BLU-RAY REVIEW

Hercules 3D

Featured In Issue 193, January 2015

3D Picture4.5
Picture4.5
Sound5
WSR Score4
Basic Information on new release titles is posted as soon as titles are announced. Once reviewed, additional data is added to the database.
(Studio/Distributor):
Paramount Home Entertainment
(Catalog Number):
2039569
(MPAA Rating):
PG-13
(Rating Reason):
(Retail Price):
$
(Disc Type):
(Widescreen Edition):
(Full Screen Edition):
(Running Time In Minutes):
98/101
(Color Type):
(Chaptered/Scene Access):
(Closed Captioned):
(Regional Coding):
(Theatrical Year):
(Theatrical Release):
(Direct-To-Video Release):
(Disc Release Date):
(THX® Digitally Mastered):
(Director):
Brett Ratner
(Screenplay/Written By):
(Story):
(Music):
(Director Of Photography):
(Production Designer):
(Visual Effects):
(Costume Designer):
(Editor):
(Supervising Sound Editors):
(Re-Recording Mixers):
(Executive Producers):
(Co-Producers):
(Producers):
(Academy Awards):
(Principal Photography):
(Theatrical Aspect Ratio):
(Measured Disc Aspect Ratio):
(Disc Soundtrack):
(Theatrical Sound):
(Theatrical Re-Issue Soundtrack):
(DTS Bit Rate):
(Dolby Digital Bit Rate):
(Additional Languages):
(Subtitles):

When a terrifying new enemy threatens the innocent, Hercules and his fearless team of warriors must lead their army in a battle against overwhelming odds.

The 2.39:1 1080p MVC 3D picture is the theatrical version. An extended cut is available only in 2D. The picture was partially photographed in native 3D, as well as 3D conversion by Stereo D. The depth and perspective dimensionality is effectively appealing and satisfying. The use of unusual camera angles draws attention to the sense of perspective. The layering of objects, soldiers, and people, as well as unusual close-ups, is also very effective. Out-of-screen imagery is dramatic yet never overpowering or gimmicky. The color palette is naturally hued with what appears to be accurate and realistic fleshtones and objects, even when seen under various lighting conditions. Contrast is well balanced with deep blacks and decent shadow delineation. Resolution is excellent with fine textural detail evident throughout, which enhances the sense of realism. This is an excellent 3D presentation that is reference defining and one that will please fans of the format.

The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 7.1-channel soundtrack was also released in Dolby Atmos theatrically but there is no Dolby Atmos version on this release. This is a dynamic-sounding and expansive holosonic® soundtrack. Atmospherics and sound effects are exciting and dimensional. The orchestral music score is dynamic and powerful and occupies a wide and deep soundstage that aggressively extends to the surrounds. Nuanced ambience sounds enhance the realism of the environments pictured. In contrast, battle scenes are bold and energized to create realistic chaotic intensity that is directionalized throughout the soundfield. Dialogue remains clear and decently integrated spatially. This is an exciting reference-quality sonic experience that is sure to please.