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The Amazing Spider-Man 3D (Blu-ray) Official AVSForum Review

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#1 ·


The Review at a Glance: (max score: 5 )

Film:


Extras:


Audio/3D Video total rating:

( Max score: 100 )
86





Studio and Year: Sony Pictures - 2012
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Feature running time: 136 minutes
Genre: Action/Fantasy

Disc Format: BD-50
Encoding: MVC/AVC
Video Aspect: 2.40:1
Resolution: 1080p/24


Audio Format(s): English DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio, French/Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1
Subtitles: English, English SDH, French, Spanish
Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Sally Field, Martin Sheen, Denis Leary, Campbell Scott, Irrfan Khan
Directed by: Marc Webb
Music by: James Horner
Written by: James Vanderbilt, Alvin Sargent, Steve Kloves
Region Code: A,B,C

Blu-ray Disc release Date: November 9, 2012
"His past was kept from him. His quest for answers has just begun"


Film Synopsis:


Teenage social outcast Peter (Andrew Garfield) spends his days trying to unravel the mystery of his own past and win the heart of his high school crush, Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone). A mysterious briefcase belonging to his father, who abandoned him when he was a child, leads Peter to his dad’s former partner, Dr. Connors. The discovery of his father's secret will ultimately shape his destiny of becoming "Spider-Man" and bring him face to face with Connors' villainous alter ego, the Lizard.



My Take:

The Amazing Spider-man is the story of Peter Parker (Garfield), a brilliant outcast high schooler who as a boy was left by his parents, to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field). Like most teenagers, Peter is struggling with his identity, while trying to understand the whys and wherefores of his parent’s decision. When Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, containing and unfinished equation, he begins a quest to understand his parents' disappearance - leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors (Ifans), his father's former partner. While exploring the lab Peter is accidentally bitten by a genetically altered spider and soon finds that he possesses super strength, agility, and a reflexively heightened sense of awareness for physical danger.


When tragedy strikes his family at the hands of a criminal Peter decides to use his newfound abilities in the pursuit of the perpetrator and before long begins fighting crime as the masked vigilante Spider-man. Unbeknownst to Peter his new found friend, Dr. Connors has opted to test an experimental serum based on Peter’s solution to the unfinished equation on himself. The results transform him into The Lizard. As Spider-Man Peter is set on a collision course with Connors'/The Lizard, and finds that he will be forced to make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.


As a youngster I was a big Spider-man fan. This was actually born first out of watching the cartoon series on TV then going on to read the comics. Spidey was and is easy to like and the character has a transcendent appeal that has endured. When the first film series come out I was initially skeptical about how effectively he could be brought to the big screen. Regardless about what some may think I thought that Tobey Maguire handled it well. What eventually made the series less appealing were the storylines, especially those revolving around Peter’s relationship with Mary Jane, and the plot points associated with villains.


I was intrigued when I learned of The Amazing Spider-man. I liked the idea of a re-imagining of the character and a re-boot of the series. When it was released in theaters earlier this year my son and I were there on day one. We both enjoyed it. The differing narrative spin regarding Peter’s past opens the door for further exploration even if it does tweak the Spider-man mythos a bit. Drawing Peter as more self confident with a contemporary loner persona is a nice touch as is the introduction of his relationship with Gwen and how it pertains to the storyline. While many of the plot points from 2002’s Spider-man are revisited (as they should be under the circumstances) I didn’t find the implementation to feel repetitive.


The decision to incorporate web shooters was on target and like the earlier films the design of the suit is spot on. The remaining production elements are top notch and support the action sequences which prove entertaining. The script is well crafted and the pacing is much improved over Spider-man. At well over two hours it moves along nicely. In addition to Peter, Gwen, and Dr. Connors the integration of the secondary characters as well as the subplot related to Peter’s parents is well done. The cast selection is complimentary all around and effectively enhances the film’s allure. The conclusion sets the stage for the continuing storyline regarding the mystery involving Peter’s parents.


As far as franchise reboots go I think that The Amazing Spider-man is a winner. I look forward to what lies in store in the next installment.


Parental Guide:


The rating is for sequences of action and violence.



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: 92

  • Dynamics:

  • Low frequency extension:

  • Surround Sound presentation:

  • Clarity/Detail:

  • Dialogue Reproduction:



3D Presentation: 80

(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)

  • Depth (Onscreen):

  • Dimension (Beyond the screen):

  • Realism:

  • Clarity/Detail:

  • Color reproduction:


The Amazing Spider-man 3D comes to Blu-ray Disc from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment featuring 1080p MVC encoded video and lossless DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio sound that has an average bitrate of 2.2 Mbps.


