Phantom Thread Blu-ray Review
Score: 80
from 5 reviewers
Review Date:
Phantom Thread mesmerizes with meticulous craftsmanship, stunning A/V quality, and exceptional performances, making it a highly recommended cinematic experience.
Disc Release Date
DTS:X
DTS-HD MA
Video: 88
Despite the absence of a simultaneous 4K release, the 1080p Blu-ray of *Phantom Thread* offers sensational detail, capturing its 35mm film grain, rich color palette, and nuanced textures. From the meticulous stitching of costumes to ambient lighting, this transfer is a technical marvel, highly anticipated in its 4K form.
Audio: 86
The DTS:X Master Audio soundtrack for Phantom Thread is exceptional, delivering clear musical notes, precise dialogue, and immersive atmospheric details. While primarily front-channel focused, the mix uses surrounds sparingly to enrich the setting. Highlights include Johnny Greenwood's score and subtle, impactful sound effects.
Extra: 51
Phantom Thread's Blu-ray extras, though limited, offer engaging insights into the film's production, including detailed camera tests with Paul Thomas Anderson’s commentary on lenses and filters, deleted scenes scored by Jonny Greenwood, a faux 1950s fashion show, and behind-the-scenes photographs presented with demo versions of the score.
Movie: 87
Phantom Thread masterfully intertwines a tale of obsessive routine and disruptive love, where Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a hauntingly precise performance as master dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock. Vicky Krieps and Lesley Manville brilliantly complement him in a film marked by meticulous craftsmanship, stunning visuals, and a delicate balance of intensity and elegance.
Video: 88
The Blu-ray release of "Phantom Thread" emerges as an exquisite visual experience, even though early reviewers expressed disappointment over the delayed 4K UHD release. Shot on 35mm film and featuring a 1080p transfer framed at 1.85:1, the Blu-ray retains a rich, film-like quality that many purists will appreciate. The cinematography is beautifully captured, with detailed imagery that draws in viewers from the fine stitching in garments to the precise textures of London’s cobblestone streets and intricate interior landscapes. The austere blue and gray palette interspersed with bronzed skin tones allows for a visually engaging and contextually appropriate viewer experience. The immaculate details—from Reynold's facial expressiveness down to the ornate dresses—are stunningly rendered.
Technically, Universal has done an admirable job with the Blu-ray's transfer. It maintains an average bit rate of 36 mbps, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, ensuring that even high-frequency details like facial textures and lacy fabric intricacies are meticulously displayed. The depth and dimensionality of the image are noteworthy, thanks to the strategic use of natural lighting and carefully crafted black levels that stay deep and inky without evident crush. Although the colors are often subdued to maintain the film's somber tone, when vibrant hues appear—such as in clothing or set pieces—they stand out sharply, enhancing the overall visual aesthetic.
Overall, while the anticipation for the UHD release remains high, the Blu-ray version of "Phantom Thread" delivers an exceptionally clear, textured, and visually satisfying presentation. The rich detail allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in Paul Thomas Anderson's meticulously crafted period piece, making it a valuable addition for both cinephiles and casual viewers alike.
Audio: 86
The Blu-ray release of "Phantom Thread" boasts a proficient DTS:X Master Audio soundtrack that significantly enhances its auditory experience. The musical score, predominantly inhabiting the front channels, is rendered with striking clarity and meticulous balance of piano strokes, strings, and supportive low-end accompaniments. While surround channels engage modestly, they enrich the audioscape with subtle atmospheric cues and ambient fill, particularly noticeable during scenes set in the bustling fashion show or intimate restaurant environments. The dialogue is the cornerstone of this mix, with exceptional placement, prioritization, and clarity, ensuring all spoken lines are conveyed with precision.
Throughout the film, the DTS:X audio mix continually captivates with almost uninterrupted sonic activity, from the delicate sounds of the Woodcock seamstresses in action to the captivating score by Johnny Greenwood. This soundtrack masterfully delivers heightened details, such as Reynolds’ vexation at minor sound effects like chewing or butter scraping, lending a profound sensory impact to these moments without resorting to clichéd low tones. The vertical activity may be minimal, but the spacious feel of Reynolds' home adds depth, creating a convincing sense of place.
Technically speaking, this English DTS:X Immersive Audio 7.1 track operates at an average of 7.0 mbps, occasionally ramping up to 7.8 mbps during more dynamic scenes such as parties. The track’s low-frequency extension subtly accentuates certain settings and Greenwood's score, though without overwhelming the overall presentation. This dynamic range not only elevates musical interludes but also finely balances surrounding ambient sounds, enhancing immersion in the film’s various locales. Ensuring all these elements coalesce seamlessly, "Phantom Thread" succeeds in delivering an audio experience that parallels its visual elegance.
