The Irishman Blu-ray Review

The Irishman" is presented on Blu-ray by Criterion with an MPEG-4 AVC encoding, 1080p transfer, and a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, preserving the film's meticulous framing and composition. Crafted under the watchful eyes of director Martin Scorsese, cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, and editor Thelma Schoonmaker, the transfer was sourced from a 4K digital master. A blend of cutting-edge digital-camera footage and the 35mm original camera negative allows for a seamless integration of de-aging visual effects, while applying different Look Up Tables (LUTs) emulates various photographic emulsions, enhancing the visual storytelling with period-accurate textures. The clarity, depth, and fluidity of motion are standout features, boasting sharpness that competes with the initial 4K Dolby Vision presentation seen on Netflix.

Despite some disappointment among aficionados for the absence of a 4K UHD release, this Blu-ray rendition impresses with its richly filmic quality. The color grading, approved by the film's primary creatives, skillfully alternates between vibrant and subdued tones, offering a visual feast that highlights primaries and pastels with exceptional clarity and contrast. Blacks are deep without swallowing detail, whites are crisp, and flesh tones maintain their natural appearance throughout. The image’s slight grain enhances its cinematic feel without detracting from the intricate details captured, from the texture of fabrics to the glossy finish of automobiles.

Viewers who had hoped for a 4K physical release might wish for more, but in truth, this Blu-ray surpasses expectations. Its faithful delivery of varied historical aesthetics and meticulously balanced colors showcases a visual quality that nearly matches that of its 4K online counterpart. The use of de-aging technology, a point of contention for some, is executed with such finesse that it complements rather than distracts from the narrative. In sum, Criterion's release of "The Irishman" offers a visually sumptuous experience that makes it a worthy addition to any collection, standing as a testament to the enduring power of high-definition presentation and expert craft in film restoration and preservation.

The Criterion edition of "The Irishman" on Blu-ray proudly presents its feature film with an exclusive English Dolby Atmos audio track, distinguished from the Netflix stream's DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. This track, meticulously remastered from the original digital audio masters, elevates the auditory experience to new heights, capitalizing on the Atmos' capabilities to deliver a spectrum of sound that is both sharp and full. Complementing this, a Descriptive Dolby Digital 2.0 track and optional English SDH subtitles are available, ensuring accessibility and enhancing the movie-watching experience for all audiences.

Technical prowess is evident in the dynamic range of the audio, offering variance without sacrificing the integrity of the original mix. The clarity and cleanliness of dialogue stand out, making even the subtlest conversational nuances easily perceivable. The soundtrack's engaging quality is further augmented by the effective use of atmospheric sounds—enveloping crowd noise, crisp environmental details, and poignant musical scores by Robbie Robertson, all finding their distinct places within the surround and stereo fields. These elements work together seamlessly, providing a rich backdrop that complements the visuals on screen.

Subtle yet impactful, the audio transfer impresses with its balance of nuanced quiet scenes and powerful sonic bursts. While overhead effects may not be prominently featured, the surround activity and stereo separation create an immersive environment that draws viewers deeper into the story’s world. The wide dynamic scale adeptly handles diverse audio elements from delicate sounds to robust explosions without distortion, and the bass frequencies add depth, grounding the movie’s more intense moments. Overall, "The Irishman’s" Dolby Atmos track is a testament to the film’s technical excellence, enhancing its atmospheric and nostalgic qualities without overpowering the masterful storytelling at its core.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Irishman" serve as a meticulous complement to the main feature, offering a deep dive into the film's creation, themes, and innovative technology. The comprehensive collection, spearheaded by Criterion and Netflix, presents a blend of informative behind-the-scenes content, including Martin Scorsese's detailed discussion on the evolution of the project and the groundbreaking digital de-aging process. A highlight is the casual yet profound roundtable with Scorsese, De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci, providing invaluable insights into their collaborative spirit and the film's intricate narrative and character dynamics. Technical discussions, especially regarding the de-aging technique by Pablo Helman and his team, illuminate the painstaking efforts to authentically portray the characters across decades. This supplemental package is crucial for understanding the meticulous craftsmanship behind "The Irishman," accentuated by never-before-seen archival interviews and a visual essay linking Scorsese's personal experiences with his cinematic exploration of gangster life.

