20 Feet from Stardom

The high-definition video presentation of "20 Feet from Stardom" on Blu-ray offers a compelling visual experience, particularly with its newer HD content. The transfer, mastered in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 and primarily presented in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio, showcases an impressive level of detail and clarity. Viewers can expect to see crisp and clear renderings of faces, attire, and the minute textures of the recording environments, with graphics identifying the legendary stars crisply integrated into the scenes. The color palette across these HD segments is well-managed, maintaining natural skin tones and clothing colors, while black levels are deep, contributing to a visually satisfying image. Despite some minor issues with light banding, noise, and occasional shimmering, these defects do not detract significantly from the overall quality.

The archival footage within "20 Feet from Stardom" presents a natural contrast to the pristine quality of the HD material. While these historical clips vary in stability and clarity—reflecting their age and the limitations of original source materials—they are integrated in a manner that acknowledges their importance without undermining the visual consistency of the documentary. This juxtaposition highlights the evolution of video quality over time, serving as a respectful nod to the past.

In conclusion, Anchor Bay’s Blu-ray presentation of "20 Feet from Stardom" demonstrates a high level of technical proficiency and respect for both its contemporary and archival content. The digital source for newly recorded material is rendered with care, minimizing artifacts and maintaining a glossy, cinematic quality that enhances the documentary's narrative. Despite minor imperfections and the variable quality of older footage, the Blu-ray delivers a strong visual experience that supports the film's exploration of its musical subjects with clarity, depth, and a vividness that fans and newcomers alike will appreciate.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "20 Feet from Stardom" is aurally enchanting, featuring a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack that is both robust and highly satisfying. It’s a mix that is all about celebrating the music, delivering dynamic, crystal-clear notes that fill the listening area with a sonic richness typically reserved for top-tier tracks. The audio presentation boasts a wide dynamic range, ensuring that every note is crisp and every beat hits with depth. From the deep, thunderous lows that play without becoming muddled, to the crisply defined highs and solid midrange, the sound stage is exceptionally well-balanced. Vocals are sharp and precisely placed, making for an immersive experience that both casual and avid music fans will appreciate.

Documenting decades of music history, the Blu-ray’s audio excels in clarity and fidelity, presenting dialogue and narration with no balance issues. Atmospheric sounds are subtly integrated, enhancing the film's immersive aspect without overshadowing the musical performances. Even with the occasional age-related limitations of older recordings, the overall quality remains impressive. New recording sessions and recent performances are showcased beautifully, with songs occupying the space around the listener in a manner that is both spacious and faithful. The mix does not merely reproduce sound; it celebrates it, offering an outstanding listening experience that underscores the film’s focus on its musical subjects.

Moreover, the inclusion of optional English SDH and Spanish subtitles ensures accessibility, while the prioritization of dialogue alongside the meticulously mixed music tracks allows for an engaging, distortion-free experience. This aspect of the '20 Feet from Stardom' Blu-ray not only enhances its viewing but makes it a standout in terms of documentary audio presentations. Whether it’s through spirited rock hits, soulful pop melodies, or powerful gospel tunes, this audio mix truly envelops and transports the audience, affirming its exceptional quality and dedication to sonic perfection.

The Blu-ray of "20 Feet from Stardom" offers an enriching experience through its extras, enhancing the main feature with deeper insights and additional layers to the narrative. The deleted scenes, totaling 29 minutes, span various aspects of the background singers' lives, offering more personal stories, recording sessions, and performances, especially from lesser-seen participants like Jo Lawry and Judith Hill. "The Buddy System" featurette delves into the camaraderie and soft rivalry within the close-knit community of backup singers, revealing the essence and evolution of this unique musical role. The "Times Talks" segment provides an in-depth discussion with the film's key figures, adding valuable commentary on the documentary's creation, the history and future of backup singing, and other personal anecdotes, rounded off with a spontaneous gospel performance. Anchored by a quality HD presentation and comprehensive coverage, these extras significantly contribute to understanding and appreciating the world of background vocalists.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Includes segments like Judith's Youth, Jingles Galore, and 'Desperation,' among others, offering more background on the singers.

• The Buddy System: Explores the interconnections, competition, and growth among backup singers.

• Times Talks: Features Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer & Director Morgan Neville in a conversation about the documentary's inception and details from their careers.

20 Feet from Stardom" serves as an illuminating revelation in the otherwise shadowed domain of background singing, bringing to light the indispensable yet frequently overlooked artists who provide the foundational harmonies and enriching sounds behind music's most notable figures. Directed by Morgan Neville, this documentary skillfully intertwines anecdotal narratives from legendary performers like Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, and Judith Hill with perspectives from music icons including Mick Jagger and Bruce Springsteen. These dual viewpoints craft a comprehensive exploration of the emotional landscapes, dreams realized and deferred, and the sheer talent residing just beyond the limelight's reach.

Delving into the technicalities and soulful narratives of background singing, the film navigatively explores its subjects' multifaceted journey within the industry—from church choirs to the grand stages alongside stars like Sting and The Rolling Stones. The documentary is enriched with archival footage and deeply personal interviews, painting a portrait of resilience, longing, and the complex dynamics of music's backdrop. Through these powerful stories of ambition intertwined with the whims of fate, viewers are offered a nuanced look at the struggles and triumphs faced by these vocalists, celebrated for their musical contributions yet often struggling for recognition.

Undeniably, "20 Feet from Stardom" transcends mere musical documentation; it articulates the yearnings and poignant narratives lodged within the hearts of those who give life to the background. While some segments might skate on the surface of promotional content, the film ultimately anchors itself in genuine explorations of its subjects' lives, marking both a critique and celebration of the music industry's evolving landscape. The documentary not only serves as an avenue for unsung heroes to voice their tales but also as a critical examination of what success and acknowledgment mean within the echelons of musical fame. Through captivating performances and intimate narratives, it etches an indelible mark on viewers—inviting them to appreciate the artistry that thrives in the periphery of stardom.

20 Feet from Stardom" Blu-ray provides a compelling and deeply human look into the unsung heroes of the music industry: the background singers. With a narrative that skilfully intertwines personal journeys, unfulfilled dreams, and the sheer passion for music, this documentary presents its subjects in an authentic and moving light. Both celebratory and poignant, it offers a unique perspective on the realities behind the glamour, making it an essential watch for not just music enthusiasts but anyone fascinated by the stories of perseverance and the complex dynamics of showbiz. The technical quality of the Blu-ray enhances this experience; with a solid video transfer and an exceptional audio mix, viewers are treated to an auditory feast that complements the documentary's emotional depth and thematic richness. The inclusion of extras like deleted scenes and a Q&A session enriches the viewing experience further, providing additional insight and extending the connection audiences can make with the film's subjects.

The Blu-ray edition's technical specs are noteworthy; the video quality is commendably solid, ensuring that each frame conveys the intended visual message. The audio stands out remarkably, delivering a fantastic mix that enriches the featured songs and interviews, thus amplifying the emotional impact of the stories told. These technical aspects, combined with thoughtful extras, make the Blu-ray a valuable addition to any collection, offering more than just a mere viewing but an immersive experience into the lives and dreams of these talented individuals.

In conclusion, "20 Feet from Stardom" on Blu-ray is highly recommended for its impactful narrative, superior audio-visual presentation, and comprehensive extras. It not only showcases the talent and struggles of background singers but also serves as a testament to their indispensable role in shaping the music we love. This release is a must-have for anyone interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of musical stardom and the profound stories of those standing just twenty feet from it.