Adam Resurrected Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Adam Resurrected" by MVD Marquee Collection offers an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.35:1 that visually elevates the film's complex narrative style. Similar to its predecessor from Image Entertainment, the transfer effectively captures the distinctive aesthetic choices used throughout the film. The blend of slightly desaturated, ochre-infused asylum scenes and high-contrast black and white flashbacks is rendered with outstanding detail. Notably, some black and white footage is intentionally distressed to replicate the look of aged film stock, contributing to the overall authenticity. The natural resolution of film grain ensures that the imagery retains its cinematic texture, supported by excellent detail levels across all scenes.

The use of sepia-tinged color and black & white cinematography stands out on this disc, with each style achieving superb visual fidelity. The film's hyper-intense contrast is executed with precision, producing bright visuals without unwanted clipping that align well with the film's somber tone. Despite a vintage aesthetic, flesh tones remain accurate while other colors transform into subdued pastels. The sharpness and clarity are impeccable, particularly in hazier sequences, indicating a recent mastering effort. Additionally, the transfer showcases noticeable improvements over prior SD releases, with enhanced fidelity and preserved grain structure resulting in a richly cinematic appearance.

Overall, "Adam Resurrected" on Blu-ray presents an impressive video experience, capturing the film's diverse visual language with precision and care. The combination of stylistic nuances and technical execution provides a viewing experience that is both faithful to the director’s vision and significantly improved over past releases.

The audio presentation of the "Adam Resurrected" Blu-Ray offers distinct experiences through its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and LPCM 2.0 tracks, each catering to different listening preferences. The DTS-HD 5.1 track, although occasionally fluctuating in surround engagement, succeeds in creating an immersive environment, particularly in nightmarish and intense scenes such as the arrival at the concentration camp and certain cabaret sequences. Notably, dialogue clarity is maintained consistently, ensuring audiences comprehend the nuanced performances throughout. The availability of optional English and Spanish subtitles further enhances accessibility.

Conversely, the LPCM 2.0 track presents a brighter auditory option, appealing to those who seek clarity over subtle surround embellishments. While this stereo track may lack minor low-end intricacies and extensive surround usage, it compensates with a well-balanced soundstage that accentuates crowd scenes and effectively integrates powerful music cues. Listeners should be aware of a specific anomaly on the DTS-HD 5.1 track at timestamp 1:38:09, where a surprising burst of loud static in the left front speaker may momentarily disrupt the experience.

Overall, while both tracks have their strengths, the choice between them depends largely on listener preference for surround intricacies versus stereo brightness and clarity. Each option provides a uniquely engaging auditory experience, contributing effectively to the film's emotional narrative.

The Blu-ray release of "Adam Resurrected" offers a comprehensive collection of extras that provide valuable insights into the film's creation and reception. Notably, Director Paul Schrader's audio commentary is accessible, offering depth in understanding the film's intricate narrative and thematic elements. The included deleted scenes enhance the viewer's perspective, showcasing additional narrative avenues that were considered during production. Further exploration is provided by a behind-the-scenes featurette, which delves into the filmmaking process, capturing key moments on set. Additionally, a Q&A session from the Haifa International Film Festival presents lively dialogue with the cast and crew, enriching the viewer’s appreciation of the film’s cultural context. Trailers are also included, featuring "Adam Resurrected" and other releases from MVD, giving a broader view of its cinematic landscape.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Paul Schrader: Insightful commentary under the Setup Menu.
• Deleted Scenes: Unseen narrative extensions.
• Behind the Scenes Featurette: On-set insights into the filmmaking process.
• Haifa International Film Festival Q & A: Engaging dialogue with cast and crew.
• Trailers: Includes "Adam Resurrected" and more from MVD.

"Adam Resurrected" dares to diverge from traditional Holocaust films by deliberately straying from historical accuracy and reverence. Directed by Paul Schrader, the film centers on Adam Stein, a Holocaust survivor played by Jeff Goldblum, living in a peculiar sanitarium in the Negev. The film oscillates between moments of coherence and dissonance as it explores Adam's traumatic past and existential crises. The biblical allegories are impossible to ignore; they imbue Goldblum's portrayal with a messianic aura, supported by motifs like stigmata and the titular resurrection, making this film a unique narrative tapestry that stirs both intrigue and unease.

Schrader's stylistic choices, notably in black-and-white flashbacks reminiscent of "Schindler’s List," heighten the film's surreal atmosphere. These visuals, combined with an often incongruous tonal delivery, render the emotional impact ambiguous. Adam's portrayal as a Jewish clown performing as a dog for a Nazi general treads a delicate line—is it an evocative metaphor or an unsettling oddity? Despite Goldblum's compelling performance, the eccentric narrative frequently dilutes its profound thematic potential. The supporting cast of quirky characters amplifies this eccentricity, challenging viewers to discern the film's true intent.

While some may find "Adam Resurrected" provocative and extraordinary in its execution, others argue it misses thematic marks, descending into a bewildering spectacle rather than presenting a coherent thematic journey. Schrader’s audaciously unconventional storytelling makes the film unforgettable, though not unequivocally successful. The ambitious narrative attempts to blend tragedy and dark humor in a Holocaust context—a bold endeavor that may leave audiences polarized, struggling to find inspiration amidst its dissonant tones.

Adam Resurrected, a Blu-ray release, presents a striking and unconventional narrative that is both thought-provoking and memorable. The film bravely explores complex themes around Holocaust narratives, deconstructing typical tropes with a unique angle on Jewish identity. With renowned actor Jeff Goldblum at its helm, the film elevates his performance to new heights, making it a particular standout. Yet, viewers may find the tone to be an eclectic mix, as bizarre, comically oddball characters juxtapose the deeply serious context—an approach that might not suit all tastes.

Technically, the Blu-ray presentation is mostly solid, offering a reliable picture and sound quality that does justice to the film's unique aesthetic. While the cinematography aims to captivate with its erratic and anarchic spirit, some may detect a lack of polished consistency in the visual tones or transitions. Audio tracks are competently engineered, ensuring dialogue clarity amidst the sometimes chaotic backdrop. The disc does not heavily emphasize extras, directing focus instead on the film's content.

In conclusion, Adam Resurrected may not align with mainstream expectations but succeeds in delivering an unforgettable experience for those open to its peculiar cinematic journey. Its remarkable portrayal of historical themes through a non-traditional lens makes it an intriguing watch. This release comes recommended to viewers who appreciate experimental storytelling, especially with a tolerably curious sense of humor towards sensitive subjects.