7.1 | / 10 |
Users | 4.1 | |
Reviewer | 4.0 | |
Overall | 4.1 |
When Earth's superheroes exile the volatile Incredible Hulk to a distant planet called Sakaar, the muscle-bound green monster is sold into slavery and forced to compete in gladiatorial games for the planet's despotic Red King. But soon, the Hulk joins forces with his fellow slaves to fight for freedom -- and a chance to get revenge on his earthly foes. This animated film is based on the "Planet Hulk" storylines originally featured in Marvel comics.
Starring: Rick D. Wasserman, Lisa Ann Beley, Mark Hildreth, Liam O'Brien (V), Kevin Michael RichardsonAction | 100% |
Comic book | 84% |
Sci-Fi | 77% |
Adventure | 74% |
Fantasy | 71% |
Animation | 58% |
Family | 15% |
Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC
Video resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1
Spanish: Dolby Digital 5.1
English, English SDH, Spanish
25GB Blu-ray Disc
Single disc (1 BD)
Digital copy (on disc)
Slipcover in original pressing
Region free
Movie | 4.0 | |
Video | 4.0 | |
Audio | 4.5 | |
Extras | 4.0 | |
Overall | 4.0 |
Planet Hulk is the latest entry in the Marvel animated film library, and the third consecutive title with a heavy focus on the ominous green superhero. Starting with Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow, the writers began testing the waters with viewers, hoping to land on a character capable of turning around what had been considered (up to that point) a fairly generic film series. Thankfully, the Hulk’s presence during a pivotal stretch of the film enhanced the value of the youth-focused feature, and warranted a production based solely on Bruce Banner’s alter-ego. I doubt anyone expected Hulk Vs. to turn out as raw and appealing as it did, opening the door for further adventures in destructive fun. Not surprisingly, Marvel jumped on the wave of positive reviews, and began an adaptation of one of the greatest Hulk storylines in the Avenger universe. Creative license aside, the results are everything I’d hoped for, and demonstrate Marvel’s continued efforts in listening to what their fans want from straight-to-video productions.
Presented in 1080p utilizing the AVC codec (at an average bitrate of 19Mbps), Planet Hulk is an above-average animated offering which rarely disappoints. Detail remains strong throughout the majority of the feature, despite some interesting animation choices in the source material (such as zoomed shots that reveal an unattractive degree of haziness before pulling back to a sharp wide angle view). Looking at lines in the foreground or artwork in the background, I had a difficult time finding even the slightest degree of stairstepping or instability. Adding to the richness of the visuals, the color palette consists of bold hues that maintain consistency from scene to scene and avoid the usual tendency of banding within subtle transitions. Furthering the depth of the image, black levels never venture into gray territory, allowing contrast adequate room to breathe. All in all, this is a strong presentation that seemingly reflects an accurate representation of the source material (which does contain some minor flaws).
Get ready for a smashing audio presentation. If there's one thing I adore about these Marvel animated films, it's the continued dedication to providing a lossless 7.1 audio track. From the clash of blades, to the sound of Hulk's monstrous hand hitting the meaty cheek of Beta Ray Bill, every effect is reproduced with excellent clarity and realistic tone, deepening the impact of the on-screen violence. Likewise, the use of the surround field is extremely dynamic, as effects dance across the rear sound field and fully immerse the viewer in the environment of the arena. Two of the most profound scenes in the film depict the release of tiny flying creatures that land on victims with dire consequences. During those scenes, you'll notice the sound of the projectiles sent to every speaker in the room, but in order to fully appreciate the precision of the track, listen for the individual effects as they take turns in the collective mix. What you'll notice isn't just a unison recording of identical effects, but rather a unique spread that takes full advantage of the immersive capabilities within a home theater. These proficiencies wouldn't be possible without precise balance between various elements in the mix, which is never a concern on this production. If you consider yourself an audiophile, this is well worth your time.
Feature-Length Audio Commentaries: The first audio commentary features producer Joshua Fine and writer Greg Johnson, as they discuss the adaptation of the original comic series into a film version. The track is quite informative for anyone without knowledge of the comic, and entertaining for curious fans who'd like more information on why certain changes were made. The second audio commentary features director Sam Liu, character designer Philip Bourassa, and background designer Steve Nicodemus. I made it about halfway through this commentary and eventually lost interest, so I'd recommend you stick with the first one.
A Whole World of Hurt: The Making of Planet Hulk (1080p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 21:43 min): This production featurette goes behind the scenes with the writers, artists, and producers as they discuss almost every aspect of the film creation, including the difficulties with turning the original (lengthy) comic series into an 80 minute feature film. Anyone upset with the disappearance of Silver Surfer from a key sequence in the plotline should find at least a degree of comfort in knowing he was replaced due to legal ramifications.
Let the Smashing Commence! The Saga of Planet Hulk (1080p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 11:27 min): Writer Greg Pak and artist Aaron Lopresti delve into the history of the "Planet Hulk" story arch, and the creative process behind their collaborative effort.
Opening Sequence: Thor: Tales of Asgard (1080p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 6:14 min): I have to admit, this peek at the upcoming fantasy-based entry in the Marvel film series had me salivating (unfortunately, it's not scheduled for release until 2011).
Wolverine and the X-Men: "Wolverine vs. Hulk" Episode (480p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 21:51 min): Taking a cue from the showdown in Hulk Vs., this full-length television episode might seem an odd inclusion with the Planet Hulk feature, but it's an enjoyable inclusion nonetheless.
Spider-Woman: Agent of S.W.O.R.D. Motion Comic (480p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 10:20 min): The dark film-noir feel of this motion comic offers a wonderful sense of style, but it's a shame we're merely given a taste of what's to come.
Astonishing X-Men: Gifted Motion Comic (480p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 14:11 min): Written by Joss Whedon, this motion comic presents chapter one of the intimate comic series.
"Watch Your Step" Spider-Woman Music Video (480p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 3:09 min): The electronica-themed title song from the Spider-Woman motion comic is given the music video treatment with visuals from the series.
"Rise Up"-Astonishing X-Men Music Video (480p, Dolby Digital 2.0, 2:40 min): This hip-hop infused title song is played in music video form with clips from the X-Men motion comic series playing.
Rounding out the extras, we have a glorified commercial for several online Hulk games, a trailer for the Ultimate Alliance 2 video game, and film trailers for other Lionsgate animated films.
If you enjoyed Hulk Vs., I'm confident Planet Hulk is right up your alley. The setting is fantastic, the story engaging, and the action intense. From a technical standpoint, this is a solid Blu-ray offering, with competent visuals, a rousing audio track, and a surprisingly robust collection of value-added supplements. Don't hesitate to jump on a copy of Planet Hulk, and keep your fingers crossed for a future adaptation of 'World War Hulk'.
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2018