Siege Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Siege" by Severin Films delivers a commendable AVC encoded 1080p transfer, maintaining the aspect ratio of 1.85:1. This release boasts a 2K scan from the original negative, a valuable find in a Nova Scotia archive. While the promise of a pristine source material stirs excitement, the execution reveals some archival mishandling. This is most apparent in the opening sequences where viewers are greeted with noticeable damage including a tattered production masthead from Manson International and compromised credits. These initial moments might challenge viewers' expectations but do not fully detract from the overall viewing experience.

Following the slightly marred introduction, the visual presentation stabilizes, showcasing a natural color palette that enhances the tension and atmosphere of the film. Close-up shots, in particular, benefit from a commendable level of fine detail, allowing characters and emotive expressions to resonate more deeply with the audience. However, as the story progresses into its more visually dark phases—predominantly in the second half—some technical limitations become evident. Scenes swathed in deep blues and shadows suffer from a loss of detail, compromising shadow definition and occasionally affecting the clarity of the film's more intense moments.

Despite these challenges, the grain structure throughout "Siege" is handled with care, providing a filmic texture that is particularly noteworthy given the predominantly dark aesthetic of the movie. The balance between preserving film grain and maintaining visibility in low-light conditions is laudable, contributing to an overall viewing experience that manages to capture the essence of "Siege" despite the inherent flaws stemming from the condition of the original negative.

The audio presentation of "Siege" on Blu Ray is delivered through a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono mix, which showcases its technical capabilities while revealing minor limitations in moments of high intensity. The mix holds up well under the strain of the film's array of pulsing synth and electronic effects crafted by Peter Jermyn and Drew King. While there is a close call with potential breakup during these more sonically aggressive scenes, the dialogue remains crisply unaffected, ensuring that the narrative flow is never compromised. The inclusion of archival news accounts adds a layer of authenticity, although these segments occasionally exhibit a slightly brighter tone on the high end than the main body of audio work, which might slightly distract discerning listeners.

Sound effects are plentiful and varied, merging seamlessly with the film's distinctive quasi-electronic score. This integration is handled with care, avoiding common pitfalls that can arise when marrying traditional effects with an unconventional score. Even with the substantial sound effects workload, everything is placed well within the mix, ensuring auditory clarity and enhancing the viewing experience. Despite working within the constraints of a mono mix, the audio team has expertly balanced complexity and clarity.

Optional English subtitles are provided, offering accessibility without detracting from the overall audio experience. This feature is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that all viewers can fully engage with "Siege" regardless of audio preferences or hearing capabilities. As a whole, the audio presentation on this Blu Ray edition of "Siege" stands out for its robust handling of dialogue and effect integration, even as it navigates the inherent challenges of its technical specifications.

The Blu-ray extras for "Siege" offer an in-depth look at the creative process behind this cult classic, spearheaded by the insightful audio commentary by co-director Paul Donovan and filmmaker Jason Eisener. The extended cut, presented in high definition, adds significant value by providing additional context and depth to the movie, clocking in at 93 minutes of enriched storytelling. The inclusion of a trailer allows fans a nostalgic glimpse back at the film's original marketing. Notably, Severin Films' attention to detail in the packaging—with a slipcover and reversible cover on the keepcase—enhances the collectible appeal of this release. These extras not only complement the main feature but elevate the overall viewing experience for cinephiles and newcomers alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: With co-director Paul Donovan and filmmaker Jason Eisener.
• Extended Cut: A longer version of the film, offering more content.
• Trailer: Original marketing material for the film.

The movie "Siege," alternatively known by its alternate title "Self Defense," offers a gripping narrative that, despite not securing a spot on the TIFF's Top 10 Canadian Films list, stands as an exemplary representation of genre filmmaking within the Canadian cinematic landscape. Its plot, reminiscent of a compelling meld of "Dog Day Afternoon" and "Assault on Precinct 13," with a hint of "Wait Until Dark," chronicles the harrowing experiences of apartment tenants trapped amidst a violent scenario fueled by right-wing aggression in the absence of police, drawing from a real-world event - the 1981 Halifax police strike. This setting offers a unique canvas for the storytelling, blending historical elements with speculative fiction to create an eerily prescient vision of lawlessness and survival.

The film's execution in utilizing the police strike as more than just a backdrop but as a catalytic force propelling the plot is commendable. The filmmakers adeptly weave this actual event with fictional terror, introducing a band of merciless antagonists who invade a gay bar, subsequently pursuing one escapee into an apartment building where the stakes are dramatically escalated. The narrative tension is palpable, fueled by tightly-paced sequences and performances that believably convey the dread and defiance of civilians thrust into confronting brutality directly. Siege manages to transcend its exploitation film roots, presenting a scenario that is at once specific in its time and place yet universally resonant in its exploration of societal breakdown and communal resilience.

Moreover, "Siege" distinguishes itself through its ability to sustain suspense and engage the viewer's sympathies without relying solely on the absence of police as a gimmick. The film's portrayal of ordinary people facing extreme circumstances resonates with genuine emotional weight, punctuated by moments of intense vulnerability and unexpected loss. These narrative choices, combined with a grounded depiction of villainy and heroism, elevate "Siege" beyond mere genre confines into a poignant study of human strength and frailty amidst chaos. Its blend of archival authenticity with speculative dramatization asserts "Siege" not just as a significant cinematic artifact but as a compelling piece of storytelling that merits recognition within the canon of Canadian cinema.

SIEGE" emerges as a significantly potent film, surpassing initial reservations tied to its potentially clichéd narrative elements. Director Jason Eisener's bold claim of it being the pinnacle of Canadian cinema may spark debate; however, many viewers will likely find themselves pleasantly surprised by its quality. The release boasts a commendable technical execution on Blu-ray, elevating the film's viewing experience to notable heights.

Severin Films has made commendable efforts in enhancing this release with valuable extras that enrich the overall package. The inclusion of a commentary track and an extended cut of the film are thoughtful additions, serving both to deepen the viewer's understanding and appreciation of the film's intricacies and to offer a more expanded narrative experience. Such supplements not only solidify the Blu-ray’s value but also cater to both cinephiles and those with a keen interest in the behind-the-scenes aspects of filmmaking.

In conclusion, "SIEGE" on Blu-ray stands as a recommended acquisition for enthusiasts seeking quality cinema paired with a satisfactory technical presentation. The film itself defies initial scepticisms, buoyed by solid technical merits that underscore its narrative strengths. Severin Films’ decision to include meaningful extras further enhances the appeal, making this release a commendable addition to any collection. Whether approaching from a position of curiosity or as a devotee of Canadian cinema, viewers will find "SIEGE" to be a compelling discovery, suitably equipped with the merits to warrant its recommendation.