The Boys in the Boat (Blu-ray ) review

[David Vaughn]

Studio: Warner Brothers  
Release Date: June 25, 2024
Rating: PG-13
Film: 4/5
 
Plot
The Boys in the Boat is a sports drama based on the #1 New York Times bestselling non-fiction book written by Daniel James Brown. The film, directed by George Clooney, is about the 1936 University of Washington rowing team that competed for gold at the Summer Olympics in Berlin. This inspirational true story follows a group of underdogs at the height of the Great Depression as they are thrust into the spotlight and take on elite rivals from around the world.
 
My Thoughts
I love these types of films and I especially like it when they keep it as close to the actual facts of the story as possible and still make an entertaining film. In this case, director George Clooney delivers in spades. This true to life underdog story has good acting and enough drama to keep you on the edge of your seat even if you know the outcome.

 
The presentation is quite good in both the audio and video departments. The film was shot digitally and presents a very clean and detailed image. The color palette has a very 1930s look to it with darker clothing and muted colors, especially on the men. When the setting shifts to Nazi Germany, the red highlights really pop off the screen. The Atmos track is a nice surprise given the genre and the sound mix rarely touches the overhead speakers although they do come alive in the rowing sequences an the LFE channel takes on a lot more life in these sequences as well.

 
Video 4.5/5 
Audio 4/5 (Dolby Atmos)


Special Features:

• Blu-ray + Digital Copy

 

 
 
Conclusion
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this film and came away very entertained. I didn’t realize the film made its debut on Prime before hitting home video, so if you’re not sure if you’ll like it or not, you can give it a view for free—it will be well worth your time. Recommended.
 

Reference Review System:
 JVC DLA-RS3100 4K Ultra High-Definition Front Projector
 (Calibrated with Portrait Displays CalMAN color calibration software & C6-HDR Meter from Portrait Displays)
 Stewart Filmscreen - Firehawk 110” 2.35:1 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
 Dual Rythmik FV15HP2
 Mini DSP HD controlling all subwoofers
 Audioquest and Monoprice - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling
 PureAV PF60 Power Conditioner

[bmoney]

Based on a true story. 
Sports drama

I’m in

[DLCPhoto]

Thanks for the review - sounds like something I might enjoy.

Interestingly enough, it is in 4k/HDR on Amazon, while HD only on Disc. I'll check it out on Amazon!