View Full Version : Jumper (Blu-ray) Official AVSForum Review


Ralph Potts
05-28-08, 10:15 AM
<img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=110452&d=1210878775"hspace="12"align="left">
<b>The Review at a Glance: </b> (max score: 5 )

<b>Film:</b> <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109943&d=1210373647">

<b>Extras:</b> <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109947&d=1210373699">

<b> Audio/Video total rating:</b>
<p> ( Max score: 100 )
<font color=darkorange><b><h2>95</h2></b></font>
<br><br><br>
<b>Studio and Year:</b> 20th Century Fox - 2008
<b>MPAA Rating:</b> PG-13
<b>Feature running time:</b> 88 Minutes
<b>Genre:</b> Sci-Fi Action/Thriller

<b>Disc Format:</b> BD-50
<b>Encoding:</b> MPEG-4 (AVC)
<b>Video Aspect:</b> 2.35:1
<b>Resolution:</b> 1080p/24
<br>
<b>Audio Format(s):</b> English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio Lossless, Spanish/French Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround
<b>Subtitles:</b> English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean
<b>Starring:</b> Hayden Christensen, Jamie Bell, Samuel L. Jackson, Diane Lane, Rachel Bilson, Michael Rooker, Annasophia Robb
<b>Directed by:</b> Doug Liman
<b>Music by:</b> John Powell
<b>Written by:</b> David S. Goyer, Jim Uhls, Simon Kinberg
<b>Region Code:</b> Not indicated

<b>Blu-ray Disc release Date:</b> June 10, 2008

<br><BR><BR><BR><BR>
<center><font color=Green><b><h2>"Anywhere is possible…"</h2></b></font></center>

<h4>Film Synopsis:</h4></b></font><p> From the director of The Bourne Identity and Mr. & Mrs. Smith comes the evolution of extreme — a high-powered shot of adrenaline that stretches the very limits of imagination. David Rice is a young man who knows no boundaries — a Jumper, born with the uncanny ability to teleport instantly to any place on Earth. When he discovers others like himself, David is thrust into the midst of an ancient war while being hunted by a bloodthirsty band of zealots sworn to destroy all Jumpers. Now, David’s extraordinary gift may be his only hope for survival.</p>

<h4>My Take:</h4></b></font><p>I love a good dyed in the wool sci-fi action flick. Unfortunately the genre is not prone to films that are elevated to classic film status. I have absolutely no problem with that and generally go into these films bearing that in mind. <i>Jumper</i> is a not a film that will be remembered as a classic but it does have something to offer. It features great special effects, good casting, and fresh conceptual look at the “hero” genre. The problem is that the story lacks depth which leaves some questions that should/could have been answered. One key point was that there was never any background on the Paladins. The Paladins hunted the Jumpers to the death. Sam Jackson seemed to be the Paladin in charge and he used a specific weapon when finishing off the Jumpers. There was no explanation regarding why or if he needed to use it. He made several references to God in his final words to a Jumper “Only God should have the power to be all places…” I would have liked to have seen a brief back story on the history of the war between the Jumpers and Paladins. David (Christensen) lived with his father who was left by his mother when David was 5 years old. David had a strained relationship with his father and never had any answers regarding why his mother left. Griffin (Bell) was also a Jumper whose mother left when he was 5 years old. There almost seemed to be a connection there but it is never developed. Later in the film David is reunited with his mother and there is a small plot twist thrown in (sorry no spoilers here !). The film is based upon the graphic novel by Steven C. Gould. The filmmakers took some liberties with the story when developing it for the big screen.</p><img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=111509&d=1211983441 "hspace="6"align="right"> <p> I thought that Christensen was a little robotic in his portrayal of David, but that seems to be his style. Jamie Bell really did a great job in coming off as the fly by the seat of your pants Griffin. He added an air of levity that kept things from becoming too serious. Sam Jackson is one of my favorite actors and his presence lends just a bit more credibility to the cast. He did wear this funky white hair which was kind of strange but who cares? In the end I felt entertained which meant to me that I had not just wasted 88 minutes of my life.</p>



<h4>Parental Guide:</h4></b></font><p>The rating is for sequences of intense action violence, some language and brief sexuality. No problem here for young teenagers or older.</p>



<br><b>AUDIO/VIDEO - By The Numbers:
</b><font color=DarkOrange><b>REFERENCE</b></font> = 92-100 / </b><font color=teal><b>EXCELLENT</b></font> = 83-91 / </b><font color=green><b>GOOD</b></font> = 74-82 / </b><font color=yellowgreen><b>AVERAGE</b></font> = 65-73 / </b><font color=red><b>BELOW AVERAGE</b></font> = under 65 </b>

