Shame Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Shame" offers a unique visual experience that balances its original Super-16mm film roots with modern restoration efforts. The AVC encoded image maintains an aspect ratio of 1.84:1, providing a respectable portrayal of colors and environments. Brightly lit scenes effectively highlight blue skies and greenery, while clothing and interior elements add depth through primary color usage. While the image detail is generally softer, with skin tones and costume textures less defined than expected, delineation remains satisfactory throughout. Notably, grain appears processed and somewhat noisy, deviating from a more natural appearance due to possible digital noise reduction.

Cinematographer Joseph Pickering’s choice of 16mm film has an intriguing impact on the Blu-ray’s visual authenticity. The project underwent a comprehensive 2017 restoration by the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, working primarily with the Super 16 negatives except for the opening titles and sporadic shots which were executed on video masters. The initial title sequence begins with a noticeably soft and undetailed image quality, resembling upscaled standard definition video. However, post-titles, the film showcases reasonable fine detail with minimal detrimental effects from the grain treatment applied. Color timing fluctuates throughout, occasionally presenting flesh tones that are either natural or overly ruddy, particularly impacting Peter Aanensen’s complexion.

Despite minor visual setbacks such as incidental source wear and inconsistent color grading, "Shame" on Blu-ray delivers an immersive viewing experience that is predominantly enhanced by its restoration efforts. The balance achieved between preserving the film’s original aesthetic and modern visual quality, although imperfect, results in a captivating representation of a classic work.

The audio presentation of the "Shame" Blu-ray is delivered through a 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio mix, which effectively focuses on clarity in dialogue and an overarching simplicity that aligns with the film's tone. Dialogue exchanges maintain clarity and dramatic depth, ensuring that argumentative and intense moments resonate with the audience. The score notably highlights piano elements, interwoven with a variety of instrumental arrangements that enhance the film's emotionally charged atmosphere.

This English 2.0 mono DTS-HD Master Audio track is complemented by optional English subtitles for accessibility. While it is essentially a mono track, it remains clean and devoid of distortion or significant audio defects. Despite a somewhat limited frequency response, the track capably handles the essentials. The score, composed by Mario Millo, is presented as well as possible within these fidelity constraints, adding an effective dimension to the overall presentation without overshadowing dialogue.

The audio ambiance, though basic, manages to enhance the overall auditory landscape of the film, providing appreciable support to both the soundtrack and dialogue-driven elements. This release offers an uncomplicated yet competent audio experience, suitable for presenting the intended emotional and dramatic elements of the film through its clear yet understated design.

The Blu-ray extras for "Shame" offer insightful and comprehensive content that enriches the film's viewing experience. The collection includes a detailed commentary by the director Steve Jodrell, screenwriter Michael Brindley, and actress Simone Buchanan, which covers technical insights, such as shooting on Super-16 and dealing with challenges like negative scratching, along with thematic discussions. An engaging interview video conference further deepens the exploration of the film's themes and development process, despite minor technical issues. Deborra-Lee Furnace is highlighted in a TV special discussing her career and her role in "Shame". The included audio oral history and premiere night footage offer an intimate glimpse into the production challenges, distribution hurdles, and audience reception. Additionally, a theatrical trailer is featured. These extras form a compelling package that complements the cinematic journey of "Shame".

Extras included in this disc:

• Booklet: Features an essay by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas.
• Commentary: Insights from Steve Jodrell, Michael Brindley, and Simone Buchanan.
• Interview: Discussion covering the film's development and themes.
• Deborra-Lee Furnace: In Conversation: TV special with actress insights.
• Oral History: Audio discussion with Steve Jodrell.
• Premiere Night: Footage from the film's opening event.
• Theatrical Trailer: Promotional teaser of the film.

"Shame" emerges as a unique blend of B-movie aesthetics and serious thematic exploration, directed by Steve Jodrell, making his feature film debut. Set in a rural Australian town plagued by hostility and intimidation, the film navigates the complex issue of sexual assault with delicacy rather than the exploitative tendencies of traditional Ozploitation cinema. Screenwriters Beverly Blankenship and Michael Brindley achieve a poignant narrative balance by highlighting psychological terror without succumbing to gratuitous violence. Deborra Lee-Furness stars as Asta, a motorcycle-riding barrister unexpectedly entrenched in this volatile environment. Her performance anchors the film, portraying a character adept at challenging both her circumstances and the entrenched misogynistic attitudes of Ginborak with a nuanced blend of intelligence and defiance.

As Asta's journey unfolds in Ginborak, she is pivotal in fostering the empowerment of Lizzie (Simone Buchanan), a young woman burdened with trauma and silenced by societal pressure. The narrative adeptly presents Asta's evolution from a mere outsider aiming to fix her motorcycle to a vital beacon of resistance against ingrained social injustices. This transformation is skillfully mirrored in the film's portrayal of community dynamics, illustrating how Asta's presence rekindles hope among the local women while inciting the wrath of oppressive male figures. The film’s depiction of these antagonists is hyperbolic yet effective, serving to underscore the severity of endemic issues within the town.

"Shame" is compelling in how it chronicles Asta's alignment with Lizzie amidst community conflicts. This dynamic serves as a catalyst for potential legal recourse, though it places Asta in peril. The interplay between Asta's solidarity with Lizzie and the broader female populace injects fresh energy into the film, subtly suggesting a progressive undercurrent poised to alter Ginborak's bleak landscape. Jodrell's approach ensures that while "Shame" retains its B-movie shell, the core narrative steadfastly addresses pertinent social issues, crafting a cinematic experience both engaging and thought-provoking.

The Blu-ray release of "Shame" offers a potent reflection of its intense narrative and powerful performances. The film, skillfully helmed by director Steve Jodrell, explores themes of denial, confusion, and personal empowerment through its protagonist, Asta Cadell. The restraint in its storytelling is notable; rather than focusing on explicit assaults, it draws viewers into the emotional and psychological aftermath, enhancing the experience's poignancy. Jodrell's adept direction balances moments of climactic urgency with more profound human interactions, keeping the storyline authentic and engaging. Deborra-Lee Furness delivers a compelling performance as Asta, embodying an educated and assertive figure who becomes a catalyst for change within the rural town of Ginborak.

This Blu-ray edition, now brought to North American audiences via a collaboration between Umbrella Entertainment and Vinegar Syndrome, enriches the film’s accessibility and appeal. While it retains the robust extras of previous releases, the addition of an insightful essay by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas gives further depth to the viewing experience. The packaging has been enhanced, which complements the film's enduring relevance and cinematic strength.

In conclusion, "Shame" stands as a significant work in Australian cinema that transcends its regional origins. This Blu-ray release captures the film's raw emotion and societal commentary with technical precision in both video and audio presentation. For viewers unfamiliar with this poignant narrative, this edition provides an ideal opportunity to experience Jodrell's masterful storytelling and Furness’s standout performance.