Her Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the "Her" Blu-ray blooms in a spectrum of carefully controlled visuals and muted colors, mirroring director Spike Jonze and cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema's clear intention to craft a future that feels both strikingly plain and emotionally complex. The 1080p/AVC-encoded video transfer delivers this vision with an impeccable finesse, ensuring that every frame conveys the intended narrative weight without succumbing to common digital pitfalls. The film's selective use of vibrant colors against an otherwise desaturated backdrop highlights the emotional isolation and longing of its protagonist, Theodore, played with subtle brilliance by Joaquin Phoenix. Detail is preserved across the board - from the nuanced close-ups that reveal Theodore’s inner turmoil to the broader scenes that showcase the film’s unique aesthetic.

The technical execution of the Blu-ray’s video section stands as a testament to Warner's commitment to faithfully reproducing the director's and cinematographer's artistic choices. Contrast and black levels are handled with care, providing depth without overshadowing detail, while the noise present is minimal and source-inherent rather than a transfer flaw. This balance extends to flesh tones and shadows, which are presented with consistency and realism, further grounding the film's more ethereal qualities in a tangible reality. The color grading, which leans heavily on oranges and sepia tones, complements the futuristic yet familiar world Jonze envisions, without any significant artifacting, banding, or aliasing that might detract from the viewing experience.

In essence, Warner's Blu-ray presentation of "Her" excels in translating Hoytema's intricate cinematography and Jonze's nuanced storytelling into a home viewing context, preserving the film’s visual integrity. Through a combination of exceptional detail capture, balanced color treatment, and flawless digital transfer, it offers an immersive experience that underscores the film’s central themes of love, loneliness, and the search for human connection in an increasingly digital world.

The audio presentation of "Her" on its Blu-ray release, delivered through a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, captures the essence of the film's subtle yet captivating sound design. True to the nature of the narrative, the audio mix doesn't rely on aggressive tactics to engage the listener. Instead, it envelops the audience with an ambient, atmospheric quality that breathes life into Spike Jonze's vision of a tender, futuristic world. The sound field is ingeniously crafted, with every nuance of dialogue—be it the intimate whispers shared between Theodore and Samantha or the piercing exchanges of estranged lovers—rendered with crystal clarity and perfect prioritization. The low-frequency effects (LFE) and activity in the rear speakers are handled with a finesse that is both restrained and impactful, resulting in dynamics that are subtly pronounced and directionality that is convincingly understated.

Arcade Fire's score, intertwined within this delicate soundscape, functions not just as background music but as an emotional catalyst that complements the narrative's depth without overwhelming it. The portrayal of Samantha's voice stands out as particularly compelling; it is omnipresent yet ethereal, embodying the character's virtual essence with a presence so arresting that it dominates the auditory experience. This encapsulates Theodore's perspective effectively, as her voice becomes not just a part of the environment but a focal point around which his world revolves.

Technical aspects of the mix elevate this auditory experience to a remarkably high standard. The sultry delivery of Samantha's voice contrasts with the more direct and clear rendition of human voices, maintaining a balance that enhances the storytelling. Meanwhile, ambient sounds captured through the rear channels—from bustling cityscapes to the quiet moments of solitary contemplation—add layers of realism and immersion. This careful attention to detail ensures that every element of the audio presentation contributes to a holistic and deeply engaging listening experience, setting a standard for how romantic dramas can be sonically envisioned and executed.

The Blu-Ray extras of "Her" stand out for their insightful dive into both the making and thematic exploration of the film, transcending the usual behind-the-scenes content with a blend of artistry and substance. "The Untitled Rick Howard Project" distinguishes itself by capturing the unique atmosphere of Spike Jonze's set, offering an intimate glimpse into the filmmaking process without focusing heavily on the technical specifics. Meanwhile, "Her: Love in the Modern Age" extends the conversation beyond the screen, with various writers and commentators pondering on modern love and its complexities in an era dominated by technology. "How Do You Share Your Love with Somebody?" ties these themes back to the film's narrative through a creative montage, enhancing the overall understanding and appreciation of "Her's" storytelling and its commentary on human connection.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Untitled Rick Howard Project: An intimate documentary providing a behind-the-scenes look at the making of "Her."
• Her: Love in the Modern Age: A series of interviews reflecting on the themes of love and relationships in the 21st century.
• How Do You Share Your Love with Somebody?: A montage exploring the thematic essence of sharing life and love.

