Here Are the Young Men Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Here Are The Young Men" by Well Go USA features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. Filmed using Arri Alexa Minis, the digital intermediate was completed at 4K, ensuring that detail levels remain consistently high. The cinematography employs a broad palette, showcasing deeply saturated hues such as reds, purples, and oranges, which are effectively reproduced with excellent clarity. The film also integrates a variety of stylistic choices, with some scenes utilizing abstract imagery and others mimicking closed circuit or broadcast television transmissions, visibly tweaked for authenticity. However, there are minor banding issues observed in the legacy Well Go USA logo that appears during the feature.

Despite the occasional exotic and deeply saturated lighting, the 2.39:1 presentation maintains strong definition and crisp detail. The clean master is void of visible processing or compression artifacts, contributing to a stable and consistent 1080p visual experience. Color grading tends towards neutrality with naturalistic flesh tones, but certain scenes indulge in a more vibrant and playful use of color. Paramount to the successful reproduction is the rich saturation and variety of hues that enhance the film’s more critical scenes.

The main feature spans 96 minutes on a BD-25 and is encoded at standard parameters that deliver respectable audiovisual performance without any apparent flaws. While the film's unique cinematography does not always lend itself to reference-quality video, this Blu-ray presentation provides solid clarity and a high level of detail that remains faithful to the director’s vision. Overall, it is a polished representation that while not exemplary, fulfills the expectations for a modern Blu-ray release.

The audio presentation of "Here Are the Young Men" on Blu-ray is characterized by an energetic and boisterous DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. This dynamic mix is augmented by a carefully curated selection of propulsive musical cues that inject a rebellious, punk-fueled ambience into the film, contributing significantly to the raw, savage atmosphere. The soundtrack expands into outdoor scenes with ambient environmental effects, providing a nice spatial spread that enhances the immersive experience.

Dialogue clarity is generally good, though some actors' wandering accents and occasional over-the-top delivery can detract from it. At times, dialogue gets lost in the lively mix, making the use of optional English subtitles, rendered cleanly in a white font within the scope presentation, quite handy. Additionally, while the sonic presentation exhibits excellent dynamics and bold sound design, it is slightly hampered by recessed dialogue in a few instances. A secondary 2.0 Dolby Digital soundtrack is available but adds little value to the primary audio experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Here Are the Young Men" by Well Go USA brings a streamlined selection of extras primarily comprising trailers, in line with their usual releases. While this doesn't provide a depth of bonus content, the quality and presentation reflect the distributor's professionalism. The inclusion of a glossy slipcover that replicates the cover art adds a tactile appeal for physical media enthusiasts. The disc is programmed to automatically segue into trailers for other Well Go USA titles, which also play upon boot-up, maintaining a consistent viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Here Are The Young Men Trailer: Official trailer for the film.
• Well Go USA Trailers: Trailers for "The Paper Tigers" and "Synchronic".
• Better Days Trailer: Promotional trailer for another Well Go USA release.

Here Are the Young Men is an audacious narrative set in Dublin circa 2003, presenting a harrowing glimpse into adolescent turmoil. This stylistic drama, directed by Eoin Macken and adapted from Rob Doyle's acclaimed novel, tracks the reckless summer exploits of three recently graduated friends: the sensitive Matthew (Dean-Charles Chapman), the disturbed Kearney (Finn Cole), and the laid-back Rez (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo). Their descent into drug-fueled chaos and subsequent delinquency underscores the volatility of youth. Notably, the film juxtaposes surreal elements such as Kearney’s fantasy sequences influenced by American television with raw, sometimes brutal realism, resulting in a disjointed narrative experience reminiscent of Trainspotting and A Clockwork Orange.

Macken employs a screenplay that vacillates between vivid characterization and vivid yet inconsistent stylistic choices. While Matthew’s gentle demeanor and Jen’s (Anya Taylor-Joy) mature sensibility ground the narrative, Macken’s direction often feels unfocused. The surreal, hyper-stylized sequences, particularly those in Kearney's imagination mimicking daytime American talk shows, tend to distract rather than enhance the film's thematic depth. Although these moments offer a critique of American media's impact on youth, they often fall into overtly heavy-handed territory. The jarring shift to video vérité in scenes like the slow-motion car accident further detracts from the film’s cohesion, failing to maintain the consistent tone seen in Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange.

Performances are a standout feature, with Chapman delivering a haunting portrayal of a conflicted teenager and Taylor-Joy commanding attention with every appearance. Despite strong acting, Macken's overemphasis on surreal elements and trite commentary on cultural influences diminish the impact. Here Are the Young Men is a compelling yet flawed examination of adolescence—a film marked by vibrant storytelling but hindered by uneven execution.

"Here Are the Young Men" on Blu-ray presents a visually striking coming-of-age story that deftly captures the turbulence of Irish teenagers' lives post-high school. The film is notable for its compelling performances, particularly from its young cast, even though some actors may have benefited from more seasoned direction. Stylistically, the film excels with its vivid cinematography and an atmospheric score that collectively enhance the narrative's intensity.

The technical aspects of the Blu-ray release are commendable, delivering crisp, high-definition visuals that bring out the intricate details in each frame. The sound quality is also solid, with robust audio clarity that complements the visually driven storytelling. This makes the Blu-ray a worthwhile acquisition for viewers who appreciate technical finesse in home media. However, the film’s emotional impact is surprisingly scant given its dramatic subject matter. Although rich with style, it fails to evoke a deep emotional connection, which might leave some viewers wanting more depth.

"Here Are the Young Men" manages to spark curiosity about its source material, Rob Doyle’s novel. While the adaptation struggles with balancing style and substance, it nevertheless offers enough intrigue to consider exploring the original literary work. Overall, technical merits make it a strong Blu-ray release, but be prepared for a viewing experience that prioritizes visual flair over emotional profundity.