The Review at a Glance: (max score: 5 )
Film:
Extras:
Audio/3D Video total rating:
( Max score: 100 )
91
Studio and Year: 20th Century Fox - 2013
MPAA Rating: PG-13/Unrated
Feature running time: 126 minutes/138 minutes
Genre: Action/Fantasy
Disc Format: BD-50
Encoding: AVC/MVC
Video Aspect: 2.40:1
Resolution: 1080p/24
Audio Format(s): English DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio, French/Spanish/English Dolby Digital 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Hiroyuki Sanada, Famke Janssen, Will Yun Lee
Directed by: James Mangold
Music by: Marco Beltrami
Written by: Mark Bomback & Scott Frank
Region Code: A
Blu-ray Disc release Date: December 3, 2013
"When enemies rise... when immortality ends... the ultimate battle begins"
Film Synopsis:
The Wolverine and faces his ultimate nemesis in an action-packed, life-or-death battle that takes him to modern-day Japan. Vulnerable for the first time and pushed to his limits, Wolverine confronts not only lethal samurai steel but also his inner struggle against his own immortality; an epic fight that will leave him forever changed.
My Take:
Logan aka the Wolverine, probably the most iconic character in the X-Men universe embarks upon on an epic journey to modern-day Japan in The Wolverine. In the 1980s, The Wolverine truly came into his own – in a four-issue miniseries created by “X-Men” writer Chris Claremont and the legendary graphic artist Frank Miller. In the series, the character makes a solo journey to Japan, only to be lured into a maelstrom of crime, betrayal and honor, in the midst of which he is forced to confront both his terrifying strengths and his undiscovered vulnerability. Trying to maneuver in a world he can barely understand, The Wolverine, for the first time, finds his inner sense of justice.
In this story, inspired by that celebrated Marvel comic book arc, Logan (Hugh Jackman), is lured to a Japan he hasn’t seen since World War II – and into a shadowy realm of Yakuza and Samurai. Suddenly finding himself on the run with a mysterious, beautiful heiress and confronted for the first time with the prospect of true mortality, Logan will be pushed to the physical and emotional edge – further than he’s ever been. On a perilous journey to rediscover the hero inside, Logan will be forced to grapple not only with powerful foes, mutant and human alike, but with the ghosts of his own haunted past. As The Wolverine crosses his adamantium claws with Samurai swords, striking out through a maze of love, betrayal and honor, he will truly come to know the price of a life without end.
As a fan of the Wolverine I appreciated this resurrection of the four part narrative that provides an engaging and humane snapshot of the character. Though characters from Wolverine’s past are brought into the mix and there are allusions to what he has gone through in his previous adventures, the focus is on an alternate track from the X-Men movies. Taking a step back from what has become the norm in comic book adaptations/heroes brought to the big screen I enjoyed its emotion, visceral edge and pointed (pun intended) action. Hugh Jackman owns this role and his devotion both mentally and physically to his craft shines through brilliantly. I watched both the theatrical and extended cut liking them both but ultimately preferring the extended cut for its deeper connective tissue relative to the relationships between Logan, Mariko and Yukio. If you’re not familiar with the specific subject pertaining to the film’s adaptation you may find the film to be a bit of a let down. Regardless there is enough action, slicing/dicing and top notch production elements to keep interest from waning. As for me I had a good time with the film, Hugh Jackman’s portrayal and director James Mangold’s directorial choices. All in all it’s time well spent.
Parental Guide:
Both versions of the film contain sequences of intense sci-fi action and violence, some sexuality and language.
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: 96
(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)
3D Presentation: 86
(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)
The Wolverine 3D comes to Blu-ray Disc from 20th Century Fox Entertainment featuring 1080p MVC encoded video and lossless DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio sound that has an average bitrate of 4.7 Mbps.