Extras: 51
The Blu-ray edition of "Phantom Thread" includes not only a stunning presentation of the film but also a commendable selection of extras, albeit brief. Paul Thomas Anderson enriches these supplements with his insightful commentary on the technical aspects of filmmaking. Highlights include "Camera Tests," where Anderson provides an in-depth look at various film stocks and lenses, and "For the Hungry Boy," a carefully edited sequence of deleted scenes enhanced by Jonny Greenwood's evocative score. Complementing these are the "House of Woodcock Fashion Show," a stylistically apt recreation of a 1950s fashion reel, and "Behind the Scenes Photographs," a montage set to Greenwood's demo tracks that captures intimate moments from the production. Together, these extras offer a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship behind "Phantom Thread."
Extras included in this disc:
- Camera Tests: Paul Thomas Anderson's commentary on film stocks and lenses.
- For the Hungry Boy: Deleted scenes with music by Jonny Greenwood.
- House of Woodcock Fashion Show: Fashion show narrated by Adam Buxton.
- Behind the Scenes Photographs: Production photographs set to demo score tracks.
Movie: 87
Phantom Thread is Paul Thomas Anderson’s masterful exploration of love, routine, and obsession set in 1950s London. The film follows the eccentric dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) whose exacting life is meticulously structured to suit his artistic genius. When he meets Alma (Vicky Krieps), a captivating waitress, she becomes both his muse and disruptive force. This relationship defies the traditional narrative arc; it's a complex interplay of control, vulnerability, and power dynamics. Alma's arrival throws Woodcock’s precise life into chaos, leading to a darkly symbiotic relationship that showcases Anderson’s deft storytelling.
Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a staggering performance as Woodcock, embodying the character with chilling precision. His portrayal captures both the artistry and tyranny of a man bound by his own obsessive tendencies. Vicky Krieps is equally compelling, transforming Alma from a submissive figure into a force of quiet authority who challenges Woodcock's rigid world. Lesley Manville excels as Cyril, Woodcock’s sister and unwavering confidant, providing a striking balance of cold detachment and subtle manipulation. The chemistry among the three leads is riveting, drawing the audience into their twisted relational dynamics.
Technically, Phantom Thread is impeccable. Anderson, doubling as director and cinematographer, creates a visually stunning film with organic beauty. The period-accurate production design and Mark Bridges’ Oscar-winning costumes enhance the narrative's depth and authenticity. Jonny Greenwood’s extraordinary score further elevates the film, intertwining classical compositions with modern sensibilities. This meticulous craftsmanship ensures that Phantom Thread isn’t just a film about fashion; it’s a psychological thriller that unwraps its narrative layers with precision and grace, ultimately rewarding viewers who appreciate nuanced character studies and intricate plot development.
Total: 80
"Phantom Thread" is a mesmeric and intricately detailed piece of cinema brought to life by the meticulous craftsmanship of Paul Thomas Anderson. Starring Daniel Day-Lewis in his purported final role, alongside Vicky Krieps and Lesley Manville, this film blends a hauntingly beautiful narrative with impeccable performances. The story, a profound exploration of obsession and love, is artfully rendered through Anderson's painstaking direction and serves as an experience more than just entertainment. The Blu-ray release is equally impressive, featuring a crisp 1.85:1 AVC visual presentation and robust audio tracks in DTS:X and DTS-HD MA 7.1, further enhancing the immersive quality of Anderson's vision.
Universal has ensured "Phantom Thread" receives a Blu-ray treatment befitting its cinematic excellence. The high-definition picture quality showcases the film’s striking visuals and period-specific costuming with stunning fidelity, while the audio captures every nuance of the film's score and dialogue. The disc also includes a selection of bonus features, such as a succinct yet engaging camera test reel with commentary by Anderson. Although the extras might not be as comprehensive as some might hope, they provide valuable insights into the film's production process.
In conclusion, "Phantom Thread" is a film that stands apart with its exceptional craftsmanship and storytelling. While it may require a certain taste to fully appreciate its depth, those familiar with Paul Thomas Anderson’s work will find it an enthralling experience, enhanced further by Universal's strong Blu-ray release. The combination of superior audiovisual presentation and solid performances makes this disc a highly recommended addition to any film enthusiast's collection.
AV Nirvana review by Michael ScottRead review here
Video: 90
The lacing and wonderful intricacies of the dresses he makes show off bright colors and shocking saturation levels, which combined with the strange grading makes for a beautiful looking image....
Audio: 90
Extras: 50
Music by Jonny Greenwood • House of Woodcock Fashion Show – Fashion Show narrated by Adam Buxton • Behind the Scenes Photographs – Photographs from the film by Michael Bauman with demo versions of Jonny...
Movie: 90
However, this romance is not like anything he’s ever had, and something that the trailer careful crafts a false narrative for in your head....
