Rosetta Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1, "Rosetta" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Criterion, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and featuring a 1080p transfer. The high-definition digital transfer supervised by Director of Photography Alain Marcoen utilized a Spirit 2K Datacine from a 35mm blowup interpositive. The extensive restoration process, including MTI's DRS and Pixel Farm's PFClean, successfully eliminated thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, splices, warps, and flickers.

Technically, the image retains an organic and authentic look, albeit with some inherent issues reflective of its Super 16 origins. The film remains largely soft, accompanied by light noise that somewhat reduces definition and clarity, especially in low-light conditions where color depth and black levels suffer slightly. However, the transfer avoids post-production sharpening and contrast boosting, thereby preserving the film’s integrity. Criterion's meticulous clean-up efforts are evident, with only minimal residual flaws like occasional scratches or debris, and a fine layer of film grain that enhances rather than detracts from the visual experience.

Color rendition is particularly notable, with saturated and bold hues providing a striking contrast against Belgium’s often gray and dreary scenery. Rosetta’s bright red jacket and other vibrant clothing elements stand out impressively in the HD format, enhancing the visual narrative. Despite some scenes featuring blacks that appear more greyish than deep black, the absence of digital artifacts such as banding, aliasing, or excessive noise makes for an overwhelmingly positive presentation. Overall, while the limitations of the source are occasionally apparent, this Blu-ray edition significantly elevates the viewing experience over previous DVD releases, showcasing Criterion's dedication to quality and detail.

The Audio presentation of "Rosetta" on Blu-ray features a French DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, impeccably remastered at 24-bit from the original 35mm magnetic tracks. All clicks, thumps, hiss, and hum have been expertly removed using Pro Tools HD, and crackle has been minimized with AudioCube's integrated workstation. The resulting audio is free of any noticeable flaws or damage, presenting an exceptionally clean and stable dialogue throughout the film. Optional English subtitles are also available for the main feature.

The absence of a traditional film score in "Rosetta" is a deliberate directorial choice that enhances the immersive quality of the film's modest sound design. The front-heavy nature of the 2-channel mix underscores the naturalistic approach, ensuring that vocals, effects, and environmental sounds are prominently featured. This decision enriches the subtle audio cues, such as the faint whistling of wind through a barely noticeable gap in a window pane, which adds depth to the viewing experience without overcrowding the soundstage. Dialogue is consistently crisp, clean, and balanced, effectively situating viewers in the bustling urban countryside of Belgium depicted in the film.

Overall, the audio presentation in "Rosetta" achieves its aim of emphasizing realistic soundscapes, making viewers acutely aware of the nuanced environmental sounds and pristine dialogue. This Blu-ray release serves as an excellent example of how 2.0 surround sound can be used to create an intimate and authentic auditory experience that complements the stark, emotional imagery of the film.

The Blu-ray extras for "Rosetta" are rich in content despite their concise selection, offering substantial insights into the film's creation and themes. The highlight is a comprehensive interview with the Dardenne brothers, skillfully conducted by film critic Scott Foundas, providing a deep dive into the film's narrative, thematic elements, and production choices. Complementing this is a revealing discussion with actors Émilie Dequenne and Olivier Gourmet, who provide valuable perspectives on their roles and the realistic portrayal of their characters. The inclusion of the original French trailer showcases the meticulous restoration process. Additionally, the thoughtfully crafted booklet by Kent Jones enhances the viewer's understanding of the film's radical economy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne Interview: An extensive discussion about the film's meaning, themes, and production.
• Émilie Dequenne and Olivier Gourmet Interview: Actors' insights on casting, costumes, and character development.
• Trailer: Original French trailer with optional English subtitles.
• Booklet: 14-page illustrated booklet featuring an essay by Kent Jones.

Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne's "Rosetta" is a masterclass in raw, gritty, and intimate filmmaking, standing as a stark portrayal of the social struggles created by Belgium's economic conditions. Winner of the Palme d’Or and Best Actress awards at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival, "Rosetta" is shot in a documentary style that intensely focuses on the titular character's life, played phenomenally by Emilie Dequenne. The film unfolds in a series of uneven yet impactful episodes, devoid of melodrama and any musical score, creating a visceral atmosphere that blurs the line between reality and fiction. The Dardennes’ approach forces viewers to engage deeply with Rosetta's emotions and struggles, offering an almost unbearably cold portrayal of her life.

At the heart of the film is Rosetta’s relentless quest for stability. Fired from a factory job despite her dedication, she scrambles to find work while managing her alcoholic mother in a depressed caravan park setting. The narrative unfolds through Rosetta's interactions with various characters, including a kind-hearted waffle seller, Riquet, played compellingly by Fabrizio Rongione. Rosetta's journey is harsh and unrelenting—reflecting her fierce pride and desire to integrate into a society that seems unwelcoming. The absence of conventional cinematic comforts like background music amplifies the bleakness of her reality, captured exquisitely by cinematographer Alain Marcoen.

Dequenne’s portrayal of Rosetta is nothing short of extraordinary. Her performance is so authentic that it never once feels like acting, with every emotional beat resonating with raw intensity. Key scenes—such as Rosetta using a blow dryer to relieve stomach pain—are executed with such realism that they invoke genuine empathy and discomfort. The cumulative effect of these choices makes "Rosetta" a difficult film to watch frequently but one that demands appreciation for its unflinching honesty and technical brilliance. Though challenging, the film's authenticity provides a haunting reflection on socioeconomic hardships and the human will to persevere despite overwhelming odds.

Criterion Collection's Blu-ray release of "Rosetta" showcases the Dardenne Brothers' cinematic mastery in delivering an intense, minimalist, and powerful film. The movie's documentary-style realism is amplified by Émilie Dequenne's flawless performance, which captivates viewers by never breaking the naturalistic fourth wall. Criterion's restoration provides very good video quality, maintaining the film's raw and gritty feel, while the audio, although only a 2.0 mix, remains robust and clear.

This release includes a couple of extensive special features from 2012 that delve into the making and impact of "Rosetta," offering engaging insights for both new audiences and long-time fans of the Dardennes’. Despite a limited number of extras, the quality and depth of these features significantly enrich the viewing experience. This release holds its own within Criterion's catalog as an essential addition for those appreciating international cinema and realist filmmaking.

The exceptional presentation of "Rosetta" on Blu-ray underscores Criterion’s commitment to preserving and celebrating seminal films. This release not only introduces new aficionados to Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne but also reaffirms their place among contemporary cinema's most influential filmmakers. For those seeking raw, humanistic narratives, "Rosetta" is a compelling watch that remains impactful long after the credits roll. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.