Kindred Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded presentation (2.39:1 aspect ratio) of "Kindred" delivers a sharp and detailed image with a polished 1080p resolution that consistently maintains high focus and depth. The film captures intricate details, particularly in facial close-ups that meticulously highlight age differences and health conditions, as well as detailed textures of the beautifully decorated interiors. The estate's cavernous rooms and outdoor scenes exhibit a highly dimensional quality, with fibrous clothing and vivid animal feathers and fur in dreamscape sequences. Colors are employed effectively to convey the eerie atmosphere of the home, with deep reds and golds, enhanced by distinct greenery and warm sunshine.

The nearly flawless presentation from Scream Factory is executed through an unfiltered transfer showcasing clean cinematography with a neutral color palette. Despite certain scenes having a touch of softness and average shadow detail, the overall visual quality remains impressive. While some banding and periodic background blockiness can be detected during dreamscape visits, the AVC encode mostly replicates the source material with professional precision, ensuring a consistently visually pleasing experience. Although "Kindred" is not visually extravagant, its video quality is commendable for its strong definition and pristine clarity.

The 5.1 DTS-HD MA sound mix for "Kindred" delivers a sophisticated and well-balanced audio experience that effectively supports the film's narrative and emotional depth. This mix provides an intimate auditory setting with meticulously balanced quiet passages and impactful moments that emerge as the film's psychological elements intensify. Scoring cues, especially orchestral strings and piano pieces, are rendered with exceptional clarity, allowing for crisp and detailed sound reproduction that enhances the overall mood.

The surround channels are effectively utilized to create a palpable sense of atmosphere, particularly in scenes featuring household movements and exterior locations, immersing the listener in the film’s environment. While the low-end frequencies are not heavily emphasized, they do deliver a significant punch during violent sequences, adding to the dramatic impact without overwhelming the primary audio elements. Overall, the audio presentation is engaging, with transparent dialogue and lush fidelity in the subdued score. Optional English SDH and Spanish subtitles are available, along with an Audio Descriptive track, ensuring accessibility and a comprehensive listening experience.

The Blu Ray of "Kindred" comes with a select but impactful assortment of extras, aimed at offering viewers in-depth insights into the movie’s production and promotional material. The commentary by co-writer/director Joe Marcantonio stands out, providing nuanced behind-the-scenes explanations and discussing various compromises faced during the making of the film. This directorial insight enriches the viewing experience for movie aficionados. Additionally, the disc includes trailers that not only promote "Kindred" but also feature previews of other films from Shout Factory, augmenting the overall value of the package. A slipcover and reversible cover art add a tangible layer of collectibility to this release.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Director Joe Marcantonio: Explains his movie, discussing compromises and detailed behind-the-scenes information.
• Kindred Trailer: Theatrical trailer in HD.
• Shout Factory Trailers: Previews of other films, provided in HD.

"Kindred," co-crafted by co-writers Joe Marcantonio and Jason McColgan, aspires to echo the spirit of early Polanski films like "Rosemary's Baby," channeling paranoia and unease. Directed by Marcantonio in his feature-length debut, the film ambitiously explores themes of imprisonment and manipulation. Charlotte (Tamara Lawrance) experiences psychological turmoil after the sudden death of her boyfriend, Ben (Edward Holcroft). Taken in by his controlling mother, Margaret (Fiona Shaw), at a remote family estate, Charlotte’s gradual realization of her captivity forms the crux of the narrative. However, despite intense performances, particularly from Shaw, and the promise of a dark, suspenseful thriller, "Kindred" struggles to maintain momentum, feeling overly sluggish and drawn-out.

Marcantonio aims for a slow-burn effect, hoping to immerse viewers in Charlotte’s paranoid headspace. The pacing deliberately mimics Charlotte's increasing unease and isolation, as she encounters hallucinations and dreamscapes symbolizing possible escape or deeper entrapment. Yet, these artistic elements often detract from the film’s potential to deliver edge-of-the-seat suspense. What little shock value present is diluted by extensive dreamscape sequences and an overemphasis on atmosphere over plot progression.

The film's underlying premise, while intriguing, falters due to its contrived narrative and implausible developments. Minor bursts of tension and the toxic dynamic between characters like Thomas (Jack Lowden) add some texture but are insufficient to sustain interest. The clumsy execution and lack of substantial thrills may leave horror enthusiasts dissatisfied. Although "Kindred" boasts a competent cast and high production quality, it ultimately fails to deliver the expected chills and suspense, leaning too heavily on atmospheric tension that leads to an anticlimactic conclusion.

The Blu Ray presentation of "Kindred" offers a technically proficient viewing experience, ensuring a sharp and detailed visual quality. The high-definition transfer maintains a consistent level of clarity, with excellent color reproduction and balanced contrast that enhances the film's moody and tense atmosphere. The audio is equally impressive, providing clear dialogue and an immersive soundscape that supports the narrative's suspenseful elements.

However, despite its technical merits, "Kindred" falls short in its storytelling. The narrative attempts to create a psychological thriller but gets bogged down by slow pacing and underdeveloped characters. While the initial setup is promising, placing Charlotte in a precarious position of submission, the film struggles to maintain this tension throughout. The screenplay's effort to flesh out character histories late in the game doesn't compensate for the lack of continuous suspense or a compelling progression of events.

Moreover, the movie suffers from its inability to fully commit to its dramatic and unsettling potential. Instead, it opts for a sluggish style and extra characterization that feels unnecessary. This choice ultimately leads to a prolonged runtime that lacks the anticipated punch in its final act, resulting in an overextended conclusion without a truly satisfying payoff.

In conclusion, while "Kindred" begins with an intriguing premise and showcases strong performances, particularly from Lawrance, it fails to sustain suspense and deliver a gripping finale. The film's tendency to over-explain rather than unleash genuine tension leaves it feeling more drawn out than thrilling.