A Prayer for the Dying Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "A Prayer for the Dying" is anchored by an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The transfer, sourced from the MGM catalog, captures the film with a degree of fidelity that largely respects the original cinematographic intent. Colors are executed with deliberate restraint, creating an authentically drab aesthetic aligned with the movie’s gritty tone. Nonetheless, outdoor scenes break from this palette with vividly saturated skies and lush greenery, lending a visual counterbalance. The use of wide-angle and fisheye lenses, notably by director Mike Hodges and cinematographer Michael Garfath, introduces some skewed framing which slightly impacts overall detail levels, primarily in wide shots. In contrast, close-ups maintain a commendable level of fine detail, demonstrating a solid balance between clarity and texture, despite some grain resolution challenges.

Indoor scenes in this Blu-ray release often exhibit the sharpest and most natural look, capitalizing on controlled lighting and fewer grain management issues. Facial features, intricate material textures, and environmental details such as Father De Costa's deteriorated church are rendered convincingly with a strong sense of depth and dimension. However, night sequences and scenes with prevalent dark tones can display mild crush; characters donning black attire risk blending into the shadows, creating a somewhat disconcerting floating head effect during pivotal moments. Black levels are generally deep and inky, ensuring ample depth throughout much of the film. The transfer is free from notable damage but does show occasional speckling. Overall, this Blu-ray release offers a visually effective experience, with a few minor caveats that do not detract significantly from the viewing pleasure.

The audio presentation for "A Prayer for the Dying" on Blu Ray is anchored by a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. This mix excels in supporting the film's substantial dialogue while delivering occasional punch during action sequences involving explosions and gunfire. Fidelity is well-maintained throughout, free of any damage or distortion, providing a smooth and immersive audio experience.

The DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix adeptly handles the film's blend of somber and conversational tones, despite occasional issues with the authenticity of the actors' accents. The dialogue is rendered clearly, ensuring that the film’s narrative remains comprehensible and engaging. Sound effects and ambient noise add a layer of depth, offering a reasonable sense of space and dimension. Imaging capabilities are solid, although the film’s restrained tone results in limited directionality.

Bill Conti's score is a standout feature of this audio track, skillfully filling moments of silence and enhancing the overall ambiance without overpowering the dialogue or sound effects. The mix balances musical elements with spoken word, providing a rounded auditory experience that aptly complements the film's introspective nature. This DTS-HD MA 2.0 track is a well-executed audio presentation that suits the film’s needs effectively.

The extras for the Blu Ray of "A Prayer for the Dying" are well-curated and provide insightful behind-the-scenes content that enriches the viewing experience. The Isolated Score Track in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 offers an immersive listening experience with some added effects. Interviews with key crew members such as Director Mike Hodges and Director of Photography Mike Garfath deliver invaluable commentary on their unique contributions to the film and the filmmaking process in general. Notably, Hodges provides personal anecdotes tied to his background and casting choices, while Garfath delves into his career and visual design tactics. The inclusion of Original Theatrical Trailers also provides a nostalgic element that contrasts the actual tone of the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Isolated Score Track: Presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 with some effects.
• Director Mike Hodges on A Prayer for the Dying: Mike Hodges shares his insight on production and casting.
• Director of Photography Mike Garfath on A Prayer for the Dying: Garfath discusses his career and film's imagery.
• Original Theatrical Trailer: Offers a mixed perspective on the film's genre.
• MGM 90th Anniversary Trailer: A celebratory trailer from MGM's catalog.

"A Prayer for the Dying" opens with a gripping scene where an IRA bombing intended for a military target goes tragically wrong, killing innocent school children. This sets the tone for the film's central character, Martin Fallon (Mickey Rourke), who is wracked with guilt yet determined to escape his violent past. Rourke depicted Fallon’s struggle with his conscience through a nuanced performance, despite criticisms of his Irish accent. The interplay between Fallon and Father Michael Da Costa (Bob Hoskins), who bears witness to a subsequent murder by Fallon, creates a strong dramatic core underpinned by themes of redemption and faith. However, the film, overseen by a detached Mike Hodges, often misses the emotional resonance it strives for, never fully connecting the audience to its characters.

The narrative plunges into several subplots that dilute its focus, including Fallon’s dealings with slimy crime boss Jack Meehan (Alan Bates) for forged documents and a secondary love interest involving Da Costa's blind niece, Anna (Sammi Davis). These storylines, although potentially rich in subtext, often feel undercooked and disjointed. Particularly misaligned is the portrayal of Fallon’s crisis of faith juxtaposed with Meehan’s notion of their moral equivalence, which lacks depth and coherence. The potential menace of Meehan is stated more than truly felt, and the addition of IRA subplots involving Liam Neeson's character further muddies the primary narrative thrust.

Despite these flaws, the film does have moments where it captures the complex interplay of its moral landscape, particularly through the interactions between Fallon and Da Costa. Unfortunately, heavy-handed visuals and conventional thriller tropes bog down its potential. "A Prayer for the Dying" finds strength in its conceptual contrast of Fallon's inner turmoil against Da Costa's unwavering faith but ultimately falters under the weight of its disparate plot threads and lackluster character development.

"A Prayer for the Dying" offers an intriguing yet somewhat flawed cinematic experience, attempting to convey deep questions about morality, humanity, and faith. Despite some narrative inconsistencies and clunky execution, the performances by Mickey Rourke and Bob Hoskins provide a compelling dynamic that draws the viewer into the story. Though Rourke's portrayal of Fallon might feel a bit lethargic considering the character's angst-ridden nature, it nonetheless makes a notable impression. The film features several engrossing elements, although it doesn't entirely coalesce as cohesively as one might hope.

On a technical level, Twilight Time's Blu-ray release excels, delivering top-notch audio-visual quality that significantly enhances the viewing experience. The disc's presentation allows for a crisp, clear picture and robust sound, giving the film a newfound vitality. The additional bonus features included on the Blu-ray are commendable, offering fans and newcomers alike valuable insights and making this edition particularly worthwhile.

In conclusion, "A Prayer for the Dying" may not hit every mark perfectly, but it still presents an engaging narrative with standout performances. While not without its shortcomings, the film's attempts at exploring complex themes deserve acknowledgment. Coupled with a superb Blu-ray release from Twilight Time, this entry is certainly recommended for both dedicated followers of the film and those new to its somber tale.