Major studios have really blundered with the way they’ve handled “blu-ray3d” and it’s questionable as to whether they’re even trying to sabotage any potential for it.

Releasing very few “blu-ray3d” titles, all over-priced, and many only being available as part of an expensive, select manufacturer agreement wherein the title, say, “HOW TO TRAIN A DRAGON,” is “only” available with the purchase of a “bundle pack” promotion, costing over $300.00 with “2” active blu-ray 3d glasses, that will “only” work with a specific brand of 3dtv, and…..well, does that sound logical, or like something remotely trying to encourage consumers to buy? Or, …to wait?  

With that said, occasionally, there is a blu-ray3d release which restores the passion for its potential, at least with this reviewer.  The new blu-ray 3d release of “TANGLED” from DISNEY, is one such case.

“TANGLED” opens up by providing the background to how “Rapunzel” and her hair problem came to be.  An elderly woman, Gothel, has harnessed the magical powers of a flower to regain her youth. When the Reigning queen of the kingdom takes ill during pregnancy, the magical qualities of the flower save her and allows for the birth of her daughter, Rapunzel.  Because of the flower’s use, its restorative qualities are now part of Rapunzel’s hair. Seeing this, Gothel kidnaps the girl, locking her away in a tower, forcing her to grow her hair, better ensuring availability of its magical components, when needed.  Years later, Rapunzel is now approaching her 18^th birthday, and yearning to break free of her confinement, and to see first-hand, what the beautiful lights appearing in the distance, on her birthday are all about.

Actually, the lights are part of a yearly vigil for the missing princess and of the love shared for her.  Conveniently, a dashing thief, Flynn Rider, on the lam from authorities pursuing him, has sought to use the tower wherein Rapunzel is trapped, as a hideout.  Sensing an opportunity, by using her new visitor as a way to escape, she knocks Flynn out and hides him from Gothel, but not before hiding the priceless, stolen Tiara she finds upon him. When Flynn awakens Rapunzel strikes a deal to give him back the Tiara if he helps her break free from the tower. 

It’s not an overly complicated story and easy to see where the story will go, as with the relationships, but that’s part of what makes a fairy tale, timeless. And, the clever writing, voice talents, and design of the film make it even more pleasing and retain great entertainment value on repeated viewings. 

The animation is “FANTASTIC!”  But, just as crucial, it isn’t just a means overshadow any hidden problems with the story. The script and characters are given a real semblance of depth, in spite of it being just a simple fairy tale. Characters relate to one another with a sense of understanding and not just one-liners. There’s a real heart to “TANGLED,” and while some may mistakenly think it will appeal only to young girls, the boys(7-12) watching it, liked it just as much as ladies, (young and old!)

DISNEY has really made a strong case for blu-ray3d potential with what’s been presented here! From the opening sequence, relating the background of the magical flower and Rapunzel’s birth and relation to Gothel, a stunning sense of depth is more of the focus than the often-used gimmick of things jumping off the screen without rhyme or reason.  When those “gimmicky” effects do occur, they actually enhance the fun of a scene, rather than just serve to exploit 3d, as in the case of Rapunzel’s hair shooting endlessly onto the viewer! Rarely, has the 3d process been used with the “fun” results achieved here. “THAT” is what’s key about this release!  Sure, some blu-ray3d titles have demonstrated great depth, but seldom do they take the viewer to that next level, where one truly enjoys the format’s integral part of the story they’re taking part in as a viewer.

DISNEY has provided the correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio for this AVC MPEG-4 encoded 1080p blu-ray.  Colors are vibrant throughout. While many scenes can veer towards warmer colors, even darker scenes convey a unique richness to them and colors never dull. Detail is flawless, heightening the innovative design for the animated characters. Sure, Rapunzel is Barbie-doll like in her beauty, but she looks more real than most animated characters, due to the stylized look of her eyes! Every component to every scene is utilized with great care to convey a depth-filled environment. Again, while some gags work better than others, “TANGLED” never looks dull! The “3d” process and current limitations inherently make for a darker look than when viewing the film in 2d. Still, the darkest scenes here, sport such deep blacks, the diminished brightness of a 3d image, is virtually undetectable.

DISNEY has provided a DTS-HD MA 7.1 mix.  That’s right, “7.1” and, WOW! Disney really uses all the speaker channels to realize the full immersive potential of this lossy mix. While surrounds are rarely passive, side and front channels are given a lot of responsibility in carrying out sequences well-designed to show off the creative minds behind the film.  Whether it’s the sound of water, a gentle nuanced effect, or an all-out chase scene, “TANGLED” offers an exciting listening environment, raising the bar for what future “7.1” lossy mixes can do to create a great experience.

DISNEY hasn’t thrown in a ton of extras, however, there are some extras found on the “2D” blu-ray disc within this “Blu-ray3d” combo pack. 

These extras included over 10 minutes of deleted scenes(2d, remember!)in full 1080p. Younger viewers aren’t likely to take interest in these, as they’re unfinished sketches, rather than completed scenes.

The directors also introduce alternative “storybook” openings for the film.

An extra to promote the immense volume of Disney animated films, is surprisingly short, at just over 2 minutes in total.

“UNTANGLED” is a “making of” featurette, providing a tour behind the design of the film, effects and more, with main actors Zachary Levi and Mandy Moore.

There are some other extras offered, in addition to a Digital copy and dvd disc. So, blu-ray3d, regular blu-ray, dvd and digital copy, at pricing that is pretty competitive at various online sights, make this a must-have for anyone owning a blu-ray 3d entertainment center.