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Direct Action(2004)
Muscle-bound action hero Dolph Lundgren returns to take the lead role in this nail-biting thriller. Frank Gannon (Lundgren) is nearing retirement from his job on the police force. Sick of the corruption that runs rife throughout the department, he decides to shop his fellow officers to the powers that be. His final days on the force subsequently turn into a nightmare for Gannon, whose colleagues decide to set him up in a drug scam that threatens to tarnish his impeccable reputation. The thrill ride really begins when Gannon tries to prove his innocence, and given just one day to clear his name, he battles against the clock and his fellow officers to ensure that justice is served. For more about Direct Action and the Direct Action Blu-ray release, see the Direct Action Blu-ray Review Starring: Dolph Lundgren, Polly Shannon Director: Sidney J. Furie Direct Action Blu-ray, Video QualityPresented in 1080p utilizing the AVC codec (at an average bitrate of 26Mbps), Direct Action sports a mediocre high-definition presentation that readily demonstrates the production's low-budget roots. Fine object detail varies from scene to scene, but I'd say the overall quality tends to land on the below average side. Facial textures lack clarity, character outlines appear a bit hazy, and distant shots seem a touch out of focus. The increased resolution still affords the transfer an appearance that's clearly high-definition, but compared with a Hollywood production, the level of clarity is somewhat pathetic. I wish I could say matters improve with the color spectrum, but the drab, lifeless hues rarely seem natural. Skin tones appear a touch on the yellow side, with most outdoor scenes generating a washed-out image. Some of the problems with the coloring could be related to amateur lighting work on the part of the crew (interior shots), but regardless of where the blame falls, this is still a weak presentation. As if the coloring and clarity weren't bad enough, contrast looks dismal during interior scenes, completely eliminating the presence of shadow detail. Even if you cut the transfer some slack for budgetary constraints, this is still an unsatisfying presentation that will only please the most dedicated action fans. Direct Action Blu-ray, Audio QualityDespite the inclusion of a lossless track on this Blu-ray release, I was entirely underwhelmed by the sound design on the front-heavy mix. As the film first opened, I assumed the entire soundtrack would follow in the footsteps of most modern low-budget action films, by infusing one hip-hop track after another. However, once we move past the initial credit sequence, the score descends into the same generic collection of drum beats and synthesizer tunes we've heard time after time. I'm beginning to wonder if there's a "generic action movie" music collection that automatically comes free with the casting of any washed up action star. Similar to the routine nature of the musical selections, the sound effects feel flat and lifeless. Gunshots remind me of a weak firecracker, kicks or punches exhibit a generic thud, and vehicle chase scenes rarely generate a feeling of tension. Add in a disappointing lack of surround use, and you end up with an experience that seems like a complete waste of time. Despite my overall disappointment with the audio presentation, I feel compelled to at least mention one positive attribute to the technical presentation. Listening to the various elements in the mix, you'll notice the volume is well-balanced, allowing every aspect equal weight in the overall sound field. It's definitely not a reason to jump up and down, but we have to take the positives when we can get them. Direct Action Blu-ray, News and UpdatesNo related news posts for Direct Action Blu-ray yet. |
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