Hesher Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Hesher" features a 1080p AVC-encoded transfer in a 2.44:1 aspect ratio that impressively handles the film's diverse visual landscape. Despite its low-budget origins, the video presentation delivers a surprisingly crisp and well-detailed image. The filmmakers, Director Spencer Susser, and Director of Photography Morgan Pierre Susser, utilize natural lighting to great effect, rendering an image that is sharp and well-defined, even when handling the small-scale settings with finesse. The color palette is muted, evoking a retro feel akin to films from the 70s and 80s, while edges stay solid and fine details like facial textures, tattoos, and fabric weaves are rendered distinctly during well-lit scenes.

However, the presentation is not without its shortcomings. While daylight scenes shine with excellent shadow detail and depth, several nighttime sequences suffer notably from shadow crush and a lack of depth. For instance, in the scene where Hesher and T.J. set a neighborhood kid's car on fire, shadows tend to engulf the subjects, reducing overall image clarity. Compression artifacts are minimal, though there are occasional issues with aliasing on fences and shingles. Indoor scenes generally maintain good black levels, but certain darker scenes may not exhibit the same visual clarity observed in theater screenings.

Overall, Lionsgate has managed a commendable job with this transfer, particularly considering the film's independent nature. The emphasis on natural lighting enhances the film's visual narrative, bringing vivid clarity to daylight scenes while providing generally solid performance during low-light scenarios. Despite a few visual faults in darker scenes, this Blu-ray delivers a strong and engaging video presentation that effectively complements the film's aesthetic.

Lionsgate’s DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 mix for "Hesher" delivers a bombastic sonic experience, perfectly complementing the metal-head character's chaotic lifestyle. This aggressive sound mix not only captures the energy of Hesher's explosive antics and fiery escapades with impressive amounts of LFE but also maintains clarity in quieter, almost whispered interchanges. The dynamic range is exceptional, balancing the high-intensity metal rock soundtrack and explosive elements with crystal-clear dialogue. Even in outdoor scenes, ambient noises like traffic are artfully placed around the soundfield, creating a natural and immersive audio environment.

However, some details could use refinement. While most dialogue remains intelligible regardless of whether it is spoken or shouted, some whispered conversations can occasionally be a tad soft. Despite this minor hiccup, the audio delights in its robustness, especially when capturing the metal music's slightly tinny effect inside Hesher's cavernous van or Bronchu's screeching monologues. Scenes of destruction, such as when Hesher decimates a swimming pool, are particularly notable for their audio craftsmanship, with sounds of clattering and breaking perfectly synchronized across all eight channels. This DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 mix successfully amplifies the film's chaotic and rebellious spirit, making it an engaging auditory experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Hesher" provide a thorough and engaging look behind the scenes, enhanced by high-definition presentations. The deleted scenes and outtakes offer an entertaining glimpse into the filmmaking process, with several moments adding depth to the characters. The behind-the-scenes featurette combines interviews with production footage, giving a balanced overview of the creative efforts involved. The "Air Traffic" segment is particularly notable for its insight into the challenges faced during filming due to overhead planes. This collection serves as a valuable addition for fans and film enthusiasts alike, offering a mix of humor, production insights, and extended scenes.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Additional and extended scenes, adding characterization.
• Outtakes: A substantial gag reel featuring missteps and humorous moments.
• Behind the Scenes: Interviews interwoven with film production footage.
• Trailer: Official theatrical trailer.
• Hesher Sketch Gallery: Artwork and sketches related to the film.
• Air Traffic: Insightful featurette on filming challenges with overhead planes.
• Teaser Channels: Brief promotional teaser.

"Hesher" presents itself as a peculiar blend of dark comedy and intense drama, revolving around the journey of T.J. (Devin Brochu), a young boy grappling with the recent loss of his mother. Directed by Spencer Susser, the narrative delves deep into themes of grief and dysfunction, which are dramatically disrupted by the anarchic Hesher (Joseph Gordon-Levitt). As T.J. navigates his desolate reality—characterized by a depressed father (Rainn Wilson) and a well-intentioned yet confused grandmother (Piper Laurie)—Hesher barges into their lives, creating chaos yet oddly providing a peculiar form of guidance. Despite the film's bleak core, Gordon-Levitt embodies Hesher with wild, destructive energy, delivering a performance rich in unpredictability and depth.

The relationship dynamics are stark and multifaceted; T.J.'s strained interactions with his father and school bullies paint a picture of a boy edging towards delinquency. Hesher's arrival signals a shift in tone—from outright chaos to unexpected tenderness—as he exposes the family to offbeat life lessons amidst his mayhem. Though Hesher’s actions border on over-the-top and often strain credulity, there’s an eventual turn in his character that places emphasis on unconventional catharsis.

Technical performances aside, the film oscillates between raw grief and absurd spectacle, making it difficult to categorize cleanly. While Natalie Portman’s role as Nicole provides a softer emotional subplot, her underutilized presence contrasts sharply with the fiercely captivating Brochu and Gordon-Levitt. This duality elevates the family's struggle, although it does blur the film’s thematic focus at times. Ultimately, "Hesher" stands out for its bold character portrayals and its daring narrative structure, making it a unique watch that will resonate with those who appreciate grim but heart-felt storytelling.

Lionsgate's Blu-ray release of "Hesher" offers a captivating presentation, despite the film's uneven narrative. Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivers a memorable performance as a chaotic, tattooed drifter, while Devin Brochu shines as a young boy grappling with the recent loss of his mother. Their portrayal lends an emotional depth that sustains viewers through the movie's erratic shifts between dark comedy, melodrama, and sentimental moments. While some may find the storyline disjointed, fans of indie films will likely appreciate its raw, unconventional approach.

The Blu-ray boasts strong visual and audio quality, enhancing the film's gritty aesthetic. The video transfer is commendable, maintaining a sharp and coherent picture throughout. The audio is vibrant, ensuring that both the dialogue and dynamic soundscapes are delivered with clarity. However, the special features leave much to be desired. The absence of an audio commentary featuring the main cast and creators is notably felt, which could have provided valuable insights into the film’s production and creative choices.

In conclusion, "Hesher" is a mixed bag; while its narrative might not satisfy all viewers due to its inconsistent tone, the performances are undeniably compelling. Fans of dark dramedies and raw indie films will find notable value in Gordon-Levitt and Brochu's exceptional acting. Despite the lackluster special features, this Blu-ray release remains worthwhile for its superior technical presentation, making it a suitable addition to any film enthusiast’s collection.