Breaking the Waves Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 2.35:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, and granted a 1080p transfer, Lars von Trier’s Breaking the Waves arrives on Blu-ray with an impressive video presentation courtesy of Criterion. The digital transfer, carried out in 6K resolution on an ARRISCAN film scanner from the original 35mm camera negative and internegative, was supervised by Lars von Trier himself. The restoration process at Zentropa Klippegangen in Hvidovre, Denmark ensures the highest quality visual fidelity, addressing numerous source inconsistencies such as grain and contrast fluctuations while dramatically enhancing image clarity and depth.

The high-definition transfer is immensely satisfying, with significantly improved image depth and clarity. Close-ups and panoramic shots reveal an abundance of detail previously lost on earlier DVD releases. The colors exhibit lusher saturation and richer nuances, giving the film a newly invigorated visual presence. Contrast levels are robust, resulting in rich black levels and even whites that evade past issues of being blown out. Despite an overall earthy palette, the occasional bright red, blue, and green hues demonstrate the vivid capabilities of this transfer. Importantly, these upgrades do not introduce problematic digital corrections, maintaining the integrity of the film's original aesthetic.

Overall image stability is excellent, with the picture remaining tight around frame edges and maintaining crispness throughout. Minor imperfections within the transfer serve to remind viewers of the film's original production qualities, subtly enhancing the overall viewing experience without detracting from it. This Criterion Blu-ray release stands as a likely definitive presentation of Breaking the Waves, providing a visual experience that is both technically and artistically superior to previous home video incarnations.

The audio presentation of Lars von Trier's "Breaking the Waves" on Blu-ray features a single English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, mastered under von Trier's supervision. This edition offers a warm and immersive soundscape, utilizing atmospheric elements alongside the film's dialogue in a balanced and engaging manner. Despite the dynamic intensity being modest, the diverse range of natural sounds and noises are remarkably crisp and easily distinguishable, contributing to the organic sound design characteristic of many Dogme films.

Dialogue clarity is consistently maintained, though occasional dynamic fluctuations are noted—likely due to the handheld camera techniques employed. The film incorporates sparsely placed additional elements, with impactful scenes like Bess and Jan's wedding reception and sequences involving automobiles or boats demonstrating this subtlety. The mix heightens more substantial moments via the placement of '70s music from iconic artists such as Elton John, Rod Stewart, Leonard Cohen, and David Bowie.

In terms of audio channels, most dialogue is managed through the center channel, while off-screen dialogue seamlessly integrates into the front or sometimes rear channels. The music predominantly utilizes the front right and left channels, expanding into the rear channels when necessary. Low-Frequency Effects (LFE) are employed discreetly to enhance sounds such as helicopter rotors and boat engines. The mix exhibits excellent balance and imaging throughout, making it not just serviceable but exceptional in elevating the film’s narrative and emotional weight.

The "Breaking the Waves" Blu-ray offers a robust and meticulously curated suite of extras that deeply enhances the viewing experience. Professionals and enthusiasts alike will appreciate the comprehensive cast interviews, featuring in-depth insights from Emily Watson, Stellan Skarsgård, and Adrian Rawlins, shedding light on Lars von Trier's unique directing style and the film's intricate character dynamics. Additional highlights include a selected-scene commentary by von Trier, Anders Refn, and Anthony Dod Mantle, touching on technical aspects of filmmaking and emotional narrative construction. Noteworthy inclusions such as Emily Watson's audition, deleted and extended scenes with optional commentary, and a touching tribute to Katrin Cartlidge add layers to the film's appreciation. Also included is a Cannes Film Festival promotional clip and a 32-page booklet with critical essays and an interview with von Trier.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer for "Breaking the Waves."
• Cast Interviews:
  • Emily Watson
  • Stellan Skarsgård
  • Adrian Rawlins
• Stig Bjorkman: Filmmaker and critic discusses von Trier’s visual style.
• Selected-Scene Commentary: Deep dive into specific scenes.
• Emily Watson's Audition: Archival footage with optional commentary.
• Deleted and Extended Scenes: Four scenes with optional commentary.
• In Memory of Katrin Cartlidge: A deleted scene serving as a tribute.
• Cannes Film Festival Promotional Clip: Preview shown at Cannes.
• Booklet: 32-page illustrated booklet with essays and interviews.

Lars von Trier's monumental 1996 film "Breaking the Waves" elevates the director's visibility internationally, showcasing his skill in creating philosophically provocative, passionate, and unpredictable narratives. Winner of the Grand Prize of the Jury at the Cannes Film Festival, the film follows the story of Bess McNeill (Emily Watson), a deeply religious young woman in a 1970s conservative Scottish village, as she marries outsider Jan Nyman (Stellan Skarsgård). Von Trier juxtaposes austere realism with transcendent splendor, examining love's multifaceted condition and challenging traditional conventions. Bess's faith-driven sacrifices and their ensuing societal repercussions provide a raw examination of compassion pushed to extreme ends. The visual style is distinctively Dogme-influenced, with handheld cameras and intentional exposure variances led by cinematographer Robby Müller, reflecting emotional dichotomies.

The narrative delves deep into complex relationships: Bess’s unwavering faith in God and her turbulent yet devoted love for Jan, who becomes paralyzed after a severe accident. Jan's unsettling request for Bess to seek sexual encounters with other men initiates a heartbreaking journey that tests her loyalty and faith, set against a backdrop of a repressive, patriarchal community. Emily Watson’s debut performance is arresting, supported by equally commendable portrayals from Skarsgård and a remarkable ensemble cast. The film’s structure, divided into chapters with intensive, emotive close-ups, further propels its compelling parable-like storytelling, ultimately critiquing rigid social and religious mores.

Criterion's Blu-ray release enhances this profound film with supplemental features, including exclusive interviews, deleted scenes with commentary, and an insightful 32-page booklet. The inclusion of SDH subtitles and Region-A locking ensures accessibility to a wider audience. This comprehensive presentation not only preserves the movie's technical intricacies but also augments viewers' understanding of von Trier’s artistic intent and thematic depth, making "Breaking the Waves" a seminal work in contemporary cinema.

Lars von Trier’s "Breaking the Waves" emerges as a cornerstone of contemporary cinema, marking one of the most challenging yet compelling works in his storied career. This film, which arrives on Blu-ray following a superb 4K restoration, is a testament to von Trier's provocative and innovative style. The technical execution of this restoration is impeccable, delivering an unparalleled visual and auditory experience that elevates the film’s harrowing narrative and emotional depth. Moreover, Emily Watson’s debut performance alongside Stellan Skarsgård provides a visceral gravitas that anchors the film's intense storyline, making it a must-watch for connoisseurs of high-caliber acting.

The Blu-ray edition comes packed with thoughtfully curated supplements that delve into the intricacies of von Trier’s creative process and provide indispensable context for viewers seeking a deeper understanding of the film. These special features include behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and critical analyses that enrich the viewing experience. The superb image quality and sound clarity ensure that every nuanced detail of the film's aesthetic and atmosphere is preserved, reflecting the meticulous efforts by the restoration team.

In conclusion, "Breaking the Waves" is unquestionably one of controversial Danish helmer Lars von Trier's very best films. It is incredibly bold, remarkably uncompromising, and brilliantly acted and directed. Admittedly, it is not an easy film to like, but it is simply impossible not to admire. This Blu-ray release should be a definitive addition to any cinephile’s collection. Breaking the Waves transitions to Blu-ray after an outstanding new 4K restoration that is guaranteed to impress even those who have not previously experienced it on DVD. Do not hesitate to add it to your collections, folks. It is one of the year's very best releases. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.