<em>**My audio/video ratings are based upon a comparative made against other high definition media/blu-ray disc.**</em>


<b>(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)</b>

<font color=DarkOrange><b><h4>Audio: 92</h4></b></font>
<b><ul>
<li>Dynamics: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109947&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Low frequency extension: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109947&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Surround Sound presentation: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109947&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Clarity/Detail: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109947&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Dialogue Reproduction: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109948&d=1210373699">
</b></li></ul>


<font color=DarkOrange><b><h4>Video: 98</h4></b></font>
<b>(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)</b>

<b><ul>
<li>Resolution/Clarity: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109948&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Black level/Shadow detail: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109947&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Color reproduction: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109948&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Fleshtones: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109948&d=1210373699"></li>
<li>Compression: <img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109948&d=1210373699"</b></li></ul> <br><br><img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=111510&d=1211983441"hspace="6"align="left"> <p><b><i>Jumper</i>comes to Blu-ray Disc sporting 1080p AVC encoded video with an average bitrate of 34 mbps and lossless 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio with an average bitrate of 3.8 mbps.</b></p><p>This is a reference quality presentation is every regard. Right from the opening moments it was apparent that detail was abundant and had a seemingly endless resolve. The scenes shot in Italy at the Coliseum were visually arresting as images were razor sharp with incredible dimensional depth and lifelike texture. Elevated contrast gave the video a very dynamic and stylized look that translated positively to image quality. Colors were bold with deeply saturated primaries and slightly exaggerated tonality. Fleshtones were spot on and looked gorgeous. Black levels were not as deep black as I would have liked which made them appear to have less dynamic range and impact. Adjusting the brightness setting on my display helped but crushed shadow detail. (I preferred the properly calibrated setting much better.) There was no compression related video artifacts, or noise present in this whistle clean high definition video transfer.</p><br><p> The lossless DTS–HD Master Audio mix delivered the goods, period. This is an aggressive mix that contains demonstration level material that will test just how good your system can sound. Your subwoofer will be kept busy by the unending low bass energy present. Each “Jump” is followed by a low bass thump that resonates within the sound field with palpable distinction. The rendering of dialogue is as good as I have heard in my room. During the battles between the Paladins and Jumpers the entire room comes alive as the front and rear sound stages collide to engulf the sweet spot with surround activity. I was impressed as the tight control and precision offered in this soundtrack which enabled the listener to glean every sonic reference inherent in the mix. It sounded fantastic.</p>

<h4><b>Bonus Features:</b></h4></font>

<p>Fox has included a comprehensive bonus feature set along with Jumper. It offers a 360 degree view of the production and includes extensive interviews with the cast, director, writers and production staff. All of the bonus content is in high definition. The Picture-in-Picture pop up feature works well for those with players with this capability. If not there is a non PiP option for those that have players without the feature. It looks at the conceptual aspects of the film, the graphic novel and discusses how the two were applied in the feature. The were three novels based upon the characters portrayed in the film and there is the possibility of sequels to Jumper. There is plenty of info on the special effects, behind the scenes footage, and insights from the cast and filmmakers. Fox’s Digital Copy is a most welcome feature for those who have the desire to take their movies on the go. Enjoy.</p>

<ul>
<li>Commentary by Director Doug Liman, Writer Simon Kinberg, Producer Lucas Foster </li>
<li> <b>(HD)</b>Jumpstart: David’s Story – Graphic Novel (animated)</li>
<li> <b>(HD)</b> Jumping around the world (PiP) feature – Pop up factoid</li>
<li><b>(HD)</b> Doug Liman’s Jumper: Uncensored </li>
<li> <b>(HD)</b> Making an actor Jump</li>
<li> <b>(HD)</b> Jumping from Novel to Film: The past, present, and future of Jumper</li>
<li><b>(HD)</b> 6 Deleted Scenes</li>
<li> <b>(HD)</b> Previz: Future concepts – (animated) </li>
<li> D-Box Motion code </li></ul>


<b>Fox Digital Copy Bonus disc:</b><p>Allows the SD version of the film to be loaded on to a PC or portable playback device such as an IPOD.</p><img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=111512&d=1211983450"hspace="6"align="right">



<h4>Final Thoughts:</h4></b></font>

<p>I thought that <i>Jumper</i> was an average Sci-Fi thriller that was made better by its presentation on high definition Blu-ray Disc. It features reference quality audio and one of the best video presentations I have seen on Blu-ray. Add to that a well rounded set of bonus features (including a bonus Digital Copy Disc) and this is an easy recommend. </p>





