Clint Eastwood’s latest film “BLOODWORK,” is actually his best film of the past decade.  Brian Helgeland’s script is tight, and so is Eastwood’s direction.  Clint plays an FBI profiler, whom as the film begins, is after a particularly elusive serial killer, the “Code Killer,” named as such for the cryptic messages he leaves at the scene of his crime, sometimes scrawled in the victim’s blood.  This killer is actually taunting McCaleb(Eastwood) as well.  During the film’s incredible opening sequence, McCaleb almost captures the killer, but is stopped by his heart condition.  He actually has to undergo a heart transplant and retires, spending his time on a boat.  Thankfully the killer appears to have retired as well, but only for a brief time.  When Eastwood is approached by the beautiful sister of one of the serial killer’s victims, he’s easily convinced to try using his skills in finding him. 

Enough compliments can’t be made about the script. It works on every level.  There’s great character development, and Eastwood is a smart enough director to compliment the writing with good, strong actors.  The film works on a steady, believable pace, and while there is a brief moment or two near the film’s climax that borders on predictable, so much of the film isn’t, and that’s refreshing.

WARNER BROS. has preserved the film’s 2.35:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  As with most WARNER BROS releases, this one’s impressive from start-to-finish.  Colors are bold, and often vibrant, without any oversaturation.  There’s great detail in most scenes, and fleshtones are natural throughout.  Contrast is excellent, with deep blacks and grays, offering essential detail in even the darkest scenes. 

WARNER BROS. has offered a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix, which while not extremely aggressive, is still effective.  Surrounds are primarily used for ambient effects, but there are some creative directional moments as well.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion. 

WARNER BROS has included a few extras here.

There are two featurettes. “MAKING BLOOD WORK” is longer than we’d expected, offering behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.  “A CONVERSATION IN SPANISH WITH CLINT EASTWOOD, WANDA DE JUSES, AND PAUL RODRIGUEZ,” offers even more insight from the cast about the film and filmmaker. 

A theatrical and teaser trailer are also offered.