Possessor Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Possessor" is presented in 1080p with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio, showcasing a visually arresting presentation. Captured with a variety of cameras and finished at a 4K DI, the transfer is an eclectic mix of styles and techniques that demand appreciation for its artistic heterogeneity. The film uses bold imagery, vivid coloration, and highly stylized detail to effectively depict its narrative. The sequences are adorned with red and blue filters and inventive visual effects, maintaining clarity and detail across differing scenes despite the fluctuating contrast and saturated palette. The standard Blu-ray, while lacking the 4K/HDR treatment available in other regions, delivers impressive visuals that render skin textures, background nuances, and fine object detailing with precision.

In "Possessor," the dynamic range of color and lighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere of the film. Cool blue-greens for some of Tasya's scenes and hellish orange-red tones for Colin's scenes exemplify the dramatic palette shifts throughout. The Blu-ray manages these variations well, presenting high detail levels, especially in well-lit moments, which remain precise even amid chaotic editing. A slight drawback is the occasional minor banding visible in some of the production's mastheads, but this does not significantly detract from the overall experience. Overall, the Blu-ray holds up remarkably well in delivering a visually compelling piece despite the absence of 4K/HDR support.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Possessor" is a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that effectively matches the visual intensity with a complex auditory experience. Dialogue is consistently clear and well-prioritized across the frontal array, ensuring both the cross-body communications and on-screen interactions are easily understood. The sound design meticulously balances between reality and illusion, creating an all-encompassing atmospheric experience. Particularly during possession sequences, the immersive audio reaches its peak, blending environmental background effects and foreground dialogues to heighten tension and unease.

Sound effects are meticulously designed to complement the film's graphic content, featuring visceral sounds like squelching wounds and impalement noises that are vividly disturbing. Gunshots resonate with booming clarity, while body blows impart a punishing force, significantly enhancing the horror elements. The score adeptly combines disconcerting tones with the science fiction horror vibe, pushing the tension to almost unbearable levels at crucial moments. The LFE channels provide deep, rumbling undercurrents that enhance the film’s darker themes, contributing to an overall sensation of dread and disorientation. Notable scenes, such as the panning waterfall effect in the opening sequence, showcase the subtle yet impactful use of surround sound.

Overall, "Possessor's" DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track offers a moody, atmospheric ride that effectively underscores the film's intense visual narrative. The soundscape shifts seamlessly between hauntingly quiet moments and chaotic surges of violence, keeping viewers audibly engaged throughout. This carefully crafted audio mix significantly enriches the unsettling atmosphere of the film, making it an essential component of the viewing experience.

The Extras on the Blu-ray release of "Possessor" are an impressive array that provides deep insight into the making of this visually striking film. The collection includes a range of Deleted Scenes and three engaging Behind the Scenes featurettes, each lasting between 10-15 minutes. These featurettes delve into various aspects of the film's production, from visual design to practical effects, making them essential viewing for those interested in the intricacies of filmmaking. In addition to these, the UK Blu-ray release includes a Short Film by Brandon Cronenberg, "Please Speak Continuously and Describe Your Experiences as They Come to You," which serves as a complementary piece to the main feature. The organization of these extras is efficient, with features auto-playing for seamless viewing.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Various short scenes cut from the film.
• A Heightened World: Insights into the visual design of "Possessor."
• Identity Crisis: Exploration of bringing the concepts to life.
• The Joy of Practical: Focus on practical effects used in the film.
• Green Band Teaser: Promotional material for general audiences.
• Red Band Teaser: Promotional material with mature content.
• Uncut Trailer: Full-length film trailer.
• Short Film: "Please Speak Continuously and Describe Your Experiences as They Come to You" by Brandon Cronenberg.

"Possessor" is a dark sci-fi film that harks back to the body horror of classic Cronenberg while establishing Brandon Cronenberg's emerging directorial voice. The story revolves around corporate assassins using advanced tech to 'possess' others through implanted devices, focusing on Tasya Vos (Andrea Riseborough), who grapples with the mind-bleeding effects of this technology affecting her personal life. As she undertakes a high-profile mission, the narrative unfolds with intense, gory sequences juxtaposed with a deep exploration of the sci-fi concepts underpinning the plot. The film’s tone is a blend of atmospheric dread and visceral body horror, resembling the mood and thematic elements of works by Alex Garland such as "Ex Machina" and "Annihilation."

The film opens with a chilling vignette that sets the stage for the violence and mind-control technology at the heart of its story. A sterile lab environment follows, where Tasya is extracted from the possession process and undergoes a debriefing with her manager Girder (Jennifer Jason Leigh). The debrief offers insight into Tasya’s troubled psyche, heightened by a new assignment involving a corporate power struggle. She possesses Colin Tate (Christopher Abbott), setting off a complex battle for control of Colin’s consciousness. The film navigates this central conflict through hallucinogenic visuals and a disturbing exploration of identity, blurring the lines between who is the possessor and the possessed.

"Possessor" effectively melds sci-fi and psychological horror to create a unique cinematic experience. The film’s stark violence and unsettling imagery, combined with its emotional depth, challenge viewers to contemplate the ethical and psychological ramifications of its mind-control premise. This narrative complexity is amplified by Riseborough's compelling performance and Abbott's depiction of a man caught in an inescapable nightmare. Cronenberg's adept handling of these themes not only pays homage to his father's legacy but also carves out his own niche in the realm of dark speculative fiction.

"Possessor" is an exemplary early endeavor by Brandon Cronenberg, son of renowned director David Cronenberg, showcasing his distinctive spin on the sci-fi body horror genre. The film delves into dark, psychologically complex themes, delivering a gripping and often unnerving narrative that will resonate with fans of its thematic lineage. Signature's UK Blu-ray release, despite the existence of a stateside 4K edition, provides an impressive audiovisual experience. The disc boasts strong video and audio quality, creating an immersive sensory environment suited to the film's eerie tone. Additionally, the release includes an insightful selection of extras that add depth to the viewing experience, notably featuring a short film by Cronenberg.

It is worth noting that there are variations in available cuts of "Possessor". Well Go USA's version is slightly edited but only by a minute, suggesting minimal impact on the overall content. However, some might feel that even the uncut version could benefit from further context regarding certain character motivations and developments. Despite this minor concern, the film remains a gripping, graphic spectacle that is certain to appeal to enthusiasts of David Cronenberg’s work. Its technical merits, from the precision in visual detail to the evocative soundscapes, enhance the chilling atmosphere that defines "Possessor".

In conclusion, "Possessor" is a compelling addition to the modern sci-fi horror canon. Brandon Cronenberg successfully carves out his niche while paying homage to his father’s legacy. The Blu-ray offers a hypnotic viewing experience with solid technical performances and engaging bonus content. Whether you opt for the UK Blu-ray or decide to import another version, "Possessor" is highly recommended for fans of cerebral, visually intense cinema.