Cosmopolis Blu-ray Review

Cosmopolis is showcased on Blu-ray through Entertainment One with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer, maintaining a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This particular transfer might ring a bell for those familiar with Entertainment One's British Blu-ray version, a sentiment echoed by my colleague, Dr. Svet Atanasov. Both of us have noted the transfer's fidelity to the original digital filming quality of the movie, with Cronenberg's unique visual narrative technique of an almost surreal Manhattan landscape moving past the limousine windows being a highlight. The interior scenes within the limousine are depicted with remarkable clarity, allowing for an immersive viewing experience due to the meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the numerous close-ups that Cronenberg favors.

However, not all aspects of this transfer are without their slight blemishes. Shadow detail occasionally leaves something to be desired, a minor gripe but noteworthy, as a significant portion of Cosmopolis unfolds in dimly lit environments. This issue is most apparent in scenes set in darker locales, such as a nightclub, where the background details tend to get lost in a slightly murky presentation. Despite this, color reproduction across the board is spot-on, boasting accurate and well-saturated hues. Contrast levels are robust and purposefully heightened in certain sequences, contributing to the film's dramatic intensity.

In closing, while the video transfer of Cosmopolis on Blu-ray by Entertainment One isn't entirely flawless, particularly regarding its handling of shadow detail in darker scenes, it nevertheless offers a visually compelling experience. The movie's digital cinematography benefits greatly from the high-definition treatment, ensuring that Cronenberg's artistic vision is rendered with the precision and vividness it deserves. Both chromatic fidelity and contrast are handled deftly, making this a worthy addition to any Blu-ray collection.

The audio presentation of "Cosmopolis" on Blu-ray, equipped with its lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix, offers an unconventional auditory experience that might not cater to the tastes of those seeking constant, aggressive aural stimulation. However, it excels in delivering a meticulous and refined soundscape. The audio mix masterfully captures the essence of the narrative's settings - from the claustrophobic atmospheres within the protagonist's limousine to the vibrant and, at times, hostile ambience of New York City. It crafts an auditory environment that is both immersive and selective, focusing on subtlety and nuance rather than relentless auditory bombardment.

The technical execution of this audio track is notable for its high fidelity and exceptional clarity, ensuring that dialogue remains intelligible and forefront, even amidst the bustling city noise or during the film's more intensely sonic moments. The dynamic range is surprisingly broad, handling both the quieter, introspective segments and the sudden escalations into dense urban clamor with equal finesse. Instances of deep, resonating LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) are sparingly but effectively used, adding an element of surprise that enhances the overall sensory experience without overwhelming it.

In terms of audio craftsmanship, this mix serves as a demonstration of how less can indeed be more. The meticulous balance between the serene silence of isolation and the chaotic crescendos of city life is presented with a sophistication that demands appreciation. While it may not indulge those desiring relentless sonic spectacle, "Cosmopolis" instead invites its audience to a more contemplative auditory journey. This approach not only complements the film’s thematic explorations but also showcases the potential for audio tracks to contribute meaningfully to the cinematic experience beyond mere background noise.

The extra presentation of the Blu-ray for "Cosmopolis" offers a wealth of detailed insights that greatly enrich the viewing experience. David Cronenberg's audio commentary is surprisingly lucid, providing an intellectual journey through the film's creation and influences, highlighting its adherence to DeLillo's dialogue. The feature-length documentary, "Citizens of Cosmopolis," stands out as it delves deep into the novel's adaptation, showcasing thorough interviews with the cast and crew, offering an almost indispensable companion to understanding the film's intricacies. Furthermore, the collection of interviews with key Figures including Cronenberg, the producers, and the main cast adds valuable context and personal perspectives on the movie-making process. The inclusion of the theatrical trailer rounds off the extras, giving a succinct preview of the movie's tone and style.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with David Cronenberg: Cronenberg's insightful walkthrough of the film.
• Citizens of Cosmopolis: An in-depth documentary exploring the novel's adaptation and filming process.
• Interviews with Cast and Crew: A compilation of discussions with the filmmakers and actors.
• Theatrical Trailer: A brief glimpse into the movie's atmosphere and style.

