Luca (UHD Blu-ray) review

[David Vaughn]

Studio: Disney / Pixar
Release Date: August 3, 2021
Rating: PG
Film: 4.5/5

Plot
Set in a seaside town on the Italian Riviera, Disney and Pixar’s “Luca” is a coming-of-age story about a young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer. Luca shares his amazing adventures with his friend Alberto, but their fun is threatened by a deeply held secret: They’re sea monsters from a world below the water’s surface.

My Thoughts
It’s rare that I sit down for a Pixar film and know absolutely nothing about it. In fact, I hadn’t even seen a trailer for this movie when the press release arrived and requested it blindly based upon Pixar’s stellar reputation. I watched the movie with my wife and adult daughter who is home for a visit and found the first act to a be a little slow, mainly due to my unfamiliarity with the story. Things really pick up in the second act as the relationship starts to grow between the main characters and the final act is extremely satisfying. While I wouldn’t put this up there with the best the Pixar titles, it’s definitely at the top of its second-tier offerings.

The UHD presentation is excellent mainly due to the bright and inviting color palette. Primaries have a bit more pop compared to the Blu-ray and there are some instances where the HDR really shines—mainly in some of the brightest scenes. The Atmos soundtrack is engaging, but not as aggressive as other Pixar titles on the low end. Imaging is excellent, especially in the third act, and how voices are treated when talking underwater is quite unique—so kudos to the sound designers on that one.

Video 9.5/10

Audio 9/10 (Dolby Atmos)

Special Features:

• Our Italian Inspiration
• Secretly a Sea Monster
• Best Friends
• Six Deleted Scenes with introduction from the director
• UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Copy

Conclusion
Going in blind was both a blessing and a curse. It made the start of the movie more of a mystery not knowing what was coming but the payoff was great and it’s something that has replay value. The story of friendship and young love should resonate with everyone and the animation is outstanding. Highly recommended.


Reference Review System:
JVC DLA-RS2000 4K Ultra High-Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Portrait Displays CalMAN color calibration software & C6-HDR Meter from Portrait Displays)
Stewart Filmscreen - Firehawk 88” 16x9 Fixed Screen
Trinnov Altitude 16 Audio/Video Processor
ATI AT527NC Powering Bed Channels
ATI AT524NC Powering Atmos Speakers
Panasonic DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player
System Controller: URC MX-990
M&K S-150 THX Ultra (R-C-L Speakers)
M&K SS-150 x4 (Surround Speakers)
Atlantic Technology IC6-OBA x 4 Overhead Speakers
SVS PC-Ultra Cylinder Subwoofer
HSU VTF-15H MK2 Subwoofer
JL Audio Dominion F110 Subwoofer x 2
Mini DSP HD controlling all subwoofers
Audioquest and Monoprice - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling

PureAV PF60 Power Conditioner

[bmoney]

My kids have seen this numerous
Times. I have yet to watch. Have to give it a spin

[Paul Heroy]

Just saw this review, thanks David. I have heard mixed reports on this one so hadn't put it at the top of my list even though I really like Pixar generally. Will definitely be moving this up in the queue!

[bmoney]

I still have yet to view this.  maybe over xmas break!

[David Vaughn]

I still have yet to view this.  maybe over xmas break!

Let me know what you think.