Tyrannosaur Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of Paddy Considine's "Tyrannosaur" offers a robust yet somewhat flawed video presentation, maintaining the original 2.4:1 aspect ratio. The high-definition 1080p transfer, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, embodies a faithful replication of the film’s visually raw and gritty aesthetic. While this presentation is not exemplary in terms of reference-quality image, it strikes an incredible balance given the limited budget and bleak narrative tone. Certain sequences exhibit issues such as banding and black crush, with black levels falling short of exceptional. Despite these deficits, the color scheme remains well-rendered, with the northern, monochrome-like hues authentically depicted, enhancing the movie’s stark emotional impact.

Close-up shots of leading actors Peter Mullan and Olivia Colman reveal impressive detail and depth, essential for the film's intimate dramatic moments. The cold colors and use of natural light are faithfully preserved, adding significant atmosphere to key non-verbal sequences. However, some scenes, particularly indoor ones with restricted natural lighting, show a notable softness. Importantly, there are no signs of severe denoising or post-production sharpening issues; banding patterns and compression anomalies are absent, ensuring a clean visual experience. While not devoid of flaws, this video presentation succeeds in supporting the intense narrative, presenting it with an authenticity that resonates deeply throughout the viewing experience.

The audio presentation of the "Tyrannosaur" Blu-ray can best be described as functional but not exceptional, primarily limited by its minimalistic sound design. The English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is utilized, delivering a clear and stable dialogue crucial to the film's narrative, prominently featured in the front and center channels. This clarity is consistent throughout the film, ensuring that the audience misses no crucial character interactions. Additionally, the soulful score subtly underscores each scene, adding to the overall mood without demanding attention. A few modern folk-style tracks sporadically enhance the surround experience, although these moments are rare.

Regarding sound effects, they are adequately represented but not particularly remarkable. There are a few effective moments, such as the persistent barking of dogs and the emphatic thuds from Joseph's sledgehammer, which introduce some directionality. However, overall surround activity remains subdued, and the bass seldom makes a notable impression. This restrained dynamic range is in line with the film’s stylistic choices, designed to complement its gritty and intimate atmosphere, rather than overwhelm. For viewers, it's important to note the disc defaults to LPCM 2.0; switching to DTS-HD MA 5.1 is recommended for an optimal auditory experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Tyrannosaur" provide a remarkably comprehensive look into the film's production, especially considering its limited scale. A highlight is the audio commentary featuring writer/director Paddy Considine and producer Diarmid Scrimshaw, where Considine offers candid insights into the script’s evolution, character performances, and the overall filmmaking process. Additionally, the disc includes "Dog Altogether," a critically acclaimed short film that inspired "Tyrannosaur," allowing viewers to explore the roots of the feature film. The selection of deleted scenes, accompanied by optional commentary from Considine, delves deeper into unused narrative arcs and character moments. Rounding off the extras are a stills gallery and the original theatrical trailer.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Audio commentary by Paddy Considine and Diarmid Scrimshaw discussing production insights.
• Short Film: "Dog Altogether," the original short film that inspired "Tyrannosaur."
• Deleted Scenes: Various scenes with optional commentary by Considine.
• Stills Gallery: Images from the film and its production.
• Trailer: The original theatrical trailer for "Tyrannosaur."

Paddy Considine's directorial debut, Tyrannosaur, has rightfully garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including Best British Independent Film and Best Debut Director. This unflinchingly raw portrayal of working-class life on a council estate stands as one of the most compelling and intense dramas of 2011. The film orbits around two profoundly broken individuals: Joseph (portrayed by the electrifying Peter Mullan) and Hannah (the stellar Olivia Colman). Mullan's character, a man besieged by his own violent tendencies, finds an unexpected connection with Hannah, a fragile charity shop worker hiding deep personal pain. Their encounter sets off a complex narrative that oscillates between brutal realism and slivers of hope.

The bleak, almost oppressive atmosphere is meticulously crafted by cinematographer Erik Wilson and editor Pia Di Ciaula. The cold tones and minimalist lighting enhance the narrative's starkness, yet brief moments of visual beauty break through, lending the story an unexpected emotional depth. Both central performances are nothing short of transformative—Mullan embodies a man ravaged by inner demons, and Colman's powerful journey from brittle vulnerability to raw strength is compelling. The movie’s unsettling mood is underscored by a haunting soundtrack from The Leisure Society.

Tyrannosaur is available on Region B-locked UK Blu-ray via Studio Canal with extras such as commentary by Considine and producer Diarmid Scrimshaw, deleted scenes, and the original short film, Dog Altogether. Despite an average visual presentation, the supplementary features enrich the viewing experience, making this edition highly recommendable for new audiences and longtime fans alike.

Paddy Considine's "Tyrannosaur" stands out as an exceptional British film from 2011, demonstrating a deeply moving and thought-provoking narrative that solidifies Considine’s prowess as a debut director. The movie delves into themes of violence, redemption, and human connection with an unflinching rawness that leaves a lasting impact. Viewers will be captivated by the gritty realism and superb performances, most notably by Peter Mullan and Olivia Colman, whose portrayals add profound depth to the already powerful story.

The Blu Ray presentation by Studio Canal is of top-notch quality, ensuring that the film's visual and auditory elements are delivered with precision. The picture quality is sharp and clean, capturing the stark and somber atmosphere of the film beautifully, while the audio mix is clear and dynamic, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Furthermore, the inclusion of a compelling audio commentary by Considine and producer Diarmid Scrimshaw offers valuable insights into the filmmaking process, adding significant value to this release.

In conclusion, "Tyrannosaur" is not just an essential watch but also represents a benchmark in British cinema. Studio Canal’s meticulous presentation does justice to Paddy Considine's formidable directorial debut, making this Blu Ray a must-have for both film enthusiasts and collectors. It would be a grave oversight to miss such a remarkable film presented in such an exemplary manner. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.