This film was shot natively in 3D and its elements positively translate to high definition on Blu-ray. The film was shot using a mix of live action and CGI and the reproduction of color, digital effects and wide angle background elements is quite good. Depth varies with some scenes exhibiting an appreciable sense of dimension while others seem to have limited virtual spacing. Like the 2D presentation resolution is rarely questionable in close ups and brightly lit interior/exterior sequences but it varies some in limited lighting. This isn’t a particularly bright film to begin with which doesn’t help. For much of the presentation there is a noticeable lack of 3D effects that transcend the boundaries of the screen which makes for a somewhat less involving experience especially for a film of this type. Fortunately the action based sequences especially those occurring in the third act make effective use of the platform which bolsters the entertainment factor. I didn’t notice any overt instances of crosstalk or other video related anomalies. The end result is a fair but ultimately unremarkable 3D video presentation.


Action films like this live or die by their soundtracks and this DTS-HD Master Audio mix gets it right. This is an engaging surround sound mix that features an array of well placed sound effects that at times prove very involving. I appreciated the attention to detail that went into creating the surround mix as it effectively replicates the environments featured in the film. Near field sounds are accurately placed within the sound field which gives them multi-dimensional perspective that places you right in the middle of the action. During the sequences later in the film that take place first in the sewer and later above the city at Oscorp the room is illuminated with an array of sounds that are both directional and ambient in nature. Low frequencies are rich, and occasionally room energizing as they accentuate the audio’s excellent dynamic range with palpable impact. Dialogue intelligibility is never a problem even during the film’s active moments. This is a great surround sound presentation that makes for an entertaining home theater experience. Be sure to give the volume knob an extra turn.


2D Video Quality:

Video: 94

(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)

  • Resolution/Clarity:

  • Black level/Shadow detail:

  • Color reproduction:

  • Fleshtones:

  • Compression:


The Amazing Spider-man comes to Blu-ray Disc from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment featuring 1080p AVC encoded video that has an average bitrate of 24 Mbps.


This is a superb looking and faithful Blu-ray presentation that delivers high level detail, razor sharpness and resolute definition that brings out the lifelike textures captured by the camera lens. Detail perception is nearly flawless with lucid visual acuity and fine rendering throughout. Colors are vividly pleasing with satisfying primaries and warm tonality. Flesh tones appear natural with appreciable delineation among the varied complexional types in the cast. Spot on contrast and inky blacks enhance sequences containing mixed content. Shadow detail is discerning which adds depth to the film’s variety of sequences shot in low lighting. It should be noted that this isn’t a very bright film which can sometimes impact the perception of depth/dimension but that was true of the theatrical presentation as well. From what I could see there are no compression related video artifacts or noise present in this whistle clean high definition video transfer that looks superb on my big screen.


Bonus Features:


  • Disc 1:

  • The Amazing Spider-man 3D Blu-ray

  • Audio commentary with Marc Webb, Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach
  • 3D (HD) 3D 101 with director Marc Webb – 6 minutes

  • 3D (HD) 3D image progression reel – 2 minutes


  • Disc 2:

  • The Amazing Spider-man 2D Blu-ray

  • Second Screen App (enabled for iPad, Xperia, Sony Tablets) - The App syncs with the

    film as it plays in “Timeline” mode and features “Production” mode allowing users to “sling” content from their tablets to the TV screen for a greater and more interactive HD experience. Content includes interviews, storyboards, concept art, pre-visualization sequences, stunt rehearsals, and more.

  • Audio commentary with Marc Webb, Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach

  • (HD) Rite of passage: Spider-man reborn (7 featurettes):
    1. The drawing board: Development & direction – 13 minutes
    2. Friends and enemies: Casting – 15 minutes
    3. Second skins: Spidey suit and The Lizard – 11 minutes
    4. Spidey goes west: Production Los Angeles – 16 minutes
    5. Safe haven: Production Sony Studios – 15 minutes
    6. Bright tights, big city: Production New York – 9 minutes
    7. The greatest responsibility: Post production and release – 28 minutes
  • (HD) 11 deleted scenes

  • (HD) 17 pre-visualizations

  • (HD) The Oscorp Archives production gallery

  • (HD) 4 Image progression reels with commentary by the FX team

  • (HD) Stunt rehearsals (8 segments)

  • (HD) Developing The Amazing Spider-man video game – 3 minutes

  • Bonus DVD

  • Ultraviolet Digital Copy

  • BD-Live enabled




Final Thoughts:


I thoroughly enjoyed The Amazing Spider-man. It may not be the best genre reboot but it certainly revitalized the superhero’s big screen promise which makes it a winner in my book. It swings onto Blu-ray in this four disc 3D/2D Blu-ray offering from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment that features reference quality high definition audio/video and a fair but unremarkable 3D presentation. The supplemental package is extensive and well worth exploring if you enjoyed the film. If you really enjoy 3D this is probably the set to pick up. Otherwise the standard Blu-ray release is the way to go. Either way The Amazing Spider-man is a worthy addition to your Blu-ray collection.












