C'mon C'mon Blu-ray Review

"C'mon C'mon" is presented on Blu-ray by A24 and Lionsgate Films, featuring an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.66:1 aspect ratio. Captured using Arri Alexa Minis and finished at 4K, the transfer displays a moody and lustrous presentation that enhances the film's evocative cinematography. The clarity of the high-definition black-and-white display emphasizes fine textures, from facial details to fabric intricacies, providing a viewing experience that feels both raw and sublimely polished. This Blu-ray release effectively differentiates between self-announced locations such as Detroit and Los Angeles through elemental changes in weather and lighting conditions, which the format supports effortlessly.

The cinematography by Robbie Ryan stands out, with deep blacks and natural shades of gray adding richness to the visual narrative. The transfer maintains exceptional clarity without excess noise, allowing everyday elements, like antique stained glass windows and smudged car interiors, to surface with delightful accuracy. Although some scenes feature slight softness due to the depth of field between the lens and subjects, it doesn't detract from the overall visual spectacle. Even in black and white, the transfer captivates by focusing more on object details rather than color factors, offering a pleasing aesthetic that magnifies the subtleties and nuances of capturing human and environmental textures.

The Blu-ray of "C’mon C’mon" boasts an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that effectively captures the film's emotionally resonant auditory landscape. Detailed sound cues from Aaron and Bryce Dessner, ranging from classical to Motown, complement the narrative with both rich depth and clarity. The audio track excels in ambient environmental sounds, enriching scenes set outdoors or in dynamic spaces like Scarr’s Pizza restaurant with lifelike presence through the inclusion of traffic noise, subway cars, and the subtle bustle of city life. These elements blend seamlessly to create a richly immersive auditory experience.

The track handles dialogue with remarkable clarity, ensuring that Johnny's poignant interviews are delivered with crisp precision that supports the film's narrative depth. Musical compositions are superbly balanced, neither overpowering nor underwhelming, striking a harmonious middle ground that enhances the emotional impact without overshadowing the subtleties of ambient effects. While surround activity may be more subdued in contained scenes, the overall sound design remains effective, supporting the film's contemplative tone without resorting to excessive audio flair.

Optional English and Spanish subtitles underscore the track's accessibility, making it suitable for diverse audiences. Overall, "C’mon C’mon" presents a refined audio presentation that consistently supports the film’s thematic and emotional arcs through a meticulously crafted soundscape.

The Blu-ray extras for "C'mon C'mon" provide a concise yet insightful glimpse into the filmmaking process, focusing on two primary components. The audio commentary with writer-director Mike Mills is a standout, offering an in-depth exploration of his artistic approach and the collaborative effort with Joaquin Phoenix to achieve naturalism and intricate soundscapes. The "Making of C’mon C’mon" featurette, though brief at eight minutes, includes engaging interviews with cast members such as Gaby Hoffmann and Woody Norman. This segment balances informative content with entertainment, highlighted by personal anecdotes—like Norman's reflections on learning alongside Phoenix. Packaging includes a digital copy and features a slipcover.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Writer-Director Mike Mills: In-depth exploration of artistic methods and actor collaboration.
• Making of C’mon C’mon: Engaging interviews and insights into the film's production.
• Digital Code: Digital version included for additional viewing options.

Mike Mills' "C'mon C'mon" presents a profoundly introspective and nuanced exploration of human emotions and connections through the lens of Johnny, an emotionally reserved radio journalist played by Joaquin Phoenix. In a career-best performance, Phoenix captures the silent struggle of a man who embarks on a cross-country journey interviewing children about their insights on life and the future—authentic interactions that enrich the film's narrative. The standout "quasi-documentary" approach, as Mills dubs it, is heightened by the film's evocative black-and-white cinematography, which lends a timeless, introspective quality to the unfolding human drama. Mills’ commentary on the disc reveals his intent to weave texture and authenticity into the narrative, reverberating through these genuine exchanges with young voices, which reflect a profound philosophical underpinning in Mills' storytelling.

Supporting Phoenix is Woody Norman, whose portrayal of Jesse, Johnny's nephew, breathes life into the film. Jesse's presence propels Johnny into an emotional journey, serving as a conduit for introspection and vulnerability. Norman’s performance is remarkably untainted by theatrical pretense, bringing a sense of raw realism to the character, which is both impressive and deeply moving. Accompanied by Viv (Gaby Hoffmann), Jesse’s mother overwhelmed by familial obligations, the film delves into dynamics that feel strikingly naturalistic, inviting comparisons to a Neorealist tone. The interstitial interview sequences further enrich the narrative by providing a parallel to Johnny’s evolving relationship with Jesse—a testament to how unscripted wisdom from children can illuminate adult existential struggles.

Mills excels at crafting visual essays centered around humanistic themes, employing black-and-white visuals to strip away distractions and focus on essential narratives and connections. Such cinematographic choices underline the sincerity at the heart of "C'mon C'mon," portraying poignant and insightful moments while questioning adult perceptions of life and parenting. This film is less about conventional plot progression and more about embracing emotional terrains shared between adults and children—a compelling observation of our collective need for understanding and communication.

"C'mon C'mon" Blu-ray release presents a compelling, nuanced drama that delves into the complexities of family bonds and personal growth. The film is lauded for its authentic portrayal of everyday life, richly capturing the subtle dynamics between its characters. It distinguishes itself through its delicate balance of emotion, where genuine moments of levity offset the drama, resonating in a lifelike tapestry of unpredictability and authenticity. Notably, the film avoids melodrama, opting instead for an understated approach that heightens its realism and emotional truth.

From a distribution perspective, it is intriguing to note that "C'mon C'mon" receives a traditional retailer release via Lionsgate, diverging from A24's usual strategy for similar titles. It may lack the supernatural elements of "Lamb" or "Midsommar," but its quiet, introspective narrative rightly earns it a place among distinguished cinematic works. Prospective viewers should temper expectations of conventional storytelling mechanics; instead, the film offers a gracefully meandering exploration of familial themes, crafted with technical precision that ensures a captivating viewing experience. The Blu-ray comes highly recommended for its solid technical merits.

Despite limited supplementary content, Lionsgate's Blu-ray edition shines with excellent video and audio quality, supporting the film's immersive storytelling. "C'mon C'mon" is a touching rendition of life's inherent imperfections and small joys, conveyed without overwhelming theatrics. Its heartwarming narrative and capable execution underscore its deservingness of greater awards recognition. Overall, this Blu-ray release is a testament to the film’s poignant impact, making it an essential addition to any collection.