The Forgiveness of Blood Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Blu-ray release of "The Forgiveness of Blood" presents the film in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio using a 1080p transfer encoded with MPEG-4 AVC. Approved by the director of photography Rob Hardy, the high-definition digital transfer was created from the Super 16mm negative on an ARRISCAN film scanner. The presentation is visually consistent with Criterion's renowned standards, delivering a satisfying level of clarity and depth. The raw aesthetics include warm, natural colors and stability without visible damage marks or scratches. Compression is excellent, ensuring a clean and appealing image when projected.

While the film's Super 16mm origin is evident, the transfer manages to maintain impressive visual fidelity, closely emulating a 35mm print for many viewers. Grain levels are well preserved, contributing to a genuine, film-like quality. Although some contrast fluctuations are noted between daylight and nighttime scenes, it aligns with the inherent cinematographic choices and doesn't detract from the overall experience. However, shadows can at times obscure fine details in darker scenes, reflecting the intentional visual gritty approach. Colors are muted, dominated by somber tones appropriate for the film's thematic ambiance, yet they reveal Rob Hardy’s intended vision effectively.

In summary, "The Forgiveness of Blood" on Criterion’s Blu-ray is a commendable presentation defined by its adherence to the filmmaker's intent and technical excellence. The transfer retains the film's authentic grain and color palette while mitigating common issues like degraining and sharpening errors. Although some may find the Super 16mm format’s detail limitations noticeable, the overall quality remains exceptional within its artistic context. This release underlines Criterion’s commitment to delivering high-quality home video experiences without compromising on the director's vision.

The audio presentation of "The Forgiveness of Blood" on Blu-ray, featuring an Albanian DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, offers a commendable auditory experience. The fully digital 5.1 surround soundtrack was meticulously mastered at 24-bit from the original digital audio master files using Pro Tools HD, ensuring high fidelity. Dialogue remains crisp, clean, and stable throughout, making it easy to follow despite the movie's Albanian language, aided by accurate English subtitles.

Dynamic range and fluidity in the audio track are exceptional, lending authenticity to the film's documentary-style atmosphere. Specific sound effects—like the clomping of horse hooves or creaking carts—are rendered with precise clarity. Nature sounds are effectively integrated, enhancing tension. However, the rear channels may feel somewhat subdued during quieter scenes but come alive during critical moments of peril, capturing elements like bullets in flight with startling realism. LFE is used sparingly, providing subtle enhancements except for rare intense occurrences such as scenes involving large fires.

Overall, this DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track prioritizes clarity and authenticity without relying on unnecessary frills or gimmicks. While the audio landscape may not consistently impress due to the film's dialogue-driven nature, it excels when needed, ensuring an immersive viewing experience.

The Blu-ray edition of "The Forgiveness of Blood" includes a commendable range of special features that delve into various aspects of the film’s production and thematic backdrop. These extras are well-curated, offering insightful commentary from the director, in-depth discussions with cast members, and behind-the-scenes footage, all of which contribute to a deeper appreciation of the film's narrative and cultural context. Particularly notable is the engaging audio commentary by Joshua Marston, who details the film’s creation and the unique challenges faced during its production in Albania. Both new and on-set interviews with key figures provide further context and reflections on the movie’s themes.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Director Joshua Marston discusses the film’s origins, production challenges, and cultural themes.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer in Albanian with optional English subtitles.
• Truth on the Ground: Producer Paul Mezey and actors discuss production challenges and the film’s messages.
• Acting Close to Home: Roundtable with director and actors discussing their roles and blood feuds in Albania.
• Auditions and Rehearsals: Footage from Tristan Halilaj and Sindi Lacej’s auditions and rehearsals.
• Booklet: Essays and insights by film writer Oscar Moralde.

Joshua Marston's The Forgiveness of Blood offers a thought-provoking exploration of Albania's traditional blood feuds, revealing an intricate narrative set against a backdrop of contemporary societal tension. The plot centers around the family of Mark (Refet Abazi), a bread salesman who ignites a lethal feud with his neighbor Sokol (Veton Osmani). Following an altercation over land access, Sokol is killed, forcing Mark into hiding and his family into house arrest under the ancient code of Kanun. This confinement and the ensuing drama are primarily viewed through the perspectives of Mark's son Nik (Tristan Halilaj) and daughter Rudina (Sindi Lacej) as they struggle with their imposed isolation and grapple with their roles in this generational conflict.

The film meticulously illuminates the clash between traditional customs and modern aspirations among Albanian youth. Nik's frustrated ambitions to open an Internet café and Rudina's enforced pivot to family breadwinner underscore the tension between the past and a potentially more progressive future. Despite minimal exposition on Kanun itself, Marston masterfully captures the suffocating influence of these ancient laws through the experiences and dialogues of these characters. The casting of non-professional actors contributes to a raw, authentic portrayal, enhanced by Marston's deft direction and thorough research that deepen our understanding of these archaic practices.

A sense of authenticity pervades the narrative, bolstered by Marston's choice to keep critical actions, such as the murder, off-screen. This decision maintains objectivity and allows viewers to engage more deeply with the moral complexities and emotional resonance of the story. While Nik’s emotional turmoil provides a focal point for audience empathy, some criticism arises from the film’s portrayal of other characters and societal structures, questioning the feasibility of such enduring traditional practices in today's judicial landscape. Nevertheless, The Forgiveness of Blood stands as a compelling look at a society in flux, where honor, pride, and familial duty continue to wield formidable power.

Joshua Marston’s “The Forgiveness of Blood” offers a deeply engaging exploration of a culture in transition, presented through an incredibly well-researched narrative and impeccable performances. The film effectively captures the intricate dynamics of tradition and modernity in rural life, a testament to Marston's nuanced direction and perceptive storytelling. It stands out as a notable entry in Criterion's catalog, showcasing a foreign culture's practices with authenticity and sensitivity. This meticulously observed portrait is a high point of contemporary cinema by an American director.

However, the film’s ability to engage might vary among viewers. Some may find it difficult to connect with the characters or fully immerse in their predicaments, leading to a sense of detachment from the storyline. Despite this, the narrative centers on characters like Nik, whose development adds a layer of relatability. The situation may seem implausible at times, perhaps indicating an underdeveloped idea that struggles to find its footing. Nevertheless, for those interested in cultural narratives and ethnographic storytelling, “The Forgiveness of Blood” remains a commendable effort.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of “The Forgiveness of Blood” upholds their reputation for high-quality presentations. The video and audio quality, while not the most breathtaking among Criterion offerings, are solid and enhance the viewing experience. The supplements included also enrich the understanding of the film’s context and production. This release is particularly recommended for Criterion collectors and anyone with a keen interest in culturally immersive films.

In conclusion, “The Forgiveness of Blood” is a thought-provoking film that presents a well-crafted glimpse into a foreign culture. Its strengths lie in its research, performances, and Criterion's reliable production quality. Despite some engagement issues, it is an essential addition to any serious Blu-ray collection, especially for those who appreciate culturally insightful cinema.