Funny People Blu-ray Review

"Funny People" arrives on Blu-ray with a respectable 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer that stays true to the film's original aesthetic. Shot by the Oscar-winning cinematographer Janusz Kaminski, the film's desaturated colors and moderate grain add dramatic punch and legitimacy. While raw lighting and oppressive shadows play a significant role, they contribute to a haunting and filmic appearance, particularly in nighttime scenes. Universal's technical efforts admirably preserve Kaminski's vision; detail is surprisingly sharp, with crisp definition and refined textures. The contrast is robust, although slightly hot at times, and black levels are well-resolved. While the overall image is not particularly three-dimensional, it maintains decent depth throughout, though it falls short during certain live stand-up performances by Sandler and Rogen.

Despite its strengths, the transfer does have a few minor issues. The grain can be inconsistent and aggressive, leading to a less clean image. Digital anomalies are rare but do appear in brief instances, most notably in a split-second shot during an outdoor confrontation scene. Nevertheless, artifacting, banding, noise, aliasing, and smearing are minimal and do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. Shimmering and ringing are present but not substantial enough to be bothersome.

Ultimately, while "Funny People" may not have the razor-sharp picture quality of some high-definition presentations, its warm and attractive cinematic quality is sure to please fans. The primary colors are strong, if not vivid, and the pallet remains true to form. Contrast is well-balanced with excellent visibility of background information and clean whites. Although some film grain and overexposure are evident, these issues are relatively minor and do not outweigh the overall merits of Universal's technical transfer. The results are commendable, providing an engaging viewing experience that stays faithful to the original cinematic vision.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for "Funny People" is commendable, particularly for a dialogue-driven dramatic comedy such as this. While the mix may not be highly active or head-turning, it excels in delivering a realistic and immersive sound experience. Conversations predominantly anchor the soundscape to the center channel, rendering a front-heavy audio presentation, yet the track excels in clarity and natural dynamics. Voices are clear, whether whispered or shouted, ensuring that every exchange between Sandler and Rogen is nicely prioritized and discernible.

The ambient effects are a standout feature, with environments like empty rooms and crowded performance halls captured convincingly. Directionality and pans are executed with precision, creating an enveloping soundfield that enhances the viewing experience without overwhelming the audience. The low frequency effects (LFE) are subtle but always on point, adding necessary depth without being intrusive. Some scenes, particularly archive footage and certain low-key comedy club settings, exhibit normalization issues and background noise, likely intentional to enhance the film’s authentic tone.

Although the surround channels do not offer much in terms of atmospherics, the overall mix remains strong with smooth interior acoustics and enjoyable imaging. The musical score and selected tracks spread evenly across the front channels with adequate low bass to add depth. Some locations like an airport or a Hollywood bar might sound slightly stagey, but this does little to detract from the overall impressive technical execution of the audio presentation. In summary, while it may not be a showcase for audio enthusiasts, "Funny People’s" DTS-HD Master Audio delivers a believable and satisfying sound design that effectively complements its narrative.

The Blu-ray edition of "Funny People" by Universal Studios is an extensive package that boasts a wealth of high-definition bonus content across two BD-50 discs. This collection offers fans over eleven hours of supplemental material, with highlights including comprehensive audio commentary, engaging behind-the-scenes documentaries, numerous deleted and extended scenes, and various engaging featurettes. These extras provide a deep dive into the film's production, giving a platform for Apatow, Sandler, and Rogen to share insights into their creative process, personal anecdotes, and challenges faced during the making of the film. The set's breadth and depth make it an indispensable addition for fans and cinephiles.

Extras included in this disc:

Audio Commentary: Judd Apatow, Adam Sandler, and Seth Rogen discuss the production.

Funny People Diaries: Four-part documentary covering extensive behind-the-scenes.

Line-O-Rama Parts 1 & 2: Montages of alternate one-liners.

Gag Reel Parts 1 & 2: Hilarious outtakes from the cast.

Deleted Scenes: Twenty-four scenes offering deeper character insights.

Extended & Alternate Scenes: Twenty scenes expanding the narrative.

