Plot: What’s it about?
In the world of professional wrestling, nothing is bigger than Wrestlemania. The showcase of the immortals is where the best of the best do battle and create sports entertainment legacies. Wrestlemania XXIV would bring over seventy-four thousand fans to Orlando, Florida, to watch as history was made. The main event would pit streak versus streak, as The Undertaker and Edge both put their undefeated Wrestlemania runs on the line. The two would battle for the pride element, but also for gold, as the World Heavyweight Championship was in the balance. The world took notice of the tension between Big Show and boxing superstar Floyd “Money” Mayweather, but who would emerge as the victor when the two finally clashed? Legend Ric Flair once again faced his potential retirement, but would Shawn Michaels be the one to end his illustrious career? All of this plus the Money in the Bank ladder match, a triple threat match for the WWE Championship, and so much more. Below is a full rundown of Wrestlemania XXIV’s impressive lineup.
1. Finlay vs. John Bradshaw Layfield
2. Chris Jericho vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. John Morrison vs. Carlito vs. CM Punk vs. MVP vs. Mr. Kennedy (Money in the Bank Ladder Match)
3. Batista vs. Umaga
4. Chavo Guerrero vs. Kane (ECW Championship)
5. Ric Flair vs. Shawn Michaels (Career Threatening Match)
6. Maria & Ashley vs. Beth Phoenix & Melina (Playboy Bunnymania Lumberjack Match)
7. Randy Orton vs. John Cena vs. Triple H (WWE Championship)
8. Big Show vs. Floyd “Money” Mayweather
9. Edge vs. Undertaker (World Heavyweight Championship)
Video: How does it look?
Wrestlemania XXIV is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. Thanks to a recent movie to high definition by the WWE, we have this historic event in 1080i and it looks excellent. This is much better than the high definition broadcasts, with a crisper image that is free from noise or compression woes. The visuals here pop right off the screen, with such bright colors and a refined level of detail. Yes, you can see individual beads of sweat on the superstars and the divas have never looked better. Just a bright, vivid presentation that really is a pleasure to watch. I hope to see more Blu-ray releases from WWE soon, as this is so much better than the standard DVDs.
Audio: How does it sound?
This Dolby Digital 5.1 option sounds good, with all the action well handled. The in ring battles have the power you’d expect, so the slams and chops come to life well. You can hear the impact loud and clear, which adds a lot to the experience. The crowd is also there, so you’ll hear all the chants, catcalls, and cheers. The interview segments sound fine also, while the commentators are clear and never hard to understand. In other words, a solid soundtrack that does what it is supposed to do.
Supplements: What are the extras?
A second Blu-ray disc holds some extras, headlined by the complete 2008 WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony. I’ve always enjoyed these HOF ceremonies, so I am glad to see this one ported over. You’ll see the complete program, as legends like Ric Flair, Rocky Johnson, The Brisco Brothers, and others are honored. All of the inductees’ speeches are here, plus the speeches from guests like The Rock and others. Just a wonderful program for wrestling fans and a terrific inclusion here. You can also watch the pre-show battle royal match, with an ECW Championship shot on the line.
