The Film
Love her or hate her, Madonna has dominated the music scene for over 30 years now. The Katy Perrys and Lady Gagas of the world have yet to achieve even one tenth of the success and drama this woman has seen. Even more impressive, she's just as relevant now as she was then. Except then, she had a book about Sex and had a documentary titled Madonna: Truth or Dare.
Over 20 years after the release of the documentary, this peek into Madonna's "Blonde Ambition" tour is a little dated, but also touching, annoying and interesting all at once. Now, if you aren't a fan, you probably won't care about getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse at Madonna then or now. In fact, this doc may have you throwing shoes at the screen.
For the rest, Truth or Dare offers a rare peek at an exceptional live show and all of its triumphs, tragedies, and technical difficulties. There's also a parade of famous faces, including then-beau Warren Beatty, Mandy Patinkin, Olivia Newton-John, Lionel Richie, a young Antonio Banderas, and a mulleted Kevin Costner.
The Picture
Think plastic surgery has spoiled Madonna's looks? Wait until you get a load of this Blu-ray. The theatrical release wasn't exactly stunning to look at, and this 1.85:1 transfer is keeping the tradition alive. All of the "personal" moments are in black and white, and filled with grain and flecks. If it wasn't what the filmmaker intended, it would be borderline hideous. That said, it doesn't make for a good-looking Blu-ray, either. Color footage of Madonna performing live is slightly better, but just doesn't offer the detail you'd want or expect from such an animated live production.
The Sound
Thankfully, the lone DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track fares much better. The dialogue is a bit on the low side, and you may find yourself reaching for the remote on a few occasions. The track shines during the film's concert scenes. It's too bad that there isn't more music, but it's definitely enjoyable during the multiple full-length songs and other snippets.
The Extras
Lionsgate seems to have forgotten a little something here. At the bare minimum, viewers should expect the extra footage and other production tidbits included in the VHS and DVD releases of Madonna: Truth or Dare. However, the Blu-ray only has a pair of trailers and nothing more.
Final Thoughts
Fans probably won't care much about the bad image and adequate audio for Madonna: Truth or Dare. The lack of extras is another story, though. It's a major disappointment, as is this Blu-ray release.
Product Details
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