Best in Show Blu-ray Review

Warner's 1080p presentation of "Best in Show" adeptly captures the essence of its 16mm source material, consistent with the documentary aesthetic predicated by its modest budget. Cinematographer Roberto Schaefer exploits the textured and grainy visuals inherent to 16mm film and available light, contributing to the film's authentic, on-the-run feel. The transfer, encoded in AVC, preserves the film's natural coarser grain structure without attempting to artificially smoothen it through digital noise reduction (DNR) or high-frequency filtering. The Blu-ray retains a faithful presentation in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, refraining from the typical Warner practice of altering films to 1.78:1.

In terms of detailed reproduction, faces in interviews exhibit more clarity compared to previous DVD releases, with well-defined lines and finer resolved facial hair. Nevertheless, hair appears blended rather than distinctly separated into strands, and wider shots reveal the limited resolution of 16mm film with noticeable softness. The overall appearance, described as gauzy, is typical for the format and adds to the film’s authentic documentary feel. Color accuracy remains realistic but subdued, with skin tones appearing pale and blacks somewhat washed out—a direct consequence of the visual limitations of 16mm stock.

While the video presentation may not be considered demo quality, it manages to encapsulate Christopher Guest's vision for "Best in Show." The outcome is free from distracting video noise or blemishes and is faithful to the film’s original screening experience. Warner’s effort here should be commended for staying true to the source material without succumbing to modern aesthetic temptations that might compromise the film’s distinctive appearance.

The audio presentation of "Best in Show" on Blu-ray is offered in a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround mix, although the film’s documentary style results in an extremely front-heavy mix. Virtually all sonic activity is directed through the center speaker, primarily focusing on dialogue. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show sequences, which might traditionally exploit surround sound for crowd noise and ambiance, are instead authentic to the film's narrative style—maintaining the illusion of being captured by a single boom microphone managed by an on-site crew. Music, largely composed by Eugene Levy or Jeffrey C.J. Vanston, appears only when performed within the scene, further adhering to the documentary aesthetic.

The rear channels are notably underutilized, contributing sporadic light applause during dog show scenes, but otherwise remaining silent. This choice aligns with the film’s naturalistic approach, avoiding artificial enhancement of the soundscape. Impressively, despite the subtle ambiance, dialogue clarity is never compromised. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track impeccably captures even the most understated improvised lines and off-screen mumblings. Guest's challenge-worthy backwoods accent is notably clear; while viewers may need to resort to subtitles for comprehension, this necessity reflects the accent's thickness rather than any deficiency in the audio mix.

Overall, "Best in Show" on Blu-ray showcases an adeptly executed audio mix that stays true to its documentary form while ensuring clear and precise dialogue reproduction. Even amidst a restrained use of rear channels and ambient effects, the technical quality of the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 ensures a high fidelity audio experience that emphasizes clarity and immersion in its unique narrative style.

The Blu-ray extras for "Best in Show" have been adeptly transferred from the 2004 Warner DVD, retaining their charm and depth. The standout feature is the insightful and often humorous commentary by Director/Co-Writer Christopher Guest and Co-Writer Eugene Levy, where they delve into the intricacies of the writing process, cast performances, and production logistics. Deleted scenes, complete with optional commentary, provide a fascinating glimpse into what was left on the cutting room floor, showcasing unused ad-libs and extended character moments. The extras don't end there; viewers are treated to a nostalgic trip with the inclusion of the original theatrical trailer.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Director/Co-Writer Christopher Guest and Co-Writer Eugene Levy: Discusses writing, acting, and production details.
• Deleted Scenes (with Optional Commentary): A selection of outtakes providing additional context.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer for the film.

Christopher Guest's "Best in Show" stands as a quintessential mockumentary, illustrating the director's mastery in capturing hilarity through character-driven improvisation. Following a lineage that includes "This Is Spinal Tap" and "Waiting for Guffman," "Best in Show" immerses us in the world of competitive dog shows. Guest's ensemble cast, sourced from improv powerhouses like Second City and the Groundlings, imbues the film with rich, spontaneous humor. Centered around the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the film delves into the lives of five eclectic contestants, each more eccentric than the last. This approach ensures that every quirk and obsession is mined for comedic gold, delivering a delightfully nuanced experience.

The character dynamics are a significant strength, with each pairing offering distinct comedic flavors. Parker Posey and Michael Hitchcock play the high-strung Swans, whose neurotic behavior extends to their Weimaraner, Beatrice. Eugene Levy and Catherine O'Hara shine as Gerry and Cookie Fleck, bringing an awkward charm emphasized by Gerry's congenital two-left-feet condition and Cookie's promiscuous past. Guest himself portrays Harlan Pepper, an aspiring ventriloquist with a Bloodhound named Hubert, adding a rural, homespun feel to the narrative. Jennifer Coolidge and Jane Lynch create comedic tension as Sherri Ann Cabot and her trainer Christy Cummings, showcasing a blend of cluelessness and dominating ambition. Finally, John Michael Higgins and Michael McKean offer a flamboyant portrayal of a gay couple with their Shih Tzu, injecting visual and situational comedy into every scene.

While the competitors drive much of the humor, Fred Willard’s role as Buck Laughlin steals the show once the competition begins. His portrayal of an inept sports announcer brings a layer of absurdity that balances the more restrained wit of the contestants' interactions. Jim Piddock complements Willard perfectly as Trevor Beckwith, maintaining a veneer of professionalism amidst Laughlin's incessant blunders. It's these varied comedic elements that make "Best in Show" not just a film about a dog show but an insightful satire on human eccentricities and delusions.

Christopher Guest's "Best in Show" presents a compelling satire, masterfully blending humor and the idiosyncrasies of dog show culture. This Blu-ray release remains true to Guest's vision, offering a clear and faithful representation of the film. The video quality is commendable, characterized by a preservation of the film's original texture and color palette. Audio, while not overly dynamic due to the dialogue-heavy nature of the mockumentary genre, is crisp and allows for every bit of improvisational nuance to shine through.

On the technical front, enthusiasts will appreciate that the transfer maintains the film's integrity without artificial enhancement. The Blu-ray's visual fidelity ensures that the humorously exaggerated facial expressions and subtle physical comedy remain intact. While the audio mix is straightforward, it perfectly complements the on-screen antics and dialogue-driven humor.

However, prospective buyers should note that this Blu-ray edition lacks new features beyond what is available on the DVD. Despite this, the film's inherent charm and Guest's keen directorial insight make it a worthwhile addition to any collection.

Conclusion: You don't have to be a dog lover to enjoy Best in Show, just as you don't have be a theater enthusiast to laugh at Waiting for Guffman or, for that matter, a rock music fan to laugh at This Is Spinal Tap. Guest's approach is summed up in the quote: I am interested in the notion that people can become so obsessed by their world that they lose sense and awareness of how they appear to other people. As long as they know their world, you don't need to. You just have to watch them get caught up in it. As far as the Blu-ray is concerned, it's a faithful representation of the film. Just don't expect something glossy. Those who already own the DVD might reasonably decide to stick with it, since there are no new features. Otherwise, highly recommended.