Ralph Potts reviews this year’s global blockbuster where fans of the original films and new moviegoers alike can witness the story come full circle as the park that was only a promise comes to life.
The Review at a Glance:
(max score: 5 )
Film:
Extras:
Audio/3D Video total rating:
( Max score: 100 )
93
Details:
Studio and Year: Universal – 2015
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Feature running time: 125 minutes
Genre: Sci-Fi/Adventure/Horror
Disc Format: BD-50
Encoding: AVC/MVC
Video Aspect: 2.00:1
Resolution: 1080p/24
Audio Format(s): English DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio, Spanish/French DTS 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish, French
Starring: Chris Pratt, Dallas Bryce Howard, Vincent D’Onofrio, Ty Simpkins, Nick Robinson, Omar Sy, BD wong, Irrfan Khan
Directed by: Colin Trevorrow
Music by: Michael Giacchino
Written by: Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, Derek Connolly, Colin Trevorrow
Region Code: A,B,C
Blu-ray Disc release Date: October 20, 2015
“The park is open”
My Take:
The original Jurassic Park took you to an amazing theme park on a remote island where dinosaurs once again roamed the Earth. After a series of events left five people battling to survive among the prehistoric predators the park was abandoned. Now, 22 years later, an even bigger and enormously popular attraction has risen on Isla Nubar: Jurassic World. To keep attendance high, the park operators introduce a new, genetically modified hybrid creature called Indominus Rex. Bigger, stronger and far more intelligent than any dinosaur that ever walked the earth; the secretive new breed also proves more dangerous than anyone ever anticipated. When the massive creature escapes, chaos erupts across the island. Now it’s up to Owen (Chris Pratt) and Claire (Bryce Dallas Howard) to save the park’s tourists from an all-out prehistoric assault.
Before I discuss my take on Jurassic World I wanted to start with sharing an overview of my thoughts on the film that started the series, Jurassic Park:
] I have clear recollections of seeing Jurassic Park during its theatrical release back in 1993. I absolutely loved it. I went in expecting sci-fi horror about dinosaurs and got a wonderfully fulfilling and human story that blends memorable elements of levity, suspense and drama that are underscored by perfectly drawn characters (including the 30 foot tall T-Rex). Based upon Michael Crichton’s book the screenplay, which he co-wrote, expertly draws you in by establishing a viable connection to the characters of Ian, John, Ellie, and Alan which is then followed up by the integration of Alan’s initially reluctant, but essential bond formed with Tim and Lex. This serves as the foundation for some of the film’s best moments and in my opinion is one of the defining elements that set Jurassic Park apart from the other films in the series. These are endearing characters that are brought to life not only through excellent writing but marvelous performances and spot on direction.
Jurassic Park remains my favorite of all the films in the series. Jurassic World doesn’t match the original’s well rounded characters, narrative depth and suspenseful thrills but it is the epitome of a summer blockbuster. Featuring ratcheted up special effects, straight to the point action and clearly defined thematic elements (hero, heroine, badass monster, mustache twirling villain). Being a fan of the series I was at the theater to catch this opening weekend with my family. We all enjoyed it. I appreciated the references to Jurassic Park that were sprinkled here and there, despite the fact that they may or may not have made sense (working 20 plus year old battery powered goggles and jeep that starts and runs simply by installing a new battery). The connection to some of the plot points from the original were integrated well and I liked the use of the raptor element. The Indominus Rex, although slightly overdone, made a worthy addition to the Jurassic Park super beasty mythos.
As you’d expect the film’s production elements are excellent and contributory, with the CGI based creatures being as integral as the actors themselves. Speaking of which Chris Pratt was the spot on choice to play Owen. Surprisingly I found Dallas Bryce Howard to be every bit his equal sharing not only solid chemistry with him but adding the right amount of toughness, sex appeal and physicality to her character. Jurassic World falls second in line in the Jurassic Park film series in my humble opinion. It’s a worthy addition to the series and makes for pitch perfect popcorn entertainment that has excellent replay value.
