Sid and Nancy Blu-ray Review

The Criterion release of Alex Cox's "Sid & Nancy" on Blu-ray is presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio with a 1080p transfer, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC. This new transfer was supervised and approved by celebrated cinematographer Roger Deakins and created from a 16-bit 4K digital scan of the original 35mm camera negative. The restoration process involved extensive manual cleanup and digital management to address dirt, debris, scratches, splices, warps, jitter, flicker, and noise, ensuring the film's visual integrity and clarity remain intact.

The resulting high-definition image is a significant improvement over previous releases. The enhanced clarity and depth transform the viewing experience, particularly in darker scenes where shadow definition is notably superior. The color palette is also revitalized, delivering bold and energetic visuals that align perfectly with the film’s dynamic style. This new release effectively maintains the film’s grainy aesthetic, which emphasizes its gritty setting, although some minor grain fluctuations are sometimes noticeable. Overall, the meticulous restoration and superior contrast significantly improve fluidity and detail in both darker club scenes and daylight sequences.

Despite some minor instances where the grain might appear overly noisy, especially when freeze-framing, the encode generally holds up well during regular playback. This issue does not detract significantly from the viewing experience. The Criterion Blu-ray of "Sid & Nancy" stands out as an exemplary remaster, combining advanced technical efforts with an authentic presentation that honors Roger Deakins' original cinematic vision. This release is essential for aficionados looking to experience the film at its visual best.

The Blu-ray release of "Sid and Nancy" offers two high-quality audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English LPCM 2.0. Optional English SDH subtitles are also provided for the main feature. While both tracks have their merits, the PCM 2.0 stereo track stands out as the more refined option, especially for the live performances and dialogue. The stereo mix delivers exceptional clarity, depth, and balance, with none of the distracting artifacts such as pops, cracks, background hiss, audio dropouts, or digital distortions.

Disc menus, case art, and liner notes indicate that the PCM track is positioned as the primary listening choice, suggesting considerable effort was put into restoring its quality. The dialogue is clear, sometimes revealing ADR dubbing, and sound effects are crisp with good stereo separation. The musical segments, featuring Joe Strummer and bands like The Pogues and Pray for Rain, showcase rich and vibrant musicality. Despite the fidelity challenges inherent in punk music, the performance scenes are loud and engaging, which enhances the film's immersive experience.

While the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is a decent alternative and worth sampling for a different auditory perspective, it seems somewhat secondary in this release. The 5.1 remix likely originates from MGM’s previous Blu-ray efforts and serves mainly as a thorough archival offering. In contrast, the PCM stereo track feels more alive and vibrant, making it the preferred choice for those seeking an authentic audio experience true to the film's original presentation.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Sid and Nancy" provides a robust selection of extras that offer in-depth insights into the film's production, the true-life characters, and the punk movement. The archival footage and interviews enrich the viewing experience by providing historical context and personal anecdotes from cast, crew, and real-life figures. The two audio commentaries offer varied perspectives with an extensive analysis of the era, character portrayals, and filmmaking techniques. Director Alex Cox's interview is particularly enlightening, discussing the film's reception and its impact on his career. However, some materials from previous releases are absent, such as the Joe Strummer music video and photo essay.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer.
• England's Glory: Archival documentary featuring raw footage and interviews.
• Alex Cox: Interview with the director on his career and the film's impact.
• Sad Vacation: Excerpts from a documentary on Sid and Nancy's last days.
• D.O.A.: A Rite of Passage: Scenes from a documentary on the Sex Pistols' tour.
• Sid Vicious, 1978: Phone interview with Sid post-overdose.
• The Filth and the Fury!: Controversial TV episode that shaped the Pistols' image.
• The London Weekend Show: Excerpts on punk music and fashion in London.
• Audio Commentary One: Compilation of interviews recorded in 1994.
• Audio Commentary Two: Director Alex Cox and actor Andrew Schofield's commentary.
• Booklet: An 18-page booklet with essays and technical credits.

Alex Cox's "Sid & Nancy" (1986), now available in a Criterion Collection Blu-ray, epitomizes the volatility of punk rock through the chaotic relationship of Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen. With Cox at the helm, known for cult favorite "Repo Man," the film dives headfirst into the energetic and fragmented world of punk, reflecting the disruptive ethos without succumbing to conventional biopic tropes. The narrative structure begins posthumously, immediately following Nancy’s death, leading viewers backward through the turbulent rise of the Sex Pistols and Sid’s spiral into addiction after meeting Nancy. Gary Oldman's portrayal of Sid Vicious is intensely compelling; his transformation into a punk icon is punctuated by charisma and raw emotion. Chloe Webb’s unrestrained performance as Nancy perfectly captures the unsettling dependency and chaos intrinsic to her persona.

Despite imaginable criticisms from those who knew the real Sid and Nancy, particularly Johnny Rotten's well-documented displeasure with his depiction, the film holds strong as an artful slice of punk history. Viewers are drawn into a world of degeneration and raw energy, underscored by Glen Matlock's recreated tracks and Oldman’s vocal performances. Roger Deakins’ cinematography provides moments of unexpected beauty amidst squalor, notably in the iconic scene of Sid and Nancy kissing by a dumpster as debris rains down—a visual metaphor for their love amidst ruin.

The Criterion Collection Blu-ray offers a freshly remastered video transfer, presenting Cox’s vision with enhanced clarity. Alongside archival features, including Turner’s documentary "England's Glory” and interviews with Cox and Pistols members, the release includes an illustrated booklet with insightful essays by Jon Savage. While the limited budget sometimes undercuts the film’s grasp of Sid Vicious’s fame, it nonetheless serves as an exuberant snapshot of a doomed romance at punk's zenith, presented through a lens that balances lyrical tenderness against visceral repugnance.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of Sid & Nancy offers a compelling visual and auditory experience that captures the essence of the punk rock era. Supervised and approved by acclaimed director of photography Roger Deakins, the new 4K master brings a striking degree of clarity and color accuracy that enhances the film's gritty aesthetic. Gary Oldman's portrayal of Sid Vicious stands out as particularly powerful, delivering a raw, haunting performance that penetrates deeply into the chaotic life of the infamous Sex Pistols bassist.

The supplemented features on this edition are extensive and enriching, offering both new and archival content that provides an in-depth look at the making of the film and its cultural impact. While the film's historical accuracy may be questioned, its ability to capture the spirit and turmoil of the punk movement remains indisputable. The upgraded visual and sound quality alone make this edition a significant improvement over previous versions, ensuring a more immersive viewing experience.

In conclusion, while Sid & Nancy might not entirely succeed as a factual historical piece, it unmistakably excels as a vibrant, emotionally charged narrative with a memorable soundtrack. This Criterion release is highly recommended for both long-time devotees and new audiences alike, offering a fresh way to experience Alex Cox's controversial yet enthralling portrayal of punk's most notorious romance.