Far from Heaven Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Far From Heaven" by Kino Lorber Studio Classics, delivered with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 1.85:1, provides a visually intriguing experience albeit with its mix of positives and negatives. While the initial wobble observed during the opening credits may raise concerns regarding the potential use of an older, possibly unrestored master, the visual splendor offered by the film’s palette largely compensates for such initial pitfalls. The mise-en-scène crafted by director Todd Haynes and Oscar-nominated cinematographer Edward Lachman is richly layered with a striking blend of blues, purples, teals, and other colors that masterfully evoke a unique, almost autumnal atmosphere. Despite occasional darkness that might veil some scenes, the overall contrast maintains a commendable solidity, presenting full-bodied densities and laudable detail levels, covering a range from intricate background textures to the distinctive brick sidings on buildings.

However, the Blu-ray transfer is not devoid of imperfections. In particular, darker sequences exhibit a slight crush, most noticeable in areas dominated by cobalt blues which potentially masks finer details. Moreover, a discernible digital texture pervades certain segments of the film, alongside occasional occurrences of haloing – where viewers might spot these effects around the edges in key scenes, such as the prominent building in the closing shot as it fades to black. These concerns, while undoubtedly detracting from a flawless viewing experience, are somewhat mitigated by the transfer's strengths and may only slightly annoy the most discerning of viewers.

Ultimately, fans of "Far From Heaven" should find the Blu-ray video presentation to be largely satisfactory. The transfer succeeds in showcasing the film’s visually arresting palette and detailed compositions, despite being marred by a few technical setbacks. The balance between capturing the vividness of Lachman’s cinematography and preserving filmic texture, albeit with some digital anomalies, suggests a transfer that respects the source material while navigating the challenges inherent in digitizing such a nuanced visual narrative.

The audio presentation of "Far From Heaven" on Blu Ray is indeed a standout feature, showcasing a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and 2.0 mixes that effectively leverage the format's capabilities. The 5.1 surround mix is particularly notable for its adept handling of Elmer Bernstein's emotive and expansive score, which greatly benefits from the surround sound treatment, offering a rich and resonant audio experience that envelops the listener. Additionally, the mix excels in reproducing ambient sounds in various settings, from the rustling of leaves in tranquil outdoor scenes to the bustling background noise of indoor locations like the gay bar Frank frequents or the ballet performance Cathy is absorbed in. These elements are ingenously woven into the audio track to create an immersive soundscape that complements the film's visual storytelling.

Dialogue, an essential component of any film's audio track, is presented with exceptional clarity and precision. Regardless of the scene's complexity or background noise, dialogue remains front and center, ensuring that every word is easily understood without overpowering the score or ambient sounds. This careful balance affirms the mix's high quality and attention to detail, contributing significantly to the narrative's emotional impact and character development.

In sum, the DTS-HD Master Audio mixes offered for "Far From Heaven" on Blu Ray exemplify how sound can enhance cinematic storytelling. From Bernstein's lush score to meticulously captured ambient sounds, and crystal-clear dialogue, the audio presentation is both technically proficient and emotionally resonant. It serves as a model for how films should be heard in the home theater setting, underlining the importance of audio in parallel with visual brilliance.

The "Far from Heaven" Blu-ray extras offer an enriching deep dive into the filmmaking process and creative decisions behind this cinematic gem. The standout features include a comprehensive audio commentary by director Todd Haynes that provides intimate insights into the film's production and thematic depth. Supplemental materials such as the making-of featurette and an anatomy of a scene segment offer behind-the-scenes perspectives and delve into the technical craft, accompanied by enjoyable interviews with key figures including stars Julianne Moore and Todd Haynes. These extras, combined with the essential inclusion of the film’s trailer and additional trailers for other Kino Lorber releases, enhance the viewer's appreciation and understanding of "Far from Heaven," making this edition a must-have for cinephiles and students of film alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Todd Haynes: An in-depth look at the film’s creation and interpretation.
• The Making of Far from Heaven: Behind-the-scenes content and interviews.
• Anatomy of a Scene: Detailed exploration of technical filmmaking aspects.
• A Filmmaker's Experience with Julianne Moore and Todd Haynes: Interviews and film excerpts.
• Far from Heaven Trailer: Preview of the film.
• Trailers for Other Kino Lorber Releases: Additional movie previews.

In "Far from Heaven," director Todd Haynes embarks on a cinematic journey that delves deep into the emotional landscapes pioneered by Douglas Sirk in the mid-twentieth century, specifically exploring the melodramatic veins Sirk so deftly mined. Haynes, mirroring Sirk's nuanced storytelling, presents a vivid portrayal of Cathy Whitaker (Julianne Moore), a suburban housewife whose seemingly idyllic life begins to unravel as she confronts her husband Frank's (Dennis Quaid) hidden sexuality and her growing infatuation with Raymond Deagan (Dennis Haysbert), a black man with a peripheral connection to her family. This narrative unfolds against the meticulously designed backdrop of the 1950s, a period that, while often perceived as quintessentially conservative and conformist, is replete with undercurrents of social and personal turmoil.

The film's aesthetic, a homage to Sirk's Technicolor dramas, combines with Haynes' direction to create a duality that is both visually lush and emotionally dense. The production design’s faithful recreation of the era’s styles serves not just as a setting but as a character in its own right, juxtaposing the constrained societal norms and the characters' turbulent, often clandestine passions. The performances by Moore, Quaid, and Haysbert are particularly commendable. They navigate the complex emotional layers with a finesse that straddles the line between the period's dramatic overtone and the nuanced realism contemporary audiences appreciate, presenting a tableau that is as arresting visually as it is profound in its exploration of themes such as race, sexuality, and identity.

"Far From Heaven" thus stands as a critical reexamination and extension of Sirkian melodrama, casting light on the potent subtexts of 1950s America while engaging modern viewers with its striking visuals and compelling character arcs. The film not only pays tribute to Sirk’s legacy but also expands upon it, offering a rich tapestry of social commentary woven through with threads of forbidden desires and societal expectations, all encapsulated within Haynes’ reflective and beautifully rendered cinematic vista.

Far from Heaven," directed by Todd Haynes, serves as a poignant homage to Douglas Sirk, utilizing a subtle yet profound reference style that markedly contrasts with the more overt recreations seen in contemporary cinema. This Blu Ray release encapsulates not only the stylistic brilliance of Haynes' vision but also delivers a deeply cathartic experience, resonating particularly with audiences who have felt marginalized. The technical presentation is robust, showcasing the film's vibrant palette and meticulous design, further enriching the viewing experience. Kino Lorber has done commendable work in transferring significant supplemental content from the DVD release to this Blu Ray, offering fans and newcomers alike valuable insights into the film's genesis and its thematic underpinnings.

The technical aspects of this Blu Ray are commendable, with audio and video quality that uphold the film's aesthetic intentions, ensuring that Haynes' meticulous attention to color and composition is faithfully preserved. The supplements included provide an enriching context, bridging the gap between Sirk's influence and Haynes' execution. These features create a comprehensive package that enhances the appreciation of "Far from Heaven" as both a cinematic piece and a cultural artifact.

In conclusion, this Blu Ray release of "Far from Heaven" is highly recommended for its successful blend of technical excellence and supplemental richness, serving as a testament to Todd Haynes' visionary directorial approach. It stands as a significant addition to any collection, appealing not only to fans of the film but also to those with an interest in the evolution of cinematic homage. The dedication to preserving the film's technical brilliance alongside an array of insightful extras offers a well-rounded viewing experience, making it a must-have for cinephiles.