Shattering records globally, Jurassic World crushed the opening-weekend boxoffice, scoring the highest domestic, international and worldwide openings of all time. The film has taken in more than $1.6 billion globally to become the third-highest grossing film in history.
Parental Guide:
The rating is for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and peril.
AUDIO/VIDEO – By The Numbers:
REFERENCE = 92-100/EXCELLENT = 83-91/GOOD = 74-82/AVERAGE = 65-73/BELOW AVERAGE = under 65
**My audio/video ratings are based upon a comparative made against other high definition media/blu-ray disc.**
Audio: 100
(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)
Dynamics:
Low frequency effects:
Surround Sound presentation:
Clarity/Detail:
Dialogue Reproduction:
Low frequency extension * (non-rated element): NA
DSU Rating * (non-rated element):
3D Presentation: 86
(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)
Depth (Onscreen):
Dimension (Beyond the screen):
Realism:
Clarity/Detail:
Color Reproduction:
Jurassic World 3D comes to Blu-ray Disc from Universal Studios Home Entertainment featuring 1080p MVC encoded video and lossless DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio sound that has an average bitrate of 4.4 Mbps.
This film wasn’t shot natively in 3D but was converted in post- production. I didn’t see it in the 3D at the theater and wondered how the film’s effects and CG based elements would look. I was very pleased to see that the reproduction of the digital effects etc. translates as well here as it does in the 2D presentation. Depth is appreciable as evidenced by the near field detection of objects and/or people layered in the foreground/background which creates a perceptible sense of virtual space.
High definition dimensionality and apparent resolution is identical to the 2D presentation. Comparing white/black levels, color and skin tone reproduction to the 2D presentation I found them to be essentially identical. There isn’t an abundance of 3D effects that transcend the boundaries of the screen but several sequences, containing a mixture of both action and non-action, make use of the platform via protruding objects, rushing water or prehistoric birds of prey seemingly coming out of the screen. The majority of the time the presentation sticks to varying levels of “natural” dimension that really neither adds or detracts from the experience. I didn’t notice any distracting instances of crosstalk or other video related anomalies. I enjoyed watching Jurassic World in 3D and felt that its Blu-ray presentation added an enriching element to the film’s experience.
The DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio soundtrack is technically proficient and in a word, terrific. This is a supremely articulated and commanding presentation that will reward those with systems capable of thoroughly reproducing its elements. This is an aggressive presentation that produces powerful dynamics and deep bass transients that underscore the action with aplomb. I thoroughly enjoyed the engaging and purposeful sound design that transforms the room into a three dimensional soundstage that creates an immersive web of sound that encapsulates the sweet spot with its plethora of sounds/ effects that seem to emanate from every direction.
Pinpoint imaging draws out both large and small sounds and by allowing their directional correlation (based upon the onscreen events) to be definable within the room’s acoustic boundaries. Michael Giancchino’s music score (and John Williams’ memorable theme) helps set the stage with its perfect blend of evocative instrumentation and rousing orchestration. Dialogue is definitive and appreciably lucid through the center channel as it reaches far into the room. It’s located just slightly in front of the left/right speakers within the acoustic space it occupies in the soundfield.
Low frequency effects are applied authoritatively and effectively underscore the bombastic and dramatic aspects of the audio. This mix delivers bass response that can be room shaking as it extends down to lower frequencies that on occasion approach skin tingling regions.
This is a superlative audio/video presentation that elevates the enjoyment of this action film. Those who like to drive their systems at reference levels will appreciate its transient low frequency peaks, extended dynamic range and high level clarity. I had an absolute blast..
2D Video Quality:
Video: 96
(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)
Resolution/Clarity:
Black Level/Shadow Detail:
Color Reproduction:
Fleshtones:
Compression:
Jurassic World comes to Blu-ray Disc from Universal Studios Home Entertainment featuring 1080p AVC encoded video that has an average bitrate of 24 Mbps.
