DVD Corner's blog

The Salvation Blu-ray Review

While it holds your interest, “The Salvation” is a standard revenge western.

After the war of 1864, former soldiers/Danish brothers (Peter and Jon) travel to America with the hope of making a new life for themselves. The story jumps ahead to 1871 where Jon’s wife and child travel from his homeland to America. Unfortunately, the family reunin is short lived after Jon’s wife and child are horrifically murdered. Jon swiftly kills the man responsible (Paul) but his actions have some major consequences. Unbeknownst to Jon, Paul’s brother is a cold blooded killer (Henry) who essentially terrorizes the town Henry frequents. As you can probably imagine, Jon has to try and avoid death after being marked by Henry. “The Salvation” also contains two other major subplots involving land money and Paul’s wife being controlled by Henry.

While it’s always a treat to see a western film in the modern era of cinema, it’s a shame “The Salvation” didn’t amount to more. Not only does the brutally violent movie have a very thin revenge story, but it’s entirely predictable. It almost feels as if writers Anders Thomas Jensen and Kristian Levring took every cliché in the western film world and compiled them together for his screenplay. The film simply doesn’t bring anything new to the table.

Luckily, the cast elevates the mediocre material. Mads Mikkelsen continues his rise to super stardom as the character of Jon. Is there anything this actor can’t do? Even though Eva Green doesn’t speak a single word, she commands the screen as per usual. Perhaps the most surprising cast inclusion is Eric Cantona (yes, the famous soccer player). He doesn’t have much to do, but he’s convincing in his role. Last, but not least is Jeffrey Dean Morgan who plays the film’s nasty central baddie Henry. JDM nails the role and further shows his range as an actor.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.40:1 1080p. How does it look? Awful CGI aside, the fantastic cinematography shines in 1080p

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? While not as good as you’d imagine, it’s still a solid track nonetheless.

Extras include IFC Films trailers, a trailer for “The Salvation,” 45 minutes of interviews with Mads Mikkelsen, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Douglas Henshall, Eva Green, Nanna Oland Fabricius, Anders Thomas Jensen, and a collection of short behind the scenes featurette that covers discussions about westerns, weaponry, horses, cigar, and sets. Set footage and behind-the-scenes clips are also included in the behind the scenes extra.

August 28, 2015 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen, The Salvation Blu-ray Review