Video: How Does the Disc Look?

You really can't go wrong with this 2.40:1 1080p transfer. The film's color palette is represented marvelously, with both saturated hues and skin tones coming through sharply, and black levels are deep and absolutely rock-solid throughout. Small object detail is impressive, and finely detailed textures are broadcast with punchy acuity. And there is no compression artifacting to mention at all, nor are there noticeable edge halos or evidences of black crush. In looking for flaws in presentation here, I found a handful of brighter shots that manifested a degree of banding, but everywhere else one turns in terms of this transfer is solid ground. Excellent.

Audio: How Does the Disc Sound?

Say what you will about Watchmen aesthetically, but this DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio sound mix is the kind of raucous, balls-to-the-wall track that would convince even the most devout BD detractors that a lossless audio presence can magnify a film's impact exponentially. Dialogue - whether hushed or screamed - has been recorded and presented flawlessly, atmospherics not only flush out front and center channels but creep into surrounds to wondrous effect, and effects throb through all six channels here with finesse. Yet what is most impressive about this extraordinary sound mix is its music. Both Tyler Bates' symphonic score and the copious amounts of pop and rock songs that permeate the film's soundtrack are presented with stunning clarity and aural heft (it's a testament to the prowess of the film's sound mixers that a delicate Simon and Garfunkel track can be as sonically impressive as a six-minute action scene).

A French Dolby Digital 5.1 mix is also included, as are English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles.