"The Courier" is the story of a female motorcycle courier (Kurylenko) who is hired to unknowingly deliver a poision-gas bomb to slay a man named Nick (Mulroney). But after she rescues Nick from certain death, the duo must fight off a sadistic crime boss (Oldman) and an army of ruthless hired killers in order to protect the one witness that can bring them down. (Gary Reber)
Special features include commentary with Director/Writer/Executive Producer Zackary Adler and Producer/Writer/Composer James Edward Barker, the trailer, upfront previews and a digital copy.
The 2.39:1 1080p AVC picture, reviewed on a Sony Bravia Z9D 4K Ultra HD HDR display, upconverted to 2160p with greater resolution and luminance, was photographed digitally and sourced from a 2K master Digital Intermediate format. The picture is satisfying, especially Manning's living quarters. The underground garage in which a lot of the action takes place exhibits a grungy, damp, concrete appearance spotted with various cars with vivid color. Color fidelity is naturally hued and saturated. Reds are particularly strong. Contrast is generally good and well balanced with deep, solid blacks and good shadow delineation. Resolution is a bit soft at times, though, close-ups fair better, rendering facial features more vividly. Overall, this is an enjoyable visual experience. (Gary Reber)
The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack is dynamic sounding with intense automatic gunfire and pistol fire. The body fights and punches are enhanced with bass transients for impact. The orchestral score plays more as a background element. Though when excited, the music extends aggressively to the surround and occupies a wide soundstage. Deep bass is foundational in the music and enhances the action sequences. Sound effects are prevalent throughout with not only gunfire but military-grade firepower and explosions, along with helicopter sounds. Sound effects are panned and directionally positioned. At times, surround envelopment is effectively aggressive. Dialogue is intelligible but at times a bit chesty in tone. Otherwise, spatial integration is realistic. Overall, this is a satisfying sonic experience. (Gary Reber)