The Wolverine wasn’t shot natively in 3D however I found its elements are positively conveyed in this high definition rendering. 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 have a limited sense of virtual space. Like the 2D presentation resolution is rarely questionable in close ups and brightly lit interior/exterior sequences but it varies some in limited lighting. The film employs varied use of the 3D platform and doesn’t go in for typical reaction grabbing effects but instead applies depth, near field spacing and virtual boundaries with the occasional pop out here and there. That may seem strange especially for those used to “traditional” 3D action but the application works just fine. I didn’t notice any overt instances of crosstalk or other video related anomalies. The end result is a complimentary 3D video presentation that may leave some 3D zealots disappointed.
The high resolution DTS-HD MA surround mix delivers the soundtrack’s elements with aplomb. The higher fidelity inherent in this lossless sound mix is readily apparent. Dynamics range is extended which renders the film’s action with defining impact and energy. Dialogue is presented with clear intonation, full bodied texture, and excellent room penetration. The opening sequence in Nagasaki exhibits excellent high level detail and low frequency headroom as the cascading wall of sound and bass rolls through the room. When the action heats up the sound of swirling objects and clashing swords is reproduced with sparkling clarity. Imaging is excellent as the front and rear soundstage is integrated with precision via an active surround mix containing a mixture of spatial and localizable sound effects that place the sweet spot in the heart of the action. Low frequency detail is clean, well articulated and authoritative as points of contact seem to resonate with palpable bass impact. This isn’t a bombastic or overly aggressive soundtrack but it’s blend of intricate detail and room filling dynamics make for a great home theater experience.
2D Video Quality:
Video: 94
(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)
The Wolverine comes to Blu-ray Disc from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment featuring 1080p AVC encoded video that has an average bitrate of 32 Mbps.
This film utilizes distinct visual styles to convey its thematic content. One makes use of darker/monochromatic color schemes and grittier textures while the other features richer contrast and vibrant colors emboldened by warm accents. Each provides the look that the filmmakers strove for to drive the narrative components. Close ups reveal crisp definition and perceptible detail that reveals the presence of pores, stubble, peach fuzzy hair and subtle complexional variations. The texture on the surfaces of objects is just as defining which give them visibly apparent structure and lifelike quality. The film features many low level/light segments. Black levels are rock solid with some occasional loss of fine detail, but not detrimentally so. Contrast is spot on which delivers bright punchy whites and appreciable dimension during well lit interior/exterior sequences. The video has a noticeably clean and pristine quality that appears devoid of video related anomalies and artifacts.
Bonus Features:
Final Thoughts:
Inspired by the celebrated 1980’s Marvel comic four-issue miniseries created by “X-Men” writer Chris Claremont and the legendary graphic artist Frank Miller, The Wolverine is a solid adaptation that aptly portrays the iconic character. The film is emboldened by a strong performance by star Hugh Jackman and spot on production elements/direction. It comes to high definition in this four disc Blu-ray Unleashed Extended Edition Combo pack that includes engaging DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio surround sound, a gratifying and complimentary 3D conversion, reference quality 2D video and a solid supplemental offering that is well worth exploring. If you’re a fan this is a must have for your video collection.
Ralph Potts
AVS Forum Blu-ray Reviews
Reference Review System:
JVC DLA-RS55 3D Ready 1080p High Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Calman 5 & C6 Meter from Spectracal )
Stewart Filmscreen - Studiotek 130 G3 100” 16x9 Screen
Carada Masquerade Horizontal Masking System
Marantz AV8801 11.2 Channel Audio/Video Processor
Sherbourn Technologies - 7/200 Seven Channel Amplifier
B&K Reference 200.7 Series 2 Seven Channel Amplifier
Oppo BDP-103D Universal Disc/3D capable Blu-ray Player (With Darbee video processing)
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
The Review at a Glance: (max score: 5 )
Film:
Extras:
Audio/3D Video total rating:
( Max score: 100 )
91
Studio and Year: 20th Century Fox - 2013
MPAA Rating: PG-13/Unrated
Feature running time: 126 minutes/138 minutes
Genre: Action/Fantasy
Disc Format: BD-50
Encoding: AVC/MVC
Video Aspect: 2.40:1
Resolution: 1080p/24
Audio Format(s): English DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio, French/Spanish/English Dolby Digital 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Hiroyuki Sanada, Famke Janssen, Will Yun Lee
Directed by: James Mangold
Music by: Marco Beltrami
Written by: Mark Bomback & Scott Frank
Region Code: A
Blu-ray Disc release Date: December 3, 2013
"When enemies rise... when immortality ends... the ultimate battle begins"
Film Synopsis:
The Wolverine and faces his ultimate nemesis in an action-packed, life-or-death battle that takes him to modern-day Japan. Vulnerable for the first time and pushed to his limits, Wolverine confronts not only lethal samurai steel but also his inner struggle against his own immortality; an epic fight that will leave him forever changed.
