Single White Female Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and featuring a 1080p transfer, "Single White Female" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Indicator/Powerhouse Films. This release utilises an older master supplied by Sony Pictures, the same master previously licensed to various labels worldwide, including Shout Factory in the United States. Such a source results in a presentation with noticeable limitations, imparting a dated quality to the film’s aesthetic.

In terms of technical performance, there are evident shortcomings particularly in scenes with fine nuances and panoramic shots, where light delineation and depth come across as unconvincing. Highlights often lack luster, making brighter nuances problematic. Conversely, darker areas and backgrounds appear more satisfactory, although grain can become mushy in some scenes. Notably, there are no apparent sharpening adjustments; however, this absence does not equate to a stable, organic appearance. A proper remaster in 2K or 4K would significantly enhance the film's visual fidelity.

The color balance is stable but not without its flaws. Several primary colors and entire ranges of nuances require rebalancing to appear more vibrant and authentic. On the positive side, image stability is commendable, ensuring a consistent viewing experience. Overall, while this release delivers a passable and occasionally decent presentation of "Single White Female", it leaves ample room for improvement, particularly with a remaster. This review pertains to a Region-B locked Blu-ray release, necessitating a native Region-B or Region-Free player for access.

The audio presentation of "Single White Female" on Blu-ray features an English DTS-HD Master 2.0 track, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. The DTS-HD Master 2.0 lossless track is notably impressive, maintaining a high-quality experience consistent with Sony's reputation for solid audio tracks on older masters. The score, which plays a pivotal role in establishing the film's atmosphere, is vividly reproduced, creating memorable contrasts that enhance the viewing experience. While the current track is strong, there might be a slight scope for rebalancing work, though any potential improvements would likely be marginal.

A hypothetical remastering effort or an upgrade to a Dolby Atmos track could ostensibly enhance the audio further. However, given the source material's original constraints, it's uncertain whether such advancements would deliver significantly better results. The DTS-HD Master 2.0 track remains robust and delivers a satisfying auditory experience that aligns well with the film's requirements. Overall, this audio presentation successfully captures and conveys the intended soundscapes, reinforcing the movie's dramatic and suspenseful elements.

The extras on the Blu-ray release of "Single White Female" offer a comprehensive and insightful look into the film's production and impact. Featuring an archival commentary by director Barbet Schroeder, editor Lee Percy, and producer Susan Hoffman, this collection provides in-depth discussions on various aspects such as filming locations, character development, and dramatic evolution. Additional archival interviews delve into the casting and production experiences of key actors like Peter Friedman and Steven Weber, and screenwriter Don Roos gives an articulate account of adapting the source novel. A fresh analysis by critic Anna Bogutskaya offers contemporary reflections on the film's significance. The inclusion of a theatrical trailer, an image gallery, a detailed booklet, and a reversible cover enhance this robust compilation, making it a remarkable addition for any film enthusiast.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Archival audio commentary by Barbet Schroeder, Lee Percy, and Susan Hoffman.
• Barbet Schroeder: New York Interview: Archival interview with the director on the project's development.
• Peter Friedman: Upstairs with Graham Knox: Archival interview with actor Peter Friedman.
• Steven Weber: The Fiance Sam Rawson: Archival interview with actor Steven Weber.
• Don Roos: SWF Seeks Writer: Archival interview with screenwriter Don Roos.
• Anna Bogutskaya: She'll Follow You Anywhere: New program featuring critic Anna Bogutskaya.
• Theatrical Trailer: Vintage theatrical trailer for "Single White Female."
• Image Gallery: Collection of original promotional materials.
• Booklet: 36-page illustrated booklet with new and archival essays.
• Cover: Reversible cover.

Barbet Schroeder's 1992 film "Single White Female" arrives on Blu-ray via Indicator/Powerhouse Films with a set of archival supplemental features. Despite two terrific leading performances from Bridget Fonda and Jennifer Jason Leigh, the movie falls into a spiral of implausibility and contrived plot developments. The story revolves around Alison, a successful professional, and Hedra, an enigmatic roommate, who gradually reveals her dangerous obsession with Alison’s life. As Hedra’s fixation intensifies, the film defies basic logic: characters fail to recognize obvious warning signs, leading to absurd and unrealistic decision-making that diminishes the suspense and drama intended by the narrative.

Schroeder, known for his diverse filmography including "More" and "Barfly," appears constrained by the Hollywood system in this endeavour. The screenplay is riddled with clichés and inconsistent tones, oscillating between serious psychological thriller and unintended parody. This pendulum swing creates a disjointed viewing experience, leaving certain segments of the story feeling incompatible with others. Despite the committed performances by the leads and an occasionally humorous supporting cast, the film’s structural flaws—compounded by an idiotic screenplay—prevent it from achieving the sophisticated tension and credibility it aspires to.

Barbet Schroeder's "Single White Female" emerges as an ambitious yet flawed psychological thriller that teeters on the edge of self-parody. The narrative, though compelling at the surface, frequently defies basic logic, asking its audience to overlook glaring improbabilities. This oversight results in several moments that feel awkward and artificially contrived, detracting from the film's overall impact. Schroeder, known for his atmospheric earlier works, seems to miss the mark here, delivering a script that fails to capture the intricacies of the human psyche with the finesse seen in his past films.

The Blu-ray release by Indicator/Powerhouse Films utilizes an older master, which may disappoint some aficionados looking for pristine visual quality. However, this edition redeems itself through a commendable selection of bonus features, potentially adding value for collectors and enthusiasts. The comparison of "Single White Female" to classics like "Vertigo" and "Rosemary’s Baby" feels misplaced, as this film lacks their meticulously crafted plots and intricate visual storytelling. Instead, it unfolds as an overwrought potboiler, devoid of the believability and coherency that elevate true psychological thrillers.

In conclusion, while "Single White Female" offers moments of intrigue and potential, it ultimately falls short due to its illogical narrative choices and forced dramatic elements. Schroeder's attempt to deliver a gripping thriller stumbles, making this a middling entry in his oeuvre. Despite its flaws, the Blu-ray release's supplementary content might still appeal to dedicated fans of the genre.