You'll Like My Mother Blu-ray Review

Shout! Factory's Blu-ray release of "You'll Like My Mother" delivers a competent video transfer that honors the film's original 1972 presentation. Utilizing an MPEG-4 AVC encode, the film is presented in its original theatrical aspect ratio on a BD-50 with an average video bit rate of 29994 kbps and a total bitrate of 33.40 Mbps. The transfer maintains the film's authentic texture and thickness typical of '70s film stocks. The main titles display some dirt and debris, and white speckles are noticeable during the first half of the movie. Grain structure varies, being more scattered in the initial reels and more evenly spread in the latter half. Color representation is faithful to the original palette, including oak brown, black, dark blue, and green/turquoise, which remain well-pronounced despite the coarse grain. Exterior shots convey a soft, pastel look suitable for the winter setting, while optical point-of-view shots intentionally appear hazy for narrative purposes.

The 1080p HD transfer, framed in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, highlights vivid details and sharp textures, revealing actors' facial features and costume intricacies with clarity. Makeup blemishes and older clothing styles are discernible, adding authenticity to the period setting. Interiors of the old mansion stand out with depth and detail, providing a compelling visual experience. The grain layer enhances the filmic quality, though it becomes heavier in darker scenes. Colors are realistic and bold without being overly saturated or bright, while black levels are deep and flesh tones mostly natural. Some mild speckling, dirt, and debris persist but do not significantly detract from the overall quality. Shout! Factory's transfer ensures the film's visual elements are preserved while offering an improved viewing experience befitting this 45-year-old classic.

The audio presentation for the Blu-ray release of "You'll Like My Mother" is anchored by a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track (1643 kbps, 24-bit). This mix, sourced from Universal and distributed by Shout!, is in commendable condition but inherently limited due to its mono configuration. The sound field remains concentrated in the center channel, thus preserving the film's original auditory intent, but lacking in amplitude and dynamic range.

Dialogue clarity is consistently high, ensuring that all verbal exchanges are comprehensible. However, there are occasions where heightened vocal expressions, such as screams or yells, come across with a somewhat tinny quality. Gil Mellé's soundtrack holds up acceptably well given its 1972 origins, providing a haunting and suspenseful backdrop that ties the narrative together effectively.

Overall, while the DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix performs adequately, its lack of a more dynamic 5.1 option means certain ambient effects and environmental sounds do not fully envelop the viewer. This is a slight drawback for an otherwise serviceable audio experience, leaving one wishing for a fuller, more immersive soundscape.

The Blu-ray edition of "You'll Like My Mother" offers a compelling set of extras that enhance the viewing experience by providing deep insights into its production. Enthusiasts of the film will appreciate the rich, separate interviews with Richard Thomas and Sian Barbara Allen. These detailed interviews, interspersed with film scenes, reveal behind-the-scenes anecdotes and illuminate differences between the film and its source material, Naomi A. Hintze's 1969 novel. The disc also includes a photo gallery, showcasing lobby cards and promotional art, though the trailer may spoil key plot points for those unfamiliar with the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• NEW Interviews with Richard Thomas and Sian Barbara Allen: In-depth interviews with insights into production and personal anecdotes.
• Photo Gallery: Slideshow of promotional images and lobby cards.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original full-frame trailer.

“You'll Like My Mother” is an intriguing thriller that deftly blurs the lines of genre conventions, making it a satisfying but unpredictable watch. Patty Duke stars as Francesca Kinsolving, a recently widowed pregnant woman who travels from California to a snowbound Minnesota estate to meet her late husband's mother (Rosemary Murphy). The atmospheric opening shots suggest a potential haunted house horror; however, the film strictly adheres to the confines of a psychological thriller and melodrama. The plot thickens with Mrs. Kinsolving's icy demeanor and her household's eerie atmosphere, which is amplified by excellent cinematography and meticulous use of interior monologues.

The film delves deep into themes of family lies and hidden pasts. Francesca finds herself ensnared in a web of deception spun by Mrs. Kinsolving, who is later revealed to be her husband's aunt, not his mother. The tension builds as more sinister elements of the household come to light, such as the presence of Kenneth (Richard Thomas), a dangerous figure lurking in the background. Critics noted Rosemary Murphy's portrayal of the malevolent matriarch with mixed reactions, with some, like Los Angeles Times critic Kevin Thomas, finding her character disturbingly cold. Yet, her performance elevates the film’s core tension, resulting in a suspenseful narrative filled with chilling cat-and-mouse dynamics.

Despite its slow-burning nature, Lamont Johnson's direction ensures that “You'll Like My Mother” remains engaging. Notable scenes include an innovative shot where the camera travels seamlessly down a laundry chute, highlighting Francesca's desperate attempts to gather information. The supporting cast delivers stellar performances, particularly Dennis Rucker as Red Cooper, who brings a glimmer of warmth to this otherwise tense thriller. Although lacking in explicit violence, the movie excels at building suspense through suggestive shadows and psychological undertones, ensuring its place as a memorable entry in the thriller genre.

"You'll Like My Mother" stands out as a suspenseful and enduring thriller despite its age. The film thrives on a tension-filled narrative, foregoing gore and high-octane action scenes for a more sinister and psychologically intense storyline. The uniformly excellent performances of the four leads contribute significantly to the film's longevity and immersive quality. The pacing, although slow, is deliberate, contributing to the sustained suspense that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Shout! Factory's Blu-ray release significantly elevates the existing home video versions, presenting a highly polished viewing experience that enhances the film's original cinematography and sound design. The video and audio quality, while not groundbreaking, are satisfactory and contribute positively to the overall experience. In addition, the Blu-ray includes extended interviews with Rosemary Forsyth and Donnie Melvin, which provide valuable insights into the film’s production and context, offering fans an enriched appreciation of this classic thriller.

In conclusion, "You'll Like My Mother" is a captivating thriller with exceptional performances and a gripping narrative. Shout! Factory's Blu-ray release is a comprehensive package that should be considered the definitive edition unless a complete remastering occurs. This release contains compelling extras that deepen the viewer’s understanding and enjoyment of the film. Highly recommended.