SONY has released the latest "Gerard Butler" film of the week, "THE UGLY TRUTH."  All kidding aside, he does do a lot of films, and is less picky about some than others. But, hey, Hugh Jackman did "WOLVERINE" and "Australia" in a relatively short amount of time, and how awful were those!  "THE UGLY TRUTH" received mostly negative criticism during its theatrical release, and some of it was due to Heigl's criticism of the depictions of the female gender in her own film, "KNOCKED UP," while overlooking a less than sensitive portrayal of women in "THE UGLY TRUTH." Well, the criticism may be valid to some extent, but it can be reasonably argued that "THE UGLY TRUTH" is a much better film than the overrated, often disgusting "KNOCKED UP."

Heigl, looks as beautiful as ever, and one of the few actresses out there, who has aged in a way that compliments rather than surprises those familiar with her even younger years of beauty in such films as "KING OF THE HILL" and "MY FATHER THE HERO." The statement might not seem relative to some, but let's face it, there are plenty of guys who either go or are dragged by their girlfriends to films marketed like "THE UGLY TRUTH," without putting up too much resistance, simply because, "at least the main actress looks pretty hot!"

Heigl plays "Abby," a career-minded producer, overcoming hourly obstacles to her regular tv show, and not having the time or willpower to try finding the right guy for a meaningful relationship.  When Abby's employer hires Mike, the crude but amiable, host of a successful public access series, "THE UGLY TRUTH," the network ratings begin to hit the ceiling. Unfortunately, even this new "sure-fire" success causes tension for Abby, as she's disgusted with his brutishly honest but worrisome advice offered to viewers on women and relationships, and the fear that if she gets interested in someone, Mike's assessment of men and their true nature will ruin any chance at meaningful bliss. So, when Abby does meet a guy who floors her, Mike is willing to offer his expertise, assuring her, if his advice is followed, she'll have her newfound attraction committed to her. An agreement is struck wherein if Mike's advice succeeds, Abby promises to let him do his show as he deems fit, and if the advice fails, he'll leave the network. A win-win!  Incredibly or even somewhat original? No. However, "THE UGLY TRUTH" stands out above many other "romantic comedies" by the way it doesn't apologize for what's expected, while still throwing in a fair share of bawdy, even if semi-telegraphed laughs.  It never pretends to be deep or sweet. It doesn't offer the false "wit" of "KNOCKED UP" or sudden patronizing moments of undeserving but intended sweetness of "AMERICAN PIE."  "THE UGLY TRUTH" is neither deep or sweet, but it's entertaining!

SONY has provided the correct 2.40:1 aspect ratio for this 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 blu-ray.  It's a stunning image in every way! Colors are deep and natural, even when veering towards the manufactured design associative of a romantic comedy. The depth of virtually every scene jumps off the screen, making the sheer pleasure of how great the film looks, overshadow some of the obvious flaws of the plot.  Contrast is also impressive, with deep, inky blacks, maintaining detail in darker scenes. The slight grain that exists also gives "THE UGLY TRUTH" the kind of beautiful film-like transfer one hopes for, but doesn't always find on blu-ray!

SONY has provided a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix.  Being a comedy, it mostly replicates the limited design of the genre, with emphasis on dialogue. However, whenever the soundtrack's songs play, a highly entertaining and immersive quality is at hand! A great range of bass as well as high end notes is showcased during these moments with sensational fidelity. The ambient effects taking place in other scenes, while minor, are still engaging. 

Along with the ability to transfer the digital copy provided in this release from a Sony PS3 to a PSP system(never available before!), extras include a commentary with the film's producer and director for various scenes, deleted and alternate scenes(all 1080p), a gag reel, alternate endings, and much more. Also, BD-LIVE availability in ones' player, allows for bios of cast and crew, movie trailers and more!