Still Mine Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of Still Mine delivered by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The film, digitally shot with the Arri Alexa, offers remarkable clarity and fine detail characteristic of this advanced system. The imagery is impeccably stable, free from any visible digital tampering or compression issues. Colors are beautifully varied and accurate, with excellent saturation levels that bring the scenes to life. The exterior shots particularly benefit from exceptional depth of field, while dimly lit interior scenes are well-supported by a robust contrast.

This 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer offers a pristine digital source that truly complements the refined aesthetic of Still Mine. Outside of some negligible shimmering, the transfer is devoid of any distracting artifacts, enabling an immersive viewing experience. The color palette adheres to cooler tones with rich blue and green hues, presenting each color with vibrancy and nuance. The level of clarity is sharp, highlighting fine textures such as the weathered face and white stubble of James Cromwell in stunning detail. High contrast levels are proficiently managed, ensuring bright whites retain their brilliance without blooming, and shadow details remain intact with solid deep blacks. This Blu-ray release presents a visually compelling view with no major technical flaws.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for "Still Mine" provides a consistent yet often understated surround experience, particularly excelling in capturing outdoor environments as protagonist Craig constructs his new house. The audio design impressively replicates the sounds of saws and hammers with punch and precision. While a significant portion of the film features hushed dialogue scenes that limit the utilization of surround channels, the track maintains fine clarity and exhibits no technical issues.

The audio mix, presented in English DTS-HD MA 5.1 with optional English, Spanish, and English SDH subtitles, balances delicacy with spatial depth. Dialogue remains clear and precise throughout, without any balance problems or technical flaws. The soundstage effectively imparts a sense of space and environment, enriching the atmosphere with natural sounds such as crickets and birds. These elements provide subtle texture and nuanced directionality, contributing to the immersive quality of the track. Although low frequencies are sparse, the musical score delivers a commendable range.

In summary, while not overly complex, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track complements the film's modest subject matter with its delicate sound design and pleasing sense of ambiance. This thoughtful approach ensures an engaging auditory experience that aligns well with the narrative's focus on subtlety and naturalism.

While the movie "Still Mine" on Blu-ray delivers a compelling story with stellar technical quality, the disc is devoid of any supplements, a noticeable omission for those who value added content. Characteristic of professional releases intended to enrich the viewing experience, it is disheartening to find no interviews, featurettes, or behind-the-scenes elements that could have offered more insight into the production and its creative process. In this instance, the lack of extras leaves a gap that aficionados of supplementary materials will undoubtedly feel.

Extras included in this disc:

None

"Still Mine," a poignant and sensitive Canadian drama, showcases James Cromwell in a rare leading role, delivering an incredibly nuanced performance as elderly farmer Craig Morrison. Based on a true story, the film explores the intertwining themes of love, aging, and bureaucracy. As Craig builds a new home suitable for his ailing wife, Irene (Geneviève Bujold), he encounters relentless governmental obstacles, revealing both systemic rigidity and personal resilience. The emotional core of the film lies in the deeply affecting relationship between Craig and Irene, conveyed through their simple yet intimate interactions. The cast's chemistry is palpable, lending authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative.

Directed by Michael McGowan, "Still Mine" gracefully avoids melodrama, opting for a stripped-down storytelling approach that focuses on human connections rather than labyrinthine plot developments. The film's pacing is leisurely, reflecting the couple's slow but steadfast journey through life's challenges. While some secondary characters lack depth and the script occasionally dips into generic terrain, Cromwell’s compelling portrayal and Bujold’s spry yet vulnerable depiction bring the story to life. Their performances encapsulate a balance of tenderness and frustration, enriching the film with an understated but powerful emotional resonance.

Despite occasional pacing lulls and a few overly sentimental moments, "Still Mine" effectively delivers a heartfelt narrative on the endurance of love amidst adversity. It transcends its seemingly mundane premise of building permits to reveal broader themes of familial duty and personal integrity. With beautifully crafted scenes and heartfelt performances, particularly from Cromwell, "Still Mine" remains a quietly impactful film that captures the bittersweet intricacies of marriage and mortality.

"Still Mine" is a poignant and emotionally resonant film that tackles the trials and tribulations of an elderly couple navigating health and legal challenges. James Cromwell and Geneviève Bujold's performances are undoubtedly the highlight, portraying a realistic and deeply affecting relationship. Director Michael McGowan wisely avoids melodrama, instead opting for a sincere and affirmative narrative that captures the spirit of resilience and defiance. This is complemented by a commendable visual aesthetic which amplifies the pioneer spirit at the core of the story. While the plot does tread familiar ground, strong writing, competent direction, and standout acting elevate it to a touching cinematic experience.

Technically, this Blu-ray release impresses with its exceptional video and audio quality. The visual transfer is sharp, with robust detail and natural color balance that enhance the film's scenic setting. The audio mix, while subtle, is effective in its clarity and precision, thereby immersing the viewer into the quiet yet powerful world of the protagonists. The absence of supplements is indeed a drawback, but it does not overshadow the overall quality of the disc.

In conclusion, "Still Mine" is a sensitively handled film with exceptional performances by Cromwell and Bujold, offering an emotionally affecting look at elderly love and perseverance. Despite minor pacing issues and a somewhat conventional plot, the film's technical finesse and touching narrative make it highly recommended for both casual viewers and cinephiles alike.