Lizzie Blu-ray Review

Lionsgate Films brings "Lizzie" to Blu-ray with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer, framed at a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, offering a visual treat with subtle technical nuance as confirmed by the closing credits and IMDb. The cinematographic choice to use Arri and Alexa equipment, finishing with a 2K Digital Intermediate (DI), adds a layer of authenticity to this period piece. The film's intentional avoidance of modern conveniences, as mirrored by Andrew Borden's disdain for electric lighting, results in a reliance on natural light for many scenes. This creative decision introduces a certain variability in fine detail across different scenes, providing an atmospheric experience that aligns with the film’s historical setting.

The video presentation of "Lizzie" exhibits an interesting dichotomy in its visual style. The contrast is occasionally manipulated, likely for an artistic effect, which can lead to moments of hazy imagery, as exemplified in select scenes. This technique contributes to the film’s unique aesthetic but may detract from clarity in certain instances. The color palette remains largely desaturated throughout the majority of the runtime, sparingly dotted with bursts of color that stand out against the mainly subdued backgrounds. This choice in color grading effectively conveys the film's somber tone, grounding the viewer in the period setting with a sense of realism.

Overall, the Blu-ray video presentation of "Lizzie" offers a compelling viewing experience that employs natural lighting and a carefully chosen color scheme to enhance the narrative’s historical context. Despite some variability in fine detail due to the naturalistic lighting approach and a deliberate manipulation of contrast that can occasionally obscure clarity, these choices seem to serve the film’s artistic vision well. The film’s visual styling, culminating from the technical workings behind its 1080p resolution and aspect ratio, intricately supports the storytelling, making it an intriguing watch for those appreciative of cinematographic craft.

The audio presentation of "Lizzie" on Blu Ray, while competent and clear, lacks the immersive experience one might anticipate from a modern surround sound setup. The sound design is underscored by the subtle but effective score composed by Jeff Russo and utilizes ambient sounds judiciously, notably in key scenes such as the trials. However, these moments of auditory engagement are sporadic, with the mix often veering towards the conservative side, focusing heavily on dialogue which, to its credit, is consistently crisp and comprehensible across all scenes. There's an apparent emphasis on ensuring speech is foregrounded, an effort that pays off in the clarity and quality of the audio track, albeit at the expense of a more enveloping surround sound experience.

The fidelity of the sound presentation is commendable, with no detectable issues in quality across the various elements of the track. It's evident that care has been taken to preserve the integrity of both the spoken words and the more subtle layers of sound that populate the background. Nevertheless, the overall soundstage feels limited, primarily centered with infrequent use of the lateral and rear channels which could have been leveraged to greater effect to draw viewers deeper into the film's atmospheric setting.

In summary, while "Lizzie" delivers an audio presentation that excels in clarity and fidelity, it stops short of fully utilizing the potential of surround sound technologies to create a truly immersive auditory environment. The focus on dialogue and minimalist scoring is executed well but leaves one wanting for a more dynamic and engaging sound experience. Technical proficiency is evident in the mixing and production values, yet the conservative approach to spatial audio leaves room for improvement in terms of engagement and immersion.

The extra presentation of the Blu-ray for "Lizzie" includes a notably concise yet informative piece titled "Understanding Lizzie," which falls into the category of Electronic Press Kit (EPK) material. Despite its brief running time, this segment manages to deliver some insightful interviews that add depth to the viewer's comprehension of the film. However, it is somewhat peculiar that Kristen Stewart, a key figure in the film, is only present in the form of voice recordings. This choice may raise questions about the production constraints or decisions made during the creation of the extras. Overall, the inclusion demonstrates an effort to provide valuable behind-the-scenes content to the audience, albeit with a noticeable absence that might leave viewers wanting more from the film's notable cast.

Extras included in this disc:

• Understanding Lizzie: Offers a glimpse into the making of the film, featuring interviews with cast and crew, though Kristen Stewart appears only via voice recordings.

Lizzie," the film adaptation that brings to life the ominous legend of Lizzie Borden, threads a meticulous line between historical speculation and narrative innovation. Directed with a careful gaze that leans towards the psychological underpinnings of its titular character, the movie unfolds within the claustrophobic confines of the Borden household, presenting an almost dreamlike retelling of events that lead to the infamous axe murders. As Lizzie Borden, portrayed with a nuanced depth by Chloë Sevigny, navigates her oppressive environment, her interactions with new housemaid Bridget Sullivan (Kristen Stewart) become a focal point, setting the stage for a tumultuous relationship marked by both tenderness and tension. This dynamic, along with the stifling strictures imposed by her parents, Abby (Fiona Shaw) and Andrew (Jamey Sheridan), encapsulates a broader commentary on the limitations faced by women of the era.

The film’s approach to the legendary axe murders oscillates between restrained buildup and visceral execution, adopting a stance that prioritizes psychological exploration over gratuitous violence. Yet, this choice does not dilute the horror of the act itself; rather, it elevates the murders to a complex interplay of rebellion, desperation, and intimate betrayal. The decision for Lizzie to commit the murders in a state of nudity is not merely a tactic for evidence evasion but serves as a stark metaphor for vulnerability and defiance. Such moments underscore the film’s ambition to delve into the psyche of its characters, bringing forth a narrative ripe with emotional and societal subtexts.

However, despite its commendable production values and strong performances, "Lizzie" occasionally succumbs to pacing issues, which hinder its ability to fully engage the viewer on an emotional level. The exploration of Lizzie's inner world and the societal pressures that mold her actions, while intellectually stimulating, occasionally feels detached, resulting in a narrative that sometimes seems more observational than immersive. The film’s deliberate pace and emphasis on atmosphere over action may not cater to all tastes, yet its commitment to portraying a multi-faceted version of Lizzie Borden offers a fresh perspective on a tale that has captivated public imagination for over a century.

Lizzie," as presented in its Blu-ray format, delivers an experience that is as enigmatic as its historical basis. The film attempts to unravel the mystery of Lizzie Borden with a narrative that remains somewhat aloof, lacking the emotional depth one might expect from a story so steeped in tragedy and controversy. Yet, it compensates with performances that command attention, particularly in the leading roles which bring a level of intensity and complexity to the characters they portray. From a production perspective, the film is undeniably polished, showcasing meticulous attention to period detail that enhances its authenticity and visual appeal.

On the technical side, the Blu-ray release does justice to the film’s cinematography and design. The visual quality is commendable, with a transfer that preserves the film's atmospheric lighting and intricate set designs in high definition. The audio quality is equally proficient, ensuring that the dialogue and period-appropriate soundtrack are delivered with clarity and balance. These technical merits are significant for enthusiasts seeking to add "Lizzie" to their Blu-ray collections, as they elevate the overall viewing experience beyond what standard formats can offer.

In conclusion, while "Lizzie" may leave audiences pondering its emotional depth, its execution in terms of performance and production cannot be understated. The Blu-ray release enhances these aspects with superior technical quality, making it a worthwhile acquisition for those intrigued by the legend of Lizzie Borden. Despite its narrative shortcomings, the Blu-ray presentation stands out for its fidelity to period detail and the strength of its lead performances, encapsulating a complex piece of American folklore with noteworthy finesse.