Blu-ray Movie Reviews

”Revolver" is populated with Guy Ritchie's classic breed of fast-talking, sharp-suited gangsters but with a psychological twist that your mind may not be able to handle. Jason Statham is Jake Green, a grifter who vows revenge against Macha, the ferocious crime boss who sent him to prison. After taking Macha down in a game of chance, Macha puts out a hit on Jake. Now, caught between a gun and a hard place, Jake finds himself protected by two vicious loan sharks who make him an offer he can't refuse.

Guy Ritchie made quite the name for himself with the comedy capers Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. He also gave action star Jason Statham his big break. Revolver breaks new cinematic ground for Ritchie but unfortunately it didn't get much attention here in the US and barely made a cinematic release. I saw this film a few years ago and while I admit it does present some challenging and often confusing ideas, it is still a strong film. Ritchie's visual style continues to impress and his knack for stylish wit is plastered all over this one. This was previously released only as an import on Blu-ray but thankfully Sony has seen it fit to release here stateside. I imagine it has something to do with Ritchie’s newest film being in theaters now.

The Blu-ray import I have of this film was a strong release visually and this Sony release is every bit as good if not a tad better. I love the look of this one and the contrast and exceptional detail are delivered in spades on this BD release. This film uses really strong hues to stylize the film and set the mood and you’ll find the image leaning toward strong reds and yellows most of the time. Blacks are inky with great detail and contrast levels are incredible at times lending a very dimensional feel to the imagery. With a great mix of live action and animation, this makes for a killer Blu-ray transfer.

Wow. This is one of the most dynamic Dolby TrueHD soundtracks I’ve heard lately and some of the gunplay is absolutely incredible in its level of realism and range. Infrasonic levels of bass extension are present and Ritchie has done an amazing job crafting the film’s soundtrack to match the intensity and style of the film. Surround use is abundant and the crafting of the sound design is intense. This is absolute showcase material.

Extras include a feature commentary with the director along with a handful of production features that include interviews and a look at the film’s concepts. You also get some deleted scenes and alternate takes (including the international ending) and a music trailer. This title is also BD-Live enabled for access to more Sony promo material online.

While this film got a lukewarm reception at best in the box office, I really enjoyed it. This new cut is a bit leaner and easier to swallow. Sony has done a tremendous job with the A/V presentation and serves up an intense lossless soundtrack that is incredible. Definitely worth a look.