The Volkswagen Bug is one of the most recognizable and beloved vehicles on the planet. From its dark past in pre-WWII Germany, to the Summer of Love, this car captured the hearts and minds of millions around the world. This film explores not only the history of this automotive icon, but also the intense emotional connection it has with its owners past and present.
For thoughts on The Bug: Life And Times Of The People’s Car, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
[youtube https://youtu.be/29CHE2dwxcA?t=4017]
Video Quality
The Bug: Life And Times Of The People’s Car comes to Blu-Ray in its original aspect ratio from a very solid high definition master. The film mostly consists of new footage with occasional archival clips interspersed along with various on-screen graphics. All footage looks as technically excellent as it can look in high definition. The transfer appears to have plenty of room to breathe and there are no issues with compression artifacts, banding or other digital nuisances. The historical footage seems to be the best version of it that would be possible, with most of it looking pretty strong. Interview segments look sleek and clear depending on the filming conditions with natural skin tones and detailed facial features. The colors featured in the film are natural and vibrant as they provide a nice visual pop on screen. Black levels are deep and give way to a nice amount of detail in shadows. I do not see how this set could have been improved visually.
Audio Quality
This Blu-Ray comes with both a pretty decent Dolby Digital 5.1 & 2.0 audio track that captures this journey well, but it could probably be slightly improved with a lossless track. Dialogue is the spotlight of the film, and it comes through crisp and clear without being clipped by any competing sounds. The filmmakers do a commendable job of capturing their subjects and making sure all this information comes through with supreme clarity. The music and the score establish a light mood throughout the film, and those sounds are resolved well here as music permeates the room. Ambient sounds are precisely placed in the rear channels. The audio track is not pushed to the limit with this content, but it nonetheless proves to be an admirable representation of this feature. There are optional English SDH subtitles included for those who desire them.
Special Features
- Ewan McGregor On Keeping Your VW Alive: A minute-and-a-half interview with McGregor in which he talks about the book that VW enthusiasts turn to get the most out of their vehicle.
- Ewan McGregor On Saving An Old Bug: A minute-long piece in which McGregor discusses wanting to rescue a car on the set of August: Osage County.
- Ewan McGregor’s First Car: An extended five-minute discussion in which McGregor lovingly discusses his first car.
- Mike Yager On Volkswagen Camaraderie: A two-and-a-half minute video in which Yager discusses how the VW Bug can bring families and communities together.
Final Thoughts
The Bug: Life And Times Of The People’s Car is not the most thrilling documentary of all time, but it provides a well-rounded exploration of a distinct slice of world history. The film primarily keeps things positive about the car, but it does not completely overlook some of the more eyebrow-raising aspects of its legacy. If you are not a car nut, you might find it a bit difficult to be completely invested, but the inclusion of Ewan McGregor might be enough to snag a few more casual fans. Firewater has provided a Blu-Ray that features a very solid A/V presentation and a couple of interesting special features. This one is better suited to the more ardent automotive enthusiasts who may be considering this one. Recommended
The Bug: Life And Times Of The People’s Car is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Firewater and MVD Entertainment have 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.
