Description
1n 1972, a scale of measurement was established for alien encounters. When a UFO is sighted, it is called an encounter of the first kind. When evidence is collected, it is known as an encounter of the second kind. When contact is made with extraterrestrials, it is the third kind. The next level, abduction, is the fourth kind. This encounter has been the most difficult to document-until now. Set in modern-day Nome, Alaska, where–mysteriously since the 1960s–a disproportionate number of the population has been reported missing every year. Despite multiple FBI investigations of the region, the truth has never been discovered. Here in this remote region, psychologist Dr. Abigail Tyler began videotaping sessions with traumatized patients and unwittingly discovered some of the most disturbing evidence of alien abduction ever documented.
Codec: VC-1 (29.53 Mbps)
Resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 2.35:1
Original aspect ratio: 2.39:1
Audio
French: DTS 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit)
Spanish: DTS 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit)
Subtitles
Us –
**Review of “The Fourth Kind Blu-ray”**
**The Good:**
1. **A Daring Concept**: At its core, “The Fourth Kind” plays with the fine line between fiction and reality, creating a unique blend of dramatization and purported “real” footage. It’s an innovative approach that brings an element of “is this real?” to the viewing experience.
2. **Sound Design**: The film’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is genuinely harrowing. From the deep rumble of the LFE during alien encounters to the unsettling noises meant to unnerve, the audio is a character in itself. It plays a significant role in setting the atmosphere, especially in scenes that aim to shock or horrify the viewer.
3. **Visuals**: While the film does purposefully mix high-quality visuals with intentionally degraded “archival” footage, its 1080p/VC-1 transfer on Blu-ray is commendable. The “dramatized” sequences are rich in detail, with solid color representation and impressive blacks.
**The Not-So-Good:**
1. **Narrative Discrepancies**: While the concept is daring, it’s not perfectly executed. The film suffers from a few subplots that complicate the storyline unnecessarily, distracting from the central plot. The attempt to intertwine the death of Dr. Tyler’s husband and her relationship with her children makes the story feel a bit cluttered.
2. **Predictable Plot Points**: Despite its novel approach to storytelling, many of the film’s twists and turns can be seen coming. Its reliance on jump scares and common alien abduction tropes may leave seasoned sci-fi or horror fans wanting more.
**Conclusion:**
“The Fourth Kind” is terrifying. It has an audacious premise, blending dramatization with “real” footage, which might appeal to those who love found footage films or are intrigued by alien abduction stories. The audio and visual quality of the Blu-ray is noteworthy, providing an engrossing experience. However, the film’s narrative complications and the Blu-ray’s lack of substantial special features might not make it a must-own for everyone. It’s a film that will surely divide opinion. Some will admire its audacity, while others might find it too gimmicky. A rental might be the safest bet to determine where you stand on this one. If you’re in the mood for a different kind of thriller, “The Fourth Kind” might just be worth a spin.