‘Sniper: The White Raven’ Blu-Ray Review – Ukrainian Action-Drama Keeps You On The Edge Of Your Seat

Based on a true story: After suffering a senseless tragedy at the hand of invading soldiers in the Donbas region in 2014, a former Ukrainian physics teacher renounces his peaceful way of life and seeks revenge. Upon joining the military and earning a coveted spot as a sniper, he sets his sights on an elite Russian sniper whose elimination could change the tide of the conflict.

For thoughts on Sniper: The White Raven, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic: 

[youtube https://youtu.be/PFO623ljMjw?t=278]

Video Quality

Sniper: The White Raven comes to Blu-Ray with a stunning AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.39:1. This film has few pops of color within its icy blue palette that bathes most of the film, but some hues stand out more than others. Everything appears natural and quite vibrant when it comes to nature and certain elements of the clothing and production design. The transfer shows off with its impressive level of detail in even the smallest aspects like the interior of Mykola’s makeshift house. Elements such as facial features and the texture of the uniforms are quite impressive. The picture is mostly clear with only brief instances of murkiness during a few darker scenes. Black levels are solid in their depth, even in shadow. The film sports some striking cinematography which is showcased pretty well here. Overall, this is quite a formidable transfer. 

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray disc comes with a nuanced DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio presentation in the original Ukrainian that handles the action incredibly well. There is also an English dub in the same format which we would avoid for artistic integrity. Sounds are balanced well during the more active sequences, but with this being a sniper film the intensity of the action is more toned down compared to some combat films. The shooting scenes and other such kinetic moments provide a notable amount of activity in the low end. The track provides an expert level immersion into the environment so that even the most subtle elements are represented. Directionality of sound is not an issue with this track, and dialogue is reproduced with clarity. The audio presentation is just as great as the visual one. Optional English subtitles are provided. 

Special Features

• Trailers: This disc provides the two-minute trailer for Sniper: The White Raven. There are also trailers for Preman: Silent Fury, They Crawl Beneath and Baby Assassins. 

Final Thoughts

Sniper: The White Raven is an effective action-drama which may lean a bit heavy into nationalism on behalf of the Ukraine, but the movie is so well crafted that you can forgive it. The film is very deliberate in the way it gets you connected with the character before he becomes more of a symbol of retribution. The action scenes are very well staged and appropriately reserved given the weapon of choice. Well Go USA has released a Blu-Ray with an excellent A/V presentation and not much in the way of special features. If you want a film that is both timely in its geopolitical messaging while staying very entertaining, this one is worth your time. Recommended 

Sniper: The White Raven is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray, DVD and Digital. 

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Well Go USA Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.