Journey to the Center of the Earth Blu-ray

The summer hit comes to Blu-ray in both 2D and 3D versions, along with a bunch of extras. Journey is the first live-action film to be shot in digital 3D, and though the overall results are acceptable, the striking colors and general vibrancy we expect from Blu-ray releases were lacking. More disappointing is the Dolby Digital audio track. In a movie filled with subterranean action sequences that feature roaring water, shattering rocks and hissing creatures, lossless audio support should have been utilized. Maybe the studio didn’t think the target younger audience would notice, but as more titles are issued with state-of-the-art audio tracks, they soon will.

Shelf Talk: This fun adventure has built-in appeal to those who’ve seen the 1959 original and its many remakes, those who’ve read the Jules Verne novel upon which it is based and those curious about a 3D film in high-def. The 3D gimmick will appeal to kids, who will enjoy wearing the red/green glasses as dinosaurs and volcanic rocks fly off the screen.