Ralph Potts
AVS Forum Blu-ray Reviews





Reference Review System:



JVC DLA-RS55 3D Ready 1080p High Definition Front Projector

Stewart Filmscreen - Studiotek 130 G3 100” 16x9 Screen

Onkyo PR-SC5508 THX Ultra 2 Audio/Video Processor

Sherbourn Technologies - 7/200 Seven Channel Amplifier

Oppo BDP-93 Universal Disc/3D capable Blu-ray Player (HDMI Audio/Video)

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" Series speakers

Axiom Audio QS8 Quadpolar speakers

SV Sound PB-13 Ultra (Rosenut finish)

APC AV S15BLK Power Conditioner/Surge Protector

Wireworld, Better Cables (Silver Serpent) - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling

Cool Components - CP-CP102 cooling package
 
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19
#3 ·
I admit I'm beginning to worry about some of the movies that are filmed natively in 3D such as this and The Darkest Hour. I don't know if its due more to storytelling purposes for example with dialogue sequences having the cameras being moved closer together for filming and then separating them further for more emotional moments to have more depth. I know its intentional to a certain degree, but disappointing in the end for the consumer when we are looking for a wholly immersive, consistent quality to the 3D films that we spend our time and hard earned money on


The more impressive 3D movies as of late (aside from animation) have been conversions i.e. Titanic & Avengers. Those two would seem to be two of the best exceptions to the rule, but conversions on the whole have been getting better as of late. At least Hugo was shot well in 3D, showing that with the right amount of time, money, and care - live action 3D can be more than just a tacked on accessory or a diminishing, inconsistent storytelling tool
 
#8 ·
This movie didn't work for me at all. I found the acting extremely forced and unnatural. I thought Maguire was a much better spider-man, although his last couple of spider-man films were disappointing. The 3D didn't do it for me either. It was so conservatively used IMO that I just didn't see the point. If there's a followup I'm going to pass all together.
 
#10 ·
I will be getting this in 3D; if not for anything else, for that 3rd act Ralph mentions alone. Though the IMAX 3D experience was really cool for me, my wife, and my 17-year-old, we were more than pleasantly surprised with the story itself. Loved the acting and ... Oh, yeah! Loved that cameo!
Thanks for the review, Ralph!
 
#12 ·
Nice fair review. But for me I have to echo that it is a DARK COLOUR/LITE film and a lot of the 3D is lost.

I understand, and it worked for me well in 3D scene's that are SLOW MO down if the action is too fast. (And there's not many) (Don't want to spoil it)

Like Transformers 3. Where the 3D can take full advantage centre stage when SLOWED Down. Especially in a WORLD of 3D, where a DARK FILM + DARK GLASSES,

make it sometimes hard to appreciate.


Thanks!
 
#13 ·
Though I liked it, I didn't think it was as good as the first spider-man with mcguire. I felt that the first spider-man did a far better job as far as telling a story is concerned. There are too many odd things in TAMS, like his relationship with Flash. I remember him beeing on screen four times, first he beats up Peter, then they have an uneventfull thing with a basketball, then all of a sudden he is his BFF again because his uncle died, and in the end he likes spiderman... If he was left out of the movie totally it wouldnt have made a difference to me. The spidersense was not discussed at all, and he even seemed lacking it in the sewers when dr connors attacked him. He looks odd in his spidersuit, tall thin and akward. And the spiderwebs, it's nice he makes his own gadgest for it, but never is it explained how he is able to make them, or where he got the cartridges with webfluid from. On top of that magically he never runs out...


I really thought that as far ass character development concerning Peter, Mary Jane, Harry, Norman Osbourne and many more, the original dit a far beter job.


All in all I will remain more a fan of the first three movies, though I really didnt dislike this one, and I am curious to see where they will take this.
 
#14 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by Wouter73  /t/1436819/the-amazing-spider-man-3d-blu-ray-official-avsforum-review#post_22564576


Though I liked it, I didn't think it was as good as the first spider-man with mcguire. I felt that the first spider-man did a far better job as far as telling a story is concerned. There are too many odd things in TAMS, like his relationship with Flash. I remember him beeing on screen four times, first he beats up Peter, then they have an uneventfull thing with a basketball, then all of a sudden he is his BFF again because his uncle died, and in the end he likes spiderman... If he was left out of the movie totally it wouldnt have made a difference to me. The spidersense was not discussed at all, and he even seemed lacking it in the sewers when dr connors attacked him. He looks odd in his spidersuit, tall thin and akward. And the spiderwebs, it's nice he makes his own gadgest for it, but never is it explained how he is able to make them, or where he got the cartridges with webfluid from. On top of that magically he never runs out...

I really thought that as far ass character development concerning Peter, Mary Jane, Harry, Norman Osbourne and many more, the original dit a far beter job.

All in all I will remain more a fan of the first three movies, though I really didnt dislike this one, and I am curious to see where they will take this.

I feel the same as you on almost every point.
 
#17 ·
i was as big a Spider-man fan as anybody and TM was a joke as Peter Parker. THis one finally got PP right. I, for one, enjoyed the 3d even though it didn't `pop' like some films but the webslinging scenes were flawless most of the time! Probably a first weekend purchase for me but my grandmother died this morning so I will be traveling out of state for the funeral so it can wait...
 
#18 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by SbWillie  /t/1436819/the-amazing-spider-man-3d-blu-ray-official-avsforum-review#post_22566530


i was as big a Spider-man fan as anybody and TM was a joke as Peter Parker. THis one finally got PP right. I, for one, enjoyed the 3d even though it didn't `pop' like some films but the webslinging scenes were flawless most of the time! Probably a first weekend purchase for me but my grandmother died this morning so I will be traveling out of state for the funeral so it can wait...

Sorry to hear about your Granny... 'Course a movie can wait, man! First thing first...


I didn't think Tobey was bad, I actually liked him a lot in S-M 1 and 2 (especially 2), but I concur on saying this new kid makes for a great and refreshing new Peter Parker!
 
#19 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by SbWillie  /t/1436819/the-amazing-spider-man-3d-blu-ray-official-avsforum-review/0_20#post_22566530


i was as big a Spider-man fan as anybody and TM was a joke as Peter Parker. THis one finally got PP right. I, for one, enjoyed the 3d even though it didn't `pop' like some films but the webslinging scenes were flawless most of the time! Probably a first weekend purchase for me but my grandmother died this morning so I will be traveling out of state for the funeral so it can wait...

Greetings,


So sorry to hear about your Grandmother's passing. Deepest condolences to your family.


Regards,
 
#20 ·
Great review as usual, my copy should be arriving tomorrow. Also, has anyone read the negative reviews on Amazon? I enjoyed the hate mail about how Toby was a better Spider-Man...I wonder if people understood that the re-boot was mostly based on the ultimate universe version?
 
#23 ·
Thought the 3D was fine. Film was dark even in bright scenes. Biggest problem was getting discs to play at all. Samsung BD E5900 choked on 3D disc. Oppo BDP-83 froze up on 2D disc. Played fine on PS3. Sony discs like Sony players, I suppose. Better all around than previous movies. Always hated Tobey as Peter. Mousy twerp had no charisma. Garfield has character. Spidy actually had spunk and finally brought something from the comics. Uncle Ben and Aunt Mae are actually living breathing people in this one rather than just set pieces. Emma Stone as Gwen far better than Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane. I swear, Dunst got worst with each movie. This one would have been far more popular had the others never been made. Oh, the web cable was produced by Oscorp. He sent away for a box containing 24 units. Each unit contained 30 pellets of the fluid. Pay attention to the movie. I'm not saying this go around was perfect, but it's the best so far.
 
#25 ·
I too felt this was a much better Spiderman representation, never a fan of TM as Parker.


I saw the 3D version in the theater and felt it was good. Nothing gimmicky, just good like Dark of the Moon. Can't wait to see the blu-ray.
 
#26 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by Wouter73  /t/1436819/the-amazing-spider-man-3d-blu-ray-official-avsforum-review#post_22564576


Though I liked it, I didn't think it was as good as the first spider-man with mcguire. I felt that the first spider-man did a far better job as far as telling a story is concerned. There are too many odd things in TAMS, like his relationship with Flash. I remember him beeing on screen four times, first he beats up Peter, then they have an uneventfull thing with a basketball, then all of a sudden he is his BFF again because his uncle died, and in the end he likes spiderman... If he was left out of the movie totally it wouldnt have made a difference to me. The spidersense was not discussed at all, and he even seemed lacking it in the sewers when dr connors attacked him. He looks odd in his spidersuit, tall thin and akward. And the spiderwebs, it's nice he makes his own gadgest for it, but never is it explained how he is able to make them, or where he got the cartridges with webfluid from. On top of that magically he never runs out...

I really thought that as far ass character development concerning Peter, Mary Jane, Harry, Norman Osbourne and many more, the original dit a far beter job.

All in all I will remain more a fan of the first three movies, though I really didnt dislike this one, and I am curious to see where they will take this.

You must missed the whole part about the Oscorp tech where he got the webbing idea from. He bought some of the bio-cable from Oscorp and modified it. He may not have in the movie, I cant remember, but he does run out from time to time in the comics, or the shooters get damaged.
 
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