Lucky Blu-ray Review

Eureka's Region-B locked UK Blu-ray release of "Lucky" is a commendable showcase of 1080p/AVC-encoded High Definition video presentation, framed in the original theatrical aspect ratio of 2.4:1 widescreen. The film’s setting permeates as a character in its own right, capturing the broad open vistas, environmental subtleties, and the distinctive textures of its bars and diners. Demonstrating excellent detail, from the intricate makeup of Stanton's weathered face to the whispering tumbleweed and iconic cacti, the visual experience offers rich, naturalistic imagery. The color palette maintains authenticity with light teal skies, sun-drenched structures, and vivid night scenes, bolstered by deep blacks, although occasionally mitigated by crush and grain instability.

Visually, John Carroll Lynch's "Lucky" impresses with its impeccable technical prowess, reflected in outstanding clarity, delineation, and sharpness throughout. The film manages to convey remarkable depth within panoramic views and indoor scenes alike, revealing striking highlights and shadows. While the visual presentation exhibits some stylization with primary colors and finer nuances, it remains a healthy reflection of what the creators aimed for. The stability of the image is also maintained exceptionally well. As a note for prospective viewers, due to its Region-B lock, accessing this Blu-ray requires a native Region-B or Region-Free player. This dedication to technical precision ensures that "Lucky" is presented in a manner befitting its scale and artistic intentions.

The Blu-ray of "Lucky" features two primary audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English LPCM 2.0. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track excels in delivering a richly atmospheric backdrop, enveloping the viewer in the film's quaint and quiet settings, ensuring that every nuanced sound is meticulously captured, from the subtle ambient noises of a café or a bar to the natural sounds of insects in the background. Dialogue, a crucial element in this film, is clearly and coherently disseminated, with even Harry Dean Stanton's mumbled words delivered with precision across the front speakers.

Optional English SDH subtitles are available, appearing within the image frame when activated. A comparative analysis of the LPCM 2.0 and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks reveals minimal differences in terms of dialogue clarity and stability. Both tracks perform admirably, with the primary distinction being the level of immersion provided by the 5.1 track through its enhanced separation and dynamic range. The ambiance created by wind blowing across landscapes and the periodic inclusion of live music further enhance the reflective, unobtrusive score, adding depth and texture to the viewing experience.

Eureka's Blu-ray release of "Lucky" provides a comprehensive and well-curated selection of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience. The highlight is undoubtedly the 2012 documentary, "Harry Dean Stanton: Partly Fiction," which offers an introspective look into the late actor’s multifaceted career, enriched by interviews with his prominent colleagues, including David Lynch and Kris Kristofferson. Additional features include in-depth interviews with director John Carroll Lynch and writers/producers Logan Sparks and Drago Sumonja, offering unique insights into the film's creation and Stanton's impact. The package is further complemented by a collector's booklet with exclusive materials. This extras package stands out for its depth and thoughtfulness.

Extras included in this disc:

• Harry Dean Stanton: Partly Fiction: A documentary exploring the actor's career and artistic persona with interviews from notable filmmakers.
• John Carroll Lynch Interview: Director discusses the making of "Lucky" and his collaboration with Stanton.
• Logan Sparks and Drago Sumonja Interview: Writers/producers share their experiences working on the film and with Stanton.
• Booklet: Features an essay by Jason Wood, behind-the-scenes stills, a personal memory by Logan Sparks, and a Q&A transcript with the director.

In "Lucky," Harry Dean Stanton delivers a compelling performance in this poignant exploration of mortality under the assured direction of John Carroll Lynch. The film centers on Lucky, a 90-year-old atheist whose daily routine consists of walks, exercises, and excessive cigarette smoking as he navigates the final chapter of his life. Stanton’s portrayal is intimate and resonant, seamlessly blending the character’s existential reflections with the actor’s own nearing end. The film is set in the sparse but evocative Arizona desert, which complements the narrative's contemplative nature and thematic depth about life, death, and the refusal to accept external beliefs.

John Carroll Lynch's directorial debut is marked by its quiet elegance and simplicity, utilizing minimal locations while maximizing the emotional depth of each scene. The film distinctly captures moments of humor and sadness, amplified by its cast that includes notable appearances from David Lynch, Tom Skerritt, and Ed Begley Jr. The overarching melancholy is palpable as Stanton’s real-life age and proximity to death bring an added layer of authenticity to his performance. The scenes where Stanton’s frustration with his deteriorating body are particularly striking, blurring the lines between acting and reality.

"Lucky" also engages with metaphysical elements through subtle yet powerful metaphors, such as David Lynch's character’s lost pet tortoise, symbolizing life's inevitable progress and loss. These touches contribute to the film’s profound meditation on existence and human frailty. Despite its somber themes, "Lucky" is not without its moments of grace, offering a deeply human and ultimately relatable depiction of facing life's end. This film not only serves as a fitting conclusion to Stanton's illustrious career but also stands out as a significant piece in the realm of introspective cinema, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.

Eureka's Blu-ray release of 'Lucky' is a heartfelt homage to Harry Dean Stanton's prolific career, showcasing one of his final and most poignant performances. The film itself, a poignant meditation on life and mortality, subtly underscores Stanton's awareness of his impending farewell. This reflective cinematic journey is brilliantly presented with optimum video and audio quality that enhances the raw and genuine emotion Stanton brings to the screen.

Complementing this stellar presentation, the Blu-ray includes a robust extras package, with the highlight being Sophie Huber's critically acclaimed 2012 documentary, 'Harry Dean Stanton: Partly Fiction.' This inclusion not only provides deeper insight into Stanton's life and career but also enriches the viewing experience by contextualizing his significant contributions to the film industry.

A fitting bookend to a filmography that included well over a hundred film roles, 'Lucky' serves as a touching tribute to an enduring icon. This Blu-ray release by Eureka is not only technically impressive but also thoughtfully curated, making it an essential addition to any film enthusiast's collection. Strongly recommended.