Lucy (2014) 4K UHD & Blu-ray

$50.99

Director: Luc Besson

Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Morgan Freeman, Choi Min-sik, Amr Waked

Synopsis:

Luc Besson’s Lucy (2014) is a high-concept sci-fi action film that explores the idea of unlocking the full potential of the human brain. The story follows Lucy (Scarlett Johansson), an unsuspecting woman forced into drug trafficking, who is exposed to a synthetic substance that grants her superhuman intelligence and abilities. As her brain capacity increases, she gains control over time, space, and even reality itself.

Review:

Visually stunning and packed with adrenaline, Lucy is an ambitious mix of science fiction, action, and philosophy, though it doesn’t always stick the landing. Scarlett Johansson delivers a cold, detached, and compelling performance, perfectly embodying Lucy’s transformation from a terrified captive to an omnipotent being. Morgan Freeman lends credibility as a professor explaining the pseudo-science behind Lucy’s evolution, while Choi Min-sik (Oldboy) adds menace as the ruthless drug lord chasing her.

Besson’s direction keeps the pacing fast, blending stylish action sequences with mind-bending visual effects. The film is at its best when embracing its over-the-top, surreal aesthetic, particularly in the final act, where Lucy transcends human limitations. However, the movie’s premise—based on the debunked myth that humans only use 10% of their brains—requires a heavy suspension of disbelief.

While Lucy starts as a thrilling action film, it gradually veers into philosophical and existential territory, culminating in an ending that is as bizarre as it is divisive. Some will find it thought-provoking; others may see it as pretentious pseudo-science.

Verdict:

★★★☆☆ (3.5/5) – Lucy is a stylized, visually impressive, and wildly entertaining sci-fi ride, but its reliance on questionable science and a progressively abstract narrative may leave some viewers wanting more coherence. Still, it’s worth watching for Johansson’s performance, Besson’s kinetic direction, and the sheer audacity of its ideas.

BY RUE MORGUE RECORDS
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Description

The 4K Ultra HD release of Luc Besson’s Lucy offers a significant upgrade in both visual and audio quality, making it a compelling addition for enthusiasts of high-definition home entertainment.

Video Quality:

Presented in 2160p with HDR10, Lucy exhibits exceptional clarity and vibrancy. The enhanced resolution brings out intricate details, from facial textures to the fine stitching in costumes. Colors are vivid, and the contrast is striking, providing a dynamic and immersive viewing experience. The film’s visual effects, including sequences of binary code and dynamic action scenes, are rendered with impressive sharpness and depth. Overall, the transfer maintains a clean and healthy image, free from artifacts, delivering a top-tier visual presentation. 

Audio Quality:

Equipped with a Dolby Atmos soundtrack, the audio experience is both robust and immersive. The overhead channels are utilized effectively, especially during scenes where Lucy’s enhanced abilities are portrayed, enveloping the viewer in the action. Gunfire, explosions, and ambient sounds are delivered with precision, and the bass response is deep and resonant. Dialogue remains clear and well-balanced throughout, ensuring that the narrative is easily followed amidst the dynamic soundscape. 

Special Features:

The 4K UHD package includes several featurettes that delve into the film’s production and underlying scientific concepts:

“The Evolution of Lucy”: A behind-the-scenes look at the creation and making of the movie, featuring insights from writer/director Luc Besson and stars Scarlett Johansson and Morgan Freeman.

“Cerebral Capacity: The True Science of Lucy”: This featurette explores the scientific theories that inspired the film’s premise, discussing the potential of the human brain.

These extras provide valuable context and enhance the overall appreciation of the film. 

Conclusion:

While Lucy as a film has received mixed reviews, its 4K UHD release stands out for its superior audiovisual quality. The combination of sharp visuals and immersive audio makes it a noteworthy addition to any high-definition collection. For those seeking to showcase their home theater system’s capabilities, Lucy serves as an excellent demo disc.

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