Men Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Men" by Lionsgate Films employs an AVC encoded 1080p transfer with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, derived from a digitally shot source using the Sony CineAlta and Phantom Flex4K cameras. This video presentation meticulously balances a range of filmic techniques, offering a cinematic experience that is both detailed and immersive. Despite the deliberate skewing of imagery, especially in the more surreal third act, the detail remains consistently sharp. The presentation avoids significant noise or artifacts, maintaining a clean image that nicely complements the film's horror tone.

The director's visual style is richly captured through the use of vibrant color palettes and stark contrasts. Scenes set in the English countryside utilize cool shades of greens, grays, and blues, establishing an atmospheric mistiness and natural feel, while flashbacks and early sequences heat up with fiery oranges and reds, enhancing the film's eerie themes. The depth of field is commendable, providing stunning bokeh effects and lavish visuals that highlight the lushness of the countryside. Flesh tones are presented warmly and naturally, preserving intricate details such as pores and individual hairs.

Black levels are generally deep and well-defined, although some scenes exhibit slight banding, particularly those drenched in warmer hues. Overall, the mastering showcases an impressive level of clarity and depth, translating the film's grandeur effectively to home video. While some CGI elements, like those depicting the boy character, may appear intentionally artificial, the presentation excels in delivering a crisp, vivid image. This Blu-ray release ensures a high-quality visual experience that resonates with both the film's dramatic elements and its horror-infused narrative.

The Blu-ray release of "Men" presents an exceptional DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that deeply enhances the viewing experience through its immersive sound design. The audio excellence is defined by sophisticated layering, where ambient elements and meticulously placed sound effects create a surround effect that is both dynamic and immersive. The track effectively matches the film’s hallucinogenic visuals, beginning with standard horror crescendos and transitioning into a hypnotic auditory landscape. As the film progresses, this complex sound field supports both loud, impactful moments and subtler intricacies, ensuring each scene is enveloped in rich auditory textures.

This audio presentation demonstrates authoritative dynamic range, skillfully navigating from intricate nuances to moments of intense aural impact. The balance of the audio elements, including nature sounds like wind through trees and distinct footsteps, is achieved with precision, providing a natural quality and contributing to an unsettling atmosphere when needed. Dialogue reproduction is top-notch, remaining clear and comprehensible even within the film's more intense scenes. English and Spanish subtitles are available to supplement the crisp, clean dialogue.

Though "Men" isn't primarily driven by its audio, the soundtrack serves as an integral part of the cinematic experience, offering unexpected depth from its five-channel format. Despite the absence of a Dolby Atmos mix on the disc itself, the provided DTS-HD Master Audio effectively fulfills the auditory needs of this unique film. The low-frequency extension adds weight through deep rumbles during pivotal scenes, while the surround channels offer more than mere ambiance, contributing to the pervasive sense of unease that lends to the film’s psychological tension. Overall, this audio mix offers an enveloping auditory experience that complements Alex Garland's vision innovatively and effectively.

The Blu-ray of "Men" includes a well-crafted supplemental feature titled "Rebirth: The Making of Men," offering a comprehensive look at the film’s creation. This 24-minute featurette provides insightful interviews with Director Alex Garland and stars Rory Kinnear and Jessie Buckley, exploring their motivations and thematic interpretations of the film. The extra is not just an extended Electronic Press Kit (EPK) but a thorough visual exploration with behind-the-scenes footage that enhances understanding of the film's production. The disc also provides a digital copy and a DVD version, packaged with a slipcover.

Extras included in this disc:

• Rebirth: The Making of Men: A detailed examination of the film’s making, featuring interviews with the director and cast, along with behind-the-scenes insights.

Alex Garland’s "Men" is an audacious and provocative exploration of gender politics and horror, deftly weaving folklore with modern critique. The film centers on Harper (Jessie Buckley), who retreats to the English countryside seeking solace after her husband’s tragic death. However, the serene landscape quickly devolves into a horrific nightmare where she confronts her darkest fears. The narrative unfolds through unsettling visuals and a disconcerting sense of dread, punctuated by clever nods to myths like the Green Man. Garland’s direction is bold, with sequences that shock while also offering dark humor, crafting an unforgettable blend that oscillates between horror and comedy.

Rory Kinnear delivers a standout performance, embodying multiple male archetypes that challenge Harper at every turn. His portrayal blurs identities in a manner that underscores the film's thematic core—a critique of toxic masculinity. Through meticulous makeup and CGI, Kinnear’s characters endorse the sinister yet sardonic tone of the movie. Conversely, Buckley’s portrayal of Harper is nuanced, navigating through terror and defiance as her character seeks resolution amidst chaos. The film’s structure, often employing flashbacks, gradually unravels the complex history between Harper and her husband, amplifying the tension and emotional stakes.

Technically, "Men" impresses with its brilliant cinematography and sound design that encapsulate a persistent atmosphere of unease. Garland’s courageous storytelling takes viewers on an escalating journey from personal grief to a surreal climax drenched in horror elements. Despite possibly leaving audiences polarized due to its ambiguous narrative threads or intrusive metaphors, the film succeeds in fostering ongoing discussion about its themes. By combining visceral imagery with substantial thematic inquiry, "Men" affixes itself as not only a visual spectacle but also as an engaging piece worthy of analysis and reflection long after viewing.

"Men," directed by Alex Garland, ventures into a unique territory of genre and gender exploration with a horror narrative that examines societal themes of toxic masculinity and female empowerment. Garland's storytelling stands out for its ability to seamlessly blend thought-provoking allegories with visually arresting scenes. The film's breathtaking 1080p HD visuals are complemented by an impressive DTS-HD 5.1 audio mix, elevating the viewing experience with crisp imagery and enveloping soundscapes. However, the Blu-ray release includes only one additional feature, which modestly touches on the production process.

The film is undoubtedly polarizing, with its contemplative "slow burn" pacing and surreal final act leaving audiences either enthralled or bewildered. Its narrative structure challenges viewers to engage deeply, demanding attention and contemplation long after the end credits. Although its esoteric conclusion poses more questions than it answers, "Men" remains a memorable piece of cinema that distinctively intertwines traditional motifs, such as the Green Man imagery, with modern societal critiques.

In conclusion, while "Men" may not surpass Garland's previous works in collective critical reception, it undeniably embodies his hallmark traits of originality and intellectual engagement. Lionsgate's Blu-ray edition showcases the film's technical merits magnificently, though its value might be diminished by the lack of comprehensive extras. Nonetheless, for enthusiasts of unique and reflective cinema, "Men" is a recommended addition—preferably at a discounted price—with the anticipation of a possible expanded A24 4K UHD release in the future.