Baraka (Blu-ray)

(MPI Home Video, 10.28.2008)

Seeing this globe-spanning 70mm feature by Ron Fricke (DP and co-editor of Godfrey Reggio’s similarly non-verbal/non-narrative doc Koyaanisqatsi) in high-def yields new appreciation for its montage of moving images. Baraka goes way beyond the limits of mere travelogue, offering a reflection on nature, culture and spirituality unlike any other. This disc also highlights Fricke’s distinctive voice as a director, cinematographer and editor, each more remarkable here than in Reggio’s superb, yet preachier, Qatsi trilogy. The only thing lacking is an iconic Philip Glass score (in his place, we have fantastic -- if slightly dated -- work by Michael Stearns).

This MPI release boasts some of the most impressive high-def visuals to date. For a film that’s all about seeing, one couldn’t walk away more satisfied. As for extras, we get two: an extremely comprehensive making-of that runs nearly as long as the feature itself and a techie featurette discussing the film’s most recent restoration for DVD and Blu-ray. Though the one hundred percent recyclable cardboard packaging seems appropriate considering the nature (pun intended) of the film, it is extremely delicate and doesn't protect the disc as well as you might hope (a more traditional, environmentally unfriendly version is also available).

Baraka is an experiential wonder that merits a purchase for those who hold even the slightest interest in visual excellence, not to mention potent, inventive filmmaking. Anyone not hoping for Michael Bay caliber home entertainment -- or a film about the Mortal Kombat character -- should clear some shelf space immediately. -- Neil Karassik