Plot: What’s it about?
When NASA sent two high end rovers to explore the surface of Mars, it was a huge event and the media coverage was extensive as people couldn’t wait to see the results. The rovers were named Spirit and Opportunity and while the journey was a long one, they did reach their destination of the red planet. In Roving Mars, we’re shown the footage of the Mars landscape, but we’re also taken inside the project. In addition to the rover footage, you’ll see computer generated animation, interviews with scientists involved, and inside footage, all tied together with narration. So if you think you’ve seen it all when it comes to Mars, then think again, as you’ve seen it like this.
This is a documentary shown in IMAX theaters and if you’ve seen these kind of productions before, Roving Mars doesn’t stray far off the usual path. The main draw here is the actual footage of Mars’ surface and it is delivered, but it takes up very little of the show’s duration. The entire documentary runs only about forty minutes, so between the interviews, computer generated images, and what not, there’s not much left for the actual footage from the rovers. But at least this piece does offer a more “total package” look at the project, which is admirable. I’m not sold on the claims made about incredible footage, but if the topic interests you, Roving Mars is well worth a look.
Video: How does it look?
Roving Mars is presented in both 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen and full frame, so its your choice. The full frame version crops the widescreen segments of the material, while the widescreen preserves those scenes and presents the full frame elements in a pillar box format. The visuals look terrific, as expected, with crisp detail and clean overall presence. Some of the footage is in better shape than others, but for what it is, all the material looks acceptable. The computer generated animation stands out as impressive, but this is an overall solid image. I can’t wait to see it in high definition.
Audio: How does it sound?
The Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack is impressive, but suffers from the usual IMAX volume issues. You’ll be watching one scene and the volume is normal, then the next is twice as loud. So keep the remote close. Aside from that, the elements sound great and the surrounds really come to life at times. The power is there when it should be, the music sounds excellent, and the dialogue is clean, no other serious concerns. This disc also includes Spanish and French language tracks, as well as subtitles in English, French, and Spanish.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Disney has only included two supplements, but both are well worthwhile. Mars: Past, Present & Beyond runs just under half an hour and examines just what the title would have you expect. Various experts discuss the planet, from the planet’s popularity to the rover mission to potential manned visits. Quite a well made piece and given that Roving Mars is a short feature, this helps add value to this release. Mars and Beyond is a special look at the red planet as only Walt could have done, a combination of outdated information and brisk animation. This is actually quite fun to watch, but if you own the Tomorrowland set from the Walt Disney Treasures line, you already own this episode.
