Plot: What’s it about?
As time passes and the launch deadline approaches, tensions run high and excitement abounds. The historic maiden launch of Columbia, the world’s first space shuttle was a massive accomplishment for mankind, without a doubt. But that kind of event is no piece of cake to make to happen, from designing & creating the huge shuttle to the actual launch process. In this film, we’re taken behind the scenes as the launch time approaches, which means there is a lot of concern present, but also optimism and sheer excitement also. Hail Columbia introduces us to various workers, technicians, and other folks, but the main stars are two astronauts involved. John Young and Robert Crippen are to be aboard Columbia when it sails into space, so they have more at stake than anyone else, to be sure. The mission is dangerous and involves a lot of risk, but the crew has done all it can to ensure a safe, successful venture. Take a trip behind the scenes of Columbia’s launch, to learn just how much it takes to get a shuttle off the ground…
If you’ve ever wanted to be behind the scenes of a space shuttle launch, this release is nothing short of a must own title. Hail Columbia takes you past the curtains and reveals some of the activities that take place prior to a launch. And because this was the historic first shuttle launch, the atmosphere is even more tense and busy than normal, I would assume. I am not one for this kind of feature, as I am not too interested in shuttle launches, but even so, Hail Columbia was able to keep me interested for the short running time. At only thirty-six minutes, it moves at a brisk pace and never wastes time, which is good news for the audience. I still wasn’t riveting to the screen, as I simply wasn’t into the subject matter involved, but was not dull by any means. I prefer the IMAX movies with more of a traditional storyline, as they have more of a “movie” texture to them, whereas this seems like a docu-mercial, so to speak. But if you’re a space shuttle nut and want a look behind the scenes, Hail Columbia is well worth a look. I think a rental will suffice however, as the film is very short and Warner has done little with this disc.
Video: How does it look?
Hail Columbia is presented in a full frame transfer. This film was made in 1982 and shows some age signs, such as grain, debris, and some general wear to the source elements. I was never distracted by these flaws however, as none are too serious and given the film’s age, I can overlook some issues. The colors remain within a natural scope, but sometimes richen, though never to the point of smears or bleeds. No issues with contrast arise, as black levels are solid from start to finish here. This is not as crisp and refined as some of the more recent IMAX releases, but all things considered, this is a fine visual effort.
Audio: How does it sound?
The included Dolby Digital 5.1 track offers a nice experience, but due to the age issue, lacks the overall texture of more recent releases. I found the surround use to be powerful, but not refined and as such, it was more loud than impressive. As there is minimal subtle presence, surround use just sort of bleeds together the elements, which is not good news. The sound effects also sound thin at times, which is to expected from an IMAX film of this age, at least to an extent. But this is a solid track, just not as sharp and distinct as I would have liked. This disc also includes subtitles in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc contains no bonus materials.
