Babylon A D Blu ray
Studio: Tcfhe Release Date: 01/06/2009 Run time: 101 minutes Rating: Ur
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Unappreciated Retro-Sci-Fi Film BD Blast
Finding a kind word about this movie was so difficult, that I had to find out for myself! And was I HAPPY for it. There were so many bad reviews because Kassovitz’s loss of final cut, had the studio edit and refinished the film. 1942’s The Magnificent Ambersons was cut by 60 minutes by RKO. A crime; but there was enough great footage left for a feature that stands tall in cinema. Though it’s not Orson Welles’ work, this movie is also great even after a studio makeover. It has so much happening that you a can see where it would have been longer. It should have been longer, but as it is; it is a BLAST! I’m asking people what they think (many love it) because the critics (both surreal and armchair) are all too happy gang-banging this flick to show solidarity with the lamenting Director. That’s nice, but an empty procedure; because what Kassovitz did do, should be enjoyed even in its present form. I almost passed it by and I loved it. BD A/V quality; sharp and loud!
2 Stars Disappointing
I normally like Vin Diesel and I’m a big fan of sci-fi, but this one just doesn’t get off the ground. The story
The problem with the movie is that you spend so long in those dark, depressing scenes that it really takes a toll on the pace; worse yet, you never really get an engaging story line. It’s plotted more like a video game. The group gets attacked, Toorop fights. The group gets attacked, Toorop fights. And though the human interest part could have made the movie tolerable, it too falls victim to all the dreary grunge scenes. In the end you feel like you spent two hours watching a gun fight in a junk yard. Just not my cup of tea.
3 Stars A BD review only…(maybe a little film snippet too)
Wow – cannot go anywhere without reading all of the negativity about the production of this film. I’m going to skip reviewing the history here and talk about the BD quality since that is really the saving grace here.
The length of the film is 101 minutes, with the 50 or 60 changes to content (from theatrical to “uncut”) listed on tons of sites out there; Most changes revolve around sound editing, narration changes, slightly different ending and edits throughout – but nothing in the range of what will hopefully exist someday (the rumored 3 to 4 hour cut would be preferable).
The sound and picture are worthwhile and test worthy for a BD system. Listening to Quiet Riot (later in the film) and the opening urban music sequence sounded outstanding in DTS. The channel usage through the entire film was mixed so well that even when the film had been edited horribly by Fox – it still managed to blend believably. The visual fx and panoramic shots looked great in 1080 and only showed a few shortcomings – but nothing that detracts from the overall shots. The amount of dark/night shots were actually filmed in such a way that the hidef clarity kept the film believable instead of being muddled. Vin Diesel’s pores and the numerous bleak landscapes make for a solid BD presentation, and all of the sound channels were utilized/tested by the end of the film (even small details like the sound mixing of the kids in the slums, used all 3 three left channels separately).
I know this film was butchered and people are hating it EVERYWHERE – but I say give the BD a chance just for the view, and yes – the film has been horribly chopped up and there are gaping sequences of dialogue and story missing. But I can’t think of anyone else whose eyes I would want to see (in BD) get that wide while cage fighting a 250 pound muscle man, way to go Vin. Last time I mentioned someone’s pitted facial texture in BD I got slammed here on Amazon, but Gerard’s facial shots in the movie both scared and scarred me, I hope no other film does his face like that again…egh.
The supplements are not particularly worth much, as I obviously would have liked to see the “truth” exposed in a tell-all docu, but oh well. There are plenty of production clips to give you an idea of how the filming went. The menu sounds/rotating pics play nicely in the store and quite a few people ask about the film because of it. Hope you enjoy a semi-decent scifi as much as is allowed.
