The Film
Last week, Disney shuffled out four new Blu-ray releases. However, not everything the studio produces gets one of Disney's coveted Diamond editions. For some of the studio's less popular films, Disney does its best, combining the theatrical release with the film's direct-to-video sequel. Such is the case with the Brother Bear/Brother Bear 2: 2-Movie Collection.
The original Brother Bear is a sweet, sad story. In fact, I found myself watching, welling up with tears and wondering why Disney must expose young (and old) viewers to death so often. It's a bummer, man. And Brother Bear has plenty of it. After losing his brother (D.B Sweeney) to an incident involving a bear, Kenai (Joaquin Phoenix) stalks and kills that very same bear. However, the Spirits don't take too kindly to that, transforming Kenai into a bear so he can experience the world through those big brown eyes (and paws).
In between all of the sadness (and there's plenty beyond what I've described), Brother Bear has a beautiful story and even a few teachable moments. It also has Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas using their Bob and Doug McKenzie voices for a pair of moose -- and who could hate that?
Brother Bear 2 has Patrick Dempsey taking over for Phoenix, but brings back Moranis and Thomas and adds in a ton of other famous voices -- most notably fellow SCTV alumni Andrea Martin and Catherine O'Hara. However, the subject matter just isn't enjoyable. This time, Kenai encounters childhood friend Nita (Mandy Moore), who needs to burn the amulet he gave her years ago, so she can marry. Confused? Imagine being a kid. They may enjoy seeing the characters again, but this one just doesn't have the same Disney magic as its predecessor.
The Picture
Brother Bear starts off in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio, with black bars on all sides. Once Kenai becomes a bear, the image goes to 2.35:1. It's sort of annoying at first, but once the switch is made, you'll get it. That change will also help viewers to appreciate this Blu-ray a lot more. Those opening scenes are nice, but also sort of dim. It just doesn't have the pop that you'd expect from a fairly recent Disney movie. Once the image goes wide, the colors get a little lighter, the images are a little sharper and the overall experience is more enjoyable.
Like most direct-to-video sequels, the animation on Brother Bear 2 just doesn't measure up to its predecessor. If you can get past that, know that this is one of the better-looking follow-ups I've seen from Disney's recent releases. The colors pop and the detail makes it an overall decent viewing experience.
The Sound
For a movie that takes place in the wild and has bears, the original film's DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track seems sort of mellow. It's a shame that Disney didn't make it more of an immersive experience. Dialogue is always clear and centered, but the surrounds are pretty much reserved for Phil Collins and the film's overall score.
Melissa Etheridge, Dave Metzger, Josh Kelley and Robbie Nevil make up most of the music for Brother Bear 2 -- as well as most of what you're getting in the surrounds during this movie. While most of the action sticks up front, a few echoes and effects do make it through the soundfield, which adds a bit of ambience.
The Extras
Final Thoughts
It's certainly not the best that Disney has to offer, but Brother Bear is a sweet enough movie. Kids will love the animation and the cuddly characters. Some of the subject matter may be a little sad for the audience, but shouldn't be much of a surprise to Disney fans. The sequel is sort of a throwaway addition, but the original film and its overall package make the Brother Bear: 2-Movie Collection worth picking up.
Product Details
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