Documentaries: Featurettes including in-character mockumentaries and radio show insights.

Music: Performances by James Taylor and Adam Sandler.

Stand Up: Behind-the-scenes and in-character stand-up sets.

From the Archives: Vintage interviews and stand-up performances by the cast.

The Films of George Simmons: Clips from fictional films within the movie.

Prank Calls - 1990: Home videos of prank calls by Sandler and Apatow.

Adam & Judd on Charlie Rose: In-depth interview focusing on the film and their careers.

Yo Teach!: Scenes from the fictional TV show within the movie.

Kids on the Loose: The Sequel: Behind-the-scenes antics involving Apatow's children.

ADR Line-O-Rama: Alternate lines recorded during ADR sessions.

George in Love: Censored scenes featuring Sandler's character's romantic escapades.

Theatrical Trailer: Official movie trailer.

Additional features include My Scenes Bookmarking, BD-Live Functionality, and BD-Live News Ticker.

Judd Apatow's "Funny People" stands out as a deeply personal and introspective film, diverging from the director's earlier focus on raunchy humor. Centered around the life of George Simmons, a successful comedian portrayed by Adam Sandler, the movie explores themes of mortality, regret, and the quest for happiness. Sandler delivers a captivating performance, embodying the duality of a self-assured comedian facing an untimely death. His portrayal is deeply nuanced, capturing the genuine struggle behind the public persona. Supported by Seth Rogen as Ira Wright, an emerging comedian hired to assist Simmons, the narrative is both poignant and compelling. Apatow uses humor as a narrative device, but the essence of the film lies in its dramatic exploration of life's complexities.

The interplay between Sandler and Rogen is noteworthy, showcasing their versatility beyond typical comedic roles. Rogen's character development from an inexperienced comedian to a steadfast friend highlights his growth as an actor. Their chemistry drives the film's authenticity, bolstered by impressive performances from supporting actors Leslie Mann, Jonah Hill, and Jason Schwartzman. Apatow’s screenplay is insightful, turning everyday interactions and comedic scenarios into profound reflections on life and relationships. His direction ensures that the film’s momentum remains character-driven, with each plot progression feeling natural and inevitable.

While "Funny People" has received criticism for its lengthy runtime and pacing issues, these aspects do not overshadow its merits. The film's emotional opening and earnest storytelling maintain viewer engagement throughout. Although the ending may feel somewhat contrived compared to the rest of the narrative, it doesn't detract significantly from the overall impact. Apatow's blend of humor and drama in this film is both touchingly relevant and resonant, establishing "Funny People" as a mature and thought-provoking piece worth experiencing.

Judd Apatow's "Funny People" is a compelling blend of humor and drama that marks his most mature work to date. The film skillfully explores life's ironies and the quirky, often juvenile ways people address their problems through comedy. Adam Sandler and Seth Rogen deliver standout performances that balance laughter and poignant moments, making the narrative both engaging and emotionally resonant. The writing captures a genuine human spirit, depicting the complexities of relationships and personal struggles with an authenticity that is both heart-rending and entertaining.

Universal's 2-disc Blu-ray edition enhances this experience by providing a top-tier A/V presentation. The video transfer is flawlessly faithful to the film's visual style, ensuring vibrant images with precise color accuracy. Meanwhile, the DTS-HD Master Audio track offers a convincing soundscape that immerses the viewer in both the comedic and dramatic moments of the film. Additionally, the Blu-ray package boasts an extensive collection of supplementary content, including behind-the-scenes features, deleted scenes, and commentaries that provide deeper insights into the filmmaking process.

In conclusion, "Funny People" is a fantastic film whose only misstep involves a somewhat disconnected, anticlimactic endgame. Still, regardless of its closing woes, it's a highly recommended watch for any Apatow, Sandler, or Rogen fan. Funny, poignant, and moving, it features a smart mix of comedy and drama sure to leave a lasting impression. The Blu-ray edition is equally compelling, with unparalleled A/V quality and a wealth of supplemental content that promises hours of entertainment and insight. Be sure to set aside some quality time to delve into this remarkable package.