4 Stars Intriguing stunner…… bad editing
I rarely go into Vin Deisel movies with high expectations given his limited range. Lets face it, when you build a certain physique and persona you have to accept the pigeonholing as an actor. I read other reviews and removed this from my pre-order list and made it a rental instead. What a surprize to the upside. Some of the critique for this movie is warrented and the ending as you find it now will leave questions. The most important attitude to see this movie with is to enjoy the process and not look for simple gratification in the ending. As a near futuristic movie, this film tackles the challenge of envisioning a near future with new technology that is, if not realistic, still far from the utterly rediculous that many movies try to present. THIS IS NOT JUST A DUMBED DOWN ACTION SPECTACLE. One might be surprized to see Vin in what is actually a very ambitious, intelligent movie for this genre in my opinion. Though any one part of the plot by itself may not be original, I found the sum total to be refreshingly different. There are also spectacular visuals, very well orchestrated action scenes, thought provoking issues and conflicts and very wonderful performances by many actors. Pay attention to the technologies and gadgets here and there, a little satyre on religion and the questions of real faith and spirituality. This is a really good movie that just couldn’t do everything it wanted in the time allowed. Don’t get me wrong, if I were rating the construction or editing of this movie it would be two stars. I have no doubt that it was butchered by idiots who had no faith in an original vision. If what I have read in other reviews is correct, this movie could really be a marvel if there is an extended version that doesn’t screw it up. I wouldn’t normally find myself looking forward to a three hour Vin Deisel movie but I would really like to see what they can do with this one.
1 Star Terrible
When the director of a film bashes his own creation before its released to the public, you know it’s likely terrible. That is exactly the case with BABYLON A.D. whose director Mathieu Kassovitz brutally made fun of the film several times before it hit the big screen. Sadly, I didn’t know that when I paid for my ticket. Halfway through I was wishing I was watching reruns of Babylon 5 whose average episode is superior to this movie by a long shot. By the end I was wishing that I could have my money and two hours of my life back.
I’ve you’ve seen Children of Men you will immediately be appalled at how much of that much superior film has been ‘borrowed,’ for this one. In fact, if you want to understand this movie, think of CHILDREN OF MEN. Got it? Now replace the intelligent and believable Clive Owen with Vin Diesel, replace a careful plot and character development with a long series of violent confrontations, and lastly replace an impending sense of doom undercut by the promise of hope with an impending sense of doom undercut by sheer frustration that the movie has not ended yet. That about sums it up.
Distopian science fiction is one of my favorite genres, with films like BLADERUNNER on my all-time greatest list. If there is anything at all to give this film credit for, it is that some of the sets and art direction do capture the ‘feel’ of a world in duress. Sadly, most of them are also stolen; there is very little that is original, and the scraps that are are unsatisfying.
If this were a book, I would say it isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. It’s that bad. 0/5 stars.
Blade Runner Five Disc Complete Collectors Edition Blu ray
Blade Runner Five Disc Complete Collectors Edition Blu ray
Visually spectacular, intensely action-packed and powerfully prophetic since its debut, Blade Runner returns in Ridley Scott’s definitive Final Cut, including extended scenes and never-before-seen special effects, now seen in sepcatacular hi-definition! In a signature role as 21st- century detective Rick Deckard, Harrison Ford brings his masculine-yet- vulnerable presence to this stylish noir thriller. In a future of high- tech possibility soured by urban and social decay, Deckard hunts for fugitive, muderous replicants – and is drawn to a mystery woman whose secrets may undermine his soul. This spectacular 5-Disc Set features all of the content of the standard definition Ultimate Collector’s Edition. All five version of the legendary Sci-Fi film from Director Ridley Scott with all new 5.1 audio – the definitive Final Cut, three additional versions of the film, and the rare Work Print version – in addition to the in-depth feature length documentary “Dangerous Days”, and one complete disc of bonus content including over 80-minutes of never- before-seen deleted scenes.
User Ratings and Reviews
2 Stars Production Problem: First Disc is a 2nd Copy of the Workprint
I am one of the unlucky shoppers who got a “misprint”. Disc one which should be the final cut is in fact a 2nd copy of disc 5, the “workprint”. Based on some reviews of the final cut maybe I’m not missing much, but it’s annoying to have to exchange this. I knew there was a problem when I put in disc one and it looked lousy in hi-def. There is a separate disc with the US and international release versions along with the director’s cut, which are all much better quality.
1 Star How to get the correct disc for your Blu-Ray set
I bought this set from Amazon on January 1, 2009. Like other reviewers I too received a duplicate disc, the “work print” content on both discs 1 and 5.
