Plot: What’s it about?
The adaptation of comic books to movies has become so mainstream in Hollywood that sometimes it’s hard to tell what movie is a normal fantasy movie and what has roots in comic books. As it turns out Stardust is just the kind of movie that I’m referring to. I learned, after watching the very informative featurette, that author Neil Gaiman was the man behind the movie and as it turns out I used to be a fan of Gaiman’s comic books “Sandman” in particular. I remember the trailers for the movie late last summer and kind of dismissed the movie as something I’d watch when it came to disc, though the allure of Michelle Pfeiffer on screen was rather tempting. Rounding out the cast is none other than Robert DeNiro, Ian McKellen, Sienna Miller and Peter O’Toole. Ok, with a cast like that can you really go wrong?
Stardust has its roots purely in the fantasy world and we realize that from the opening scene. We meet Dunston Thorn (Ben Barnes) as he’s trying to see what lies on the other side of the mysterious wall. Trickin the guard, he makes it into the forbidden field only to find a world of wonder that awaits him. He “meets” Una (Kate Magowan) and nine months later he’s presented with a baby on his doorstep (you connect the dots as to what happened on that night). We then flash forward eighteen years and meet Dunston’s son, Tristan (Charlie Cox) as he’s pursuing what seems to be an impossible dream. He is trying to woo Victoria (Sienna Miller) and promises her that he’ll retrieve a fallen star from the other side of the wall (as a sign of his love for her). He eventually does make it to the other side of the wall only to meet the star (Claire Danes) and the two must avoid being taken prisoner by Lamia (Michelle Pfeiffer) and her sisters searching for a way to reclaim their youth. Along the way they meet all sorts of characters, namely the very eccentric Capt. Shakespeare (Robert DeNiro), who may or may not help Tristan with his quest.
About half way through the movie, I found myself really enjoying the film. It’s not really the kind of movie they make much of anymore and with all the comic books turned movies being of the superhero genre, it was refreshingly nice to see a good old-fashioned fantasy movie. The movie was a very big undertaking with its $65 million dollar budget (it managed to only take in $40 million at the box office), but it will hopefully find new life on the home video market. I feel the story was strong, a timeless story of romance found and lost and never knowing who you might meet. The cast is good as well and there’s even a few more famous faces in some supporting parts (Rupert Everett, anyone)? It’s got a great storyline and isn’t scary enough that it’ll frighten young children. You might say it has a little something for everyone, and it does.
Video: How does it look?
This was one of the first films I reviewed in HD DVD and I realize that has no bearing or impact on this 4K review, but I was curious as to how far we’re really come in two decades. We get a lot of what we’ve come to expect from a more “modern” film that’s now found its way to the 4K format (again). Detail is sharp as a tack, colors are bold and vibrant and contrast is strong. You’ve heard all of that before, of course, but let me tell you that this is one good-looking film. Those expecting to see this in its best form will not be let down.
Audio: How does it sound?
We’ve come a long way since the days of HD DVD and, as such, the audio mix is now a more standard DTS HD Master Audio mix. Dialogue is very nice and natural with all of the English accents sounding very resonate. The lone Yank in the movie is Robert DeNiro, but when you see how his character behaves, I don’t think he can be pigeon-holed to having an English accent. Surrounds are prevalent during most of the action scenes and there are a few scenes that really do make the movie work from an audio standpoint. Like the video, I don’t think that viewers will be disappointed with the audio but there’s not a whole lot that stands out as being memorable, either.
Supplements: What are the extras?
The same supplements from previous editions make their way here as well. Nothing new to report.
- Audio Commentary – Matthew Vaughn and Jane Goldman (writer) collaborate for a fairly interesting, but sometimes boring track. The usual slew of content is covered, as well as casting and the like. True fans will appreciate it, but it’s also the same track we’ve had for nearly two decades.
- Crossing the Wall: The Making of Stardust – This five part series breaks down all of the technical aspects of the show from casting, costumes, special effects and more.
- Nothing is True…Behind the Scenes of Stardust – A look and chat with Gaiman’s inspiration for the story along with some input from the cast and crew.
- Deleted Scenes – Nearly five minutes’ worth, none of which added anything to the story.
- Blooper Reel – Oh I think we know what to expect here!
- Theatrical Trailer
The Bottom Line
I haven’t seen Stardust since its arrival on HD DVD. And that’s been a while. It’s fun and a good ride, but nothing mind-blowing either. This 4K is, unless I’m mistaken, the same one that’s been out sans the steelbook packaging. If you own that, I don’t see a need to own this as well.
