Love, Simon Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray of Love, Simon delivers a competent yet unremarkable 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. Utilizing a digital source likely originating from a 2K Digital Intermediate, the presentation maintains respectable clarity and detail. The transfer is free from major artifacts, aside from minimal grain-like noise in select scenes, and does not suffer from compression issues, consistent with Fox's high-quality Blu-ray standards. Details are effectively revealed, capturing fine textures in facial features, clothing patterns, and environmental elements such as foliage and brick walls.

The color palette is natural, with occasional bursts of vivid hues that bring a sense of vibrancy to the image. Reds and greens, in particular, provide pleasing levels of saturation. While the contrast is generally well-handled, with balanced whites and deep blacks, certain high brightness scenes near windows may appear slightly blown out. Nighttime scenes can appear a bit murky, impacting overall clarity in these moments. Despite the lack of truly striking visual "wow" factors, the image remains precise and appropriate for the film's aesthetic. Overall, while not groundbreaking, the Blu-ray video transfer of Love, Simon respects the film’s intended modest but pleasing visual style.

The audio presentation of "Love, Simon" on Blu-ray excels with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that brilliantly underscores the film's vibrant pop soundtrack and ambient high school scenes. The mix engages through consistent immersion, particularly in scenes set amidst the bustling halls of the high school or during the dynamic Cabaret production, engaging the surround channels effectively. Despite the track being somewhat front-loaded, it maintains clear and full-bodied dialogue throughout, ensuring fidelity without any major issues.

However, surround presence might feel a bit muted at times. While background clatter permeates classrooms and hallways, key sound effects during specific high-energy scenes—such as tussling during a school play rehearsal—are sharply directed to the rear speakers. Directionality across the left and right soundstage is solid, complementing the lively and punchy mix that aligns well with the film’s tone. The film's soundtrack benefits from excellent separation and range, while bass response is particularly notable during moments such as the Halloween house party. Overall, although the track could benefit from more immersive elements, it succeeds in providing a highly engaging and effective audio experience appropriate for the film's upbeat narrative.

The extras on the Blu-ray of "Love, Simon" provide an insightful and engaging array of behind-the-scenes content, aimed at enhancing the viewer’s appreciation for the film. The deleted scenes are a notable highlight, featuring moments excised from the final cut which further illuminate character dynamics and plot nuances. "The Adaptation" and "The Squad" featurettes offer a deep dive into the adaptation process from novel to screen and the importance of the ensemble cast, respectively. Greg Berlanti’s commentary track, though light on industry-shaking revelations, provides valuable context about the making of the film. Additionally, location-based featurettes like "Dear Georgia" and "Dear Atlanta" celebrate the movie’s filming sites, adding a regional charm. The inclusion of a short film contest winner rounds out a substantial selection of supplementary content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes providing character and plot insight.
• The Adaptation: Discussion on adapting the novel to film.
• The Squad: Focus on the ensemble cast.
• #FirstLoveStory Contest Winner: Contest-winning short film with an introduction.
• Dear Georgia: Insights on filming locations in Atlanta, Georgia.
• Dear Atlanta: More on the filming locations.
• Commentary by Greg Berlanti, Isaac Klausner, and Isaac Aptaker: Informative discussion about the film’s creation.
• Gallery: Collection of production stills and behind-the-scenes photos.
• Theatrical Trailers: Includes two trailers.

Love, Simon, directed by Greg Berlanti, offers a heartfelt and sincere examination of high school romance alongside the trials of coming out. High school senior Simon Spier, portrayed with natural charm by Nick Robinson, has what many might consider an ideal life — supportive family, cherished friends, and general popularity. Yet, beneath this seemingly perfect exterior lies Simon's secret that he's gay. The film follows Simon’s journey as he engages in an anonymous online relationship with another gay student, only to face the threat of exposure and blackmail, giving the narrative both tension and emotional depth.

What sets Love, Simon apart from typical teen dramas is its genuine portrayal of a young gay character navigating his path to self-acceptance in a surprisingly warm and humorous manner. The film benefits from Robinson’s charismatic performance, which effectively balances Simon’s inner vulnerabilities and outer affability. While some subtext and plot elements—like the blackmail subplot and certain cartoonish supporting characters—feel occasionally inauthentic, the film’s earnestness and inclusive representation remain compelling.

The film's charm is amplified by its engaging depiction of Simon's online correspondence using vibrant fantasy sequences and voiceovers that provide insight into his thoughts and dreams. Despite moments where its feel-good sincerity might verge on diluting the drama, Love, Simon manages to maintain emotional resonance, particularly through its well-drawn characters and their genuine interactions. Ultimately, Love, Simon not only marks a significant milestone as a major studio rom-com centered on a gay teen but also stands as an authentically endearing story that taps into the universal experiences of high school life and first love.

"Love, Simon," directed by Greg Berlanti, is a genuinely heartfelt and inclusive teen romantic comedy that presents a modern twist on classic genre conventions. The film's portrayal of teenage gay romance, while not without its shortcomings, notably diverges from some of the more harrowing narratives within LGBTQ cinema. Instead, "Love, Simon" emphasizes sweetness and emotional resonance, driven by breezy dialogue and commendable performances from the principal cast.

The Blu-ray release features a strong video transfer and audio mix, capturing the film's modest yet effective aesthetic. The 2-disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack includes a decent array of bonus materials: deleted scenes, an engaging audio commentary by Berlanti, producer Isaac Klausner, and co-screenwriter Isaac Aptaker, and several featurettes that delve into various aspects of the film's production. Among these are insights into adapting the source material ("The Adaptation"), the casting process ("The Squad"), and the choice of filming locations in Atlanta ("Dear Georgia" and "Dear Atlanta").

In conclusion, while "Love, Simon" may not quite warrant the "Groundbreaking!" tagline it claims, it is undoubtedly a heartfelt and enjoyable film. Its warmth and accessibility make it a significant addition to the teen rom-com genre. The technical merits and supplementary content make this Blu-ray highly recommended for both fans and collectors.