Just contact the Warner service hotline at: 1-800-553-6937. The operator I talked to was very helpful and fully aware of the problem. She took down my information to send me the correct disc 1 when they become available. She said currently they are waiting on more to be printed and it will take at least 3-4 weeks before they are available.
*FYI, I rated this item one star to get the attention of folks who are having the same problem.
5 Stars The comprehensive Blade Runner
At last a package with all the blade runner editions. I was looking for the theatrical version in DVD for six years. I watched the theatrical version in VHS in early’s 90’s and wanted to watch it again. I had the director cut in DVD also but this package has all the editions I know about this movie. I liked a lot the final cut and it was very nice to see the theatrical edition again.
Now, Blade Runner is one of the best science fiction movies ever, so if you still don’t have it, this is the package you should choose.
4 Stars An unsurpassed classic
A great concept, fantastic film full of atmosphere. The music, direction, acting and effects are captivating. It only (or will be) dated by its Los Angeles 2019 tag. This edition is restored and corrected in parts which do not detract from the film.
Often imitated but so far unsurpassed. A real cinematic experience and a must see.
5 Stars Slick, luminous and worth every penny
***This review covers the Blu-Ray set***
THE FILM
A somewhat loose adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s short story, “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner is a half detective story, half sci-fi film.
Blade Runner was probably one of the most expensive experimental films of all time. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful, coming from a photographer, those words cary a good deal of meaning. While as a story or even some of the performances, dont always fire on all cylinders, there is a certain mystery and powerful visual majesty to fill any lapses in dramatic pitch.
Ridley Scott cut his teeth as a filmmaker on commercials and watching Jordan Cornenweth’s powerful cinematography, one definitely feels Blade Runner is a sort of commercial. For what, we just don’t know. Sure there are meditations on humanity, inevitability and choice, but there isn’t a real cohesive exploration or dialogue on any of these subjects. I think this ambiguity is probably the main reason Blade Runner has been such an enduring journey. For sure, there are genuinely tender, magical and powerful moments to the film. In short, Blade Runner is what it is. It is a film that the viewer takes home what they bring to it.
THE QUALITY
I have owned several DVD and VHS releases of the movie through the years as many others and much like 2001: A Space Odyssey, this Blu-Ray release provs how lucky we are to have High Def. On my 42″ plasma, the film is rapturous. The shafts of light and the blue hues really make you feel as if your peering into the world before you. The blues are deep and the contrast is strong.
There is grain and some missed focus, but the challenges the crew must have had shooting Panavision anamorphic in those days with such little light at times must have been a real challenge for the focus pullers. If anything, on the grain, it only enhances the film’s gritty feel. Neither of these small observations have any real impact on the picture’s quality or overall sharpness.
Having upgraded to High-Def relatively recently, I have the same set for DVD and going back and fourth, there are some scenes that show a real hike in quality and detail. This is one of those films where you watch it and aren’t always conscious of the difference between HD and SD UNTIL you go back and watch the SD. You really find it is impossible to go back. I’m glad I made the purchase.
CONCLUSION
Like most great films, Blade Runner is not for everybody. It is a supreme exercise in production and photography over drama, but that hasn’t made the film any less powerful. It was worth every penny to pick this up and it is easily one of the best releases you can get on HD right now.
Blade Runner Five Disc Complete Collectors Edition Blu ray
Blade Runner Five Disc Complete Collectors Edition Blu ray
Visually spectacular, intensely action-packed and powerfully prophetic since its debut, Blade Runner returns in Ridley Scott’s definitive Final Cut, including extended scenes and never-before-seen special effects, now seen in sepcatacular hi-definition! In a signature role as 21st- century detective Rick Deckard, Harrison Ford brings his masculine-yet- vulnerable presence to this stylish noir thriller. In a future of high- tech possibility soured by urban and social decay, Deckard hunts for fugitive, muderous replicants – and is drawn to a mystery woman whose secrets may undermine his soul. This spectacular 5-Disc Set features all of the content of the standard definition Ultimate Collector’s Edition. All five version of the legendary Sci-Fi film from Director Ridley Scott with all new 5.1 audio – the definitive Final Cut, three additional versions of the film, and the rare Work Print version – in addition to the in-depth feature length documentary “Dangerous Days”, and one complete disc of bonus content including over 80-minutes of never- before-seen deleted scenes.