Cosmopolis" emerges as a cinematic experience that is as unconventional as it is hypnotic, encapsulating a journey not across vast lands but through the dense urban sprawl of Manhattan. Helmed by director David Cronenberg and based on Don DeLillo's novel, the film unfurls within the confines of a white stretch limousine, the domain of billionaire Eric Packer (Robert Pattinson). As Packer insists on traversing the city for a haircut—a seemingly mundane quest that defies logic given his resources—the narrative delves into an odyssey that is anything but ordinary. The setting inside the limousine transitions into a stage for a series of bizarre yet profound encounters, rendering the journey a surreal exploration of detachment and existential angst amidst the hustle of city life. The film’s pacing and atmosphere are deliberately crafted to evoke a dream-like quality that mirrors Packer's disconnection from the reality outside his luxurious cocoon.

The dialogue in "Cosmopolis" is notably stylized, echoing the work of Harold Pinter or even Clifford Odets, where conversations oscillate between casual discourse and eruptions of metaphorical brilliance. This linguistic choice serves to enhance the film's detachment, aligning closely with Packer’s own emotional remoteness. Despite its clinical precision and lack of conventional warmth, "Cosmopolis" compels attention, chiefly through the enigmatic presence of Pattinson, who delivers a performance that is both unexpected and captivating. His portrayal of Packer is a nuanced examination of a man ensconced in wealth yet grappling with a profound existential void.

Through its narrative and technical execution, "Cosmopolis" stands as a testament to Cronenberg's ability to challenge and intrigue, placing the viewer within a bubble of techno-affluence that is reflective yet alienating. The film’s exploration of themes—ranging from societal disconnect to the personal apocalypse that shadows Eric's every move—melds beautifully with Cronenberg's penchant for the visceral and cerebral. As such, "Cosmopolis" is not merely a film but an experience, marked by its bold refusal to conform to traditional storytelling, thereby offering a mirror to the complexities of modern existence.

Cosmopolis," a film that challenges its viewers with its complex narrative and cold, nuanced dissection of its central character, stands as a testament to directorial brilliance and narrative depth, albeit not without its demands on the viewer. Its protagonist, a dispassionate technocrat moving through a surreal day in his limousine, may not win hearts, but certainly garners attention for the film’s philosophical musings and technical mastery. This Blu-ray presentation shines in delivering the movie's intricate visuals and captivating audio, contributing significantly to the immersive experience. The high definition transfer accentuates every detail of the confinement and the chaos outside, while the soundtrack envelops the audience, enhancing the film's hypnotic allure. The inclusion of a comprehensive documentary adds value, offering insights into the filmmaking process and Cronenberg's vision, making this edition a must-have for cinephiles interested in the mechanics behind this peculiar narrative.

The Blu-ray’s technical specifications deserve particular mention. Video quality is sharp and meticulous, managing to convey both the claustrophobic interiors of the limousine and the sprawling chaos of the outside world with equal prowess. Audio fidelity is robust, capturing the film's diverse soundscapes, from the eerie quietude of the limousine's interior to the cacophonous urban landscape it traverses. The special features, especially the in-depth documentary, provide an invaluable peek behind the curtain, offering context and commentary that enriches one's appreciation of what might otherwise be an enigmatic or inaccessible film.

In conclusion, while "Cosmopolis" might challenge viewers with its narrative and protagonist, its Blu-ray presentation is an unequivocal triumph. This edition not only serves the film’s visual and auditory ambitions well but also embellishes it with extras that both enlighten and entertain. For those willing to delve into its complex tapestry, this Blu-ray is an essential acquisition, offering a comprehensive experience of a film that demands and rewards patient and attentive viewing.