Whatever Works Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Whatever Works" features a generally satisfying 1080p transfer framed in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The film maintains a moderate-to-heavy layer of film grain throughout, which enhances the authentic film-like quality, though it might not appeal to those who prefer pristine high-definition images. The fine details of various scenes, such as the rough brick façades outside the café and the detailed interior of Boris' apartment, are captured with an impressive sense of texture and realism. While the transfer boasts natural colors and strong detail in most scenes, backgrounds occasionally appear soft and lose definition, particularly in clumps of foliage that sometimes resemble a smeared mass of color.

The AVC MPEG-4 encode at 1080p further ensures a quality presentation, despite the film's generally subdued and natural color palette that aligns with its melancholic tone. Blacks are well-handled, neither overpowering nor insubstantial, and whites maintain strong, realistic edges. However, skin tones often run hot, consistently bearing a red tint that can be distracting but may be reflective of character expressions under certain lighting conditions. Contrast remains robust throughout most of the film, although a few very soft sequences detract slightly from the overall consistency. Despite these minor issues, the Blu-ray transfer ultimately succeeds in providing a film-like experience, making for a solid technical accomplishment by Sony Pictures Classics.

The audio presentation of the "Whatever Works" Blu-ray is framed by a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix, which, despite its multi-channel designation, functions predominantly as a three-channel front-heavy track. Dialogue reproduction is exceptionally clear and precise, allowing for every syllable to be captured without fail. This clarity ensures the narrative remains the primary focus, unhampered by any competing audio distraction. The film's score—a blend featuring Classical, Big Band elements, and touches of modernity—resonates beautifully through the front channels, delivering a crisp and dynamic auditory experience.

However, the surround activity is disappointingly inert, with rear channels contributing little to ambiance or score immersion. This lack of depth and spatial envelopment is particularly evident in outdoor scenes set amidst the bustling backdrop of New York City, where one would expect a richer tapestry of ambient sound. Bass presence is minimal and rather subtle, lacking any significant impact on sequences but providing marginal emphasis where required. Despite these shortcomings, the audio mix is perfectly tailored to the film's needs. It aligns seamlessly with the minimalist storytelling style of Woody Allen, embodying a no-frills approach that serves its purpose commendably.

The Blu-ray release of "Whatever Works" includes a limited selection of extras, focusing primarily on promotional content and omitting in-depth supplementary features such as commentaries, behind-the-scenes footage, or deleted scenes. The available extras are presented in high definition and provide basic promotional materials for the movie and related films.

Extras included in this disc:

Theatrical Trailer: The theatrical trailer for the film. Preview: The trailer for 'An Education.'

Note: Additionally, the disc incorporates BD-Live functionalities.

"Whatever Works" marks Woody Allen's return to his beloved New York City, presenting a narrative brimming with his signature wit and neurotic charm. Larry David’s portrayal of Boris Yellnikoff, a cynical former physics professor, is the film's linchpin. Boris, with his self-proclaimed genius and misanthropic outlook, breaks the fourth wall, engaging directly with the audience in a manner both hilarious and poignant. He finds his monotonous life disrupted by Melodie St. Ann Celestine (Evan Rachel Wood), a young runaway. Their interactions add an intriguing dynamic to the plot, challenging Boris’s rigid ideology and offering a candid exploration of human interconnectedness amidst urban life's backdrop.

The film thrives on Allen’s sharp script, packed with witty dialogue and layered with subtle ironies. David's impeccable delivery imbues Boris with a sense of authenticity, making his character both detestable and endearing. The narrative is intricate, introducing new characters and conflicts throughout its runtime. However, while Melodie's character arc feels organic, other characters' swift ideological transformations somewhat undermine the film’s realism. The interplay between big city liberalism and small-town conservatism is compelling, even if the transitions occasionally lack depth.

Despite its shortcomings, "Whatever Works" captivates with its insightful examination of personal beliefs and relationships. The film takes on a quasi-theatrical feel, with its stage-like set design and directorial style enhancing the live performance mood. Notably, the film’s success is significantly bolstered by the stellar supporting cast, including Patricia Clarkson and Ed Begley Jr., who, alongside Wood, deliver performances that frequently outshine David. While not Allen's magnum opus, "Whatever Works" is an engaging character study that resonates through its clever dialogue and intricate portrayal of flawed yet relatable individuals navigating life's complexities using their "whatever works" philosophy.

"Whatever Works," a film by Woody Allen, presents a quirky examination of human relationships and life's eccentricities through the distinctive lens of Larry David's lead performance. While the film may not reach the high points of Allen's more acclaimed works, it offers a sufficiently engaging narrative. The dark comedic elements and character study provide intrigue, though the film's divisive nature around its stark interpretations is likely to polarize audiences. Sony's Blu-ray presentation boasts a wonderfully film-like transfer that maintains the movie's visual integrity.

The Blu-ray disc features a lossless soundtrack that, while subtle, aptly complements the film's context. However, it’s worth noting the package's sparse nature, as it lacks substantial special features—an expected outcome given Allen's historical aversion to providing extras like commentaries or behind-the-scenes insights. While the audio and video quality might not be termed as spectacular, they deliver a competent viewing experience that aligns with the film’s overall tone.

In summary, "Whatever Works" serves as an amusing albeit tepid addition to Woody Allen’s filmography. The standout performance by Larry David makes it a worthwhile watch, particularly for enthusiasts of Allen's or David's previous works. The Blu-ray release achieves a film-like experience despite its minimalistic nature in extras. Recommended primarily for fans, the film is best suited as a rental for those unsure about committing to a purchase.