<img src="http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109949&d=1210373731" align=left>
<br><br><br><br>
<br><b>Ralph Potts</b>
<em>AVS Forum Blu-ray Reviews</em>



<br><br><b>Reference Review System:</b>

<strong>
Sony VPL-VW50 SXRD 1080p High Definition Front Projector
Carada Precision Brilliant White 96" Screen
Oppo 970HD universal disc DVD Player (480i HDMI)
Toshiba HD-XA2 HD DVD Player (HDMI Audio/Video)
Panasonic DMP-BD30 Blu-ray disc Player (HDMI Audio/Video)
Sony Playstation 3 Blu-ray disc Player (HDMI Audio/Video)
Marantz DV7001 Universal Disc Player
Denon AVR 5308CI THX Ultra 2 Preamp/Video Processor
Outlaw Audio Model 7700 seven channel amplifier
B&K Reference 200.7 Series 2 seven Channel amplifier
Canton "Ergo" Series speakers
Axiom Audio QS8 Quadpolar speakers
SV Sound PB-13 Ultra (Rosenut finish)
APC AV S15BLK Power Conditioner/Surge Protector
Wireworld, VizionWare, Audioquest, Best Deal Cables - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling
Cool Components - CP-CP102 cooling package
</strong>

lgans316
05-28-08, 10:25 AM
Excellent review Ralph. I am a fan of these kind of silly action flicks. Looking forward to seeing it on Blu-ray.

JWhip
05-28-08, 10:42 AM
This is a reference title in all respects and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised by the film. Even my life liked it and she doesn't generally like sci-fi.

shadowrage
05-28-08, 11:21 AM
I'm kind of surprised this didn't score higher for audio.
You would think that Liman's sound team + budget + DTS-MA = pure aural gold.

Even if it isn't a 100, I bet it still sounds like gold. I can't wait to see what Ralph gives Cloverfield's audio.

Ralph, how was the score? Powell usually adds some really awesome music, I guess none of it stood out.

lgans316
05-28-08, 11:26 AM
Powell's music rocks in Face/Off and Bourne.

JWhip
05-28-08, 11:44 AM
As far as I was concerned, the audio is every bit as good as the video.

robertc88
05-28-08, 12:34 PM
Anxious to check this out as I missed it in the theater. I will be cautious though because of the content and I'd rather rent it to begin with. Good to see the quality of the BD is GREAT though!!!

Since lots of the reviews I find myself to be in agreement with, this may become my one stop spot for opinions on the BD quality! The efforts are much appreciated.

desmond212
05-28-08, 01:14 PM
Great review Ralph. Must buy.

Ralph Potts
05-28-08, 01:32 PM
I'm kind of surprised this didn't score higher for audio.
You would think that Liman's sound team + budget + DTS-MA = pure aural gold.

Even if it isn't a 100, I bet it still sounds like gold. I can't wait to see what Ralph gives Cloverfield's audio.

Ralph, how was the score? Powell usually adds some really awesome music, I guess none of it stood out.

Greetings,

92 is a strong score trust me. As I stated in my review "It sounded fantastic". ;)

Cheers,

ack_bk
05-28-08, 01:37 PM
Did not see this in the theater, and will most likely pick this up based on the high PQ/AQ scores I am seeing for this movie.

gonzalc3
05-28-08, 02:28 PM
Great review Ralph! I was going to rent it but now with your review I have to buy it...

Rach
05-28-08, 04:43 PM
Great review! I guess i will purchase this one as my wife wanted to see it in the theater. I have always loved your reviews at ***************.com. By the way, whatever happened to that site. I considered it the best review site on the web.

AVTguy
05-28-08, 05:31 PM
Nice review.

Saw this movie twice in theaters (once on DLP, once standard). The DLP representation was fantastic, and the film one was good but did not pop out like the DLP. Can't wait to see it on Blu-Ray.

Kroenen
05-28-08, 06:10 PM
Thanks for the review Ralph!

"Each “Jump” is followed by a low bass thump that resonates within the sound field with palpable distinction."

It sounds like those of us that are using tactile transducers will really enjoy those sequences. :)

As far as I was concerned, the audio is every bit as good as the video.

I just subscribed to your RSS feed.

MJeeves
05-28-08, 06:32 PM
Thanks Ralph. Great review of "JUMPER".

Who does DIANE LANE play in "JUMPER" ? She is one of my fave actresses. :D

Is she in the supplements too ?

Cheers buddy!

Ralph Potts
05-28-08, 07:36 PM
Thanks Ralph. Great review of "JUMPER".

Who does DIANE LANE play in "JUMPER" ? She is one of my fave actresses. :D

Is she in the supplements too ?

Cheers buddy!

