Based on the hit podcast from Wondery, Dr. Death tells the shocking true story of Dr. Christopher Duntsch (Joshua Jackson), a seemingly bright, young neurosurgeon with a thriving medical practice. But all is not as it seems. When a growing number of Dr. Duntsch’s defenseless patients end up permanently maimed or worse, two fellow physicians, neurosurgeons Robert Henderson (Alec Baldwin) and vascular surgeon Randall Kirby (Christian Slater), attempt to stop him before he causes any more harm.
For thoughts on Dr. Death, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
[youtube https://youtu.be/aZzGzUFbAHY?si=IdLHyk-ED_nFJY9T&t=3434]
Video Quality
Dr. Death arrives on Blu-Ray with a great AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original aspect ratio of 2.00:1. The cinematography of streaming shows always seems a bit more impressive than their network counterparts, and the series looks quite pleasing throughout the eight episodes. The color palette leans slightly cool with some instances of vibrant hues popping off the screen thanks to the clothing and production design. Highlights stay firm without giving into bloom, and black levels are incredibly deep which allows for an excellent amount of detail in shadows. Skin tones appear natural across the entire cast throughout the run. The detail in this presentation is a standout, as all of the minute facets of the production design are easily distinguishable. There are no unsightly instances of aliasing or compression artifacts detectable in this transfer. The Blu-Ray presentation is a first-rate experience for audiences.
Audio Quality
This Blu-Ray comes with a perfectly executed DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track that fully realizes the environment. Dialogue always comes through clearly without being stepped on by the score or any sound effects. This is not a very action-driven show, so activity in the low end only shows off when it needs to. Ambient sounds are carefully placed in the rear channels in a way that really sells the experience. One of the underrated aspects of this series is the complementary music. This work perfectly establishes an atmosphere for the story, and it creates a nicely enveloping soundscape that draws you further into the show. The audio presentation from Universal will not let you down. There are English SDH subtitles provided.
Special Features
There are no special features provided on this disc.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Death feels somewhat familiar within the true crime onslaught that has emerged in the past decade, but it does a fine job of effectively getting to the horror of this particular individual. Some may find themselves frustrated by the lack of insight we get into the titular monster, but the act of not completely humanizing his actions is far more appropriate and chilling. The pacing throughout the season is a bit inconsistent and struggles to justify the need for eight hour-long episodes, but the strength of the ensemble keeps this one engaging even in the slower points. Universal Home Entertainment has released a new Blu-Ray with a great A/V presentation but nothing in the way of special features. If you are not sick of true-crime dramatizations, this one is pretty solid. Recommended
Dr. Death can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or through various other online retailers.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Universal Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this set free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
