Blu-ray Review: Underdog

THE MOVIE: 3 1/2 stars out of 5

There’s no need to fear, Underdog is here! Yes, the classic 1960’s cartoon has been redone in a live action film. Sounds pretty cheesy, but surprisingly, it wasn’t half bad. Staring Jason Lee, James Belushi, Amy Adams, Patrick Warburton and Peter Dinklage, Underdog tells the story of a beagle, Shoeshine, who flunks out of K-9 training school who falls into the clutches of Dr. Simon Barsinister. When trying to escape, Shoeshine is effected by chemicals that transform him into Underdog, a super powered dog who can not only fly, but can talk as well. He is adopted by an ex-cop and his son and vows to protect the populace of Capital City. Frankly, this in not a movie for everyone but is an entertaining movie for both fans of the old cartoon (although it is not quite as charming as the old cartoon) and families with kids under 13. Recommended as a film that families with young children can all enjoy.

THE VIDEO: 4 3/4 stars out of 5

Encoded with AVC and presented in is original aspect ratio of 2:35:1, this film looks way better than I expected it to be. This is one excellent transfer boasting a very bright looking image with excellent color and detail. Blacks levels are deep as well, giving the film a three dimensional look. Shadow detail is excellent as well. Frankly, there is very little to complain about with this transfer. Fans of the film will love the look of this transfer.

THE AUDIO: 4 3/4 out of 5

Presented with an uncompressed PCM track at 48 kHz/24 bit, the audio on this release is excellent as well. The film boasts a smooth, open and dynamic track with excellent bass. Sound effect are well placed in the mix, as it the dialogue, which is never lost in the mix. The audio is presented here at a higher volume than normal so you will have to turn the volume on your processor or receiver down from where you normally keep it. I sure had to. Particularly hot is the audio on the menu which had me running for the remote it was so loud. Frankly. the audio presentation on this release is much better than one would expect for this type of film. Well done Disney.

IN CONCLUSION

Boasting excellent video and audio, This is a fun film that the whole family will enjoy. Recommended.

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