Rating summary

Movie		4.0
Video		4.5
Audio		4.5
Extras		3.0
Overall		4.0

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation 3D Blu-ray Movie Review

An animated gem receives a first-rate 3D presentation.

Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is the third feature-film in the animated franchise. Produced by Michelle Murdocca (Hotel Transylvania, Open Season), Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is another entertaining entry in the series from Genndy Tartakovsky (Dexter's Laboratory). Animation fans won't want to miss this charming sequel in the Hotel Transylvania film series.

Everyone needs a vacation sometimes... even monsters from Transylvania. Dracula (Adam Sandler), Mavis (Selena Gomez), Frankenstein (Kevin James), Eunice (Fran Drescher), Wayne (Steve Buscemi), Wanda (Molly Shannon), Griffin (David Spade), and Murray (Keegan- Michael Key) set out for some summer fun in the sun. Mavis' beau Johnny (Andy Samberg) tags along for the cruise as well. A trip aboard a summer vacation cruise line leads to unexpected adventures for everyone.

Dracula is lonely and hasn't had a romantic connection in ages (ever since he lost his loved one). Looking for romance again, Dracula finds himself on a new and unexpected romantic journey with the ship's captain, Ericka (Kathryn Hahn). Romance, ahoy! Despite a new and exciting romance, danger also looms ahead: monster-hunter Van Helsing (Jim Gaffigan) is determined to put an end to Dracula and his friends. Can Dracula survive his summer vacation?

The voice performances are a huge part of the charm of the Hotel Transylvania film series. The casting for the voice-cast done by Tamara Hunter (Guardians of the Galaxy, The Mitchells vs the Machines). The central cast of characters are well developed by the cast. Adam Sandler is perfect casting here (delivering a first-rate vocal performance). Selena Gomez is wonderful as Mavis (adding her own charm to the character). The entire cast has invested a lot into the characters.

"Do vampires even photo-finish? Blah Blah Blah!"

The animation is better than in any of the other Hotel Transylvania productions. The CG animation has never looked better in the franchise. The entire franchise has always had a wonderful sense of creative energy but this third entry seems even more polished in the animation arena. The animators brought their best to the table: showcasing the vast cast of characters and colorful locations with a wonderful creative joy. Featuring art direction by Christian Schellewald (Rock Dog, Puss in Boots), the end results are terrific.

The music composed by Mark Mothersbaugh (Thor: Ragnarok, The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part) and electronic musician Tiësto is energetic fun. The music adds to the sense of charm in the third installment of the animated franchise. The score is upbeat and the electronic music adds unique creativity to the production. Mothersbaugh brings subtle charms to the table.

Directed by Genndy Tartakovsky (Samurai Jack, Dexter's Laboratory), who co-wrote the screenplay alongside Michael McCullers (The Boss Baby, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me), Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is Tartakovsky at his comedic best. There is a sense of fun creativity throughout the film. The creative genius behind Dexter's Laboratory showcases his funnybone once more.

Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is the most reminiscent of the beloved cartoons Genndy Tartakovsky created for Cartoon Network in the 90s. There is something wonderful about the inventiveness of Tartakovsky. Every sequence showcases the filmmakers skills. The experience of watching Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation brought me right back to my childhood (and endless Cartoon Network marathons every day).

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation 3D Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Arriving on 3D Blu-ray from Random Space Media, Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is presented in 1080p MPEG- 4 MVC encoded high definition in the theatrical aspect ratio of 1.78:1 widescreen. The picture-quality is spectacular on the release. Colors are bright and bold.

The release offers 3D enthusiasts an outstanding presentation that is a perfect showcase for the capabilities of the format. The 3D effect is perfectly utilized throughout the entire presentation. Outstanding depth and detail is present from beginning to end.

The 3D effects have considerable depth and "pop" while showcasing the beauty of the animation in a way that is unique to the 3D format. CG animated films are often a great showcase for 3D perfection, and Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is a shining example of how great CG animated films look in 3D.

The release does have some occasional banding. The image looks a little compressed in a few scenes. These moments are fleeting and most viewers won't even notice. Don't let these minor nitpicks be a detriment to picking up an otherwise fantastic 3D release.

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation 3D Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The release is presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound. The high-resolution audio is a stunner and helps make the presentation all the more exciting. The surrounds are actively engaged throughout. The soundstage showcases the music score and sound effects in a compelling way. Dialogue is crisp and clear throughout the presentation. The sound effects are well mixed in to the surround channels. The release also includes an optional DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo track.

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation 3D Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

The 3D Blu-ray release includes the same supplemental package included on the standard Blu-ray release. For additional information on the supplemental package, please refer to the review of the standard edition.

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation 3D Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is the silliest entry in the Hotel Transylvania franchise. The comedic component of the story makes it all the more entertaining: a wonderful showcase for the comedic sensibilities of filmmaker Genndy Tartakovsky (Dexter's Laboratory). Beautiful, fun, and charming. Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation is a must-see in 3D. The release comes highly recommended.