Total: 80
Audio and video are incredible, and while the extras are not exactly the best they could be, this coupling of a jaw dropping film, with great technical specs makes it a slam dunk to watch....
Blu-ray.com review by Martin LiebmanRead review here
Video: 90
Richly colorful dresses, a nice warmth in artificial light at a restaurant in chapter four, firm skin tones, and efficient supporting hues are all highly impressive (be sure to watch the highly informative...
Audio: 90
Delivery of those sounds Reynolds finds irritating are not amplified, but the contextual emphasis on them is critical, and the track handles them with proper volume and concern for the finest detail....
Extras: 50
A high quality extra with the optional Paul Thomas Anderson commentary in which he walks the viewer through highly technical and highly interesting insight into the various film stocks used in the tests...
Movie: 90
She is a common girl who suddenly finds herself in the world of glamor, wearing exquisite clothes, coming to appreciate her body type, but the warmth and romance quickly fade when Reynolds, carefully building...
Total: 80
It's cinema as art in a traditional sense, a perfectly acted dual character study, a finely crafted tale of intimate extremes and how love can, or cannot, mold those who feel it....
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 100
Whites are purposefully heightened with constant blooms maintaining a dreamlike quality to the image that segues nicely to the darker scenes lit only by candles or firelight....
Audio: 100
If there isn't the hustle and bustle of the Woodcock seamstresses stitching dresses, or Reynolds, Alma, and Cyril going to restaurants, Johnny Greenwood's beautiful score keeps the momentum going adding...
Extras: 40
While Phantom Thread is an amazing movie with splendid audio and visual elements, this assortment of bonus features really scrapes the toast (you'll get it when you see the movie!)....
Movie: 100
If Phantom Thread is to be Daniel Day-Lewis' final bow in front of a camera, then I tip my had to the man for delivering yet another incredible and memorable character....
Total: 80
This is the kind of classic filmmaking that would have fit in during the late 1940s or 1950s with gusto....
Home Theater Forum review by Kevin EKRead review here
Video: 100
This isn’t really a film about variations of flesh tones and epic vistas (although there are a few lovely vista shots along the way), but more of a simple story being told in classical fashion....
Audio: 90
I confess being flummoxed by the notion of this film needing a DTS-X track – it’s a film about quiet dialogue and music, not an action-adventure....
Extras: 60
In reality, it’s the actual coverage of a drawing room/runway scene from the middle of the film, only slightly treated and cropped to 4×3, with narration by British comedian Adam Buxton, who adopts the...
Movie: 70
And with this film, unlike The Master or Inherent Vice, he’s once again found a story that rewards the viewer for sticking with it to the end....
Total: 70
The movie features strong performances by Daniel Day-Lewis (perhaps his final one) and Lesley Manville and some lovely, detailed costuming as appropriate for a movie about fashion in the 1950s....
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Video: 100
While there’s a subdued color palette to show much of the reality on display, there’s plenty to take in as far as the extravagant elements we can see, including the dresses, homes and manors, certain other...
Audio: 100
The music is such a significant focus of the film, and it takes up the center and front channels, though the various channels get enough to deal with throughout the film....
Extras: 60
This is a collection of scenes shot purely for the sake of testing various cameras under different lighting situations and with multiple cameras....
Movie: 90
The film may revel in owning a look of professionalism, but there is an evident pettiness in at least one character used to the film’s advantage when it comes time to dig in with two people that may be...
Total: 90
There is a lot to admire in the production and the performances, both of which feature greatly on this Blu-ray thanks to a strong handle of video and audio quality....
Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
Actors: Vicky Krieps, Daniel Day-Lewis, Lesley Manville
PlotIn 1950s post-war London, renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock creates stunning garments for royalty, movie stars, heiresses, and debutants. His fastidious and controlled lifestyle is a byproduct of his devotion to his craft, allowing him no room for disruptions. Assisted by his sister Cyril, who manages the day-to-day operations of their prestigious fashion house, Woodcock's life follows a meticulous routine until he encounters a young, strong-willed waitress named Alma on a trip to the countryside. Struck by her beauty and unique demeanor, he asks Alma to become his model, muse, and lover, disrupting the precise rhythm of his once orderly life.
As Alma moves into Reynolds's London residence and becomes more involved in his work, her presence challenges the established order. Her love for the dressmaker brings about an evolving dynamic, fueling both affection and tension within the house. As Woodcock's new muse, Alma's influence grows, but her desire for closeness with Reynolds creates friction with Cyril and disturbs the equilibrium that has so far defined the dressmaker's existence. The interplay between artist and muse begins to teeter on a delicate balance as Alma seeks to permanently cement her place in his life, pushing against the boundaries of his once unyielding dedication to his craft and lifestyle.
Writers: Paul Thomas Anderson
Release Date: 19 Jan 2018
Runtime: 130 min
Rating: R
Country: United States, United Kingdom, China
Language: English, French