nihilistic tone of his writing.

McCarthy's screenplay is replete with his trademark literary flourishes, presenting a narrative that eschews typical storytelling techniques in favor of a more nuanced exploration of fate, greed, and existential despair. The dialogue-driven film unfolds through conversations filled with philosophical musings and dark wit, demanding its audience engage with the material on a more profound level. Visually, Scott and cinematographer Dariusz Wolski enhance the thematic complexity of McCarthy's script with a stark, brooding aesthetic that underscores the film's sense of inevitable doom. This Blu-ray release includes both the theatrical and an extended unrated cut, the latter offering additional scenes that enrich the already intricate narrative framework, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the film’s unsettling exploration of human nature and the consequences of our choices.

Despite its divisive reception among critics and audiences alike, "The Counselor" stands out as a bold and ambitious effort that merits attention. It challenges viewers to rethink their expectations of narrative cinema, propelled by McCarthy’s dense and elaborate script which reads more like a novel than a screenplay. Scott's adaptation does not shy away from the screenplay's complexities, creating a visually stunning piece that complements the literary quality of the dialogue. While some may find its pacing uneven and its plot at times convoluted, there’s an undeniable craftsmanship at work here. For those willing to immerse themselves in its thematic depth and complex character studies, "The Counselor" rewards with a rich cinematic experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

"The Counselor," a film that intertwines the grim with the exceptional in both narrative and technical presentation, demands attention and repeated viewings to fully grasp its dense, McCarthy-penned screenplay. Its labyrinthine dialogue, drowned in existential musings on fate and death, is carried effectively by a stellar cast under Ridley Scott's mindful direction. While not a conventional genre piece, this factor enhances its allure, offering a fresh cinematic experience complemented by vivid performances, especially a surprisingly malevolent role by Diaz. The Blu-ray edition of "The Counselor" shines in audio and video quality, presenting the film in an almost pristine condition, akin to Ridley Scott’s known dedication to optimal home viewing experiences.

The extended cut exclusive to Blu-ray adds depth, making it an essential collectible for fans, though it simultaneously serves as a solid recommendation for a first-time viewer rental. However, the disappointment for some comes from the mismatched expectations fueled by the film's high-profile ensemble and creative team, translating to a viewing experience that might not resonate with everyone. The inclusion of a three and a half-hour hybrid commentary-featurette is a notable highlight, providing rich insights into the film’s intricate layers, despite some expressing unmet expectations with the movie itself and a desire for a more comprehensive suite of special features.

In conclusion, while "The Counselor" might polarize audiences with its ambitious storytelling and complex themes, its Blu-ray presentation undeniably elevates the viewing experience. It stands out as a meticulously crafted package that respects the filmmaker’s vision and the intricacies of McCarthy's screenplay. Despite its divisive reception, the Blu-ray edition, especially with its extended cut and detailed commentary, offers enough substance to warrant attention from both critics and cinephiles. Whether as a collectible for fans or as an intriguing exploration for newcomers, it proves to be a compelling albeit challenging cinematic endeavor worth delving into.