Eliminators Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Eliminators" features a well-executed 1080p transfer, maintaining a digitally sourced 1.78:1 aspect ratio, encoded using AVC. The detail levels are commendable, bringing out intricate facial features, precise costuming, and set design elements that contribute to an immersive experience. Adkins’ distinctive five o’clock shadow is depicted with realistic granularity, and the various textures in both clothing and environments are captured with sufficient clarity. While occasional scenes set inside cars at night illuminated by dashboard readouts may seem visually drab, daylight and well-lit sequences restore a lifelike vibrancy.

Colors are neutral yet believable, with skin tones appearing natural and blood exhibiting lifelike vibrancy, adding to the realism. Black levels are predominantly solid and inky, crucial for the film’s numerous nighttime scenes and dimly lit interiors, ensuring there are no significant crush issues. Minor source noise is present but not distracting, and other notable artifacts are absent, indicating a robust transfer.

The overall sharpness is consistently high, barring a few slightly softer shots. The contrast is well-managed throughout, although black levels are very good but not always perfect. Despite segments with varying lighting conditions, the movie retains a clean and polished digital look. Universal has delivered a reliable and professional video presentation for "Eliminators," making it a rock-solid option for viewers.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack for "Eliminators" is a technically competent yet unremarkable offering. The audio mix is front-heavy with music primarily anchored along the front and center channels. The surround channels are underutilized, providing only occasional bursts of action and environmental effects that fail to create an immersive auditory experience. Notably, the gunfire exhibits varying degrees of depth, from deep shotgun blasts to the satisfying, well-localized sound of a suppressed pistol in the final act.

Dialogue clarity is a strong suit of this mix, consistently presented with crisp, clear delivery from the front-center positioning without any issues. The film’s musical score, along with its sound effects and ambient noises, are well-layered and maintain a balanced presence within the midranges, notably without distortion. However, the sound mix largely lacks dynamism, with limited active channel movement observed primarily in the sides and front, reflecting a basic atmospheric texture. Overall, while the audio delivery is adequate and functional, it does not elevate the viewing experience to a highly engaging level.

The Blu Ray release of "Eliminators" comes with two concise yet engaging featurettes. "Hand-to-Hand Bishop" (6:06) offers an in-depth exploration of the choreography, preparation, and technical execution behind the film's fight scenes. In particular, it highlights the training led by fight coordinator Tim Man and the impressive staging of combat within a confined cable car space. "Bishop for Hire" (3:22) provides a quick but insightful profile on wrestler-turned-actor Wade Barrett (Stu Bennett), with director James Nunn and co-star Scott Adkins commending his adaptation to on-screen combat and action sequences. These extras, along with a UV/iTunes digital copy voucher, make for a well-rounded addition to the physical release.

Extras included in this disc:

• Hand-to-Hand Bishop: Explores fight scene preparations with insights from director, actors, and fight coordinator.
• Bishop for Hire: A closer look at Wade Barrett's character and his transition to movie action.

Eliminators delivers a straightforward, no-nonsense direct-to-video action experience centered around a father's relentless effort to protect his daughter. The plot is simple: Thomas (Scott Adkins), a former federal agent-turned-security guard, inadvertently becomes the target of a hitman following a case of mistaken identity during a home invasion. Struggling to clear his name while protecting his daughter, Thomas must face off against the deadly assassin Bishop (Wade Barrett). The film thrives on its honest and modest execution, offering unpretentious action and narrative. The depth and originality are limited, but the movie compensates with reliable performances and well-choreographed combat sequences.

Scott Adkins and Wade Barrett deliver solid performances, each embracing their roles with a clear understanding of the genre's demands. Adkins portrays a loving father adept at handling both firearms and fistfights, while Barrett balances his character between menacing hitman and slightly more nuanced human antagonist. The film’s pacing and action variety keep it engaging despite a predictable storyline and plot holes that may challenge discerning viewers. The movie's strength lies in its lean approach and solid delivery of action scenes, including an impressive fight in an elevated cable car.

Technically, the cinematography and editing are competently executed, featuring clean visuals and dynamic action shots. Though the screenplay leans heavily on clichés and familiar tropes, James Nunn's direction maintains a brisk tempo that prioritizes entertainment over complexity or innovation. The supporting cast, including Daniel Caltagirone as Thomas's CIA handler and James Cosmo as the antagonist grandfather, contribute to the movie's overall credibility. Despite its flaws, Eliminators offers a dependable, if not memorable, action experience fitting for fans of the genre and Scott Adkins' martial arts prowess.

"Eliminators" offers a solid viewing experience as a Direct-to-Video action film, comfortably delivering on expectations without aiming for anything beyond its capable grasp. The movie embraces its genre roots with familiar tropes and straightforward storytelling, providing steady entertainment particularly for fans of lead actor Scott Adkins. While the film’s plot and characters are somewhat elementary, it leans into its strengths—chiefly a couple of strong lead performances and well-executed action sequences.

Universal's Blu-ray release supports the film adequately, with commendable video and audio quality that elevate the viewing experience. Although there is a noticeable scarcity of bonus features, which is a missed opportunity for fans interested in the behind-the-scenes elements, the technical presentation remains robust enough to satisfy action aficionados. The A/V presentation is polished, ensuring that the movie's action sequences are visually appealing and sonically engaging.

In conclusion, "Eliminators" may not be a groundbreaking action film, but it effectively fulfills its purpose. With fine performances and reliable technical proficiency, it's a worthwhile watch for those seeking straightforward, satisfying entertainment. Universal's Blu-ray release does justice to the film with its solid audiovisuals, despite the limited supplementary content. For action fans and Scott Adkins enthusiasts, "Eliminators" comes recommended.