Please Give Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Please Give" offers a faithful yet unremarkable 1080p transfer that aligns with the film's original visual elements. With the film shot on 16mm, viewing results in a somewhat soft image that lacks the razor-sharp definition typical of higher-quality high-definition releases. Colors are rendered naturally with a pleasing level of saturation, complementing the autumn setting and New York City backdrop effectively. The resolution, although good, results in smoother lines and an average level of refinement. While close-ups and mid-level shots reveal subtle nuances and resolvable details, they lack definitive clarity. Contrast is well-executed with average black levels, and I saw no signs of video anomalies or related artifacts.

The 16mm filming technique imparts a slightly raw, under-detailed texture, making the picture appear organic but less defined compared to 35mm or digital captures. Instances of faces appearing pasty and flat are noticeable, while fine detailing varies in quality, occasionally becoming tolerable to quite strong. Certain shots resemble standard definition video but are brief. Despite its raw edges, the transfer retains a steady, honest appearance with accurate colors, maintaining flesh tones and vibrant decorations without appearing overly dull or excessively dark.

Overall, this Blu-ray transfer reflects what was seen in theaters, showing that the film's 16mm origins inherently limit image detail and sharpness. Consequently, while it’s not the most impressive HD transfer out there, it delivers a solid representation of the authentic theater experience. Expectations should be moderated accordingly; clarity and visual splendor are not this release's strengths. However, this portrayal is true to the film's intended aesthetic, providing a genuine replication of its original screening quality.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack for "Please Give" is decidedly dialogue-centric, offering crisp and clear dialogue that is front-loaded and well-balanced. The mix is designed to ensure that the spoken words, which are central to the film's narrative, come through clearly and distinctly. The track effectively blends voices, music, and ambient sounds through the front channel speakers. Marcelo Zarvos' evocative score is skillfully spaced across the front soundstage, enhancing the overall auditory experience without overwhelming the dialogue.

While the sound design includes minimal low-frequency effects, the film’s nature necessitates little call for such depth. Ambient sounds—like clanking silverware in a restaurant or the general din of New York City—are captured with reasonable clarity and placed effectively to enhance scene realism. However, the surround speakers are seldom utilized, only coming into play occasionally to add slight ambient noise during scenes set in busier environments. Directionality is competent, with off-screen voices naturally placed within the soundscape to maintain believability.

In essence, this audio presentation is straightforward and functional, devoid of many frills. It focuses on providing a clear and coherent listening experience that serves the film’s dialogue-driven storytelling. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track mated well with the source material, delivering an adequate auditory experience that underscores the film’s intimate and conversational tone.

The Blu-ray extras for "Please Give" offer a varied but concise collection, though missing the much-desired commentary tracks. The highlight is the "Behind the Scenes of 'Please Give'," a 12-minute featurette in HD that includes interviews with cast and crew, interspersed with scenes from the movie. Nicole Holofcener's Q&A provides a brief, insightful look into the writer/director's perspective, while the outtakes deliver typical bloopers, with one notable funny moment involving Ann Guilbert. Additionally, there's an HD theatrical trailer and previews for several other films. While BD-Live functionality is present, it lacks substantial additional content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Behind the Scenes of 'Please Give': Interviews with cast and crew, intercut with movie scenes.
• Outtakes: Gag reel featuring moments when actors break character.
• Nicole Holofcener Q&A: Brief segments where the director answers questions about the film.
• Theatrical Trailer: The official trailer of "Please Give".
• Previews: Trailers for other movies such as 'Mother and Child', 'Micmacs', 'Get Low', 'Animal Kingdom', 'You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger', 'Eat Pray Love', and 'The Pillars of the Earth'.

Nicole Holofcener's "Please Give" explores the complexities of human consciousness and morality within a metropolitan setting, capturing life’s inevitable intersections between humor, sorrow, and the everyday human struggle. Married couple Kate (Catherine Keener) and Alex (Oliver Platt) run a vintage furniture shop in New York City, profiting from estate sales by purchasing items at minimal cost and reselling them for significant profit. They await the passing of their elderly neighbor Andra (Ann Guilbert) to expand their apartment into her space. While Kate battles immense guilt spurred by the nature of her profession and tries to atone by giving money to homeless individuals, her entanglements with Andra’s granddaughters, Rebecca (Rebecca Hall) and Mary (Amanda Peet), reveal multifaceted dynamics that serve as a microcosm of larger societal issues.

Holofcener’s keen directorial vision and writing prowess shine through in the film's ability to blend themes seamlessly, avoiding superfluous tropes and instead presenting a narrative that's candid and unembellished. The movie juxtaposes materialism against intrinsic human needs, examining characters who are seemingly obsessed with outward fulfillment but struggle profoundly with inner contentment. This is manifested in relatable struggles—Kate’s guilt, Abby's teenage insecurities over acne, Rebecca's compassion exhibited through her role as a mammogram technician, and Mary’s abrasive demeanor masked by her struggles.

"Please Give" opens with a striking yet poignant sequence focusing on mammogram procedures, immediately contrasting the superficial with the profound. The thematic depth resonated throughout the film delves into human nature, questioning whether altruism is genuinely selfless or merely a facade to alleviate personal guilt. With stellar performances that make characters palpably real and emotionally complex, particularly highlighted by Catherine Keener’s portrayal of Kate, the film invites its audience to introspect on values and priorities. Holofcener’s expert storytelling allows for an engrossing analytical viewing experience, driving home the essence of life’s myriad contradictions and the perpetual search for meaning amidst material pursuits.

"Please Give" is an affecting cinematic exploration that delves into the intricacies of human relationships, ethical dilemmas, and emotional fulfillment. The film's narrative, though seemingly simple, carries a profound thematic depth that resonates differently with every viewer. Nicole Holofcener brilliantly orchestrates a cast of eclectic characters, each embodying unique facets of human imperfection and inner turmoil. The film's strength lies in its ability to present these complexities without overt exposition, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive viewing experience. Comparisons to films like "Sling Blade" arise not from stylistic resemblance but from the shared commitment to exploring the human condition at a fundamental level.

The Blu-ray release by Sony brings "Please Give" to home audiences with a respectable 1080p transfer that faithfully represents the film’s 16mm origins—though it lacks the fine detail one might expect from higher-end productions. The lossless audio track is serviceable for a dialogue-driven feature, fittingly capturing the intimate conversations that drive the film's narrative. While the special features are sparse, failing to include potentially enlightening audio commentary or in-depth behind-the-scenes footage, the intrinsic quality of the film itself compensates for these omissions.

"Please Give" is an extraordinary film that invites viewers into thought-provoking discussions about life’s abstract aspects, tackling issues like greed, family dynamics, and emotional neglect with a deft touch. Its nuanced portrayal of life's ebb and flow makes it both a challenging and rewarding watch. Despite the minimalistic approach to bonus content, this Blu-ray release remains highly recommended for its masterful storytelling and compelling human insights. It stands as a testament to the power of understated cinematic artistry.