True Stories Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "True Stories," presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio and encoded in MPEG-4 AVC, features an exceptional 1080p transfer derived from a fresh 4K remaster. The latter was supervised by director David Byrne and cinematographer Ed Lachman, ensuring fidelity to the film's unique visual stylization. The resulting image quality is remarkably clean and vivid, with dynamic contrasts and pronounced surrealistic color tonalities that contribute to the film's distinctive visual edge. Image stability is exceptional, and no artifacts or inadvertent digital alterations mar the viewing experience. Overall, the transfer retains a sturdy filmic grain and fine details without signs of problematical degraining or sharpening.

The restoration process employed meticulous techniques, including 4K scanning on a Lasergraphics Director film scanner from the 35mm original camera negative and extensive manual removal of dirt, scratches, and other imperfections using MTI Film's DRS and Digital Vision's Phoenix for grain and noise management. The result is a visually lush presentation that effectively conveys the artistic intent behind Byrne's direction. Colors are notably strong, with consistent skin tones, deep blacks, and minimal print damage. This Blu-ray offering far surpasses older releases, delivering a pristine visual experience that is both engaging and faithful to the original cinematography. Criterion's effort ensures that "True Stories" is presented at its best, maintaining the integrity of its original aesthetic while enhancing it for modern audiences.

The Blu-ray release of "True Stories" boasts a single audio track: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, with optional English SDH subtitles for the main feature. The audio mix, supervised by David Byrne, demonstrates a remarkable dynamic range that likely aligns with Byrne's original vision. Notably, both clarity and depth are exceptional, providing a stable and immersive listening experience free from any noticeable background or age-related anomalies.

Remastered meticulously from the original sound mix, this track ensures that dialogue remains strong and clear throughout, while the music benefits from enhanced ambiance and directionality. There are no signs of typical age-related issues such as popping, hissing, or crackling, confirming the superior quality of this release compared to previous formats like the Warner DVD. This pristine sound quality significantly elevates the overall viewing experience, ensuring it meets modern audiophile expectations.

The Blu-ray release of "True Stories" offers an exceptional array of extras that deeply enhance the viewer's understanding and appreciation of the film. Anchored by Criterion's meticulous production, the supplemental materials provide a comprehensive look at the film’s creation, from conception to execution. Highlights include a freshly produced documentary on the making of the film, exclusive insights into Tibor Kalman's artwork, and an intriguing retrospective visit to filming locations. Archival documentaries and deleted scenes offer further depth. The package is rounded out with a CD of the complete soundtrack and a richly illustrated booklet featuring essays by Rebecca Bengal, Joe Nick Patoski, David Byrne, and a reprint by Spalding Gray.

Extras included in this disc:

Introduction: A short archival introduction by David Byrne.

The Making of True Stories: An in-depth look at the film’s production history.

Tibor Kalman: A documentary focusing on the graphic design artist's life and work.

Real Life: A documentary filmed during the shooting, exploring Texas communities.

Deleted Scenes: Seven scenes cut from the final film.

No Time to Look Back: Filmmakers revisit original shooting locations.

Trailer: A vintage trailer for "True Stories".

Soundtrack: CD with the film's complete 23-song soundtrack.

Booklet: Illustrated booklet with essays and preproduction photography.

David Byrne's "True Stories" (1986), now available on Blu-ray through Criterion, immerses viewers in an eccentrically vibrant world that defies conventional cinematic experiences. Set in the fictitious town of Virgil, Texas, the film takes us on an unforgettable journey marked by bizarrely interesting characters and visually exotic landscapes. Byrne himself takes on the role of a guide, navigating us through a quasi-museum where mundane sites like malls, gas stations, and churches transform into a myriad of curiosities. Characters such as Louis Fyne (John Goodman) — a lovelorn tech worker — and Miss Rollings (Swoosie Kurtz) — a woman who never leaves her bed — stand out as emblematic of the town's unique charm. As a bedrock of the film, Byrne's absurd exaggerations and Talking Heads' iconic music accentuate the everyday oddities.

Drawing inspiration from collected tabloid snippets, Byrne, alongside screenwriters Beth Henley and Stephen Tobolowsky, crafts a cinematic tapestry that showcases the extraordinary facets hiding within ordinary lives. With striking performances from John Goodman, who imbues his character Louis Fyne with heartfelt earnestness, and supporting roles by actors like Spalding Gray and Annie McEnroe, "True Stories" masterfully dances between drama, comedy, and musical vignettes. These sequences, such as Goodman's tender rendition of "People Like Us" and McEnroe's ethereal "Dream Operator," underscore the surreal yet poignant aura permeating this pseudo-Texan celebration.

Despite its initial box office struggle due to its eclectic style, "True Stories" has garnered a devoted cult following over the years, thanks in large part to its evocative blend of whimsical narrative and compelling music. For those willing to embrace its unconventional approach, the film offers a kaleidoscopic exploration into the hidden idiosyncrasies of an ostensibly normal town, ultimately celebrating the extraordinary within our everyday lives.

David Byrne's "True Stories" continues to perplex and enchant audiences, a feat solidified by Criterion's recent Blu-ray release. This home video edition, sourced from a pristine new 4K restoration supervised and approved by the filmmakers, represents the pinnacle of visual and audio fidelity for this film. The unconventional narrative driven by Byrne offers an experience rather than a traditional story, pulling viewers into a unique reality akin to more recent mind-bending films like "Pleasantville" and "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." The included wealth of bonus features provides a comprehensive look at the production process, enriching the viewing experience with valuable insights into Byrne's distinctive vision.

The Blu-ray pack, beyond delivering stunning video quality, caters significantly to audiophiles with an entire CD dedicated to the film's soundtrack. This aspect is particularly noteworthy for fans of Talking Heads, cementing the package as a must-have. The film's re-emergence as a cult classic is backed by its enriched presentation on this disc, reigniting interest among new viewers and long-time fans alike. The high-quality transfer ensures that all visual and auditory elements originally intended by the creators are preserved and presented in the best possible condition.

Conclusively, the Criterion release of "True Stories" amalgamates thoughtful curation, impeccable technical restoration, and comprehensive supplementary material to create an unparalleled home viewing experience. For those who appreciate non-traditional storytelling and are drawn to works that engage the mind with layered realities, this release stands out as an essential acquisition. It encapsulates the essence of the film in a manner that makes perfect sense only while it lasts, urging viewers to immerse themselves fully in its singular charm. RECOMMENDED.