Antichrist Blu-ray Review

Lars von Trier's "Antichrist," presented in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC for its 1080p transfer, boasts an immaculate visual presentation on Criterion's Blu-ray release. Utilizing state-of-the-art digital technology, including the RED One Digital Camera for principal photography and the Phantom HD Camera for high-speed sequences, the film was shot in 4K resolution and completed within a fully digital workflow. The post-production process, detailed in the enclosed booklet, involved sophisticated color timing and correction through Assimilate's SCRATCH and Nucoda's Film Master systems, culminating in a transfer to the Rec. 709 high-definition color space specifically for Blu-ray. Overseen by experts such as Stefan Ciupek, Dirk Meier, and supervised by Anthony Dod Mantle and Peter Hjorth at the Nordic Film Lab in Copenhagen, this process ensures a pristine and faithful visual reproduction of the film’s original digital footage.

The transfer itself is a testament to the meticulous care taken in every step of its creation. The distinct interplay between clarity, contrast, and detail facilitates a palpable transition between the starkly different worlds inhabited by the protagonists He and She. The film’s visuals, characterized by its cool greens and grays and punctuated by deliberately richer reds than those seen in previous releases, are rendered with precision. Even in darker scenes where softness is an inherited feature rather than a flaw, the transfer maintains its integrity, brilliantly capturing the tactile details of the natural world that von Trier so fervently explores. The enhanced visual fidelity serves to accentuate every element, from the gnarled texture of tree trunks to the surreal appearance of a talking fox, all while efficiently conveying the film's alternating stylistic moods—from hazy dream sequences to stark documentary realism.

Critically, this Blu-ray edition of "Antichrist" represents a significant step forward in home cinema presentation, effortlessly outpacing previous releases like the M6 Blu-ray, not only in terms of technical specifications—boasting a 1080p encoding over 1080/50i—but also in achieving an unparalleled level of visual quality that remains true to Trier's vision. With deep, dark blacks that underline its atmospheric depth and skin tones that remain natural under varying lighting conditions, the transfer excels in reproducing the nuanced stylistic shifts intended by von Trier. This Criterion release, requiring a Region-A or Region-Free player due to region locking, is devoid of any discernible technical flaws, affirming its status as a meticulously crafted and visually stunning presentation that enhances the viewing experience of "Antichrist" to an exceptional degree.

The Antichrist Blu-ray boasts a solitary yet remarkably outstanding English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, faithfully remastered at 24-bit from the original digital master files with Pro Tools HD, ensuring audio of the finest quality. This track, identical to the theatrical mix, prioritizes clarity and atmosphere over aggressive surround channel use. Its subtlety is its strength, with ambient sounds seamlessly blending into the eerie and atonal musical score, providing an immersive auditory experience. Ambient environmental sounds, such as acorns on a tin roof or distant bird calls, contribute to a richly atmospheric setting, drawing the viewer deeper into the film's world.

Despite the surround activity being described as somewhat limited, this audio presentation excels in delivering depth and fluidity, complemented by Handel's music which heightens the film's sense of unease. The sound design impressively blurs the line between score and sound effects, creating an enveloping soundscape that is as crucial to the storytelling as the visuals themselves. Dialogue remains crisp and well-prioritized throughout the film, ensuring narrative clarity amidst the haunting soundscapes.

Criterion's commitment to preserving the film's integrity shines through in this audio treatment, supporting the film’s dense emotional and thematic layers without resorting to overwhelming auditory tactics. Optional English SDH subtitles are thoughtfully provided to enhance accessibility, ensuring viewers do not miss out on any aspect of the film's deeply engaging audio experience. This meticulous approach to audio presents a masterclass in how to complement a film's visual splendor with equally compelling sound design, making for an entirely captivating viewing experience.

