Freeheld Blu-ray Review

"Freeheld" is presented on Blu-ray by Lionsgate Films with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Utilizing Arri Alexa XT cameras, the digital cinematography ensures a technically near flawless presentation. Visually, the film adopts a subdued, naturalistic style that aligns with its somber narrative tone. Colors remain natural but not exceptionally saturated, except for some stunning sequences set at the beach. Detail levels are consistently high, highlighting intricate makeup work, such as the alarming deterioration of Laurel's condition in close-ups.

Director Peter Sollett and cinematographer Maryse Alberti favor what appears to be natural lighting, resulting in occasionally gauzy visuals in interior settings like hospitals. Despite this, most scenes maintain vivid sharpness, revealing fine textures in clothing, individual hairs, and skin details such as wrinkles and freckles. The beachfront scenes particularly stand out with phenomenal clarity and color accuracy. Black levels are satisfactory, deep and inky, while skin tones appear realistic throughout. The transfer does not exhibit any significant issues such as banding, aliasing, or compression artifacts, ensuring a solid presentation overall.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track on the Blu-ray of "Freeheld" offers a subtle yet effective audio experience tailored for a dialogue-driven narrative. With most of the film focusing on quiet, intimate conversations, the bulk of the sonic content is anchored front and center. Notably, scenes set in bustling environments like a busy police precinct or at the beach provide modest but discernible ambient immersion through the side and rear channels. However, the dynamic range, while fine in fidelity, remains somewhat restrained throughout.

Overall, this audio mix sustains crystal clear dialogue that is easy to follow, even in quieter moments, ensuring the character-driven essence of the film shines through without any interference from background noise. The score adeptly complements the tone and emotions of the story without overwhelming any dialogue or sound effects. No anomalies such as hiss, pops, or cracks are present, and the LFE performs adequately. Though this isn't an audio experience designed to showcase high-intensity action sequences or explosive sound design, it effectively serves the intimate and emotional core of the film.

The extras included on the Blu-Ray of "Freeheld" are both informative and deeply engaging, offering a comprehensive look at the film's real-life context and production process. The Audio Commentary is a standout feature where Director Peter Sollett, Julianne Moore, and Ellen Page deliver a heartfelt and informative discussion on the background of the case, dramatization choices, and technical insights. The Making of Freeheld is an appealing EPK segment showcasing behind-the-scenes footage, film scenes, and insightful cast and crew interviews. Freeheld to Freedom: Ocean County Then and Now provides a succinct yet impactful overview of Laurel Hester’s legacy, featuring interviews with the real-life Stacie Andree. Lastly, the Freeheld Documentary presents the original Academy Award-winning documentary in 480i, encapsulating the essence that led to the creation of the feature film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Informative discussion with Director Peter Sollett, Julianne Moore, and Ellen Page.
• The Making of Freeheld: Behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.
• Freeheld to Freedom: Ocean County Then and Now: Overview of Laurel Hester’s legacy.
• Freeheld Documentary: Original Oscar-winning documentary short.

"Freeheld," adapted from the Academy Award-winning documentary short, expands on Laurel Hester's struggle for justice in a different yet impactful manner. Written by Ron Nyswaner, known for his acclaimed work on "Philadelphia," the film features Julianne Moore as Hester, a New Jersey police officer battling terminal cancer while fighting to secure spousal benefits for her partner Stacie Andree, played by Ellen Page. Despite the landmark Supreme Court ruling making spousal benefits transferable to same-sex couples, the narrative revisits this critical issue and highlights its once-controversial nature. The film veers into sentimental territory at times, presenting an almost Lifetime-like approach in its attempt to contextualize Hester's life and struggles, differentiating it from the more straightforward documentary.

The film's first act concentrates on Hester's closeted life within the New Jersey police force and her burgeoning relationship with the younger Stacie, whom she meets through a women's volleyball team. While Moore and Page effectively convey their characters’ connection, the scripting surrounding Stacie occasionally feels underdeveloped. The emotional intensity escalates as the film delves into Hester's confrontation with terminal illness and legal challenges. The arrival of Steven Goldstein (Steve Carell), founder of Garden State Equality, introduces a discordant comic element to an otherwise somber narrative.

While "Freeheld" has its narrative and tonal inconsistencies—the juxtaposition of Goldstein's flamboyance against the backdrop of Hester's grave predicament disrupts the film's flow—the emotional resonance remains potent, especially as Hester’s resolve becomes paramount. Moore’s performance is particularly noteworthy, capturing the poignancy and strength of her character. Though it doesn't achieve the dramatic impact of "Philadelphia," "Freeheld" provides a crucial examination of love and justice within the framework of LGBT rights, advocating the progress observed in recent judicial developments.

“Freeheld” offers a compelling narrative adaptation of real-life events, skillfully maneuvering through themes of justice and resilience reminiscent of Nyswaner's "Philadelphia." Julianne Moore delivers an exceptional performance, particularly in the latter part of the film, overshadowing any deficiencies in the script’s character depth. Ellen Page, while given less material to work with, manages to bring authenticity to her role. However, Steve Carrell’s abrasive portrayal feels somewhat misaligned with the film’s otherwise earnest tone. Despite these minor criticisms, the emotional strength of “Freeheld” remains impactful.

The Blu-ray presentation is commendable, with quality video and audio that enhance the viewing experience. The supplementary content adds significant value, especially for viewers interested in the real-life stories behind the narrative. The inclusion of the original documentary short enriches the viewer’s understanding and appreciation of the main feature. While the film occasionally falls into predictability and sentimentality, its core message and performances, particularly Moore’s, resonate deeply.

In conclusion, “Freeheld” stands out as an emotionally potent film, enriched by strong performances and a high-quality Blu-ray release. Although it has its shortcomings, the film succeeds in delivering a moving portrayal of a fight against injustice. This Blu-ray edition is recommended for both fans of the film and those interested in learning more about the true events that inspired it.