Jeremy Blu-ray Review

Fun City Editions' Blu-ray debut of "Jeremy" showcases a new 2K restoration derived from its 35mm color reversal internegative. Encoded with AVC and presented in a 1.66:1 aspect ratio, this release preserves the film's authentic low-fi aesthetic, originally shot on 16mm by cinematographer Paul Goldsmith. Remarkably, the transfer retains a natural film-like grain, essential for displaying the inherent visual texture and ambiance of 1970s New York. Scenes, particularly close-ups, maintain sufficient detail, capturing milder facial nuances while portraying the depths of cityscapes accurately. The color palette is tastefully refreshed; deep primaries and natural skin tones offer a consistent visual experience, although there are minor artifacts and some light debris.

There are some notable technical considerations to address, which appear intrinsic to the original film elements rather than the restoration process. The transition from 16mm to blown-up 35mm has resulted in a softer and grainier image, consistent with its intended theatrical presentation. Despite the slight change in aspect ratio from 1.85:1 to 1.66:1, the framing remains coherent and visually pleasing. The grain structure is well-managed without introducing noise or noticeable artifacts. While colors and contrast are generally impressive, delivering vibrant primary hues and accurate skin tones, there is a slight deficiency in the darkest regions of the frame – an outcome of the blowup process rather than the transfer itself. This Blu-ray release excels in preserving the film's period-appropriate look while offering significant improvements in image clarity and quality.

The audio presentation for the Blu-ray of "Jeremy" features a 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio mix that provides an overall clear and enjoyable listening experience. Dialogue exchanges are given comfortable emphasis, ensuring that emotional interactions are easily discernible. This mix handles background noise effectively, preventing it from overwhelming performances. The soundtrack selections are slightly more aggressive in volume, which complements the track well, while orchestral components are finely defined with crisp instrumentation.

The English 2.0 mono DTS-HD Master Audio is the primary audio option, complete with optional English subtitles. An identical English 2.0 mono Dolby Digital track is also available. The opening song does experience some distortion; however, the remainder of the film maintains clarity despite its budgetary constraints. Dialogue remains consistently intelligible, and although the musical score is limited, it is presented well within this audio format. This technical approach ensures a faithful representation of the film's original sound design.

The Blu-ray extras for "Jeremy" are a rich assortment of features catering to fans and cinephiles alike. They are well-curated, providing insightful retrospectives and deeper analyses of the film. The commentary by Kat Ellinger and Mike McPadden is especially enlightening, delving into what distinguishes "Jeremy" from typical teen romances and highlighting its universal themes. The separately recorded interviews with Robby Benson and Glynnis O'Connor in "Susan and Jeremy" offer heartfelt reflections on their acting careers and the unique New York setting during the 1970s. Meanwhile, Chris O'Neill's video essay "A Phantom of Delight" effectively underscores the film's simplicity and star chemistry. Larry Karaszewski champions the film's quintessential New York essence in "Trailers from Hell," complementing the thematic focus of the other features.

Extras included in this disc:

• Booklet: Features an essay by film historian Bill Ackerman.
• Intro: Actress Glynnis O'Connor details the story of Jeremy.
• Commentary: Film historians Kat Ellinger and Mike McPadden discuss the film.
• Susan and Jeremy: Interviews with stars Robby Benson and Glynnis O'Connor.
• A Phantom of Delight: Video essay by Chris O'Neill.
• Photo Gallery: Collects poster art, publicity shots, and film stills.
• Trailers from Hell: Hosted by Larry Karaszewski.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer.

"Jeremy" (1973) stands out as a significant entry in the evolving landscape of teen movies, capturing the candid nuances of first love. Written and directed by Arthur Barron, the film leverages his documentary filmmaking experience to paint an intimate portrayal of young romance in bustling New York City. Robby Benson and Glynnis O'Connor deliver genuinely raw performances as Jeremy and Susan, respectively, anchoring the film's simple yet profound exploration of adolescent connection. Barron's adept direction ensures the narrative remains authentic and understated, focusing not on plot mechanics but on the palpable experience of youthful emotional awakening.

At its core, "Jeremy" follows the titular protagonist, a high school sophomore dedicated to his cello and aspiring for professional recognition, who finds himself infatuated with Susan, a new student from Detroit. Despite initial awkwardness and societal pressures—including a dismissive father and a skeptical cello teacher—Jeremy navigates the rocky terrains of teenage life. The film meticulously captures his earnest attempts to connect with Susan, emphasizing genuine emotions over comedic or dramatic exaggeration. Their whirlwind romance unfolds with remarkable authenticity, seamlessly integrating moments of vulnerability and joy.

"Jeremy" distinguishes itself by focusing on the subtler aspects of teenage love rather than grandiose drama. The film employs naturalistic storytelling to depict Jeremy and Susan's evolving relationship, capturing playful dates and personal revelations with unembellished sincerity. However, an ill-advised dalliance into explicit scenes disrupts the film's tonal consistency, detracting from its otherwise poetic charm. Despite this, Barron's penchant for understated storytelling prevails, underscoring the fragile beauty of young love against the complexities of reality.

Jeremy

"Jeremy" emerges as an insightful voyage into the realms of teen insecurity and confusion, deftly avoiding the pitfalls of melodrama in its final act. Director Arthur Barron displays an adeptness at capturing the raw emotional intensity of first-time love, seamlessly interwoven with the vibrant, ever-moving backdrop of New York City. The authenticity in Barron's observant vision resonates as a masterstroke in creating a genuine portrayal of youthful hesitation and joy, setting "Jeremy" apart from other genre films that often default to clichés.

The 1973 classic, notable for winning the Best First Work award at Cannes Film Festival, has retained its charm and significance over the decades, maintaining a dedicated fanbase. The Blu-ray release by Fun City Editions enriches the viewing experience with improved picture and sound quality, ensuring both nostalgic fans and new viewers can appreciate the film's nuanced storytelling and atmospheric ambiance.

Concluding with grace, Jeremy perfectly captures teen insecurities and confusion, and while it teases some last act melodrama, Barron doesn't go overboard with the resolution, remaining true to his vision of observance. It's an impressive directorial achievement, capturing universal feelings of hesitation and joy that come with first-time love, mixing such emotional intensity with the bustling movement of New York City. It all helps to make Jeremy distinct in a subgenre that often rewards sameness.