Star Trek Blu-ray

Star Trek

 (2009)

Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi



The fate of the galaxy rests in the hands of bitter rivals. One, James Kirk, is a delinquent, thrill-seeking Iowa farm boy. The other, Spock, a Vulcan, was raised in a logic-based society that rejects all emotion. As fiery instinct clashes with calm reason, their unlikely but powerful partnership is the only thing capable of leading their crew through unimaginable danger, boldly going where no one has gone before. The human adventure has begun again.

For more details about Star Trek on Blu-ray, see the Star Trek Blu-ray Review

Starring: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Karl Urban, Eric Bana
Director: J.J. Abrams

Star Trek Blu-ray, Video Quality

 


Star Trek beams onto Blu-ray with a mesmerizing 1080p, 2.39:1-framed transfer. Whether live-action people and sets or purely digital effects shots, Star Trek never fails to dazzle with its impeccable detail that's clearly extraordinary from the get-go. In fact, and save for one or two very minor issues, there may not be a better or more natural-looking Blu-ray out there. Facial detail, which makes for one of the first truly startling images when the camera focuses on the face of the U.S.S. Kelvin's Captain, reveals such intricate nuances in pores and the shadow of facial hair that the screen seems more like a window than a source displaying filmed images. Strong detail is evident in every corner of the frame; whether wear-and-tear on the exterior of the Starfleet shuttle that transports Kirk and McCoy to the Academy, the gritty and grimy interior of Nero's vessel, the clarity of the characters and words that appear on the Enterprise's display screens, or the texture of Starfleet uniforms, viewers will never find reason for concern with the intricate level of fine detail on display in practically every frame. The film isn't particularly awash in color, though it's nicely realized throughout. The red, blue, and yellow uniforms worn by the crew of the Enterprise and the ship's streamlined white and blue interior make for the most notable colors in the film, but the red convertible driven by a young Kirk, the lush green fields of Iowa, the earth tones of Vulcan, and the maroon colored Starfleet uniforms as seen primarily during Kirk's inquest all appear as natural and beautifully rendered. Blacks are marvelously deep and inky, and flesh tones retain a neutral shade throughout. Only one shot near the end of the film appears soft, but otherwise, Star Trek appears crisp and sharp in every frame. The transfer also features a very fine layer of grain that's never really noticeable but completes a perfect film-like transfer. About the only fault here is that Star Trek almost demands a huge screen to appropriately soak it all in, and for those that saw this spectacle unfold theatrically, it just feels a bit tiny on anything but the largest of displays.

Star Trek Blu-ray, Audio Quality

 


Star Trek warps onto Blu-ray with a startling Dolby TrueHD 5.1 lossless soundtrack. Though the soundtrack might not be as loud and powerful as some might have hoped for, it's a wonderful listen that strives for a more realistic tone rather than an unnaturally aggressive mix. Precise and clear throughout, nary a moment passes where either high-octane action or subtle atmospherics don't make for a satisfying sonic experience. Indeed, the track excels when it comes to minor ambience; turbolift doors slide open naturally and effortlessly across the front half of the soundstage, and shuttlecraft fly about the listening area with a subtle zoom that doesn't overpower the listener but instead transports them into the middle of the action. Michael Giacchino's music enjoys exceptional clarity throughout the entire range, and it nicely blends into the rear channels. In fact, the back channels are in consistent use; even when not delivering powerful action effects or music, they immerse the listener in subtle activity that truly brings the film to life. Whether beeps and blips on the bridge of the Enterprise or background voices in the Vulcan school seen early in the film, these and other sound effects enjoy precise balance in both volume and position. Of course, the soundtrack explodes when the action intensifies. Whether a strong low end accompanying a bar scene in chapter three or various explosions during the battles between the Kelvin or the Enterprise and Nero's vessel, listeners will enjoy a robust yet tight low end that's never too aggressive or too relaxed. Phaser blasts feature a solid pulsating effect, and when the blasts impact metal surfaces, there's a wonderful thudding sensation that seems to reverberate throughout the listening area. Star Trek delivers a rousing, entertaining, and highly effective sound mix through the entire range, from the most energetic sound effects to the most subtle atmospherics. Rounded out by consistently strong dialogue reproduction, Star Trek makes for one of the absolute best soundtracks yet on Blu-ray.

Star Trek Blu-ray, News and Updates

• Star Trek Retail Exclusive Announced - November 5, 2009


• Geek Peek: Star Trek BD Gift Set with Enterprise Replica - August 28, 2009

Star Trek Blu-ray, Forum Discussions

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