A Master Builder Blu-ray Review

Criterion’s Blu-ray presentation of Jonathan Demme's "A Master Builder" is meticulous, showcasing an impressive 1080p transfer with a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, encoded in MPEG-4 AVC. Utilizing the Arri Alexa in 2K ARRIRAW format and Sony XDCAM PMW-EX3 at 1920x1080, the production adhered to a fully digital workflow. The color correction, completed using DaVinci Resolve, ensures a robust and stable visual experience. The film features a visually immersive quality with outstanding depth and clarity. Close-ups are particularly striking, revealing fine details on facial features and clothing textures, while the vibrant outdoor scenes exhibit crispness and rich colors. Despite some minor contrast fluctuations inherent to the original visual design, the overall image stability is outstanding.

The digital mastering of the 5.1 surround audio at 24-bit from the original digital master files via Pro Tools HD underscores the nuanced auditory dimension of the film. The color palette of soft whites, yellows, and light browns imparts an ethereal, dreamlike quality in alignment with the narrative’s tone. Light, streaming from large windows, casts a warm and inviting glow without ever appearing overexposed, maintaining crystal-clear image integrity throughout. The film’s shallow depth of field selectively sharpens background elements when in focus, further adding to the pristine visual presentation. Criterion’s Region-A locked release of "A Master Builder" is a technically adept and aesthetically pleasing addition for both existing fans and new viewers experiencing it on Blu-ray for the first time.

The Blu-ray release of "A Master Builder" includes only one audio track: an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix. The option of English SDH subtitles is present, and they appear within the 2.39:1 frame. Despite the absence of a significant musical score, the audio mix demonstrates excellent clarity, depth, and separation without any pops, dropouts, or digital distortions.

Primarily composed of actors' dialogues, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix is suitably full-bodied without being overwhelming. It excels in presenting voices with outstanding clarity, even during rare instances of overlapping dialogue. Directionality is subtly used—enhancing the spatial perception by shifting the voice locations as the camera moves and adding a mild echo effect from the rear channels to emphasize the large spaces within the master builder's home.

Overall, while modest and unchallenging, the mix meets the demands of the film effectively, ensuring a pleasant audio experience free from technical flaws.

The extras included in the Blu Ray of "A Master Builder" offer a deep dive into the unique creation process of the film and its theatrical origins. Each feature is rich with insightful commentary and behind-the-scenes revelations. The centerpiece, “The Ibsen Project,” provides a compelling discussion between Director Jonathan Demme, André Gregory, and Wallace Shawn, moderated by film critic David Edelstein. Another standout is “Over Time,” where Fran Lebowitz hosts an engaging conversation with Gregory and Shawn about their prolific careers. The actors' perspectives are also highlighted in “Hilde and Aline,” featuring interviews with Lisa Joyce and Julie Hagerty. Additionally, an original trailer and an informative leaflet by Michael Sragow enhance the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Ibsen Project: Discussion on the history and production of "A Master Builder."
• Hilde and Aline: Actors discuss their roles.
• Over Time: Interview about the creators' longstanding collaboration.
• Trailer: Original film trailer.
• Leaflet: Illustrated essay by Michael Sragow.

Jonathan Demme's A Master Builder (2013), based on Henrik Ibsen’s Bygmester Solness, highlights the challenging adaptation of dense theatrical material to the screen. The narrative centers around Halvard Solness (Wallace Shawn), a wealthy but ailing architect who grapples with his successes, failures, and relationships from his deathbed. The film captures pivotal interactions, such as Halvard’s dismissive handling of an assistant's career ambitions and his unsettling reunion with his former lover, Hilde (Lisa Joyce). Demme’s and cinematographer Declan Quinn's visual approach, using Arri Alexa and Sony XDCAM cameras, results in a distinctive shifting aspect ratio that adds an immersive visual layer to the storytelling.

Demme's adept direction ensures that the film transcends the potential stagnation common in stage-to-screen adaptations. His use of handheld cameras creates a dynamic yet claustrophobic atmosphere that mirrors Halvard’s internal turmoil. The minimalist setting is brought to life through tight, intimate close-ups that underscore Halvard's psychological state. Wallace Shawn, playing against type, delivers a controversial portrayal of the manipulative architect, whose charisma induces polarized opinions about his suitability for the role. Lisa Joyce’s Hilde stands out with her meticulously controlled performance, adding depth to her character’s enigmatic influence on Halvard’s introspection and latent fears of obsolescence.

The production’s theatrical roots are evident, with Demme enhancing the source material’s symbolic weight through cinematic techniques. Despite moments where the actors' intensity can border on overwrought, the film successfully maintains a compelling balance between its heavy thematic elements and stylistic execution. A Master Builder remains an ambitious examination of human frailty and ambition, made technically proficient and emotionally resonant through its deliberate craftsmanship and powerful performances. Criterion's release, accompanied by insightful supplements, enriches the viewing experience for cinephiles and Ibsen enthusiasts alike.

Jonathan Demme’s adaptation of "A Master Builder" offers an intriguing blend of theatricality and cinematic style that deftly navigates the complexities inherent in Henrik Ibsen’s play. This Blu-ray release is particularly notable for its high-definition presentation, ensuring the film’s nuanced visual and audio elements are preserved with impressive clarity. The performances by Wallace Shawn and Andre Gregory are of particular note; their seasoned portrayals lend a compelling dynamism to the story. However, some viewers might find the deliberate artificiality in the performances slightly off-putting, reflecting a bold yet divisive stylistic choice.

The film’s visual style benefits significantly from Demme's direction, which maintains a sense of intimacy while navigating the play's dreamlike structure. The Blu-ray transfer effectively captures the director's nuanced color palette and intricate set designs, enhancing the film’s immersion. While these elements contribute positively, there is an airiness to the production that might leave audiences wanting more. This isn't necessarily a drawback, as the restraint could appeal to those who appreciate thought-provoking, minimalistic narratives. However, individuals unfamiliar with Ibsen’s work or Demme's directorial style might find it somewhat underwhelming.

In conclusion, "A Master Builder" will appeal primarily to longtime admirers of Wallace Shawn and Andre Gregory's work. Its construction and visual style are both bold and effective, but there is a good dose of artificiality in it that could be slightly off-putting. In addition to the individual release, "A Master Builder" is also available as part of Criterion's André Gregory & Wallace Shawn: 3 Films Blu-ray box set. RECOMMENDED.