Murph: The Protector Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		4.0
Video		3.0
Audio		3.0
Extras		0.0
Overall		2.5

Murph: The Protector Blu-ray Movie Review

Document of a hero.

Reviewed by Martin Liebman January 8, 2014

Murph: The Protector tells the story of U.S. Navy SEAL Michael Murphy's life and combat tour in Afghanistan that ended with the loss of his life and a posthumous medal of honor, the first sailor to earn the award since the Vietnam conflict. The story is told through photographs and interviews with family, friends, and those whose lives were positively touched by the man in his life and death. The film paints the picture of a smart, caring young man of high character and compassion, the sort to stand against bullies and help those in need. He loved the water and remained close to a select group of core friends. A character fit for a SEAL was evident early in his life, and following his time at Penn State, he enlisted in the armed services. Even a life-threatening injury during his SEAL training couldn't prevent him from pushing forward and living his dream, a dream that would end with his death in a frenzied battle against the enemy while seeking a phone signal to call for aid to his position and save his men.

The protector.

Murph: The Protector is constructed in a straightforward Documentary style, offering a simple verbal and pictorial overview of its subject. It's not groundbreaking, big budget, or in any way extraordinary, save for its depiction of an extraordinary man. It's the sort of Documentary Michael may have liked, considering the picture it paints of him, as an honorable, nuts-and-bolts sort that accomplishes its task and asks for nothing in return rather than an appreciation for what's been done. The story here is the story, not the film's technical prowess or presentation. Those who know Murph or want to get to know him will find much value in this short, but precise and moving, picture.

Murph: The Protector Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Murph: The Protector doesn't look great on Blu-ray, but this isn't the sort of movie to buy purely for picture quality. The lower-grade HD video offers good clarity and fine basic detail and color presentation, but struggles in other areas. Flesh tones push towards a red tint, background banding is often evident, and there's noticeable aliasing during the Penn State flyover. The image takes on a glossy appearance but proves serviceable overall.

Murph: The Protector Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

Murph: The Protector features a basic Dolby Digital 2.0 soundtrack. The limited range and absence of lifelike clarity doesn't hurt the primary content, which consists of simple dialogue. The spoken word comes through clearly throughout the film, save for a few instances of hollow-sounding words. There are several energetic notes to open the film, but a few scattered recreated gunshots fail to elicit much sonic mayhem.

Murph: The Protector Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Murph: The Protector contains no bonus content.

Murph: The Protector Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Murph: The Protector's Wal-Mart exclusive Blu-ray release is a must-own for those who want to show their appreciation for an American hero or simply come to know how a man can do so much good in both life and death. It's a simple documentary but effective to its point. Anchor Bay's Blu-ray release of Murph: The Protector features decent video and audio. No extras are included. Recommended.