Surrogates

Based on the graphic novel by Robert Venditti and Brett Weldele, Surrogates is the story of a transformation of the human experience. FBI Agent Tom Greer (Willis) lives in a world where robotic surrogates stand in for people, protecting them from violence, contagion—and the appearance of aging. These picture-perfect, real-life avatars—fit, good-looking, remotely controlled machines that assume their operator's life role—enable the population to experience life vicariously from the comfort and safety of their own homes. Greer and his partner, Agent Peters (Mitchell), are called in to probe the mysterious death of a college student, whose life ended when his surrogate was destroyed. When Greer's surrogate is damaged in the investigation, he ventures out of his apartment for the first time in decades. In a world of masks, Greer must decide who is real and who can be trusted. (Gary Reber)

Special features include commentary by Director Jonathan Mostow, two featurettes: A More Perfect You: The Science Of Surrogates (HD 14:34) and Breaking The Frame: A Graphic Novel Comes To Life (HD 06:33), four deleted scenes (HD 06:03), the music video "I Will Not Bow" by Breaking Benjamin (HD 03:49), and up-front previews.

The 1080p AVC picture is terrific, with a natural appearance in a future world of glamorous humanoid machines. Fleshtones appear perfectly natural, with perfect facial features. The humans are rendered naturally as well but without the "perfect" fleshtone makeover. The real world is ever so "human" and visually imperfect. Facial features are fully resolved, and object textures are revealing of their unique characteristics. Contrast is well balanced, with deep, solid blacks and shadows with depth. Colors can be vivid, with nicely saturated hues that at times pop. The imagery is dimensional as well, which enhances the realism. This is often an impressive picture, with appealing colors and natural imagery that makes for a visually exciting experience. (Gary Reber)

The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack is wonderfully dynamic and exciting, with all the sound elements creatively engaged. The sound effects and atmospherics are outstanding and deliver incredible dynamic SPL excitement, with an aggressive directionalized soundfield with sharp transients. The orchestral music score is seemingly never relenting and constantly present, with a well-recorded wide and deep soundstage that wraps around the surrounds, for an engaging soundfield experience. Instrument timbres are clearly distinguished, and the music is extremely spatial sounding. Dialogue is production sound and ADR-produced but effectively spatially integrated throughout. Bass extension is deep and powerful, and at times, system threatening, with highly energized .1 LFE impact. The sound often delivers an exciting holosonically® enveloping experience. This is a terrific soundtrack that is reference quality. (Gary Reber)