Vanguard

In "Vanguard," after wealthy businessman Qin rats out his corrupt partners in an arms deal gone fatally wrong, he and his family become targets of the world/s deadliest mercenary organization—and the fighting power of Tang's (Chan) covert security company Vanguard is their only hope to survive. (Gary Reber)

Special features include a making-of featurette (HD 05:51) and a digital code.

The 2.39:1 1080p AVC picture, reviewed on a Sony Bravia Z9D 4K Ultra HD HDR display, upconverted to 2160p with greater resolution and luminance, was photographed digitally and sourced from a 2K master Digital Intermediate format. The movie was a 3D production in IMAX 3D, but no 3D Blu-ray was provided for review.
Set in locations across the globe––including London, Zambia, India, Dubai and an Arabian desert, the picture is colorful with saturated hues that at times appear to be exaggerated. Fleshtones appear generally natural. Everything appears realistic. Contrast is good, though, most of the movie exhibits brightly lit interiors and natural daylight environments. The darker scenes exhibit generally good shadow delineation. Blacks are deep on uniforms and women's gowns. Explosions are fiery bright and orange hued. Resolution is generally good and revealing. Overall, this is a satisfying presentation. (Gary Reber)

The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack delivers an extension of ambience with directionality in the surrounds during the jungle scenes. Sound effects include roar noises, crashes, motor sounds, waterfalls and numerous animal sounds, such as lions, hyenas and camels. Deep bass is most evident in the thunder of waterfalls. Gunfire is at times heavy and directionalized throughout the soundfield. The intense gunfire delivers powerful transients and bass accents. Explosions and crashes also are supported with powerful bass energy. Dialogue, both Chinese and English, is clear but often ADR produced and wanting in spatial integration. This is a vibrant soundtrack with a wide range of sounds and a holossonic® presence. (Gary Reber)