The Amateurs Blu-ray Review

"The Amateurs" makes its way onto Blu-ray presented in 1080p high definition, using a VC-1 encode and framed at a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. However, the overall video quality leaves much to be desired for a high-definition release. The image often appears overly bright and washed out, diminishing the potential for a visually engaging experience. This is compounded by a palette of colors that, while fairly saturated, fail to truly captivate or bring the scenes to life. Detailing, an essential aspect of any Blu-ray presentation, is inconsistent throughout the film. Although there are moments where fine details shine through—such as a notably clear and detailed scene set in a cemetery—the transfer generally struggles to elevate the film above the appearance of an upconverted DVD.

Flesh tones and black levels are particularly problematic areas, with skin appearing unnaturally reddish in tone and black levels that are unremarkable at best. Furthermore, the presence of various artifacts, including spots, blemishes, and occasional posterization, detracts from the viewing experience. These issues are indicative of a transfer that has not fully capitalized on the capabilities of the high-definition format. Despite these shortcomings, the film is watchable; however, it fails to impress or offer a compelling argument for its high-definition presentation. The visual flatness and lack of three-dimensional depth in most scenes mean that "The Amateurs" does not fully overcome its low-budget constraints in this Blu-ray release.

Overall, while there are sporadic instances where the video quality improves significantly, they are not sufficient to salvage the presentation as a whole. The expected clarity, depth, and vibrancy one anticipates from a Blu-ray video are only occasionally evident. This release might satisfy those with modest expectations, but for enthusiasts hoping for a definitive high-definition experience, "The Amateurs" on Blu-ray may prove underwhelming. The lackluster video presentation is a missed opportunity to showcase the film in the best light possible, leaving it feeling like a relic rather than a revitalized classic.

The audio presentation of "The Amateurs" on Blu-ray offers viewers a choice between 640 kbps Dolby Digital 5.1 and 768 kbps DTS 5.1 audio tracks, with additional options in Dolby Digital including a 480kbps 5.1 Surround and a 192kbps 2.0 Stereo track. This range of audio formats, while lacking high-resolution options, provides an adequate soundscape for a film that primarily leans on dialogue to drive its narrative. The dialogue delivery is crisp and clear, benefitting most from the center channel, which notably carries the bulk of the audio experience. This clarity is essential for understanding the film's nuanced performances and script. However, the mix does little to impress beyond its competent handling of speech, reflecting a somewhat muted ambition in creating an immersive auditory environment.

The surround channels are underutilized, offering minimal ambiance and only slight hints of musical score bleeding into the background, creating a front-heavy audio experience that seldom engages the full potential of a home theater setup. The dynamic range is acceptable, considering the film's lower-budget production values, with clean audio elements and a generally pleasant listening experience. Nonetheless, there is a noticeable lack of depth and vibrancy in the stereo separation and surround activity, resulting in an audio presentation that, while functional, lacks flair and sophistication.

Viewers should adjust their expectations accordingly, as the soundtrack does not endeavor to showcase the capabilities of their sound systems. Instead, it focuses on delivering the dialogue with clarity and precision, sidelining the potential for a more enveloping soundstage that could have enriched the viewing experience. The absence of low-frequency effects and a subdued use of the surround channels contribute to an overall impression of an audio track that performs adequately without reaching for excellence.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Amateurs" present a comprehensive and enjoyable exploration into the making of this cult favorite, combining technical insights, personal anecdotes, and a rare behind-the-scenes gaze. The commentary track, featuring Jeff Bridges, Michael Traeger, and Aaron Ryder, is particularly engaging, offering a mix of technical talk, reflections on the film's challenges, and lighthearted banter that showcases the trio's camaraderie. The Behind the Scenes featurette transcends the typical promotional material, providing honest assessments from the cast and crew, alongside amusing insights into the low-budget filmmaking process. Jeff Bridges' Photography Book adds a unique personal touch, with its collection of panoramic stills offering a visually captivating look at the film's production, complemented by insightful commentary. Despite the video quality being less than stellar across the extras and a lack of subtitles, fans will find these supplements both informative and entertaining.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: A candid track with actor Jeff Bridges, director Michael Traeger, and producer Aaron Ryder discussing the film's production.
• Behind the Scenes with 'The Amateurs': An in-depth look at the making of the movie featuring interviews with the cast and crew.
• 'The Amateurs' Photography Book: A collection of panoramic stills taken by Jeff Bridges, with commentary from Bridges, Traeger, and Ryder.
• Theatrical Trailer: The film's original 1080p theatrical promotion.
• Trailers for Other Releases: Previews of upcoming and existing DVDs from First Look, including King of California.

"The Amateurs," presented on Blu-ray, is an intriguing film that weaves together comedy and heartfelt moments through the lens of an unconventional endeavor in a small town. The film stars Jeff Bridges as Andy Sargentee, a man with grand ambitions but little to show for them. Hatching a plan to produce an adult movie with the help of his eccentric friends, the narrative explores themes of camaraderie, desperation, and the quest for significance in a mundane life. Despite its promising premise and a star-studded ensemble, the movie grapples with an uneven pace and comedic tone that occasionally miss their mark.

Technically, the Blu-ray presentation does the film no major disservices but doesn't particularly stand out in the vast sea of high-definition releases. The movie's charm and unexpected warmth are its strengths, as it sidesteps complete reliance on vulgarity for humor, opting instead for a more nuanced take on its adult-themed subject matter. The cast delivers performances with gusto, particularly Bridges, who infuses his character with enough humanity to keep viewers vested in the journey. The film's narrative, while lacking in some areas, is buoyed by its character-driven humor and a Capra-esque sweetness that underpins the otherwise risqué plot.

As a cinematic experience, "The Amateurs" oscillates between moments of genuine warmth and instances of narrative inertia that belie its ambitious attempt to tackle the adult film industry with humor and tenderness. While it may not fully realize its comedic potential or deliver a consistently engaging story, the film offers enough charm and eccentricity to warrant a look. Its presentation on Blu-ray serves as a competent platform for exploring its unique blend of humor and humanity, making it a curious but ultimately endearing entry into the genre.

"The Amateurs" emerges as a surprisingly engaging film with its own unique charm, despite a premise that might suggest a foray into more risqué territory. At its heart, this movie is a warm underdog comedy that cleverly uses the concept of making an adult film as a mere vehicle to explore deeper themes of ambition, friendship, and the pursuit of unconventional dreams. The narrative is well-crafted, showcasing genuine humor and heartfelt moments, complemented by strong performances from the cast and commendable production quality. It's clear that First Look has curated a noteworthy film that distinguishes itself from typical comedy fare.

However, the Blu-ray release does not fully honor the film's quality. The video and audio presentation are both described as average, lacking the vibrancy and clarity that fans of high-definition media have come to expect. This aspect is somewhat disappointing given the caliber of the movie itself, which deserves better treatment in its home video format. The special features included offer some redemption, providing additional content that will likely appeal to those who appreciated the movie, though they may not be substantial enough to sway potential buyers into making a purchase.

In conclusion, while "The Amateurs" stands out as an unexpectedly endearing film with plenty to offer in terms of story and character development, the Blu-ray presentation leaves room for improvement. The subpar image and sound quality detract from the overall experience, though not enough to diminish the film's inherent appeal. For enthusiasts of this hidden gem, renting the Blu-ray may be the best option to enjoy what the film has to offer without committing to a purchase. Ultimately, this release is best recommended for dedicated fans of the movie, as others might find the home media experience underwhelming.