Spike Jonze's "Her" is a masterclass in storytelling, presenting a near-future Los Angeles where Joaquin Phoenix's Theodore Twombly navigates love and loneliness with an advanced operating system named Samantha, voiced with profound depth by Scarlett Johansson. The film, awarded the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, delves into the complexities of human relationships amidst technological advancements, offering a narrative that redefines the contours of love. Its subtle exploration of sentience, individuality, and emotional connection transcends the conventions of science fiction, making it an exceptional representation of modern-day romance intertwined with technology. Jonze's minimalist direction coupled with Phoenix and Johansson's compelling performances anchor the film's emotional core, making it undeniably heartfelt and thought-provoking.

The portrayal of Theodore and Samantha’s evolving relationship is a testament to Jonze's scriptwriting prowess, turning what could easily have been a fantastical premise into a deeply intimate exploration of affection and companionship. The film not only questions the nature of love in the age of artificial intelligence but also reflects on human dependency on technology, without resorting to clichéd narratives. Johansson, despite her physical absence, brings Samantha to life in a manner that is as enchanting as it is genuine, showcasing her exceptional voice acting skills. Phoenix's portrayal of Theodore, a man lost in the aftermath of a failed marriage, presents a nuanced look at longing and vulnerability, while his interactions with Amy Adams’ character further enrich the narrative's exploration of human connections.

"Her" stands out for not just its innovative concept but its execution—blending sci-fi elements with a compelling love story. Through Jonze's meticulous crafting, the film ventures beyond typical genre constraints to pose resonant questions about love's existence in a technologically saturated future. By focusing on Theodore's journey towards understanding and accepting love in an unconventional form, "Her" offers insightful commentary on the human condition, making it a significant piece of cinema that resonates long after the credits roll.

Spike Jonze's 'Her' is a cinematic exploration of love, technology, loneliness, and human connection that resonates deeply with the complexities of modern relationships. The film is a remarkable achievement, effortlessly encapsulating an entire spectrum of emotions - from joy to sorrow, elation to grief. Joaquin Phoenix and Amy Adams deliver performances of profound sensitivity and nuance, portraying the intricate dynamics of intimate relationships with a raw authenticity seldom seen on screen. Scarlett Johansson, though never seen, imbues her character with a palpable presence that captivates and moves the audience. Jonze's direction is masterful, complemented by Hoytema's evocative cinematography and an emotionally resonant score by Arcade Fire, crafting a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Warner's Blu-ray release of 'Her' upholds the film's high standards, offering viewers an audio-visual experience that is as impeccable as its storytelling. The near-perfect AV presentation enhances the film's immersive qualities, ensuring that every frame and sound contributes to the overall emotive impact. The Blu-ray not only brings out the subtle nuances of the performances and the detailed textures of the film's world but also emphasizes the meticulous care put into its making. It's evident that 'Her' has been crafted with a dedication to quality and authenticity, making it a must-have for aficionados of forward-thinking cinema.

In conclusion, 'Her' stands as a sublime representation of contemporary filmmaking, skillfully blending narrative depth with technical excellence. Its Blu-ray release does justice to the film’s artistic achievements, offering a home viewing experience that mirrors the emotional granularity and visual splendor of its theatrical presentation. This release solidifies 'Her' as not only a pivotal work in Jonze's career but also as a seminal piece in modern cinema that is deserving of its praise and critical accolades. The combination of stellar performances, insightful direction, and superior audio-visual quality makes this Blu-ray an essential addition to any collection.