Resurrected Blu-ray Review

"Resurrected" is presented on Blu-ray with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The film, produced on a modest budget, exhibits qualities akin to an upper-scale television movie. Despite the limited vibrancy, colors are accurate with noteworthy ranges of green tones. The transfer's source elements are in superb condition, evidencing minimal damage. Clarity and contrast fluctuate due to varying filming conditions, which contributes to the image appearing more dated than its 1989 production.

The 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 encoded transfer strives admirably to deliver a detailed image but encounters limitations. Frequent soft focuses detract from fine details in facial features and textures. The film demonstrates an impressive depth that is somewhat undermined by the overall lack of image clarity. Colors are purposefully muted with a predominant drab gray or militaristic palette, aligning with the film’s thematic intent. Reds and whites occasionally deviate from their true tones, appearing brownish and overblown, respectively. The contrast skews higher in darker scenes, rendering shadows and darker elements with fuller body, while daytime sequences can suffer from overexposed whites.

In essence, this Blu-ray transfer yields a mixed visual experience with infrequent highlights. The presentation is marked by variable clarity and contrast, contributing to an overall image that rarely surpasses mediocrity yet remains functional and thematically coherent.

The audio presentation of "Resurrected" on Blu-ray employs a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix that, while serviceable, falls short of exemplary standards. The mix reflects the original recording conditions and production parameters, accentuated by a lack of post-production looping which contributes to a variable amplitude and clarity. Dialogue intelligibility is notably hindered by thick British accents, further compounded by the absence of subtitles. Despite this, the fidelity remains commendable within the context of the film's original audio capture.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track primarily offers a flat and featureless listening experience. Dialogue levels are generally lower than anticipated and frequently overwhelmed by sound effects and music, particularly noticeable during the few intense battle sequences where explosions ring with some resonance. Additionally, the score stands out in parts, though the overall mix lacks immersive qualities and fails to generate significant atmosphere. While functional, the audio mix does not meet higher audiophile expectations, particularly when benchmarked against other releases from Twilight Time.

In summary, the audio track on "Resurrected" is not without merit but does exhibit clear limitations. Dialogue can be challenging to discern amidst other audio elements, and the mix lacks the engagement one might expect from a higher-tier DTS-HD presentation. Nonetheless, it honors the original sound conditions with respectable fidelity, although it ultimately leaves listeners desiring a more dynamic and balanced auditory experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Resurrected" offers a compelling array of extras that provide significant insight into the film’s production and creative process. The inclusion of an Isolated Music and Effects Track allows viewers to experience the film's sound design in a completely new way. Paul Greengrass and David Thewlis both offer engaging interviews, presented in standard definition, where they share candid reflections and entertaining anecdotes, respectively. Greengrass provides a deep dive into his directorial experiences, and Thewlis delights with stories from the set, adding enriching context to the film for dedicated fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Isolated Music and Effects Track: A pure audio experience focusing on the film's sound design.
• Paul Greengrass on Resurrected: Greengrass’ candid interview on his journey as a young director and current thoughts on the film.
• David Thewlis on Resurrected: Thewlis shares animated anecdotes and reflections on his career.

Paul Greengrass's debut feature, "Resurrected," is a stunning exploration of the complexities of a soldier's return to civilian life. Utilizing a documentary-like verité style, Greengrass recounts the harrowing true story of Kevin Deacon (David Thewlis), a British soldier presumed dead in the Falklands War, who resurfaces after 48 traumatic days missing. The film immediately captures attention with its intimate opening at Deacon’s funeral, where Greengrass employs a slow camera crawl to emphasize the somber atmosphere and the close-knit community's grief. The narrative then interweaves Deacon’s emotional return to society, seamlessly transitioning between scenes to eschew unnecessary exposition and maintain narrative momentum.

David Thewlis delivers a phenomenal performance as Deacon, whose reintegration into society is marred by PTSD and accusations of desertion. The narrative delves deeply into the emotional toll of war and the systemic issues within military culture, evidenced by the relentless bullying Deacon endures from his peers. Despite some scenes suffering from Greengrass's nascent heavy-handedness, particularly in battle flashbacks that might have been more effective had they focused on Deacon's survival ordeal, his raw directorial exuberance shines through. The suspense surrounding Deacon’s mysterious disappearance becomes almost irrelevant against the portrayal of institutional mistreatment, underscoring the tragic inevitability of his suffering.

Overall, "Resurrected" is an intelligently crafted film that, despite its melodramatic moments and shifting narrative focus, provides a compelling look at the psychological impacts of war. It serves as an early showcase for Greengrass's developing style and Thewlis’s considerable talent. The director's ability to blend emotional depth with social commentary marks this film as a significant precursor to his later works. For viewers and critics alike, the film offers a rich terrain for examining the burgeoning talents of both a notable director and a remarkable actor.

Resurrected, directed by Paul Greengrass and starring David Thewlis, delves into the harrowing experience of a soldier's return from deathly captivity. This Blu-ray edition presents an authentic rendering of the film's original lo-fi aesthetics, replicating its gritty, raw visuals and sound fidelity with precision. While some moments drift into areas less deserving of focus, the storytelling, acting, and direction emerge as compelling strengths.

Particularly noteworthy is the film's unwavering commitment to its theme, drawing uncomfortable yet necessary parallels to contemporary events like the controversial return of American soldier Bo Bergdahl. Greengrass’ signature style of intense realism and documentary-like approach is palpable throughout, offering viewers a visceral experience that remains relevant and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, Resurrected is often harrowing yet unquestionably worthwhile, particularly for fans of Greengrass' oeuvre or those interested in early performances by rising talents. This Blu-ray release does justice to the film's raw execution and preserves the integrity of its original presentation. Recommended.