Minding the Gap Blu-ray Review

"Minding the Gap" arrives on Blu-ray from Criterion, presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and encoded with an MPEG-4 AVC codec, providing a stunning 1080p transfer. Shot primarily between 2012 and 2017 on a variety of digital cameras, including the Sony DCR-HC21, Panasonic AG-DVX100, and Canon 5D Mark II, the documentary showcases a high-definition digital master that was approved by director Bing Liu. The transfer highlights the film’s natural and organic aesthetic, where the diverse visual elements of Illinois are prominently displayed. Colors such as the greenery of trees and vibrant primary hues in clothing and skateboards are well-represented, while deep black levels enhance viewing in low-light scenes.

The picture quality of "Minding the Gap" is commendable considering the range of consumer-grade digital cameras used during production. While there are some fluctuations in clarity and detail due to these mixed sources, the overall image remains sharp and vivid. Details such as individual hairs, facial expressions, and textures on wool hats and clothing are crisply rendered in well-lit situations. The interview segments particularly benefit from this high-definition treatment, with a sleek appearance that allows for clear visibility of facial details without distractions. Moreover, the textures on skateboards and everyday objects like beer cans are noteworthy.

Minor video issues stemming from the varied source material are present but do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. The digital master effectively preserves the native limitations of the original footage while maintaining excellent image stability. The color reproduction stays true to the film’s raw style, delivering vibrant yet natural tones, especially noticeable in items like Kiere’s tie-dye shirts. Black levels are robust during indoor and nighttime scenes without noticeable crushing, ensuring a balanced depth and dimension across various settings. Overall, "Minding the Gap" offers a visually engaging presentation that maintains the integrity of Liu’s vision while adapting successfully to Blu-ray format.

The Blu-ray release of "Minding the Gap" boasts an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, designed to deliver an engaging and immersive auditory experience. The audio mix is predominantly front-heavy, providing a clean and clear delivery of dialogue, whether in casual conversation or during energetic skateboarding sequences. The use of music is particularly noteworthy, seamlessly connecting different segments with carefully nuanced dynamics and a well-balanced low-frequency extension. This ensures the transitions between scenes are powerful and coherent, capturing the essence of the film’s emotional narrative.

Notably, the surround speakers support the main audio whenever music cues occur, enhancing the immersive quality of the soundtrack. Environmental sounds, such as skateboards on asphalt and rails, are rendered with precision, contributing to a realistic soundscape. The soundtrack shines especially during skateboarding scenes and musical interludes, facilitated by a remastering process using Avid’s Pro Tools and iZotope RX. No technical anomalies are present, and the overall clarity of this 5.1 audio track ensures that every element, from ambient noise to full musical scores, is faithfully reproduced for an excellent auditory experience.

Moreover, the simplistic yet effective nature of this audio package allows it to excel without over-complication. The well-executed dynamic range and supportive surround sound ensure that each auditory component serves its purpose without overshadowing others. The optional English SDH subtitles complement this setup, providing an accessible and inclusive viewing experience. Overall, the audio presentation of "Minding the Gap" captures all necessary elements with high fidelity, delivering a robust and engaging soundtrack that enhances the documentary's storytelling profoundly.

The Blu-ray release of "Minding the Gap" includes a robust collection of special features that greatly enhance understanding and appreciation of the film. The highlight is the dual commentary tracks, with one featuring insightful reflections from Bing Liu, Keire Johnson, and Zack Mulligan on their lives since filming, and another technical deep dive from Liu. Interviews with key figures like skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and producer Diane Quon further enrich the viewing experience. Additionally, the poignant short film "Nuoc" and a variety of deleted scenes provide more context and depth to the story. Criterion's meticulous curation ensures that viewers receive comprehensive insights into the making and impact of "Minding the Gap."

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: An original trailer for "Minding the Gap."
• A Very Tricky Balance: Interviews discussing the film's conception and evolution.
• Nina and Bing: A follow-up interview with Nina Bowgren.
• Tony Hawk: An interview with professional skateboarder Tony Hawk.
• Outtakes: Four deleted scenes with introductions by Bing Liu.
  • Nina and Zack go to the Hospital
  • Rick and His Son, Max
  • Keire Leaves Rockford
  • Keire in Denver
• Nuoc: A short film about two Vietnamese immigrants directed by Bing Liu.
• Commentary One: Bing Liu, Keire Johnson, and Zack Mulligan discuss their collaboration.
• Commentary Two: Bing Liu provides technical insights about the film.
• Leaflet: An illustrated leaflet featuring an essay by Jay Caspian Kang and technical credits.

Bing Liu's "Minding the Gap" stands out as a poignant, deeply felt documentary that artfully merges skateboarding with the turbulent lives of Liu and his two friends, Zack and Keire. Shot over several years in Rockford, Illinois, the film captures their transition from carefree teens into adults dealing with the scars of abusive pasts and socio-economic hardships. Liu’s intimate camerawork, often reflecting the raw, almost chaotic aesthetic reminiscent of genre films like "Wassup Rockers" and "Paranoid Park," keeps the narrative both personal and visceral. The film's editing weaves old footage of their skateboarding days with candid, sometimes harrowing moments of personal reflection, capturing what it means to confront painful memories and life's harsh realities.

The film delves into the psyche of its three primary subjects: Zack, Keire, and Bing himself. Zack, who struggles with substance abuse and the responsibilities of unexpected fatherhood, is perhaps the most tragic figure, his pain palpable through Liu’s lens. Keire navigates his grief over his father’s death, finding solace and therapy in skateboarding. Bing recounts his own story of an abusive stepfather through conversations with his mother, highlighting the generational trauma that impacts them all. Their stories collectively paint a sobering picture of the "broken American family," underscored by socio-economic decline and personal despair. Yet, amidst these hardships, there’s a resilient spirit captured in their shared passion for skateboarding, providing temporary escape and camaraderie.

"Minding the Gap" resonates profoundly due not only to its emotional depth but also its technical excellence. The cinematography’s blend of kinetic skateboarding footage with quieter, intimate moments creates an authentic narrative flow. Liu’s filmmaking prowess shines through in his ability to balance the documentary’s darker themes with moments of genuine human connection and hope. This multi-award-winning film, with its Sundance acclaim and perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating, is a compelling testament to the transformative power of art in filmmaking, documenting life’s complexities with unflinching honesty and a deep sense of empathy.

Bing Liu's "Minding the Gap" is an evocative documentary that chronicles the lives of three friends from Illinois, whose shared passion for skateboarding provides solace and escape from their fractured family histories and complex societal challenges. Deeply personal and emotionally resonant, the film effectively weaves individual stories to highlight broader social issues, with skateboarding serving as both a literal and metaphorical vehicle for the journey through trauma, resilience, and self-discovery.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Minding the Gap" does justice to the film’s visually compelling narrative. The 1080p HD transfer presents a sharp and clear picture, capturing the raw beauty and intensity of the skateboard sequences and the intimate moments with equal precision. The DTS-HD 5.1 audio track further immerses viewers, ensuring environmental sounds and dialogue are crisp and well-balanced. Additionally, the release boasts an impressive array of extras, offering deeper insights into the making of the film and enriching the viewing experience.

It is not a secret that urban areas everywhere are failing because the American family is broken. There are just too many kids growing up without a male role model at home, which is the crucial inequality that breeds crime, poverty, and social unrest throughout America. Bing Liu's film "Minding the Gap" is an interesting mosaic of personal stories which offers more evidence that it is so, though sadly it appears that already there have been some quite predictable attempts to interpret it in an entirely different way. RECOMMENDED.