While many network shows do not have what it takes to keep the average person glued to their television week after week, The Blacklist over on NBC has been quietly chugging along for eight seasons now with a dedicated fan base. Originally premiering in 2013, the show began with the premise of internationally-known criminal Raymond “Red” Reddington (James Spader) turning himself over to the FBI with the promise of helping them catch other dangerous criminals via his titular list. His only condition was that he receive immunity and work exclusively with rookie FBI profiler Elizabeth Keen (Megan Boone). Of course, the mystery of why Red was so interested in this particular young agent is what hooked audiences initially, but over the years many secrets have been revealed and various alliances have been formed and demolished while keeping some mysteries evergreen. The most enduring question for many seasons is, who is Raymond Reddington, really?
In this latest season, there is at least some hope that some of the biggest questions might be answered. For those who do not keep up to date on television news I will be vague, but there was an announcement near the end of this season that a key performer would be leaving the show, which was coupled with the announcement that series creator Jon Bokenkamp would also be leaving after eight seasons. When you have such a clear sense of finality on the horizon, fans kind-of expect some closure before we say goodbye. As with many currently-airing shows, COVID messed up the end of the shortened seventh season of The Blacklist, but the crew was able to deliver a serviceable finale with the help of some supplemental animation. We begin this newest season with Liz once again at odds with Red. She wants to know the truth, even if that means she has to work with Katarina Rostova (Laila Robins) to plot against him. Meanwhile Reddington is trying to keep his perfectly curated grand plan on the rails in the face of an increasingly uncertain fate.
For those who are a fan of the Liz and Red relationship, this season can be a tough one to watch as Liz seeks out all of Red’s enemies in an attempt to gain leverage against him. You know that Liz is hurting after the various revelations that have rocked her world, but you wish there was an easier way to get the answers she needs. There is an interesting dynamic when Liz collaborates with Townsend (Reg Rogers) that leaves you wondering if Liz might just fully give into the darkness that has been surrounding her for so long. The back half of this season really gives Liz a chance to come alive in a way the show has not given her in a while. Whether you believe in Liz’s innate goodness or if you are rooting for her to go full criminal, you should be engaged by the struggle.
Does this season actually answer any questions? Yes, but how many and which ones are better left for those going into this one blind. The last several episodes of the season end up being the strongest and most poignant for longtime fans. Spader continues to be the best reason to watch this show, as this unique weirdo keeps you glued to the screen and somehow not ripping your hair out with the constant fake-outs and convoluted plot developments. The secondary characters also get some time to shine amongst all of the key developments that crop up throughout the season. This season is heavy on long-term plot weaving, but those who appreciate more of a criminal-of-the-week approach will find several standout episodes this season just in terms of pure entertainment value. This season is a major turning point for the show, and it is very hard to say what season nine will look like. The show is still very entertaining, but more than likely it would be a good idea to set an end date sooner rather than later. You can only draw out certain mysteries for so long.
Video Quality
The Blacklist comes to DVD with 22 episodes over 5 discs, which offers a fair amount of room to avoid compression issues. Due to the limitations of the format, these episodes are not going to look as good as they do in high definition, but the presentation is top notch within the DVD format. Even without the added definition, this is still a sleek show with fine details easily visible. Skin tones look natural, and close ups look quite good. Black levels are a little more problematic here, as nighttime scenes lose some of the outlines of objects within the shot. Colors are rendered favorably, and there is a whisper of texture in the clothing. This season was also released on Blu-Ray, but that was not made available for review. If you are a fan of the show, it is likely that release looks noticeably better.
Audio Quality
This DVD comes with a Dolby Digital 5.1 track that sounds serviceable for the type of show that it is. Dialogue is rendered clearly with a focus in the center channel. Amongst all of the banter, the sound effects and the thrilling score never overpower the dialogue causing lost information. The rear speakers create a dynamic atmosphere as our characters visit various environments that envelop you at all of the appropriate times. The mix has a good sense of directionality so that nothing ever feels like it is coming from the wrong place. You know what to expect when you sit down to watch an action drama, and this track executes all of the key elements perfectly.
Special Features
*Spoiler Alert – Do not read the title of the special features if you do not want to know which character leaves this season*
- Deleted Scenes
- Blooper Reel
- Liz’s Farewell
Final Thoughts
The Blacklist really shakes things up in its eighth season, especially in the final set of episodes. Not only do a few key pieces of the puzzle get put into place, but we bid farewell to a familiar face whose absence will be missed. James Spader is still making the most of every scene in which he appears, and the show rarely lacks for thrills. If you have been invested in this show up until this point, there is no reason to get off the train now. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has released a DVD featuring a decent A/V presentation and a few fun special features. If you are a fan of the show, do yourself a favor and spring for the Blu-Ray instead – the show deserves the extra resolution.
The Blacklist: The Complete Eighth Season is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray and DVD.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the DVD.
Disclaimer: Sony Pictures Home 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.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
