Dreamgirls Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Dreamgirls" arrives with an updated MPEG-4 AVC encode, superseding the previous MPEG-2 format. This 2.35:1 1080p transfer, while not a full remastering from a fresh scan, renders a faithfully filmic and grainy image that vividly captures essential textures and details. The period-specific fabric details, particularly of suits and dresses, are well-represented, giving the visual experience a rich authenticity. Faces and environments exhibit impressive complexity and depth. The color palette is testament to the film’s vibrancy, with robust and healthy saturation that deftly avoids being excessive. Black levels are deep and pure, particularly in stage backgrounds and nighttime scenes, contributing to an overall dynamic visual presentation. Flesh tones remain natural and consistent throughout.

Despite not being remastered in 4K, the Blu-ray's color reproduction stands out, characterized by bursts of blues, aquamarine, and oranges that engulf viewers right from the start. Brightly colored dresses are a recurring highlight, while primary colors are notably rich and lavishly applied on screen. Contrast levels are carefully balanced, ensuring no blowouts, and the natural grain only enhances the cinematic feel. The absence of serious source or encode flaws is commendable, though slight compression issues and banding are occasionally noticeable. Given the era of 4K UHD, HDR, and Dolby Vision, the lack of a format upgrade for such an opulent production is a minor letdown; however, this Blu-ray transfer still succeeds in delivering a visually satisfying experience that fans will appreciate.

The newly remixed DTS:X Master Audio soundtrack on the Dreamgirls Blu-ray transforms the auditory experience to an extraordinary level of sonic excellence. Upgrading from the previous lossy 5.1 mix, this new track is a revelation in immersive audio design. From the moment the film begins, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of sound that fills the listening area with precision and expansiveness. The dynamic range is exceptional, especially in musical numbers where lyrics and instrumentation are clearly defined and expertly spaced. The surround sound elements, enhanced by the overhead DTS:X layer, create a palpable sense of space, adding depth without overwhelming the primary channels.

This DTS:X presentation ensures that every performance is highlighted with clear and prominent dialogue and lyrics, allowing the viewer to fully appreciate the vocal talents of the cast. The bass frequencies deliver a solid punch, and the scoring utilizes all available channels to craft an enveloping atmosphere. Crowd noise and ambient effects, such as audience applause and street sounds, engage the side and rear channels effectively, enriching the overall listening experience with lifelike realism. Whether in bustling club scenes or quieter, more intimate moments, the audio mix maintains a constant sense of involvement, making for a deeply immersive effect.

Paramount's attention to detail in this edition's audio track is commendable, especially as it provides down-mixing capabilities for 7.1 and 5.1 setups without losing its integrity. During standout sequences, such as street violence and radio broadcasts, the precise imaging and surround activity are particularly notable, drawing the listener fully into the scene. This meticulous DTS:X mix undoubtedly elevates Dreamgirls' musical foundation to concert-like quality, ensuring audiophiles and fans alike will fall in love with this rejuvenated soundtrack.

The Blu-ray release of "Dreamgirls" presents fans with a mixed bag of supplemental content, primarily focusing on Jennifer Hudson's audition and screen tests. While the inclusion of both the Theatrical and Director’s Extended editions is commendable, this version lacks the comprehensive extras found in the 2007 Showstopper Edition. Paramount's decision to exclude those legacy supplements may disappoint long-time fans seeking a more complete compilation. The new content, however brief, highlights Hudson’s impressive performance that eventually earned her an Oscar. To access a fuller range of bonus features, consumers might consider checking out exclusive editions, like the one purportedly available at Target.

Extras included in this disc:

• Can He Even Sing: Jennifer Hudson auditions a scene.
• What About Me: Hudson performs another pivotal scene.
• And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going Audition: Hudson's iconic song performance.
• And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going Screen Test: Polished performance against a black backdrop.

"Dreamgirls," directed by Bill Condon, reimagines the iconic 1981 Broadway musical with an impressive cast and meticulous attention to detail. Based on Tom Eyen's original stage musical, the film follows the meteoric rise of The Dreams—a trio of talented singers loosely inspired by Diana Ross and the Supremes—under the control of their ambitious manager, Curtis Taylor Jr. Skillfully depicting the 1960s and 70s, Condon avoids clichéd imagery and effectively captures the era's essence. The narrative, filled with love, loss, and complex personal dynamics, is punctuated by powerful performances from Beyoncé Knowles, Anika Noni Rose, and particularly Jennifer Hudson, who delivers an Oscar-winning portrayal of Effie White.

The film's musicality is another cornerstone of its success; Condon’s experience with musicals is evident in the seamless integration of songs that range from emotionally raw to elegantly restrained. Each piece serves as both a narrative device and a character study, enhancing the storytelling without feeling intrusive. Highlights include Hudson's soul-stirring rendition of "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going,” and Beyoncé’s compelling performance of “Listen.” Supporting roles are equally impactful, with Eddie Murphy providing a standout performance as James ‘Thunder’ Early, blending humor and pathos, while Jamie Foxx brings depth to the controlling yet charismatic Curtis.

Technically, this re-release shines with a new DTS:X Master Audio soundtrack and an efficient MPEG-4 encode that faithfully preserves the 1080p image quality. While the additional 10 minutes in the Director’s Extended Edition primarily extend existing scenes rather than introducing groundbreaking new content, they add subtle nuances that enhance the overall narrative. Dreamgirls remains a significant work with captivating musical numbers, strong performances, and a poignant look at the challenges faced by African American performers in navigating the music industry. Even after a decade, it holds up as a well-crafted, emotionally resonant musical drama.

The Blu-ray release of "Dreamgirls" offers a compelling package for both new viewers and longtime fans of the film. This Director's Extended Edition boasts a slightly enhanced video transfer and a phenomenal DTS:X audio mix, making it an enticing option for those who prioritize audiovisual quality. The 1080p presentation remains impressive, even in the absence of a brand-new remaster or UHD release. Particularly noteworthy is the reference-quality soundtrack, which is essential for a film that hinges so heavily on its musical performance. The DigiBook packaging adds an attractive touch to this release.

However, the set falls short in the realm of bonus features, described by some as anemic. Unlike previous versions, this edition does not port over any of the earlier release's supplemental content. While the additional scenes and extended musical numbers add value by giving the film greater depth and breathing room, they don't offer transformative new revelations. For completionists and those eager for comprehensive behind-the-scenes content, this is a noticeable drawback. The few new supplements are enjoyable yet unremarkable, failing to overshadow the missing extras from prior editions.

This isn't the complete all-in-one “Dreamgirls” experience. Fans will have to hold onto their old set (or buy the Target exclusive) for a total replacement for the original. Some fans may be off-put by the lack of a brand-new remastered transfer (or a UHD release for that matter), but the 1080p presentation is very good nevertheless. The new soundtrack is unquestionably of reference quality, and for a movie that's all about the music, it's well worth the upgrade on its own merits. The few new supplements are enjoyable but nothing earth-shattering. The new cut of the film is a welcome addition too, and the DigiBook packaging is attractive. Highly recommended, but fans concerned with bonus content should spring for the Target release.