Having seen Jurassic World theatrically I found this rendering to faithfully mimic that presentation. The film utilizes a stylized visual design comprised of various elements that represent the differing environs featured in the story. The paddock and jungle sequences have a limited color scheme making primary use of shades of dark blue, grays and black with splashes of crimson and muted sepia tones. The sequences that take place in the visitor’s area of the theme park have richer color saturation with reserved primaries, and boldly applied contrast. I found the film’s deep grays, rich blacks and use of color to be thematically complimentary. Contrast is spot on which empowers whites and grays without washing away detail. Whites are snappy and crisp and grays are multi-staged and layered. Blacks are dynamic and gradational and detail in shadows is just as strong. The large amount of CGI featured in the film softens some of the background elements but I didn’t found it to be excessive or distracting as the quality of the video is high. It isn’t always razor sharp but it is cleanly rendered which enhances the perception of fine detail. The video has a pleasing, light grain splashed texture that coincides nicely with its storyline.
Bonus Features:
3D Blu-ray – Jurassic World
2D Blu-ray – Jurassic World
(HD) Welcome to Jurassic World: An in-depth take on the creation, look and feel of Jurassic World. Director Colin Trevorrow and Steven Spielberg discuss how the idea of the film came together and how the casting was decided with actors’ commentary on their roles and filming locations – 29 minutes
(HD) Jurassic World: ALL-ACCESS PASS: Chris Pratt and Director Colin Trevorrow discuss key moments in the film, supported by behind-the-scenes footage and VFX breakdowns – 10 minutes
(HD) Innovation Center Tour with Chris Pratt: Chris Pratt gives a tour of the Innovation Center, a museum/exhibit, built just for the movie.
(HD) Jurassic’s Closest Shaves: Clips from all films in the franchise showing “near death” or extremely scary encounters with dinosaurs – 2 minutes
(HD) Deleted Scenes – 6 minutes
(HD) Dinosaurs Roam Once Again: Behind the scenes look at the making of Jurassic World’s visual effects, how the dinosaurs came to life, and actors filmed scenes – 16 minutes
(HD) Chris and Colin take on the world: Chris Pratt and Colin Trevorrow (Director) interview each other and discuss Jurassic World as well as the other Jurassic Park movies – 9 minutes
Bonus DVD
Digital HD Copy
Final Thoughts:
Jurassic World is an entertaining and well executed addition to the Jurassic Park film series. It thunders onto Blu-ray in this 3D Blu-ray Combo Pack from Universal Studios Home Entertainment that features reference quality high definition video, outstanding DTS-HD Master Audio surround sound and a fair 3D rendering. Also included is a decent supplemental package that is worth exploring if you enjoyed the film. As a genre fan and Home Theater enthusiast I am thrilled to add Jurassic World to my Blu-ray collection. If you’re looking for a solid home theater sound demonstration Blu-ray this is right up your alley.
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Ralph Potts
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Reference Review System:
JVC DLA-RS4910 3D Ready 1080p High Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Calman 5 & C6 Meter from Spectracal)
Stewart Filmscreen – Studiotek 130 G3 100” 16×9 Screen
Carada Masquerade Horizontal Masking System
Marantz AV8802A 13.2 Channel Audio/Video Processor
Sherbourn Technologies – 7/200 Seven Channel Amplifier
B&K Reference 200.7 Series 2 Seven Channel Amplifier
Oppo BDP-103D Universal Disc/3D capable Blu-ray Player (With Darbee video processing)
Panasonic DMP-BDT310 3D capable Blu-ray Player (HDMI Audio/Video)
Toshiba HD-XA2 HD DVD Player (HDMI Audio/Video)
Sony Playstation 3 Blu-ray disc Player (HDMI Audio/Video)
System Controller: Apple iPad/iRule Pro HD Universal Remote Control
Canton “Ergo” and In-Ceiling series speakers
Axiom Audio QS8 Quadpolar speakers
SVS PB-13 Ultra (Rosenut finish)
SVS PC12-NSD
Panamax M5400-PM Power Conditioner/Surge Protector
Wireworld, Better Cables (Silver Serpent) – Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling
Cool Components – CP-CP102 cooling package
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