Greetings,

She plays David's ( Hayden Christensen) Mother and has a small part..


Regards,

MJeeves
05-29-08, 02:16 PM
Greetings,

She plays David's ( Hayden Christensen) Mother and has a small part..


Regards,

Thanks Ralph. Can you remember if she is in the supplements i.e. making of's etc etc ? Thanks again.

Franin
06-03-08, 08:59 AM
Thank you Ralph for the review.

Ralph Potts
06-03-08, 10:07 AM
Thank you Ralph for the review.

Greetings,

You are very welcome Frank. :)


Cheers,

gonzalc3
06-17-08, 07:02 PM
I saw this movie over the weekend and agree with Ralph's assesment.. It is defintely not a movie for everyone, but personally I did enjoy the film.. The video is top notch and those Jumps sound awsome...

Ralph Potts
06-17-08, 07:14 PM
Greetings,

Thanks for posting your thoughts Chris ! Glad you enjoyed the film..;)


Cheers,

Art Sonneborn
06-18-08, 08:54 AM
Based on your review and the trailer on another title I went out and got this, not disappointed ! Keep up the good work.:)

Art

Ralph Potts
06-18-08, 10:20 AM
Based on your review and the trailer on another title I went out and got this, not disappointed ! Keep up the good work.:)

Art

Greetings,

Glad to hear it Art. Thanks and enjoy....;)


Regards,

Hughmc
06-20-08, 03:33 AM
Great movie. I love this type. Great review Ralph, but have you seen the DVD upscaled?

I watched the DVD back to back with the BD. Many BD's have a dramatic difference in PQ and AQ compared to the DVD versions. I was let down on the DTS MA track and the PQ was nothing to write home about either. The sound effect when "jumping" takes places was not much better on the BD in terms of LFE if at all. I think Fox could have done a much better job with the transfer.



Mind you for audio, I saw Cloverfield last night.

laugsbach
06-20-08, 10:35 PM
Hi Ralph,

Great review as always.

The video is clearly ahead of the audio. But I don't have a PB-13 Ultra.:D

Larry

Toe
06-27-08, 09:24 PM
Thanks for the review! Have enjoyed reading your reviews on AVS;)

Saw this movie last night and it was all I could do to sit through it...Did not care for it at all, but kept watching due to good audio and video. Having said that, I certainly do not think this film was ref as far as audio. The whole presentation seemed a bit flat to me and there were a fair amount of missed LFE spots. The jumps sounded great and gave a nice kick out of the PB13, but nothing to write home about IMO. I did just recently watch Cloverfield though which is on another level as far as audio IMO which might have something to do with my feelings on this. There is no way I could list jumper as ref after listening to a true ref track such as Cloverfield (or one of many other films which have a ref track). Still a solid track overall though, just nothing special IMO.

Ralph Potts
06-27-08, 09:31 PM
Greetings,

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Toe.. :)


Regards,

rover2002
07-20-08, 09:32 PM
Looks & sounds great, sadly we could not wait for the credits to go up. Poorly cast was our problem with this, there was just no chem between the jumpers OR the girl for that matter.

Boogie7910
10-06-08, 03:11 AM
I saw this movie in the theater with two of my friends. We all agreed that it sucked.

croseiv
08-21-10, 11:51 AM
I know this is an old thread, but I just now saw the movie. I really enjoyed it, and the PQ/AQ are great.

Ralph Potts
08-21-10, 12:13 PM
I know this is an old thread, but I just now saw the movie. I really enjoyed it, and the PQ/AQ are great.


Greetings,

:cool:


Regards,

TheFactor
08-21-10, 06:16 PM
Just picked this one up, Thanks for the excellent review Raplh . Im going to try and view it tonight .

starman7
08-22-10, 01:26 PM
There is talk of a sequel being made for "JUMPER"...

http://screenrant.com/hayden-christensen-jumper-2-kofi-74441/

Word is it will concentrate on the lead character's mother and sister (played in the original by Diane Lane and Kristen Stewart).

Ralph Potts
08-22-10, 03:48 PM
Just picked this one up, Thanks for the excellent review Raplh . Im going to try and view it tonight .

Greetings,

Great! Hope you enjoy it..:)


Regards,

Lee Weber
08-23-10, 12:19 PM
Greetings,

Great! Hope you enjoy it..:)


Regards,

One of my secret favs here. Underrated flick and a gorgeous transfer. Too bad Mr Wooden (Hayden) is the star...

Dark Matter
11-26-10, 01:26 PM
I saw this movie in the theater with two of my friends. We all agreed that it sucked.

Hillaraious review. I'm guessing that would be six thumbs down? :D