My Take:
Logan aka the Wolverine, probably the most iconic character in the X-Men universe embarks upon on an epic journey to modern-day Japan in The Wolverine. In the 1980s, The Wolverine truly came into his own – in a four-issue miniseries created by “X-Men” writer Chris Claremont and the legendary graphic artist Frank Miller. In the series, the character makes a solo journey to Japan, only to be lured into a maelstrom of crime, betrayal and honor, in the midst of which he is forced to confront both his terrifying strengths and his undiscovered vulnerability. Trying to maneuver in a world he can barely understand, The Wolverine, for the first time, finds his inner sense of justice.
In this story, inspired by that celebrated Marvel comic book arc, Logan (Hugh Jackman), is lured to a Japan he hasn’t seen since World War II – and into a shadowy realm of Yakuza and Samurai. Suddenly finding himself on the run with a mysterious, beautiful heiress and confronted for the first time with the prospect of true mortality, Logan will be pushed to the physical and emotional edge – further than he’s ever been. On a perilous journey to rediscover the hero inside, Logan will be forced to grapple not only with powerful foes, mutant and human alike, but with the ghosts of his own haunted past. As The Wolverine crosses his adamantium claws with Samurai swords, striking out through a maze of love, betrayal and honor, he will truly come to know the price of a life without end.
As a fan of the Wolverine I appreciated this resurrection of the four part narrative that provides an engaging and humane snapshot of the character. Though characters from Wolverine’s past are brought into the mix and there are allusions to what he has gone through in his previous adventures, the focus is on an alternate track from the X-Men movies. Taking a step back from what has become the norm in comic book adaptations/heroes brought to the big screen I enjoyed its emotion, visceral edge and pointed (pun intended) action. Hugh Jackman owns this role and his devotion both mentally and physically to his craft shines through brilliantly. I watched both the theatrical and extended cut liking them both but ultimately preferring the extended cut for its deeper connective tissue relative to the relationships between Logan, Mariko and Yukio. If you’re not familiar with the specific subject pertaining to the film’s adaptation you may find the film to be a bit of a let down. Regardless there is enough action, slicing/dicing and top notch production elements to keep interest from waning. As for me I had a good time with the film, Hugh Jackman’s portrayal and director James Mangold’s directorial choices. All in all it’s time well spent.
Parental Guide:
Both versions of the film contain sequences of intense sci-fi action and violence, some sexuality and language.
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: 96
(Each rating is worth 4 points with a max of 5 per category)
- Dynamics:
- Low frequency extension:
- Surround Sound presentation:
- Clarity/Detail:
- Dialogue Reproduction:
3D Presentation: 86
(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 Wolverine 3D comes to Blu-ray Disc from 20th Century Fox Entertainment featuring 1080p MVC encoded video and lossless DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio sound that has an average bitrate of 4.7 Mbps.
The Wolverine wasn’t shot natively in 3D however I found its elements are positively conveyed in this high definition rendering. 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 have a limited sense of virtual space. Like the 2D presentation resolution is rarely questionable in close ups and brightly lit interior/exterior sequences but it varies some in limited lighting. The film employs varied use of the 3D platform and doesn’t go in for typical reaction grabbing effects but instead applies depth, near field spacing and virtual boundaries with the occasional pop out here and there. That may seem strange especially for those used to “traditional” 3D action but the application works just fine. I didn’t notice any overt instances of crosstalk or other video related anomalies. The end result is a complimentary 3D video presentation that may leave some 3D zealots disappointed.