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Slick, luminous and worth every penny
***This review covers the Blu-Ray set***
THE FILM
A somewhat loose adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s short story, “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner is a half detective story, half sci-fi film.
Blade Runner was probably one of the most expensive experimental films of all time. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful, coming from a photographer, those words cary a good deal of meaning. While as a story or even some of the performances, dont always fire on all cylinders, there is a certain mystery and powerful visual majesty to fill any lapses in dramatic pitch.
Ridley Scott cut his teeth as a filmmaker on commercials and watching Jordan Cornenweth’s powerful cinematography, one definitely feels Blade Runner is a sort of commercial. For what, we just don’t know. Sure there are meditations on humanity, inevitability and choice, but there isn’t a real cohesive exploration or dialogue on any of these subjects. I think this ambiguity is probably the main reason Blade Runner has been such an enduring journey. For sure, there are genuinely tender, magical and powerful moments to the film. In short, Blade Runner is what it is. It is a film that the viewer takes home what they bring to it.
THE QUALITY
I have owned several DVD and VHS releases of the movie through the years as many others and much like 2001: A Space Odyssey, this Blu-Ray release provs how lucky we are to have High Def. On my 42″ plasma, the film is rapturous. The shafts of light and the blue hues really make you feel as if your peering into the world before you. The blues are deep and the contrast is strong.
There is grain and some missed focus, but the challenges the crew must have had shooting Panavision anamorphic in those days with such little light at times must have been a real challenge for the focus pullers. If anything, on the grain, it only enhances the film’s gritty feel. Neither of these small observations have any real impact on the picture’s quality or overall sharpness.
Having upgraded to High-Def relatively recently, I have the same set for DVD and going back and fourth, there are some scenes that show a real hike in quality and detail. This is one of those films where you watch it and aren’t always conscious of the difference between HD and SD UNTIL you go back and watch the SD. You really find it is impossible to go back. I’m glad I made the purchase.
CONCLUSION
Like most great films, Blade Runner is not for everybody. It is a supreme exercise in production and photography over drama, but that hasn’t made the film any less powerful. It was worth every penny to pick this up and it is easily one of the best releases you can get on HD right now.
5 Stars The comprehensive Blade Runner
At last a package with all the blade runner editions. I was looking for the theatrical version in DVD for six years. I watched the theatrical version in VHS in early’s 90’s and wanted to watch it again. I had the director cut in DVD also but this package has all the editions I know about this movie. I liked a lot the final cut and it was very nice to see the theatrical edition again.
Now, Blade Runner is one of the best science fiction movies ever, so if you still don’t have it, this is the package you should choose.
2 Stars Production Problem: First Disc is a 2nd Copy of the Workprint
I am one of the unlucky shoppers who got a “misprint”. Disc one which should be the final cut is in fact a 2nd copy of disc 5, the “workprint”. Based on some reviews of the final cut maybe I’m not missing much, but it’s annoying to have to exchange this. I knew there was a problem when I put in disc one and it looked lousy in hi-def. There is a separate disc with the US and international release versions along with the director’s cut, which are all much better quality.
4 Stars An unsurpassed classic
A great concept, fantastic film full of atmosphere. The music, direction, acting and effects are captivating. It only (or will be) dated by its Los Angeles 2019 tag. This edition is restored and corrected in parts which do not detract from the film.
Often imitated but so far unsurpassed. A real cinematic experience and a must see.
1 Star How to get the correct disc for your Blu-Ray set
I bought this set from Amazon on January 1, 2009. Like other reviewers I too received a duplicate disc, the “work print” content on both discs 1 and 5.
Just contact the Warner service hotline at: 1-800-553-6937. The operator I talked to was very helpful and fully aware of the problem. She took down my information to send me the correct disc 1 when they become available. She said currently they are waiting on more to be printed and it will take at least 3-4 weeks before they are available.
*FYI, I rated this item one star to get the attention of folks who are having the same problem.
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