The Blu-ray extras of "Antichrist" provide an exhaustive and compelling delve into the film's creation and reception, essential for aficionados and scholars alike. The array of interviews, notably with von Trier, Gainsbourg, and Dafoe, offer penetrating insights into the psychological undercurrents of the film and the controversies it stirred. The commentary by von Trier and Professor Murray Smith is particularly enlightening, blending professional analyses with von Trier's personal reflections on his work. The Making of 'Antichrist' segments, meticulously overseen by von Trier's production company, reveal the rigorous yet imaginative processes behind the film's visual, sonic, and narrative elements. The candid Cannes 2009 footage offers a glimpse into the film's polarizing premiere, encapsulating the critical frenzy it ignited. Together, these extras not only complement the movie but expand on its thematic complexities and the fervent discussions it continues to evoke.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interviews: Engaging dialogues with Lars von Trier, Charlotte Gainsbourg, and Willem Dafoe about their experiences and challenges during the making of "Antichrist."
• Commentary: A nuanced audio commentary featuring director Lars von Trier and Professor Murray Smith, offering deep dives into the film's narrative and thematic explorations.
• The Making of Antichrist: Detailed documentaries covering aspects from visual style to sound design, providing unparalleled insight into the film's production.
• Cannes 2009: Captivating behind-the-scenes look at "Antichrist"'s debut at Cannes Film Festival, showcasing interactions with media and reactions to the film.
• Trailers: A set of atmospheric trailers that capture the essence of "Antichrist" without revealing too much detail.
• Booklet: A richly illustrated booklet with Ian Christie's essay "All Those Things That Are To Die," enhancing the viewing experience with scholarly context and analyses.

Released in 2009 and igniting a firestorm of debate, Lars von Trier's "Antichrist" has made its way to Blu-ray through the Criterion Collection, notably praised for its meticulous presentation complemented by a constellation of extras including commentary, interviews, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into its contentious Cannes debut. The film stars Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Gainsbourg, who delivers a Cannes Best Actress-winning performance, as a couple navigating the treacherous waters of grief following the loss of their child. Their journey, segmented into chapters titled Grief, Pain (Chaos Reigns), Despair (Gynocide), and The Three Beggars, is a harrowing exploration of human suffering and existential dread, loaded with von Trier's emblematic provocation.

Technically, "Antichrist" impresses with its audacious cinematography by Anthony Dod Mantle, utilizing both sumptuous black and white and chillingly austere color sequences to frame this narrative of despair. The movie’s use of slow-motion enabled by the Phantom camera brings a visceral detail to scenes of both intimacy and horror. Moreover, the inclusion of Georg Friedrich Handel’s "Lascia ch'io pianga" provides an eerie yet beautiful counterpoint to the film's visual and thematic darkness. Von Trier's film challenges viewers with its explicitness—not just sexually, but in its unflinching confrontation with themes of evil, suffering, and the nature of humanity itself.

While "Antichrist" polarizes opinion, branding it as mere exploitation belies the complexity and artistic merit found within its frames. Its reception at Cannes - marked by walkouts and controversy - signifies not just the film’s capacity to shock, but its profound evocation of psychoanalytical and theological discourse; an intoxicating blend that cements its position as a film that, regardless of individual interpretation, commands attention. Von Trier solicits outstanding performances from his leads, with Gainsbourg particularly embodying her role with a haunting conviction, further encapsulating the film's intertwining of the grotesque with the psychological. In sum, "Antichrist" stands as a divisive, yet undeniably compelling piece of modern cinema that continues to provoke discussion.

Lars von Trier's "Antichrist," notorious for its disturbing content and challenging themes, achieves a remarkable presence on Blu-ray, courtesy of Criterion. This release is essential, marking a pinnacle for Blu-ray presentations with its exceptional audio-visual quality that demands appreciation, even from those who may find the film difficult to digest. The commitment to preserving the integrity of the original cinematic experience is evident, as this edition includes all supplemental features previously available only in the French Blu-ray version, making it a comprehensive package for enthusiasts. Despite its divisiveness among viewers, "Antichrist" is presented here in a format that enhances every aspect of von Trier's vision, solidifying its status as a must-have for collectors and cinephiles alike.

Criterion’s rendition of "Antichrist" transcends typical home viewing experiences, offering a profundity akin to a cinematic exhibition. The Blu-ray not only excels in technical fidelity but also invites repeated engagements with the film, revealing layers and nuances that may go unnoticed upon a single viewing. This release caters to a niche audience; it requires an open-minded approach to fully appreciate the depth of its content. The film, polarizing in its reception, splits its audience distinctly. Yet, for those who embrace its chaotic essence, this Blu-ray becomes an invaluable addition to their collection, encouraging ongoing exploration and discussion of its complex themes and execution.

In conclusion, the Criterion release of "Antichrist" is an exemplary showcase of how a Blu-ray can offer an enriching extension to the film’s life beyond the cinema. Its superior audio-visual quality, combined with an exhaustive compendium of supplementary materials, casts a new light on this controversial piece. While not for the faint-hearted or those unprepared to confront its provocations, this edition is highly recommended for discerning viewers ready to delve into the intricate and often unsettling world Lars von Trier constructs. This Blu-ray is more than just a piece of media; it's a comprehensive exploration into one of the most polarizing films of our time, making it an indispensable asset for any serious film library.