Blu-ray Movie Reviews

With Erudite’s leader overthrown, Four’s mother is now in control of Chicago, and instead of getting on with their lives, it’s payback time for those who oppressed the people under the previous leadership. Tris wants no part of this, and she and Four lead a team of rebels on a daring escape beyond the wall where they face an even larger threat. Tris is then befriended by the mysterious leader, but Four’s spidey sense tells him to be on guard—and for good reason.

The word allegiant means “a faithful follower,” which must pertain to the fans of the book series who flock to theaters to see this type of film. While I thoroughly enjoyed the first film, the second left me wanting, and this third installment (of four) has certain elements that are enjoyable, but you can see the big reveal coming a mile away. My daughter liked the film but was disappointed that it didn’t follow the book at all—just like the last film—though at least this one had a decent story.

Like the previous installments, the film was shot on Arri Alexa cameras, but this UHD release is sourced from a 4K digital intermediate, and it definitely shows. The image teems with detail from facial pores to the stitches in the costumes. The HDR shines as well with bottomless blacks, revealing shadows, and highlights that burst off the screen. The first two installments, Divergent and Insurgent, have now also been released on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray.

The theatrical release had a Dolby Atmos track, so I had high expec- tations that this disc would be a crowd pleaser—and boy, was it! Plenty of action in the overhead speakers draw you right into the film, especially when the rebellious teenagers decide to escape Chicago. Gunshots ring out with authority, explosions rock the foundation, and dialogue is well prioritized in the center speaker. For example, there’s one scene in the third act where someone’s memories are wiped away, and the accompanying audio effect is amazingly detailed and downright demo-worthy.

The supplements are housed on the Blu-ray Disc included in the package and feature an audio commentary from the producers and six featurettes delving into the production. There’s also an UltraViolet/iTunes Digital Copy of the feature film.

Maybe I’m on teen book adaptation overload, but I’m losing interest in this franchise. Though if the final installment comes in 4K with Dolby Atmos, I’m sure I’ll give it a spin.

Blu-Ray
Studio: Lionsgate/Summit, 2016
Aspect Ratio: 2.40:1
Audio Format: Dolby Atmos / TrueHD 7.1 core
Length: 121 mins.
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Director: Robert Schwentke
Starring: Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Naomi Watts