With each month, it seems like more classic films are receiving a Blu-Ray release. Kate & Leopold is a 2001 film featuring Hugh Jackman and Meg Ryan, and has been mastered wonderfully for the new format. The juxtaposition of different moralities possessed by these two time-crossed lovers makes for interesting interactions, resulting in one of the best Ryan roles outside of You’ve Got Mail.
The Blu-Ray version released by Lionsgate is visually stunning; this is at movie theatre quality. The version of Kate & Leopold presented here is the Director’s Cut, which makes the narrative much more smooth. There are additional features that are present; the audio commentary laid down by director James Mangold (Walk the Line) provides a great look into the difficulties present with the storyline’s unique premise. However, I found myself to be the biggest fan of the in-depth look at the costuming; Kate & Leopold succeeds not only because the costuming of Leopold but how this costuming worked alongside contemporary fashion. On screen, these outfits are a perfect blend of gaudy and complimentary – they are a considerable part of why Leopold is such a hunk. I would suggest to give the behind the scenes feature a spin, as well. There is a human side presented to these huge stars that makes what is ultimately captured during Kate & Leopold that much more compelling.
Lionsgate has a number of other films that they will be releasing on the Blu-Ray format in 2012; keep an eye out at your local stores for their latest efforts.
Rating: 8.3/10
Kate & Leopold (Blu-Ray) / 2012 Lionsgate / 123 Minutes / http://www.lionsgate.com
John Sargeant, writing on NeuFutur as Sargeant, is the founder and editor-in-chief of NeuFutur Magazine, where he has covered independent music, PC hardware, consumer tech, and gaming culture since 1998. With over 25 years of continuous digital publishing experience, he has written thousands of hands-on game and record reviews, conducted in-depth hardware field testing, and analyzed digital media monetization trends. His work prioritizes first-hand evaluation and long-term product testing.
Beats: Independent Music, PC Gaming & Peripherals, Consumer Tech, Webmaster Tools
Testing & Ethics: All hardware, software, and media reviews are conducted through hands-on evaluation in accordance with NeuFutur’s editorial independence standards; sponsored consideration is strictly excluded from editorial ratings.
Contact: editor@neufutur.com