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Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn (2012/Blu-ray/Microsoft Films)" Review

Synopsis: In 2525, as mankind has begun to colonize space, a group of cadets are training to fight against human insurrectionists. One of these cadets, Thomas Lasky, has doubts about his abilities as a soldier and his convictions for this war. Whilst he struggles with himself, the planet is invaded by an unknown alien race. Reeling under the assault, Lasky and his squad mates are rescued by John-117, one of the UNSC's legendary SPARTAN-II super-soldiers. John must inspire Lasky to fulfill his potential as a soldier and a leader to fight against an enemy deadlier than any that humanity has faced before.

Review: With a cast of little or not know actors, Forward Unto Dawn shows us that a live action mini-series/movie of a video game is not only possible, but can be great and soulful. Choosing to follow a group of cadets training to become ODST, we get to see how humanity has developed in the future and giving the Halo series a human touch. Throughout the beginning of the movie, it has a feel like you are watching what could be a real life behind the scenes military documentary. Every action scene show the chaos and horror of battle, instead of an over the top Hollywood firefight. Even ignoring that it's a Halo Film, it shines by showing the struggle that many soldiers have face, where does the line where military duty and morality meet. I can whole heartedly say that this is a must own for any Halo fan.
Being a lower budget web series, the transfer to Blu-Ray is surprisingly impressive. The picture is crisp with just enough film grain, a movie I'd recommend using to show off the difference between Blu-Ray and DVD. Balancing between dialog and sound effects is one of the best I've ever heard, unlike a lot of movies where you go between having trouble hearing anyone talking and being deafened by a sudden explosion. As for special feature, I can easily say that this movie has the best I have seen thus far. It has more than what you'd expect to find without any unnecessary padding. Every feature is relevant and worth watching. I was most impressed by the multiple commentary tracks, the recruitment video for the UNSC, and best of all a live action Red vs. Blue PSA.
Picture: 5/5 Audio: 5/5 Special Feature: 5/5 Movie: 5/5 

-Drew Lovecraft

Director: Stewart Hendler
Genre: Action/Drama
Blu-ray/DVD Release Year: 2012
Theatrical Release Year: 2012
Time Length: 90 mins.
Company: Microsoft Films
Website: www.microsoft.com