The Measure of a Man Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray of "The Measure of a Man" boasts an exceptional 1080p HD transfer, presented in either a 2.40:1 or 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The film adheres to a colder, more naturalistic color palette, driven by blues, grays, and browns that complement its somber narrative. Although vivid colors are not prevalent, occasional elements like a red jacket offer slight vibrancy without overpowering the overall muted presentation. This aesthetic choice does not stem from any deficiencies in the transfer but clearly aligns with the film's intended mood. The skintones remain accurate and natural, albeit slightly paler, enhancing the expression and nuance of the performances.

The detail is remarkably sharp and precise, particularly in close-ups where facial features such as individual hairs and wrinkles are distinctly visible. This clarity allows for a meticulous study of the characters' discomfort and emotional turmoil. The delineation is top-notch, ensuring that each frame is crisp and communicative. Black levels are deep and inky, further elevating the film's dreary atmosphere. Additionally, the source material is fresh and clean, with no noticeable issues concerning video noise, banding, or aliasing. Overall, this video presentation receives high marks for maintaining a visually compelling and technically sound experience.

The audio presentation of "The Measure of a Man" on Blu-ray features a DTS-HD MA 2.0 stereo mix that excels in delivering a clear and articulate dialogue-driven experience. This sound mix is not designed for dynamic, action-packed sequences but rather focuses on the nuanced delivery of vocal exchanges. Dialogue is sharp, clean, and easy to follow, significantly contributing to the film's emotional and narrative depth. The mix ensures that tensions and frustrations embedded within the conversations are perfectly captured, maintaining clarity and precision throughout.

Ambient sounds play an essential role in enhancing the listening experience. The atmospherics, particularly those capturing the bustle of store activities, are full and layered, adding a realistic backdrop to the scenes. Conversely, more intimate settings like apartment encounters are enriched with detailed domestic sounds that highlight the subtleties of daily life. Sound effects, including the acoustics of dialogue through a computer, are portrayed with excellent realism, creating an immersive atmosphere within the limitations of a stereo mix. For a film centered primarily on dialogue and ambient sound, this DTS-HD MA 2.0 stereo mix delivers commendably.

The Blu-ray release of "The Measure of a Man" offers a well-rounded set of extras that enhance the appreciation of the film’s artistic and stylistic intentions. The highlight is the comprehensive interview with director Stéphane Brizé, where he elaborates on his creative process, stylistic decisions, and the narrative's development, deepening viewers' understanding of the film’s subtle nuances. Additionally, the inclusion of the theatrical trailer allows fans to revisit the impactful promotional aspect of the movie.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interview: Filmmaker Stéphane Brizé discusses making the film, the stylistic choices, the characters, and story arc.
• Theatrical Trailer: Official trailer for the film.

"The Measure of a Man," directed by Stéphane Brizé, meticulously explores the struggles of the working class in France through the lens of Thierry, a man in his fifties grappling with unemployment. Brizé's docudrama approach provides an unfiltered view of Thierry's plight, capturing the day-to-day indignities and challenges of job hunting in a deeply personal yet universally relatable narrative. Co-writer/director Brizé's observational techniques imbue the film with a raw authenticity, casting non-actors alongside the phenomenally talented Vincent Lindon to heighten its realism.

Lindon's portrayal of Thierry is both masterful and understated, conveying the character's battle against financial instability and emotional strain with profound subtlety. His performance is a culturally significant depiction of resilience, observed through grueling job interviews, retraining programs, and his eventual role as a security guard—each scene meticulously designed to reflect today's socioeconomic conditions without overt political commentary. Lindon's ability to express his character’s entire emotional spectrum through mere facial expressions adds depth to the film’s exploration of dignity under pressure.

Brizé skillfully balances the film’s heavier moments with glimpses into Thierry's home life, illustrating familial love as his anchor amidst professional turmoil. This nuanced depiction prevents the narrative from veering into overwhelming despair. Instead, it shows an optimistic perseverance in learning new skills, aiming for self-improvement despite systemic barriers. By doing so, "The Measure of a Man" not only highlights the malleability required in modern employment landscapes but also offers a quietly uplifting tale of hope and determination. This film is an essential viewing experience for its credible, insightful look at contemporary worker struggles and personal redemption.

"The Measure of a Man" on Blu-ray delivers an emotionally rich and profound cinematic experience that thoroughly examines the moral and ethical challenges faced by individuals in desperate circumstances. Vincent Lindon's stellar performance as Thierry brings forth a deeply human portrayal of a man striving to maintain his dignity and support his family amidst the turmoil of job insecurity. Director Stéphane Brizé's minimalist yet effective approach allows the narrative to unfold without contrived resolutions, creating an authentic character study that lingers long after the credits roll.

Technically, the Blu-ray offers high-quality video and audio presentations, maximizing the film’s atmospheric visuals and poignant soundtrack. The subdued cinematography and ambient sound design are excellently preserved, providing an immersive viewing experience. Though the disc’s special features are limited to one notable extra, it adds valuable context to the film's production and thematic depth. A broader array of bonus content would have further enriched the package, but the available content remains insightful.

In conclusion, "The Measure of a Man" switches gears in its second half, depicting Thierry's struggle in a security role at a big box store, where he faces the plights of shoplifters and scammers. Brizé's direction highlights moral dilemmas without offering easy answers, creating a narrative that is both thought-provoking and humane. This Blu-ray edition is highly recommended for its exceptional performances and technical merit, despite the limited bonus features.