7 | / 10 |
Users | 3.0 | |
Reviewer | 3.0 | |
Overall | 3.0 |
Nestled in the heart of America’s Great Plains are the distinct landscapes of a sacred land that beckons the visitor to enter the nation's mysterious and glorious west. A land of soaring pinnacles, deep canyons, hidden caves, national monuments and countless wildlife sanctuaries. It is also the place of the inglorious death of famed gunslinger, Wild Bill Hickok and the most sacred spot for the Lakota Sioux.
Director: Kenny JamesDocumentary | 100% |
Nature | 77% |
Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC
Video resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.78:1
English: Dolby Digital 2.0 (192 kbps)
None
25GB Blu-ray Disc
Single disc (1 BD)
Region A (B, C untested)
Movie | 4.0 | |
Video | 3.5 | |
Audio | 3.0 | |
Extras | 0.0 | |
Overall | 3.0 |
The Smoky Mountains have a character all their own.
Mankind has done an awful lot of stupid things throughout his history. Need proof? Crack open any history book, turn on the news, or, for some, just
step outside
to see him at work. But amidst all of that negativity, he's accomplished quite a bit, whether through trial and error, a stroke of genius, or by simply
following common sense. It falls into the latter, primarily, that the National Parks system was created, a means of preserving some of the natural
wonders the United States has to offer. The Parks system also recognizes the importance of preservation and appreciation, of keeping the past alive,
nature largely untouched, and the most beautiful parts of the land pristine for future generations to enjoy. The Great Smoky Mountains may not have
the immediate awe-inspiring impact of The Grand Canyon or the cultural significance of Yellowstone, but it might be the most breathtakingly beautiful
region in the entire country. A wooded natural habitat for a diverse species of wildlife, home to native Cherokee, and simply a gorgeous stretch of land,
the area is perhaps the most resplendent across the entire national landscape.
The Smoky Mountains.
National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians arrives on Blu-ray with an imperfect but largely satisfying high definition transfer. The HD vide source is rather low grade -- it's certainly not up to par with Hollywood productions -- but the video captures a clean, detailed, and colorful image. Details on close-ups of leaves, woods, flowers, and insects range from fine to striking. Colors are generally bright and bold, whether lush natural greens, worn gray and brown woods, or park ranger clothes. There's the occasional soft shot, skies often appear blown out, and heavy blockiness sometimes makes an appearance. This is a very simple, straightforward high definition image. It won't set the world on fire, but it suffices for casual or classroom viewing.
National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians features an uninspired but generally effective Dolby Digital 2.0 soundtrack. Narration is clear and clean, focused in the middle-front section of the soundstage, and never lost to any of the surrounding elements. Gentle music plays off to the sides at times, revealing adequate spacing and clarity. Listeners will enjoy a few minor supportive ambient effects, such as rustling leaves, chirping birds, and waterfalls. Clarity isn't the best and the lack of surround channels leaves the listener wanting for more immersion, but the gentle effects are nicely integrated nonetheless and do enhance the overall listening experience. This track won't stretch sound systems to their limits, but it should suffice for casual listening or classroom duty.
Mill Creek's Blu-ray release of National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians contains no supplemental features.
National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians isn't a classic "dazzler," but it's a highly informative, well-rounded, strongly narrated, and visually captivating Documentary that should satisfy enthusiasts and novice digital travelers alike. It's packed with good information and breathtaking scenery. The video might not be up to par with the biggest budget Documentary films, but it captures the essence of the area quite nicely. With good audio and a cheap asking price, this is a disc that comes highly recommended for both home consumption and classroom use.
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IMAX
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IMAX 3D
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The Original UK Series
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BBC
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