Blu-ray Movie Reviews

Winner of seven Academy Awards, including Best Directing and Best Picture, this modern classic tells the story of Lt. Dunbar, a Civil War hero who befriends a tribe of Sioux Indians while stationed at a desolate outpost on the American frontier. What follows is a series of unforgettable moments - from Dunbar's tender scenes with Stands With A Fist (Mary McDonnell), to the thrilling, action-packed buffalo hunt.

Dances with Wolves makes a solid debut on Blu-ray with a very cinematic HD transfer and great DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack. Resolution was better than I was expecting and it doesn’t look like any detail was scrubbed away. Fine film grain and detail are intact and colors don’t have the typical muted look so often associated with a film of this age. Some of the darker scenes are a bit on the soft side but overall clarity and detail are pretty strong. The soundtrack has a slightly bright upper end but it doesn’t distract. Surrounds add a lot to the presentation with nice ambient cues and atmosphere. Dynamics are good, but don’t really compare to the quality of presentation we’ve become accustomed to with modern day soundtracks. Still, this presentation never disappoints.

The 2-disc set contains lots of production features that delve into the filming, the story and more. You get two audio commentaries, plus a lot of insight into the story behind the film. A very nice set of supplements for fans of the film wanting to learn more.

This is still as epic of a film as it was the first go around. This longer cut adds even more character development and beautiful photography. Highly recommended.