Every Day Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Every Day" is delivered in a 1080p AVC-encoded transfer. Shot using the Red One digital camera, the film exhibits a realism-focused aesthetic often associated with television productions. The visual quality tends to appear somewhat flat and dim, with colors lacking vibrancy, which results in a less engaging viewing experience. While black levels are adequate, highlights fall short of brilliance, impacting the overall contrast. Despite these drawbacks, skin tones remain natural throughout the film with no significant color balance issues.

Clarity is notably better, showcasing a reasonable amount of fine detail in close-ups and textures. For instance, Liev Schreiber's facial hair and Carla Gugino's intricate blouse details are well rendered. However, the image does not reach a level of sharpness that could be described as striking. Although there is some minor shimmering on finely patterned clothing, the presentation is largely free from distracting digital noise and compression issues. The film's cinematography contributes more to its visually subdued character than any shortcomings in the transfer itself.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track of "Every Day" aligns predictably with the conventions of most family dramas—primarily quiet and centered around dialogue. It's a restrained but clean audio presentation that ensures clarity and balance, although it won't stand out for its dynamic range. Surround channels are sparingly utilized, manifesting occasionally in party scenes or ambient background noise like subtle guitar tones. The dialogue remains prominently at the forefront, making it easily discernible, while the accompanying score, though gentle, makes an attempt at evoking emotion.

While voices are generally clear, a few whispered lines may get lost in the overall mix. The LFE discreetly joins the narrative, becoming noticeable primarily during dance scenes where the background music necessitates a bit of bass. Despite scenes that could benefit from more immersive surround sound, such as busy clubs, the rear channels remain understated. Overall, the audio mix is serviceable but ultimately forgettable, functioning adequately within the framework of a drama like "Every Day." English SDH and Spanish subtitles are available in easy-to-read white lettering.

The Blu-ray extras for "Every Day" include a modest yet insightful collection of features that provide additional context to the film. While the technical presentation of these extras is in standard definition, they offer valuable behind-the-scenes perspectives. The deleted scenes, though brief, offer a glimpse into elements that were ultimately left out of the final cut and offer minimal impact on the story. The cast interviews are promotional but give the main actors a platform to discuss their experiences and character interpretations in a conversational format. Additionally, the inclusion of the trailer rounds out the package and acts as a refresher for the movie's thematic elements.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: A smattering of short deleted scenes.
• Cast Interviews: Interviews with the leads discussing their characters and film themes.
• Trailer: The original promotional trailer for the movie.

"Every Day" features a commendable cast including Leiv Schreiber, Helen Hunt, Carla Gugino, Brian Dennehy, and Eddie Izzard. Unfortunately, the film’s exploration of the Sandwich Generation—those simultaneously raising children and caring for elderly parents—falls short due to an unfocused narrative and lack of character development. Ned (Schreiber), a jaded writer for a provocative TV series led by his eccentric boss Garrett (Izzard), is overwhelmed by his responsibilities both at work and home. His wife Jeannie (Hunt) must manage her ailing father Ernie (Dennehy), who moves in with them, while their teenage son Jonah (Ezra Miller) navigates coming out as gay in a less-than-supportive environment.

Despite strong performances, particularly by Hunt and Dennehy, the film struggles with pacing and cohesion. Jeannie's grappling with her father’s decline feels authentic, but Ned’s seduction by a co-worker (Gugino) seems contrived and lacks depth. Jonah’s storyline, filled with potential complexity, remains underdeveloped and unresolved. These narrative threads never quite weave into a cohesive whole, making the film feel like a disjointed series of events rather than a compelling story.

Ultimately, "Every Day" presents relatable themes—mid-life crises, strained marriages, and the challenges of modern family dynamics—but fails to deliver meaningful insights or emotional engagement. While the individual struggles of its characters are valid, the execution lacks the subtlety and resolution necessary to make an impact. The film’s unevenness and predictability detract from its ability to resonate deeply with viewers, making it a largely forgettable experience despite its notable cast.

"Every Day" on Blu-ray offers an examination of the complexities facing modern families today. However, the film alternates between being overly sentimental and bleak, ultimately failing to deliver a truly insightful commentary. Marketed as a comedy, genuine laughs are few and far between. The film benefits from strong acting performances, but this is not enough to elevate it above its shortcomings. From a narrative perspective, the story feels unfocused and is riddled with conventional tropes, failing to take full advantage of its talented cast.

Technically, the Blu-ray production provides an average visual and auditory experience. The video quality is competent but unremarkable, while the audio is serviceable without standing out in any particular way. Additionally, the disc lacks substantial special features, offering little incentive for viewers seeking added value or deeper insights into the film's production.

Like an edgier Lifetime made-for-TV movie, "Every Day" examines the new complexities of the uppercase Modern Family but is alternately too schmaltzy and depressing to be truly insightful. Be forewarned, although this is technically billed as a comedy, you'll find few laughs here. Strong acting partially redeems the film, but I can only give a halfhearted recommendation. If anything, this is rental material.