Extras included in this disc:

• Making The Irishman: An in-depth look into the production with contributions from key cast and crew.
• Scorsese, De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci: A roundtable conversation among the film legends.
• Gangsters' Requiem: A visual essay on the film's narrative and style by Farran Smith Nehme.
• Anatomy of a Scene: The Irishman: Martin Scorsese's commentary on a crucial sequence.
• The Evolution of Digital De-Aging as Seen in The Irishman: Exploration of the visual effects techniques used in the film.
• Frank Sheeran and Jimmy Hoffa: Archival interview excerpts serving as pre-production references.
• Trailer and Teaser: Original promotional materials for the film.
• Leaflet: Contains an essay by critic Geoffrey O’Brien and technical credits.

Martin Scorsese's "The Irishman" (2019), presented by Criterion on Blu-ray, encapsulates the masterful director's long-standing preoccupation with the mob's intricate world, imbued with power struggles, betrayals, and the inevitable solitude that pervades the lives of its denizens. This cinematic titan, spanning three-and-a-half hours, is anchored by performances from Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci. Through its exhaustive length and meticulous pacing, "The Irishman" charts the complex relationship between Frank Sheeran, a war veteran turned hitman, and Jimmy Hoffa, the notorious labor leader, against the backdrop of significant historical events, including the Kennedy era and Watergate. Scorsese, employing a subdued style compared to his earlier gangster films, crafts a narrative that is both an epic chronicle of organized crime in America and a meditative reflection on aging, loyalty, and the passage of time.

However, despite its artistic achievements and narrative scope, "The Irishman" is not without its drawbacks. The decision to use de-aging digital effects for its leading trio has drawn mixed reactions. While it allows De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci to portray their characters across various decades seamlessly, it sometimes detracts from the film's authenticity, pulling viewers out of its meticulously recreated historical milieu to ponder the technology's effectiveness. Additionally, the film's extensive runtime has been a point of contention. Certain sequences appear drawn out, hinting at potential areas where trimming could enhance pace and narrative focus without detracting from the film's overall impact.

In terms of technical details, the Criterion Blu-ray release ensures "The Irishman" is seen with outstanding visual and auditory fidelity. The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video codec beautifully maintains Rodrigo Prieto's varied cinematographic styles that delineate different eras within the story. Complemented by a Dolby Atmos audio track, the film's immersive soundscape enriches its compelling narrative and complex character portrayals. This physical edition, further enriched by a wealth of supplemental features and a thoughtfully curated booklet, provides a comprehensive home-viewing experience of Scorsese's late-career masterpiece.

The Irishman," Martin Scorsese's ambitious epic, lands on Blu-ray through Criterion with a presentation that both venerates and critiques the twilight of its iconic ensemble's career. Although the film might elicit mixed feelings, being seen by some as a belated project that somewhat fails to reach the pinnacle of what could have been an unblemished masterpiece, it undeniably stands as a monumental effort amongst Scorsese's illustrious filmography. The narrative intricately weaves the complex dynamics of Jimmy Hoffa, Frank Sheeran, and Russell Bufalino, portrayed by a cast whose dedication to their roles is palpable, albeit marred by the visual reminders of their real-world age - which occasionally detracts from the immersive experience the script intends to offer.

Technical aspects of the Blu-ray release are where The Irishman shines unequivocally. Criterion's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the film’s 1080p transfer, which astonishingly competes with Netflix’s own 4K stream, showcasing an unprecedented level of visual fidelity that enthusiasts will appreciate. Coupled with an immersive Dolby Atmos audio track, the technical presentation enriches the narrative’s gravitas and accentuates its somber tone. Extras included enhance the value of this edition, making it a compelling purchase for cinephiles, even as we await a potential 4K UHD upgrade. Notwithstanding its narrative and pacing imperfections—the film’s length and occasionally unfocused plot points being notable criticisms—The Irishman's home release is commendably crafted.

In conclusion, despite "The Irishman" stirring debates regarding its timing and execution as a cinematic piece, its Blu-ray release via Criterion is nothing short of exemplary. This edition is a testament to the enduring legacy of its cast and filmmaker, mastering the balance between technical excellence and substantial narrative depth. It’s a recommended acquisition, offering not just a visual and auditory marvel but also a poignant glimpse into the careers of some of the most revered figures in cinema. Whether as a final bow for its stars or a showcase of Scorsese's directorial prowess, "The Irishman" on Blu-ray is an essential piece for both scholars and enthusiasts alike.