master and commander: the far side of the world [blu-ray]

Rating:
Date: 2008-07-08
Very much a "man's" film
I've never watched Master And Commander before, there's always been something in the way. The length, it wasn't "appropriate" to watch it at that particular moment in time, and the fact that I couldn't (notice the past tense) stand Russell Crowe. But when you're thinking that you'll never agree on a movie to watch, out comes the one that you've never had a chance to watch yet.

The thing about M&C is that it's very much a movie aimed at men. There is only one scene which features women, and it's very brief. The rest of the movie features men - manly men, wimpy men, rugged men, MEN. Now, while us ladies like our men, it can be a little bit overpowering especially in a 138 minute long movie. And when some of the cast look like they should be appearing in Oliver. But when you consider that the rumoured love interest for Russell's character was supposed to be Keira Knightley - I'll stick with all the men thanks.

But back to the movie. For a 138 minute long movie, I'm surprised that it actually went by so fast. Even the setting didn't get boring - 90% of it is set on a ship after all. And the other setting was Galapagos Islands (I still don't know how to pronouce it).

There's a pretty basic plot, but at the same time it's pretty involving, and at one point I was clenching my fists, desperate for the right ship to win. My only quibble was the cast - there was so many of them, I eventually lost track of who was who, and didn't even recognise Paul Bettany, despite having just watched him in Wimbledon. (I thought it was Jason Isaacs - duh.) The cast was very impressive, and all of them played their roles very well - even though I still have no idea who was who. A few of the cast could have easily walked off the ship and straight into a production of Oliver, which made me smile quite a lot.

Russell was surprisingly good as well. I tend to stay away from his movies, as I just don't see the appeal. But he's not a terrible actor, and his portrayal of Capt. Jack Aubrey was excellent.

There are a few sad moments in the movie, and I started second guessing the ending - but thankfully I was wrong. In my opinion, the ending did fall a bit flat, and it wasn't what I expected, but it was better than what I was expecting. If that makes any sense what so ever.

Overall, M&C was an excellent afternoon movie, although I did fall asleep straight afterwards - but fortunately not during! - but just make sure you set aside plenty of time for it, and possibly don't watch when you're in a man-hating mood.

Rating:
Date: 2008-07-04
Master and Commander
Great film, I also recommend the book, but they did a great job on this movie. If you haven't seen it: see it.

As for the DVD/Sound quality etc. I am suprised at how many reviews are only about this. I honestly did not recognize a huge difference in the quality of the DVD from the VHS.

Rating:
Date: 2008-06-26
JP
This movie is hands down one of the best of the last decade.

I'm not one to rate movies, but far too many people are too quick to judge this film. I, like many, went into this movie expecting a swashbuckling thriller, only to find a much more thoughtful movie. The pacing is measured, but perfect for the story - one which is more about 19th century sailing and the bonds of friendship than swords and cannons. Much like other movies by Weir, including Gallipoli (I believe this movie to be far superior to that more widely hailed film), it is hard to place this in a single category.

That's not to say there is no action. The movie has quite possibly the most visceral and entertaining ship-to-ship combat scene I have ever scene. This only caps a movie that is incredibly detailed and beautiful to watch. Everything from the wardrobe to the knots is near perfect in representing this period, creating an understanding of the place and times that is truly unique. Add to this the inherent beauty of 19th century sailing, the dramatic landscape of the Galapagos and the incredible cinematography, and you have a truly awe-inspiring movie. Add to this the incredible sound effects and the absolutely perfect score (just go buy the soundtrack, performed by Yo-Yo Ma), and its a complete viewing experience.

Yet all of this would pale be for naught if not for the incredible acting of this movie. Crowe and Bettany give succinct and underplayed performances, making their characters truly live. Similar kudos go to all involved, from the recognizable Billy Boyd to a number of relatively unknown actors who make even the smallest roles perfect (witness the character of the young Mr. Blakely or the grizzled, gregarious sailing master).

Historically accurate (this coming from a trained historian), beautiful to the senses and well acted, this movie had become one of my all-time favorites. Admittedly, having mixed reactions after first viewing because of its untraditional storyline and accurate recreation of shipboard life, I now watch this movie at least once a month. Just buy the darn thing.

**Just a word on the extras: they are good, but they really didn't blow me away. In regards to how the film was made, they are impressive, but there isn't much on the history or even on the author. It's really a shame, since this movie deserved so much more. While I would recommend buying this edition, buy the cheaper one if you are worried about spending the money.

Rating:
Date: 2008-06-19
Don't forget about blu-ray sound!
Compared to the standard edition DVD Master and Commander looks even sharper. The big difference between two editions is the sound. My player only does the DTS-HD (6 bit) sound instead of the DTS_HD Master Audio (24.5 bit) sound. Still the difference between the standard DTS (1.5 bit) is amazing. You can really feel the difference. If you have a good or better sound system, you'll really notice the difference!

Rating:
Date: 2008-06-15
Top notch audio, video unimpressive and no extras
I really liked this movie in the theater and on dvd. Sound design and delivery is top notch on this blu-ray version. The video is somewhat of a disappointment to me. The video seems to lack the punch that I know blu-ray can deliver. Not much is offered in the extras department. Overall, I was expecting a little more than I received.

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