Is It Worth It? (Blu Ray Review)
Tate | 09/23/2010
(4 out of 5 stars)
"There's no denying that "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" is a classic. 40+ years later and it's still one of the greatest Halloween shows to watch.
For hardcore fans, this HD release is an easy buy. However, if you're a budget shopper like myself, there is no doubt one big question worth asking - is this release worth $20? As you know, The Great Pumpkin is a 25 minute short, and the only other features on this BD is another semi-charming episode of Peanuts called "It's Magic, Charlie Brown" and a brief documentary on the making of Great Pumpkin. All features combined, there is maybe an hour of video on this BD.
So let's talk about the picture quality, since that's what it is really all about. The Charlie Brown cartoons aren't especially known for striking and glossy colors, but they do occur, and especially on this release. Between the fall leaves, Halloween costumes, and Snoopy's famous Red Baron scene, there are lots of chances for 1080p to sparkle in the Great Pumpkin. And, for the most part, it does.
Since I rented this, I don't own a DVD copy of the release for side-by-side comparisons, I have many fond memories of watching this short, and I will have to say the picture quality looks nice. I wouldn't call the quality unbelievable or jaw dropping, but without a doubt it is better than any generation has ever seen. Likewise with the audio - definitely not something to push your subwoofer to the limit, but the DTS-HD 5.1 soundtrack is a wonderful ode to the beautiful jazzy piano notes of Vince Guaraldi.
My overall opinion is that, while this is a fantastic film, if you need to budget your blu ray spending no one is going to call you a sinner for merely renting this BD. If, however, The Great Pumpkin is very dear to your heart and no price tag can keep you from it, rest assured that you will not be getting ripped off. The quality of the transfer is very impressive and it is clear some pains were made when putting together release. Many, I imagine, will feel like they're watching it for the first time."