I've been through quite a few bluray releases, and I guess at this point, as my library expands, I get jaded about what to expect out of a BD release.  That's a good thing.  As more and more releases come out, the more I expect from them.  The harder it is for me to see a release and say to friends "This is a release you must own".

I picked up Sin City yesterday, as a cheap buy for a film I enjoyed.   To me, a bluray is best judged by how it presents it's signature title, the film itself.  And this Bluray accomplishes something that I can't remember ever before.  As I watched the BD, I had the first experience I've ever had with a home theater.. the experience and quality of the BD presentation of the video is significantly better then the way I remember this in a theater.  Not somewhat better, significantly better.

Video Quality

Sin City is a film set mostly in greyscale, with the use of color to draw attention to people, things and items.  This splash of color in a greyscale world is something I always found impressive.  But on BD, it's shocking.  The transitions of grey and color are an absolute masterwork of art.  I watched this twice since purchasing; once on my home HD, and the second time, projected up on my inflatable, a nice 20' screen.   Most films look the wear at a projected length, but this film absolutely destroys expectations.   There are reference scenes here that need to be viewed repeatedly to appreciate how strong the picture quality is.. at 1:36:18 in, as Hardigan walks through the snow may be one of those moments that you just have to catch your breath for the "wow" factor.  There is NO other BD I have ever seen that is not animated that has this kind of look.  None.

Audio Quality

Mixed in 5.1, the film manages to make good use of all audio channels without overdoing it.  The rear channels are not overused, but when they are used, they make solid effect.  The audio sounds alive, making all of the effects sound overstated, from the spin of a gun barrel to the heavy clank of a door.  As bullets wiz by you, the sound plays out the story.

Extras

The film has a great collection of extras, ranging from animated comics to events to other mixes and edits of the film.  It will probably take me weeks of time to go through the extras, which frankly, I don't have but in samples.  But there is a ton fo stuff here.. with some real stand outs.  This is the kind of disc I can sit on a shelf and come back to in a few months and come back to and still be surprised.


Final Summary:

Yes, this is a violent, agressive film that will not appeal to some based on the content.  But if you are looking for a reference video disc to show off what can be done with new look live action on BD, Sin City may fit the bill.  This may be one of the stand out