My Left Foot Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "My Left Foot" brings us an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio, courtesy of Lionsgate Films and Miramax. While Lionsgate has not explicitly confirmed if this is sourced from the previously utilized master for the British release, cursory comparisons suggest a likely match. The grain structure features prominently, with very fine grain visible at times. However, the transfer appears to suffer from high-frequency filtering, resulting in a mitigated level of detail and a waxy, gauzy softness to surfaces.

Despite these imperfections, the image does showcase substantial detail, particularly in close-ups, where even the minute hairs protruding from Christy's foot are clearly delineated. Colors are generally accurate though they tend to be a bit pale with greens and blues holding up the best. Flesh tones exhibit a slightly pinkish tint, and contrast appears somewhat anemic, though this is not overly problematic. Mild compression artifacts do appear occasionally, but they are not significantly intrusive.

Comparatively speaking, this high-definition transfer seems consistent with the master used for the 2011 special edition DVD. Certain scenes display exceptional definition and resolution, showcasing fine textures in clothing, furniture, and facial complexions. However, contrast remains on the weaker side, with issues like crisp whites that sometimes transition into strong highlights causing mild blooming in spots. Additionally, the overall color palette could be more vibrant; it makes flesh tones appear flushed and drained while managing to keep primary colors surprisingly accurate. Black levels are mostly true and consistent but occasionally overpower finer details in darker scenes.

The Blu-ray release of "My Left Foot" features a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack that is both robust and nuanced. This audio presentation effectively captures the lively and sometimes chaotic atmosphere of the Brown household, as well as the surrounding neighborhood. Elmer Bernstein's score benefits greatly from the high fidelity, offering a unique experience with motives that are humorously reminiscent of John Williams' Indiana Jones theme. The overall fidelity is excellent, with no noteworthy issues.

Despite bearing a surround sound label, the DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack exhibits a decidedly front-heavy presentation. Intimate conversations between characters are prominently highlighted, with dialogue clearly prioritized in the center channel. Daniel Day-Lewis's speech, although occasionally difficult to understand, remains distinct and precise. The soundtrack showcases impressive channel separation and a strong mid-range, providing a wide and welcoming imaging. However, discrete surround activity is minimal, with the score occasionally bleeding into the rear channels to expand the soundfield. The most significant drawback is the lack of low-bass, which causes the mix to feel somewhat flat. Nonetheless, the high-resolution track offers plenty to appreciate and adequately supports the film's narrative dynamics.

The Blu Ray extras for "My Left Foot" offer a compelling and immersive experience for fans and scholars alike. They provide a deeper insight into the life of Christy Brown and the making of the film via various professional interviews and archival materials. The featurettes, although brief, are rich in content, showcasing rare family photos, home movies, and insightful interviews with cast and crew. These extras not only enhance the viewer’s appreciation of the film but also offer valuable historical context.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Real Christy Brown: Brief look at Christy with archival photos and home movies.
• An Inspirational Story: The Making of My Left Foot: Traditional EPK with interviews, real-life footage, and family photos.
• My Left Foot Photo Gallery: Slide show accompanied by explanatory text.
• My Left Foot Reviews: Reprints of theatrical reviews from prominent critics.

"My Left Foot" tells the extraordinary tale of Christy Brown, a man born in 1932 Ireland with severe cerebral palsy, who overcame his physical limitations to become an acclaimed author and artist. Through a series of poignant flashbacks, the film captures the tumultuous journey of Brown, expertly portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis in a performance that earned him his first Academy Award. The narrative structure allows viewers to oscillate between Brown's present accomplishments and his challenging formative years, marked by moments of extraordinary resolve such as famously writing "Mother" with chalk grasped between his toes. Supporting roles by Brenda Fricker and Ray McAnally add depth and realism, portraying the unyielding spirit and resilience within the Brown family.

The film does not shy away from depicting the hardships Brown faced, often layering the story with an emotional intensity that underscores his indomitable will to succeed. Director Jim Sheridan’s vision, supported by Shane Connaughton’s co-written script, aims not merely for a chronicle of a man with disabilities but captures the essence of Christy as a multifaceted, talented individual. The scenes range from heart-wrenching to inspirational, using both subtle and overt emotional cues skillfully delivered through Day-Lewis’s exemplary portrayal. Together with Fiona Shaw as Dr. Eileen Cole and Ruth McCabe as Mary Carr, the cast succeeds in painting a vivid, albeit romanticized, portrait of mid-20th century Dublin and the lives within.

"My Left Foot" is at once a celebration and a nuanced examination of the human spirit's triumph over adversity. While some artistic liberties are taken—perhaps neglecting darker aspects of Christy’s personal life—the film remains a powerful narrative driven by authentic performances and an underlying message of hope and tenacity. Despite its occasional manipulative storytelling, its emotional resonance remains engaging and effective, making it one of the standout biographical dramas in cinematic history.

Anyone wanting a textbook example of superb film acting need look no further than My Left Foot. Daniel Day Lewis and Brenda Fricker are both absolutely mercurial in demanding roles, and few will make it through this film without feeling like they've weathered an emotional gauntlet right along with the fortitudinous Brown family. The video here is watchable if not optimal, and the audio is fine. The supplementary material from the old DVD has been ported over and with caveats noted My Left Foot comes Highly recommended.

Aside from being a well-structured and dramatic story about a highly talented individual, 'My Left Foot' will probably be best remembered for Daniel Day-Lewis's award-winning depiction of Dublin author and painter Christy Brown. Through the eyes and memories of the artist, director Jim Sheridan gives audiences a peek at the everyday life of a working class family in mid-20th Century Ireland. The Blu-ray arrives with a strong but still wanting audio and picture presentation, and the supplements remain the same as previous home video editions. The overall package is ultimately worth buying for the most devoted of fans.

"My Left Foot" stands out as a monumental achievement in film acting, brilliantly helmed by Daniel Day-Lewis and Brenda Fricker. Lewis's portrayal of Christy Brown offers an intimate look into the life of a talented yet physically challenged artist, framed against the backdrop of mid-20th century Dublin. Director Jim Sheridan's strategic narrative approach captures both the grit and resilience of the Brown family, ultimately creating an emotionally resonant story that leaves a lasting impact.

The Blu-ray release features a solid, albeit imperfect, transfer that maintains respect for the original cinematography while falling short of modern HD standards. The audio quality remains functional and crisp, yet doesn't take significant advantage of advanced sound systems, keeping it adequate but not outstanding. Noteworthy is that all supplementary materials from prior DVD editions have been retained, providing valuable context and enriching the viewing experience despite their lack of new content.

Anyone wanting a textbook example of superb film acting need look no further than "My Left Foot." Daniel Day Lewis and Brenda Fricker are both absolutely mercurial in demanding roles, and few will make it through this film without feeling like they've weathered an emotional gauntlet right along with the fortitudinous Brown family. The video here is watchable if not optimal, and the audio is fine. The supplementary material from the old DVD has been ported over and with caveats noted "My Left Foot" comes highly recommended.