The Mummy Blu-ray

The Mummy is one of Universal’s most valued properties—it has been released in countless configurations—and it’s a fine kick-off title for the formerly HD DVD-only studio’s entrance into Blu-ray. The CGI-filled film looks good in its new high-def format—the colors are vibrant but natural and not overly saturated. The DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround mix blows away the Dolby Digital track that was on last year’s HD DVD release, making the frequent sandstorms and runaround scarabs sound all the more effective. The new edition contains all the bonus features on the HD DVD (all presented in standard-definition), adding a picture-in-picture option using the studio’s branded U-Control feature. Most of the PIP material is from the aforementioned standard-def features, but there’s also some new material, which is a sign that Universal is enthusiastic about its Blu-ray future.

Shelf Talk: The Mummy is popular with F/X lovers and early tech adoptors, so be prepared for an enthusiastic reception for this one, as well as the Blu-ray editions of The Mummy Returns and The Scorpion King, which also are being released. This all preceeds the August theatrical release of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor.