After Dark, My Sweet Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "After Dark, My Sweet," distributed by Kino Lorber and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC at 1080p resolution, offers a meticulously crafted visual experience in its original aspect ratio of 2.39:1. This release, sourced from a Lionsgate master via a 2K scan of the interpositive, presents a crisp and sharp picture overall. Shot on Super 35 mm film using Panaflex cameras, the film's visual texture sees comprehensive preservation, with grain quality faithfully capturing the director Mark Plummer’s intended aesthetic. The widescreen images excel, particularly in outdoor scenes that capture the expansive Californian landscapes and contribute positively to the film's stylistic nuance.

A notable variance between this and other releases, like the Australian version from Imprint Films, is in color grading, where this version slants slightly cooler with a green emphasis. This minor discrepancy in color temperature might be perceived differently among viewers depending on scene context. Despite this, the encode here is marginally superior, although some may contend that certain high-frequency variations could lend an edge to the Australian version in specific scenes. Dynamic range discrepancies are articulated vividly through scenes with subtle differences in saturation and nuance.

Throughout, detail delineation remains impressive whether highlighting actor facial stubble or the vibrancy of decor elements such as Uncle Bud’s loud shirts and the modest furnishings of Fay's home. The film achieves a balanced portrayal of bright exteriors against darker interiors, albeit losing some typical noir shadow play due to its widescreen framing. The updated master maintains the film’s intended lazy feel, perfectly aligning with its Neo-Noir mood near Palm Springs and demonstrating robust black levels with rich pastels dominating interiors. The Region-A locked release requires compatible players for access. Overall, this presentation may find preference depending on personal aesthetic criteria - technical precision versus tonal warmth.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "After Dark, My Sweet" utilizes an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles inside the image frame. This stereo soundtrack effectively supports the narrative with clarity and precision, offering a clean listening experience free from encoding anomalies. Dialogue is meticulously recorded, maintaining crispness throughout the film, although some intentional muffling highlights character interactions, such as when Fay's voice drifts in and out of audibility.

Sound effects are well-integrated and impactful, punctuating the film with elements such as heavy body punches, gunshots, glass shattering, police sirens, and screeching brakes. Maurice Jarre’s musical score plays a pivotal role, elevating tension and enhancing the suspenseful atmosphere, particularly in scenes where it stands as the primary source of drama. The sound design complements the visual storytelling excellently, employing silence to allow expressive acting performances to dominate certain moments.

While the current 2.0 track serves the film competently, there is speculation that a 5.1 surround mix could further enhance the contrast between flashbacks and present events, potentially enriching the viewer's auditory experience. Nevertheless, the existing stereo mix admirably extends the soundstage, subtly managing to deliver an immersive aura suitable to the film’s material.

The Blu-ray extras for "After Dark, My Sweet" provide insightful perspectives from key individuals involved in the production. Director James Foley’s audio commentary reveals meticulous script adaptation from Jim Thompson’s novel, focusing on the choice of aspect ratio (2.39:1) and casting decisions, including Jason Patric and Rachel Ward, which faced initial studio resistance. Foley elaborates on the film’s visual and narrative strategies, emphasizing a blend of black comedy and underlying tension, with detailed storyboarded scenes enhancing its unique emotional charge. "Primal Precipice" presents Jason Patric reflecting on his pivotal audition and character development, expressing the role’s profound impact on his career. Bruce Dern’s "Call Me Uncle Bud" sheds light on his cinematic journey and his experience working with Foley, paralleling the film’s thematic tension with "The Grifters." The collection also includes an evocative theatrical trailer.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director James Foley discusses film adaptation and production intricacies.
• Primal Precipice: Jason Patric on his role and career reflections.
• Call Me Uncle Bud: Bruce Dern on acting experiences and film’s thematic tension.
• Theatrical Trailer: Vintage U.S. trailer showcasing the film's essence.

James Foley's After Dark, My Sweet (1990) effortlessly blends neo-noir themes with the allure of contemporary Americana, creating a complex narrative rich with atmospheric tension. Starring Jason Patric as ex-boxer "Collie" Collins, Rachel Ward as the enigmatic widow Fay, and Bruce Dern as the cunning ex-cop "Uncle Bud," the film crafts a dark tale involving a high-risk kidnapping plot. The performances are anchored by Patric's deeply nuanced portrayal of Collins—an escaped mental patient with a twitchy demeanor symbolizing his internal struggles. Foley, with co-writer Robert Redlin, expertly adapts Jim Thompson's novel to screen, retaining the narrative's psychological depth. His direction is precise, leveraging unique starts and stops to maintain suspense and unpredictability.

The film's strength lies in its character-driven storytelling, relying heavily on non-verbal cues and expressions, particularly through Patric's striking face work. These elements form the crux of the film's identity, supported by a hauntingly simple score from Maurice Jarre that enhances its visual language. The movie unfolds at a measured pace, compelling viewers to engage thoughtfully with its off-kilter narrative style. Each character oscillates between predator and prey, set against the backdrop of a desert landscape that could have been even more prominent to enhance the genre's essence.

Although it initially slipped beneath the audience's radar, After Dark, My Sweet is an intricate tale that challenges conventions and requires attentive viewing to appreciate its underlying themes of manipulation and survival. Its portrayal of morally ambiguous characters creates tension-filled interactions that resonate long after viewing, marking Foley's work as a distinctive addition to neo-noir cinema.

James Foley’s "After Dark, My Sweet" presents an intriguing blend of Americana and neo-noir with a distinctive narrative style that sets it apart in its genre. The film, featuring Bruce Dern in a standout performance, intricately weaves together themes of social outsiders and planned crime against the backdrop of a visually compelling desert setting. The chemistry between leads Jason Patric and Rachel Ward brings depth to an otherwise straightforward plot, although the supporting cast lacks enough development to fully capitalize on the film’s potential. Foley's direction draws strong performances but somewhat falters due to choices in pacing and editing, particularly in scenes meant to heighten suspense.

The recent Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber enhances the experience, showcasing the film’s visual and auditory strengths with clarity and precision. While the film doesn’t achieve the classical heights associated with noir cinema largely due to its inconsistent tempo and a finale that loses its dramatic footing, it remains a complex, stylish entry within the Neo-Noir Renaissance of the 1990s. Furthermore, Bruce Dern’s insights in supplemental material highlight the comparative narrative strengths of "After Dark, My Sweet" over contemporaries like "The Grifters."

In conclusion, "After Dark, My Sweet" succeeds in presenting a richly styled piece of American cinema that engages through strong character dynamics despite its occasional narrative missteps. The Blu-ray release offers a polished rendition for both new audiences and those revisiting its original charm. While not flawless, the film remains a recommended watch for its authentic portrayal of fringe Americana, complemented by memorable performances and a nuanced aesthetic.