In Escobar: Paradise Lost, young surfer Nick (Hutcherson) thinks all his dreams have come true when he goes to visit his brother in Columbia. Against an idyllic backdrop of blue lagoons and white beaches, he falls madly in love with Maria (Traisac). It all seems perfect until he meets her uncle, the famous drug kingpin Pablo Escobar (Del Toro), and he finds his life is on the line when he's pulled into the dangerous world of the family business. (Gary Reber)
Special features include the featurette Catching Pablo (HD 31:23) and upfront previews.
The 2.35:1 1080p AVC picture, photographed on Kodak film stock, exhibits a cinematic yet slightly gritty appearance with a saturated color palette. Hues are densely rich and warm. Fleshtones are naturally hued throughout. Contrast is decently balanced with deep blacks. Shadow delineation is generally revealing. Resolution is good, especially during close-ups. Overall, this is a densely hued visual experience that visually communicates tension and uncertainty throughout. (Gary Reber)
The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack is dialogue focused, but atmospherics enhance the suspenseful storytelling. Sound effects are infrequent, as the atmospherics dominate, with subtle surround envelopment. The well-recorded music score is supportive but not dominant and provides emotional support, especially as the story builds. Surround envelopment is largely provided by the music and is effectively immersive. Dialogue is well integrated spatially. This is a nicely executed soundtrack that effectively builds with the story. (Gary Reber)