Napoleon Dynamite (Fox Blu-ray)

 

Picture: B+     Sound: B+     Extras: B     Film: B-

 

 

We’ve covered Napoleon Dynamite in two DVD editions; you can read about the film and those editions more extensively here and here.  There is really little left to be said about the film that hasn’t already been said, the film has gone on to become a bit of a cult icon or of cult status over these past few years, I managed to see the film at a screening before it was ‘officially’ released to the public and so my first viewing was a rather fresh one for sure.  Since that time, the film has been overly used in various parodies and sketches, but years from now when that all wears off, many people might view the film again and realize what a fine little gem it is.  Sure it’s an offbeat film with little meaning or value, but it took some risks and created a hero out of a zero for fans to adore, years from now Napoleon will be to the 2000’s as Ferris was to the 1980s. 

 

So what’s up with this sweet Blu-ray?

 

Several things come to mind when I think back on both of the DVD released, the first thought is just how poor the picture and sound quality were, even for DVD standards they were fairly substandard.  This is a film that has a very practical and unique look in that it’s not flashy, nor is it low budget per say.  In fact the film simulates an almost dated look, which when done correctly on film or video, it can work, but when done poorly it makes the film seems tired, pale, and drab.  This was the case with both DVD releases of the film, which this Blu-ray release has since rectified bringing all the life back into the print with a 1080p High Definition transfer framed in the films original aspect ratio of 1.85 X 1.  The film was not meant to have a vibrant color palette, this was evident in the screening of the film that I saw years ago, but that doesn’t mean that it was meant to be lackluster either.  The Blu-ray gets the mixture just right with a nicely detailed transfer showcasing the film with good color and balance, solid black levels, and resolution that demonstrates the films camerawork with a more pronounced look altogether. 

 

Likewise we get a stunningly improved DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio mix that brings the necessary resolution to the films audio track in a lossless mix.  This is a film that highly utilizes its soundtrack and other on-screen antics to bring some comedic timing together, plus the clever, yet dry dialogue as well.  It’s important to note that the Blu-ray finesses together a crafty and articulate sound mix that is far more coherent and brings the film into the home theater like it should be. 

 

Extras are compiled from both DVD versions for the definitive version of the film to own, especially with improved picture and sound, now people have a true experience to show to their friends or others who have not yet seen the film to date.  It’s also worth a second look as this experience will likely have some effect on whether people enjoy the film or not.

 

 

-   Nate Goss