Blu-ray Movie Reviews

Stationed in Tuscany, Italy, four members of the U.S. Army's all-black 92nd Infantry Division, the Buffalo Soldiers, are trapped behind enemy lines after one of them risks his life to save a traumatized Italian boy. Separated from their unit, they find themselves in a remote Tuscan village where they experience the tragedy and the triumph of war. Based on the highly praised novel by James McBride, and filled with exceptional battle scenes and action, it's a gripping and inspiring story drawn from a real incident that will touch the goodness within us all and never let go.

Spike Lee has been putting out some great films over the last few years with little or no hype surrounding them. This one takes a look at a unit of “Buffalo Soldiers” during World War II and the story is told by a postal worker that shoots a customer with no apparent reason. But the story reveals all and also gives a great perspective on the contributions of black soldiers during the war.

Touchstone delivers a gorgeous HD presentation here with great fine detail and dimension. The image has a slightly stylized look to it with vibrant color reproduction and a gritty look during war sequences that is reminiscent of Saving Private Ryan. Contrast levels are outstanding with deep inky blacks and plenty of shadow detail and I loved the crisp white highlights that punctuated the imagery. The Italian countryside provides a gorgeous backdrop with plenty of lush detail and enticing color and depth of image is strong throughout. A very stunning HD presentation.

The DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack is also quite good with a nice full bodied presence and engaging sound design. The battle sequences display great dynamic range with plenty of low end presence and nuance. The sound design isn’t quite as aggressive as some other wartime films of late but it still delivers a compelling soundstage that gets you involved. Surrounds are used very effectively for directional effects and envelopment in the battle sequences is excellent. Dialogue is balanced perfectly within the mix and timbre and tone are dead on. A great presentation overall from Touchstone on this one.

Extras include a great discussion piece with the director and WWII veterans about the war and their experiences. There is also a feature on the rather unknown Buffalo Soldiers of the war and the experiment the Army engaged in. Some deleted scenes and trailers are also included.

Spike Lee has really been delivering some strong titles lately and has broadened his cinema flavors considerably. Touchstone has done a tremendous job with this presentation making it an easy recommendation.