4K Digital Review: Avatar

 

When Avatar came out in theaters in 2009, it was an evolutionary leap forward in motion-capture technology, 3D presentation and seamlessly blending live action and CGI. 

Set in the distant future, humans have set out to explore space to find resources for Earth. Strip-mining the planet Pandora, the native people called the Na'vi do not take kindly to what is happening to their planet. This is where Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) enters. He is a disabled Marine who had a twin brother who was suppose to go Pandora on a scientific mission in a Na'vi avatar designed just for him. Since Jake has the same DNA as his now deceased brother, he can link to the avatar and joins as security for Dr. Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver). Jake catches the eye of Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang) who wants Jake to spy on the Na'vi to learn their weaknesses. But Jack falls in love with the way of life of the Na'vi and with Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), daughter of the leader of the Omaticaya clan.    

Video:

Avatar is presented in 2160p 4K UHD video. This 4K presentation brings a substantial upgrade to the film's CG elements while the live action sequences seem a little to digitally processed for me. The highlights of the 4K video includes all of Pandora from the vegetation to the wildlife.  

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos track is immersive and really puts you in the world of Pandora. There are various scenes where the layering of sound makes you feel like you are right there in the scene. At the base you can hear the rumbling of machinery and the sounds of soldiers marching around you. In the wilderness of Pandora is really where the ambient sounds surround you and bring the planet to life. The gorgeous score rests comfortably in the front and rear channels. Dialogue is crisp and clean.   

Bonus Features:

• Memories from Avatar (HD; 21:20) features Jon Landau, Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang in conversation.


• Avatar: A Look Back (HD; 10:03) has some reminiscing by James Cameron, Sigourney Weaver, Zoe Saldana and Sam Worthington.


• Capturing Avatar (HD; 1:38:25) is the same in depth four part documentary that was initially offered as a supplement on the four disc release of Avatar.


• Featurettes (HD; 1:31:51) offer the same assortment of often pretty short but still generally very informative pieces on all manner of production aspects that were originally part of the four disc release of Avatar 

Conclusion:

Avatar continues to be a breathtaking movie experience. The 4K transfer makes it even better with increased details in the visuals and a beautiful audio track. Solid bonus features also help to make this a worthy addition to your movie collection.

Avatar is available to own on digital download now. 

*The movie was sent to me to review by Walt Disney Home Entertainment and the review is strictly my own opinion*

4K Digital Review: Chevalier

 

Chevalier is inspired by the true story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint Georges. He was the illegitimate son of a plantation owner and an African slave. Instead of a traditional bio-pic we get a look at an important time in Chevalier's life that showcases his struggle with racial and social issues. 

Joseph (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) is a master of the violin and his performances grab the attention of Marie Antoinette (Lucy Boyton). She gives him Chevalier status, and giving him a trusted place in the court. When Joseph wants to leave his place with the Paris Opera, Marie has other plans and sparks a competition with composer Gluck (Henry Lloyd-Hughes). Joseph then sets out to form a strong team with the help of Marie-Josephine (Samara Weaving) a singer married to Marquis De Montalembert (Martin Csokas) a powerful man. Working together brings Joseph and Marie-Josephine close together on other levels than just being professional. 

In the end, this period of time in the life of Chevalier, showcases pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in society by a man of color. A man determined to not only leave his mark on history but to also pave the path for others to follow him. 

Video:

The 4K video is stunning especially when it comes to the details of the period costumes. The fine details down to the materials is very evident. Skin tones are picture perfect as well. 

Audio:

The Dolby 5.1 audio mix is wonderful especially when it comes to the score and any musical piece in the movie. Dialogue is front and center and easily understood. 

Bonus Featurette:

• Chevalier: Note By Note - Discover the untold story of Joseph Bologne, an incredibly talented violinist and composer. In this piece we hear from filmmakers, cast and crew on their journey from discovering this hidden historical figure to bringing his story to life. (TRT 15:49) 

Conclusion:

A powerful movie about racial and social struggles in a time where some were expected to fail and yet on their lonely road of social justice and equality. The bonus feature is short and I wish there was more. Still recommended to be in your movie collection. 

Chevalier is currently available on digital.

*The review copy was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the sole purpose of review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own*