The Perfect Storm's Dolby TrueHD 5.1 lossless surround sound track slams into Blu-ray with a sonic assault that brings the film to vivid life. Many scenes are fairly quiet, especially early dialogue scenes before the Gail sets sail yet again. Surround presence is minimal in these scenes. Atmospherics generally come from the front channels rather than both the front and back. The bar scene in chapter four features a nice presence across the front, but is quiet in the rears, failing to offer a truly realistic experience as ambient noise is nowhere to be heard across the rear. Dialogue itself seems slightly lower in volume than optimal. As expected, however, the track picks up once we're out to sea on the Gail. Atmospherics are excellent; we can hear the sound of the old boat creaking and rocking all around the soundstage to nice effect, effectively placing us on the ship. What's nice is that it's never too pronounced or distracting. The sound emanates from every speaker creating a nice ambience that just feels real, and the sound design is reserved yet effective in such scenes. The soundstage is full and powerful during the stormy action sequences, too. A rescue attempt via helicopter in chapter 21 is an entertaining and active listening experience. Surrounds are in full effect with the crashes of waves, rain, and helicopter rotors. The entire soundstage is drenched in action, the sound wide, full and loud without becoming distorted or a distraction from the action. The entire second half of the movie is thunderous, a case study in excellent use of powerful, robust, and incessant sound. It works well because these sounds are distinct and clear, yet retain a power and fear factor that effectively elevates the power and awe of the storm and the film it is depicted in. This is a fine track that will satisfy fans.