Drylongso Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Collection delivers "Drylongso" on Blu-ray with an impressive AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the original 1.33:1 aspect ratio. This release, meticulously approved by director Cauleen Smith, employs a 4K scan from the 16mm original camera negative using a Lasergraphics Director film scanner, ensuring an exquisite representation of the film's organic allure. The remastered monaural soundtrack from the 35mm magnetic track enhances the viewing experience, curated by John Polito at Audio Mechanics. Noteworthy is the healthy layer of film grain present throughout, preserving the original visual texture and aesthetic.

Visually, "Drylongso" stands out with a palette that is both vivid and robust, with outdoor scenes particularly benefiting from striking primary colors such as bright blue skies and vibrant reds in character costumes. While certain nighttime scenes exhibit a chunkier grain and variable detail levels, these are minor instances that do not detract significantly from the overall quality. The transfer cleverly retains unique characteristics such as light flares at the frame's edge, adding a dynamic authenticity Smith values in her introduction to the accompanying supplements.

This release effectively encapsulates the film's artistic essence, capturing its intricate narrative and technical composition. The detailed transfer invites viewers to engage deeply with "Drylongso's" portrayal of photography as both a tool for social commentary and personal expression, mirroring protagonist Pica's journey against conventional academic expectations. This Blu-ray is a compelling testament to the film's narrative depth and visual fidelity, offering a thoroughly engaging experience for both new audiences and seasoned cinephiles alike.

"Drylongso" delivers a surprisingly robust LPCM Mono audio track on its Blu-ray release, showcasing a depth and clarity that is impressive given its format limitations. The film benefits from engaging source cues spread throughout the narrative, offering a rich and full-bodied sound experience even in the absence of surround sound. This mono track adds to the production’s immersive, almost documentary-like, 'fly on the wall' quality, essential for the film’s aesthetic.

While the outdoor dialogue can display some variability in amplitude, the audio remains clear and precise, ensuring dialogue and ambient sounds are consistently intelligible and free from distortion. For those who may require them, optional English subtitles are available to supplement the audio presentation.

Overall, the LPCM Mono track on "Drylongso" masterfully upholds the integrity of its audio narrative. Despite not utilizing modern multi-channel formats like DTS or Dolby Atmos, it compensates with admirable clarity and authentic representation of its soundscape, making it a solid choice for viewers appreciating nuanced audio details in classic mono presentations.

The Blu Ray extras for "Drylongso" provide an enriching exploration of Cauleen Smith's creative vision and historical perspective. The content includes a compelling interview, where Smith discusses her inspiration and intent to portray underrepresented characters amidst the socio-political backdrop of the early 90s. Smith's influences, such as Fellini and Julie Dash, highlight her unique narrative approach. The selection of her short films offers insightful glimpses into her thematic preoccupations, from cultural memory to community rituals. Particularly intriguing is the dual-mode presentation of "Engungun (Ancestor Can't Find Me)," allowing viewers to engage at different levels. Each feature presents a nuanced perspective that expands the viewer's understanding of Smith's artistic journey and cinematic influences, providing an invaluable context for "Drylongso."

Extras included in this disc:

• Cauleen Smith and Michael B. Gillespie in Conversation: An engaging interview discussing Smith's influences and film intentions.
• Short Films: A curated selection showcasing Smith’s prior work.
• Introduction: Background insights into the making of "Drylongso."
• Chronicles of a Lying Spirit by Kelly Gabron: An expressive short film.
• Songs for Earth & Folk: A thematic exploration through short film.
• Lessons in Semaphore: A concise artistic statement.
• Engungun (Ancestor Can't Find Me): Offers two viewing modes, enriching engagement.
• Remote Viewing: A study of observational narratives.
• Suffolk: An exploration of geographic and cultural themes.
• Trailer: A preview encapsulating the film’s tone and themes.

Cauleen Smith's "Drylongso" intricately explores a tapestry of themes, most notably through the eyes of Pica Sullivan, portrayed compellingly by Toby Smith. This film, set in Oakland, delves into pressing social issues reflected in Pica's mission to photograph young black men in her community, driven by a grim awareness of their potential fates. This harkens back to Smith's real-life exposure as a news transcriber to stories of murdered black women in Los Angeles, an eerie parallel that fuels the narrative's urgency and relevance. Pica's nocturnal activities extend to aiding community meetings addressing unsolved murders, underscoring a societal neglect manifest in the apathetic local law enforcement.

Smith's ambitious storytelling presents a complex web of subplots, transforming what could have been a straightforward examination into a richly layered narrative. The film explores the burgeoning friendship between Pica and Tobi (April Barnett), who self-protectively garbs herself in men's attire after escaping an abusive relationship. This bond and their collaborative efforts with neighborhood youths are depicted with an authentic sense of community cohesion that persists amid turmoil. While some viewers might find the narrative density challenging, the film's strength lies in its engagement with community resilience and survival under duress.

Academic insights from Michael B. Gillespie highlight Smith's role as a black feminist filmmaker, a lens indispensable for grasping the film’s essence. Those wary of identity-focused storytelling may overlook the film's profound depiction of marginalized lives. However, for viewers keen on narratives with textured social commentary, "Drylongso" offers a distinctive, thought-provoking journey, rich with empathy and gravitas, capturing the essence of community under siege.

"Drylongso" offers a poignant exploration of inner-city Black life with a refreshing originality, presenting a vivid tapestry of both challenges and triumphs. This film stands out with its multifaceted approach, providing a rich narrative that occasionally may seem overly layered but ultimately offers nuanced commentary on community and the life experiences of young Black individuals. Shot on 16 mm, the film effectively captures the essence of everyday struggles and resilience, beautifully portrayed through its characters who are both authentic and relatable. Director Cauleen Smith's storytelling remains grounded, with the occasional shift towards more Hollywood-style dramatization, yet overall maintains an unmistakable point of view.

April Barnett delivers a standout performance, adding depth to her role even when her disguise as a boy remains unconvincing—an aspect attributed to her delicate features. The film adeptly mixes elements of tension, such as the looming threat of a killer, with the practicalities of daily life, showcasing a diverse array of believable and sympathetic characters. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, complemented by strong performances that enhance the film's genuine feel. The technical merits of the Blu-ray release are solid, ensuring a preservation of the film's original aesthetic and atmosphere.

In conclusion, "Drylongso" is highly recommended for viewers who seek a film with a unique perspective on Black community life. Despite occasional narrative complexities, its engaging story, robust character development, and artistic presentation make it an essential piece. The Blu-ray supplements further enrich this cinematic experience, offering additional insights into this evocative and stirring film.