The high resolution DTS-HD MA surround mix delivers the soundtrack’s elements with aplomb. The higher fidelity inherent in this lossless sound mix is readily apparent. Dynamics range is extended which renders the film’s action with defining impact and energy. Dialogue is presented with clear intonation, full bodied texture, and excellent room penetration. The opening sequence in Nagasaki exhibits excellent high level detail and low frequency headroom as the cascading wall of sound and bass rolls through the room. When the action heats up the sound of swirling objects and clashing swords is reproduced with sparkling clarity. Imaging is excellent as the front and rear soundstage is integrated with precision via an active surround mix containing a mixture of spatial and localizable sound effects that place the sweet spot in the heart of the action. Low frequency detail is clean, well articulated and authoritative as points of contact seem to resonate with palpable bass impact. This isn’t a bombastic or overly aggressive soundtrack but it’s blend of intricate detail and room filling dynamics make for a great home theater experience.
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 Wolverine comes to Blu-ray Disc from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment featuring 1080p AVC encoded video that has an average bitrate of 32 Mbps.
This film utilizes distinct visual styles to convey its thematic content. One makes use of darker/monochromatic color schemes and grittier textures while the other features richer contrast and vibrant colors emboldened by warm accents. Each provides the look that the filmmakers strove for to drive the narrative components. Close ups reveal crisp definition and perceptible detail that reveals the presence of pores, stubble, peach fuzzy hair and subtle complexional variations. The texture on the surfaces of objects is just as defining which give them visibly apparent structure and lifelike quality. The film features many low level/light segments. Black levels are rock solid with some occasional loss of fine detail, but not detrimentally so. Contrast is spot on which delivers bright punchy whites and appreciable dimension during well lit interior/exterior sequences. The video has a noticeably clean and pristine quality that appears devoid of video related anomalies and artifacts.
Bonus Features:
Disc 1:
- The Wolverine 3D Blu-ray
Disc 2:
- The Wolverine (Theatrical cut) 2D Blu-ray
Disc 3:
- The Wolverine (Extended cut) 2D Blu-ray
- Director audio commentary
- Second Screen App – Provides additional bonus content accessible via your IOS, Android Mobile or tablet
- (HD) The path of a Ronin – 53 minute behind the scenes/conceptual exploration that includes interviews with the cast/crew and production details
- (HD) Alternate ending
- (HD) Theatrical trailer
- (HD) X-Men Days of future past Set Tour – 3 minutes
- Bonus DVD
- Ultraviolet Digital Copy
Final Thoughts:
Inspired by the celebrated 1980’s Marvel comic four-issue miniseries created by “X-Men” writer Chris Claremont and the legendary graphic artist Frank Miller, The Wolverine is a solid adaptation that aptly portrays the iconic character. The film is emboldened by a strong performance by star Hugh Jackman and spot on production elements/direction. It comes to high definition in this four disc Blu-ray Unleashed Extended Edition Combo pack that includes engaging DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio surround sound, a gratifying and complimentary 3D conversion, reference quality 2D video and a solid supplemental offering that is well worth exploring. If you’re a fan this is a must have for your video collection.
Ralph Potts
AVS Forum Blu-ray Reviews
Reference Review System:
JVC DLA-RS55 3D Ready 1080p High Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Calman 5 & C6 Meter from Spectracal )
Stewart Filmscreen - Studiotek 130 G3 100” 16x9 Screen
Carada Masquerade Horizontal Masking System
Marantz AV8801 11.2 Channel Audio/Video Processor
Sherbourn Technologies - 7/200 Seven Channel Amplifier
B&K Reference 200.7 Series 2 Seven Channel Amplifier
Oppo BDP-103D Universal Disc/3D capable Blu-ray Player (With Darbee video processing)
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