Jet Li stars as a warrior with no name in "HERO," released on blu-ray from BUENA VISTA.  The warrior has received a very rare audience with the Emperor, while detailing as to how he killed three of the most feared assassins in the empire. As these tales are recounted in flashback, the audience and Emperor have reason to question aspects of his tale. And, with each description this warrior inevitably draws closer and closer to the Emperor, possibly with an ulterior motive, which is soon revealed.

While there's beautiful imagery and a creative unfolding of the narrative, it will undoubtedly become trying for even the most patient viewer at times. Well directed, acted and shot, "HERO" provides many moments of cinematic awe. However, even with a rousing ending and compelling moments, it's not as thoroughly entertaining as "CURSE OF THE GOLDEN FLOWER" and other films from the same director.

BUENA VISTA has provided the correct 2.35:1 aspect ratio for this 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 blu-ray. Blues, reds and greens are vibrant and deep, complimenting the staggering cinematography. Contrast is always impressive, making the darker scenes appear notably better than the dvd version. However, detail, as impressive as it is, still fails to blow away the viewer as often as one expects a blu-ray of this kind of film to do. Better than previous dvd offerings, but not up there with the best reference quality blu-ray offerings of BUENA VISTA.

BUENA VISTA has provided a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix for the English dubbed version, and only a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix for the original Mandarin mix. This choice should rightfully annoy film lovers, as one would think those who've gravitated towards blu-ray, are more open to the concept and appreciation of viewing and hearing  the "original" film in its original or best representation of its original presentation. While both mixes offer plenty of directional, surround and bass effects, the lossy "dubbed" mix offers a more immersive experience in virtually every scene.

Extras, all in standard resolution, include: a behind-the-scenes documentary, a short conversation with Quentin Tarantino, storyboards and a featurette exploring some of the fight sequences.