Blu-ray Movie Reviews

In a future world of runaway global warming and awe-inspiring scientific advances, humans share every aspect of their lives with sophisticated companion robots called Mechas. But when an advanced prototype robot child named David is programmed to show unconditional love, his human family isn't prepared for the consequences. Suddenly, David is on his own in a strange and dangerous world. Befriended by a streetwise Mecha, David embarks on a spectacular quest to discover the startling secret of his own identity.

Like Minority Report, A.I. has a very controversial look by some people’s measure. Spielberg went with a very grainy approach that almost looks a bit aged and reminds me of Minority Report but also the late Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut. So for the Blu-ray Dreamworks has maintained that look, which doesn’t compare directly to the razor sharp imagery that some have come to like on the format. Contrast is also a bit blown out with grayish blacks and overdriven whites. Colors have a muted quality to them and the film as a whole can be a bit soft and dim. But this is the way it was meant to look and the style compliments the themes of the film perfectly. At times I think it is overdone a bit, but it isn’t my film to make! The DTS-HD Master Audio mix captures the brilliant sound design of the film with great ambiance, directional effects and bottom end. While not as aggressive as some sci-fi fare, it does have its moments. The score is excellent and the balance of the mix is nearly flawless. Everything you would expect from a film from Spielberg.

Most of the extras involve looking into the various aspects of the production from special effects to the visual style. There are plenty of interviews with the cast and crew and lots of insight into the film and its long journey to the big screen. The extras also look at the themes explored in the film and its warnings toward future development of A.I.

While not perfect, A.I. is still a very captivating science fiction film that brings a lot of questions with it. The production is a tad long, but the story is well worth watching and the execution is top notch. A must own for any fan of the genre.