7 | / 10 |
Users | 0.0 | |
Reviewer | 4.0 | |
Overall | 4.0 |
A wildlife drama that follows the families of endangered animals in China.
Narrator: John Krasinski, Xun ZhouFamily | 100% |
Documentary | 22% |
Adventure | 22% |
Nature | 18% |
Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC
Video resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.85:1
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit)
French: Dolby Digital 5.1 (640 kbps)
Spanish: Dolby Digital 5.1 (640 kbps)
English SDH, French, Spanish
Blu-ray Disc
Two-disc set (1 BD, 1 DVD)
Digital copy
DVD copy
Slipcover in original pressing
Region A (B, C untested)
Movie | 4.5 | |
Video | 4.5 | |
Audio | 4.5 | |
Extras | 2.5 | |
Overall | 4.0 |
No matter where and no matter when, life and the basics of how it's lived is a common, uniting theme throughout the world and amongst its many species. It's a simplistic truism, but rarely has it been made more lovingly clear than in Born in China, a fun and touching documentary about several creatures who call China home, depicting how they raise their young and fight to ensure a quality life for their offspring. Amidst a parade of cute and cuddly animals and fun hi-jinx is a tender tale that reminds audiences that man and animal share so much in common, not only the planet on which they live but the heart and base emotions that define who they are. It's gentle but meaningful family entertainment and a welcome reprieve from today's dour headlines and vacuous cinema, a reminder of what's good, but also true, about the world and the life cycle that really puts many things in a different perspective.
Born in China dazzles on Blu-ray. Though the image is plagued with some noise, and a bit heavy at times at that, it's otherwise gorgeously presented, offering impeccable clarity, detail, and color throughout. The image comes robustly sharp, delivering terrain and animals alike with incredible precision. Close-ups reveal every fine strand of fur and various bits of earth often stuck to it. Rocky formations, leaves, terrain, tree trunks, the entire spectrum of natural details shine from corner to corner. Colors are lush and full. Natural greens are particularly impressive, a counter to many of the earthy tones that define many of the scenes where rocky terrain and the snow leopards, for example, tend to blend together. Beyond the noise, there's nothing to detract from the image; it's a gorgeous presentation and a top example of the format's peak abilities.
Born in China was reportedly constructed with a Dolby Atmos soundtrack but arrives on Blu-ray with only a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack. Nevertheless, the track satisfies with a healthy sense of space and clarity of presentation. Music plays with total immersion, seamless width, and constant surround support; the listener will feel enveloped by the score, but never does it present with any sense of unbalance. Environmental details additionally prove wide and deep; whether rolling thunder, soaking rain, gentle breezes, or rustling grasses, the track defines its environments with positive detail. Narration enjoys strong focal positioning in the front-center. It's detailed and well prioritized.
Born in China contains a few supplements. DVD and Disney digital copies are included with purchase.
Born in China is a wonderful documentary that's heartfelt, funny, and sometimes even sad as it journeys through the circle of life with animals who are not only full of personality but who reflect very relatable human characteristics in their stories to care for their young and traverse the best and most difficult life has to offer. It's beautifully photographed and put together, a complete picture that the entire family is sure to treasure, for a number of different reasons. Disney's Bu-ray is wonderful. Picture and sound qualities are excellent and the included supplements are worthwhile. Very highly recommended.
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