The Fisher King Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of Terry Gilliam's "The Fisher King" by Criterion presents the film in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio with a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer. Approved by Gilliam, this new digital transfer was created in 2K resolution, ensuring a top-quality presentation. The transfer supervisors, Grover Crisp and Rita Belda, alongside colorist Mike Underwood, have ensured that the nuances of Gilliam's vision are meticulously preserved. The transfer bears a striking similarity to the high-definition transfer used by Image Entertainment in 2011. However, the Criterion release offers marginal improvements, particularly in darker scenes where sharpness is noticeably better. Image stability remains excellent with no transition issues, while detail and clarity shine throughout. No problematic sharpening, torn frames, debris, or stains detract from the experience.

Despite being a new director-approved transfer, comparisons with the previous Image Entertainment Blu-ray reveal only slight differences in print stability. In fact, there are isolated instances where the compression on the Image release surpasses the Criterion (e.g., minor blocking/contouring at the 02:12:50 mark). Nonetheless, the film maintains an authentic, filmic quality with natural grain and strong clarity. Colors are vibrant yet natural, with specific scenes — like Parry's Red Knight vision and the Chinese restaurant — featuring notable visual pop. Black levels are consistently deep and contrast well-balanced without blooming. Free from unnecessary digital manipulation, this Blu-ray respects Gilliam's inventive camerawork and art design, giving his surreal visual style pleasing pop and depth. The differences between this and the original release are minor and retain the overall excellence of this technically impressive and visually engaging transfer.

(Note: This Blu-ray release is Region-A locked.)

The Blu-ray of "The Fisher King" features a singular audio track: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, supplemented by optional English SDH subtitles. Depth and clarity are consistently superb, ensuring an immersive experience throughout the film. Notably, scenes involving the red knight exhibit impressive sound separation, with identifiable individual noises enhancing the cinematic experience. George Fenton's score breathes easily within the soundscape, free from any balance issues, such as overpowering sound effects or muted music.

The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix mirrors the earlier Image Entertainment release, a commendable choice given its effective design that aligns well with the film's requirements. While the soundtrack may not be as dynamic as modern blockbusters, its modest yet impactful approach suits the content admirably. Dialogue remains crisp and stable, exhibiting no signs of distortion or audio artifacts. Directionality is efficiently managed across the front soundstage, with rear channels providing subtle ambient effects and occasional, more intense auditory flashes during Parry’s hallucinations.

In conclusion, the audio presentation is noteworthy for its clean dialogue, balanced dynamic range, and selective but effective use of rear channels. Though it may not achieve the immersive depth of contemporary action titles, the track's moments of heightened activity complement the film’s visual creativity, making for a solid and engaging listening experience.

The Blu Ray extras for "The Fisher King" offer a comprehensive and immersive behind-the-scenes look that significantly enriches the viewing experience. The collection is presented in high definition (1080p or 1080i) with Dolby Digital audio, boasting a variety of featurettes including expert commentaries, deleted scenes, and insightful interviews with key cast and crew members. Terry Gilliam’s 1991 audio commentary stands out, providing detailed explanations of the film's shooting process and thematic nuances. The deleted scenes, while not revelatory, are a worthy addition offering deeper context to Lydia’s character and Jack’s psychological journey. The two-part documentary on the film's production gives an extensive overview of its origins, casting choices, and on-set dynamics, particularly highlighting Robin Williams’ unique contributions. Other notable features include Jeff Bridges' photo diary and a focus on the technical challenges behind The Red Knight.

Extras included in this disc:

Commentary with Terry Gilliam: Director discusses various aspects of the film.

Deleted Scenes: Six scenes with optional director commentary.

The Tale of The Fisher King: Two-part documentary with cast and crew interviews.

The Tale of The Red Knight: Artistic insights from creators Keith Greco and Vincent Jefferds.

Jeff's Tale: Photo diary by Jeff Bridges.

Jeff and Jack: Actor's preparation footage with acting coach Stephen Bridgewater.

Robin's Tale: 2006 interview with Robin Williams.

Costume Tests: Reel showcasing actors’ costume tests.

Trailers: Five original trailers.

Terry Gilliam's 1991 film, "The Fisher King," now presented on Blu-ray by Criterion, juxtaposes raw emotion and magical realism into a modern-day fairy tale. This peculiar blend of drama and comedy explores the themes of guilt, redemption, and the healing power of kindness. Jeff Bridges stars as Jack Lucas, a shock jock whose careless words cause a tragic event leading him into a spiral of depression. His path to redemption begins when he meets Parry (Robin Williams), a mentally unstable homeless man on a quest for the Holy Grail. The contrasting journeys of these two characters, masterfully depicted through Richard LaGravenese's script, unravel across the surreal and vividly transformed landscapes of New York City.

Gilliam's direction relies heavily on visual storytelling, with Roger Pratt's cinematography transforming New York into a Gothic wonderland where fantasy and reality blur. The aesthetic marries knights with yellow cabs, seamlessly integrating the extraordinary into the ordinary. George Fenton's lush score, interspersed with classics by Harry Nilsson, Ray Charles, and John Coltrane, heightens the film's atmospherics. Despite some minor script issues such as overly expository dialogues and a slightly predictable ending, the film's narrative remains compelling thanks to its visual brilliance and the performances of its stellar cast.

Bridges' portrayal of Jack is nuanced, depicting a character teetering on the edge of despair and redemption. Robin Williams’ portrayal of Parry, a modern-day Don Quixote, adds layers of manic genius and solemnity. Amanda Plummer’s character brings an awkward charm, rounding out a cast that complements each other in navigating the film’s dual identity—an adventurous tale of contrasts and a poignant examination of adult disillusionment. These elements form an intricate narrative about pain and healing, revealing how simple acts of kindness can help reclaim lost humanity. Criterion’s Blu-ray release, including supplemental features like new documentaries and interviews, enhances the understanding and appreciation of this multifaceted film.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of Terry Gilliam's "The Fisher King" masterfully showcases the film’s distinctive blend of whimsical visual style and poignant storytelling. The high-definition presentation offers a visually pleasing experience, aligning well with Criterion's reputation for quality. Both the video and audio quality manage to capture the director’s imaginative vision authentically, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. The transfer respects the original film's idiosyncratic aesthetics and retains Gilliam's unique visual flair.

A standout aspect of this release is the exceptional range of supplemental features provided. Notably, there are fascinating insights from Jeff Bridges, who shares heartfelt anecdotes about his collaboration with the late Robin Williams. The supplements enrich the viewing experience significantly by diving into the film's intricate production history and exploring its thematic depth. This wealth of new content is not only enlightening but also presents a compelling reason for fans to add this edition to their collections. Gilliam aficionados and newcomers alike will find these extras highly enriching.

While technically there may not be substantial improvements over previous releases, the added bonus material makes this Criterion edition a deserving acquisition. The supplementary interviews and behind-the-scenes features offer a comprehensive look into the creative process behind "The Fisher King", ensuring that this Blu-ray edition stands out amidst prior versions.

I think that fans of Terry Gilliam's "The Fisher King" will be delighted with Criterion's upcoming Blu-ray release as the film looks lovely in high-definition and there are some outstanding new supplemental features with various cast and crew members. There is a lot of especially good new material with Jeff Bridges, who recalls his work with the late Robin Williams and discusses the film's fascinating production history. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.