John Adams Blu-ray

John Adams

 (TV) (2008)

Biography | Drama | History



John Adams is a sprawling HBO miniseries event that depicts the extraordinary life and times of one of Americas least understood, and most underestimated, founding fathers: the second President of the United States, John Adams. Starring Paul Giamatti (Sideways, Cinderella Man, HBOs American Spendor) in the title role and Laura Linney (You Can Count on Me, Kinsey) as Adams devoted wife Abigail, John Adams chronicles the extraordinary life journey of one of the primary shapers of our independence and government, whose legacy has often been eclipsed by more flamboyant contemporaries like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton and Benjamin Franklin. Set against the backdrop of a nations stormy birth, this sweeping miniseries is a moving love story, a gripping narrative, and a fascinating study of human nature. Above all, at a time when the nation is increasingly polarized politically, this story celebrates the shared values of liberty and freedom upon which this country was built.

For more details about John Adams on Blu-ray, see the John Adams Blu-ray Review

John Adams Blu-ray, Video Quality

 

John Adams features a slightly disappointing 1080p/VC-1 transfer that isn't as faithful or proficient as HBO's other recent high definition presentations. Regardless of the episode, soft shots and spongy closeups are an intermittent distraction, black levels are inconsistent, and contrast is unpredictable. One moment, a vibrant, three-dimensional image with fine textures galore inhabits the screen... but the next moment, a dull, lifeless mess limps into view, complete with waxy faces, squishy edges, and squint-inducing delineation. It's also worth noting that grain, while present to some degree, appears to have been wiped away in post-production. Grain-haters may rejoice at the news, but anyone sensitive to the effects of noise reduction will cry foul. To be fair, the transfer is still a moderate success: it not only bests its standard DVD counterpart in every way, its palette is often a sight to behold (reds have a particularly striking intensity) and its overall detailing is commendable. More importantly, artifacting, banding, crush, and source noise are kept to an absolute minimum. Slight edge enhancement occasionally invades the proceedings, but even the most severe ringing is negated by the cleanliness of the image. All things considered, John Adams' presentation still ranks above those featured on the majority of miniseries on the market. Still, based on HBO's sparkling Blu-ray track record, I expected a bit more.

John Adams Blu-ray, Audio Quality

 

At least HBO's full-bodied DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track lives up to its the studio's lofty lossless standards. Dialogue is crisp, crystal clear, and perfectly prioritized, naturally mingling with everything from the swift breeze of a cool New England spring to the spittled shouts of an angry mob. The rear speakers effectively recreate a variety of period interiors, all of which boast unique acoustic properties and ambient personalities. Voices freely bound about an open community hall, stomping feet smack with moist indifference in the midst of a musty meeting room, and a slew of environmental effects dissipate convincingly regardless of the season or location. Directionality grows a bit lazy during Adams' trips abroad (a party with Franklin is haphazard and imprecise) but, for the most part, accuracy prevails and rules each episode. Moreover, rousing LFE support packs heft into every march and thunder into every cannon. Ultimately, it may not have the requisite razzle-dazzle of more bombastic lossless audio tracks, but it tackles every syllable and gunshot with the same commitment to quality.

John Adams Blu-ray, News and Updates

• Deal Alert: John Adams Blu-ray for $25 (Update) - November 19, 2009


• Today on Blu-ray - June 16th - June 16, 2009


• HBO Announces John Adams and Generation Kill - March 5, 2009

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