My Brilliant Career Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "My Brilliant Career" presented in 1080p by Blue Underground boasts a transfer that aims to do justice to its classic status. Framed at 1.78:1, the film provides a high-definition experience that balances detail with authenticity. Despite some viewers potentially being put off by an initially heavy grain texture, this is reflective of the original cinematic aesthetics and dissipates as the film progresses, revealing a more defined and clear image. The scenic views of the Australian Outback are portrayed with rich details—the dusty plains, weathered fence posts, and tall grasses around Caddagat are particularly well-rendered, contributing to a visually engaging experience that celebrates the film’s rustic and natural charm.

Color fidelity is stable yet exhibits a slightly muted palette, reflecting the film’s intended look. While black levels are notably deep, they occasionally swallow finer details, adding to the transfer’s raw appeal rather than detracting from it. Flesh tones appear accurate and well-preserved throughout the runtime. Although close-ups do not achieve the razor-sharpness seen in newer, higher-budget releases, they remain pleasing and reveal adequate fine details and textures. Sporadic white speckling does appear, but this does not significantly detract from the overall presentation. Supervised by Director of Photography Donald McAlpine, this restoration captures the essence of the original film while maintaining a naturally coarse look due to the absence of digital enhancements.

Overall, while it may not convert skeptics of high-definition presentations rooted in older, low-budget films, this Blu-ray rendering of "My Brilliant Career" will satisfy long-time fans with its faithful and detailed restoration. The video transfer brings out the film’s inherent beauty, ensuring it remains a visually captivating classic.

The Blu-ray presentation of "My Brilliant Career" utilizes a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 lossless soundtrack that, while perhaps excessive for such a dialogue-driven film, enhances the overall auditory experience. The 7.1 format does not aim to impress with constant surround and subwoofer activity, but strategically utilizes these elements to enrich atmospheric immersion. Subtle environmental sounds like blowing winds, keystrokes of a piano, chirping birds, trotting horses, and flowing streams are nicely realized, providing a nuanced auditory backdrop. The front channel separation is particularly noteworthy with seamless pans that enhance realism.

Despite its strengths, the audio track is not without its flaws. Limited dynamic range is apparent; the music occasionally leans towards a shrill quality and lacks substantial low-end presence, which is understandable given the film's vintage and budget constraints. Dialogue clarity is generally maintained, although some phrases might get momentarily overshadowed by other sound effects or falter due to thick accents and local colloquialisms. A minor static hint can be detected intermittently but does not significantly detract from the overall listening experience.

In essence, the DTS-HD MA 7.1 track provides an immersive and pleasant auditory experience that aligns well with the film's serene and atmospheric mood. It balances the delicate act of opening up the film’s sound environment while maintaining the clarity and focus required for its dialogue-dependent storytelling.

The Blu-ray of "My Brilliant Career" includes a thoughtfully curated collection of extras that significantly enrich the film viewing experience. Each feature provides valuable insights into the film's creation and contextual background. A standout is the director's commentary by Gillian Armstrong, which offers an in-depth look at the film’s production challenges, casting stories, and the director's pioneering role in feminist cinema. Armstrong’s commentary is engaging and informative, revealing fascinating behind-the-scenes details. Other notable extras include interviews with Armstrong and producer Margaret Fink, which provide personal reflections on the film’s development and its reception at Cannes. The supplementary material culminates in a historical featurette about author Miles Franklin, tying the film’s narrative seamlessly to its literary origins.

Extras included in this disc:

• Director's Commentary: Gillian Armstrong discusses various production aspects.
• Interview with Director Gillian Armstrong: Armstrong reflects on the film’s debut.
• Interview with Producer Margaret Fink: Fink recalls the novel adaptation process.
• Cannes Film Festival Premiere: Archival footage from the 1979 event.
• Featurette: The Miles Franklin Story: A biographical sketch of the author.
• Theatrical Trailers: U.S. and Australian trailers.

"My Brilliant Career," a 1979 Australian film directed by Gillian Armstrong, is a compelling coming-of-age story steeped in historical and cultural realism. Set against the sweeping backdrop of the Australian Outback, the film explores the themes of independence, societal expectation, and personal aspiration. Judy Davis stars as Sybylla Melvyn, a headstrong young woman who rejects traditional roles imposed on her gender. Sybylla's journey through family obligations and societal pressure is marked by a fierce resistance to conform, illustrated by her disdain for arranged marriages and preference for personal fulfillment over romantic entanglements. The narrative is bolstered by striking period details, from beautifully-realized costumes to authentically recreated settings, which enrich the viewer's immersion into 1890s rural Australia.

The film's storytelling is both nuanced and minimalist, allowing the camera to capture the character-driven performances that propel the narrative. Davis’s portrayal of Sybylla is raw and heartfelt, conveying a wild spirit that refuses to be tamed by societal norms. Sam Neill as Harry Beecham offers a subtle yet powerful counterbalance, his quiet sincerity juxtaposing Sybylla’s brazenness. Their on-screen tension is palpable and adds depth to their complex relationship. While the movie's pacing can be deliberate, it mirrors the protagonist's contemplative journey and the oppressive nature of her environment. Armstrong's direction and Eleanor Witcomb's script eschew gloss for a more subdued, melancholic tone, making Sybylla’s rebellion against both traditional and romantic constraints resonate even more strongly despite the slow progression.

"My Brilliant Career" stands out not just as a period piece but as a poignant feminist statement. It remains relevant today for its incisive look at a woman striving for literary and personal autonomy in a patriarchal society. The film may be slow at times, but its meticulous character portrait and socio-cultural critique offer profound insights. Far from reflective of modern cinematic polish, its rawness and authenticity speak volumes, making it a seminal work in both Australian cinema and feminist filmography.

"My Brilliant Career," directed by Gillian Armstrong, remains an enduring achievement in Australian cinema, offering a timeless, rebellious narrative set against the lush Australian landscape. Judy Davis delivers a breakout performance that set the stage for her celebrated career, embodying the protagonist’s defiance against societal norms with remarkable authenticity. Sam Neill also shines, bringing depth and charm to his role. The film’s historical and cultural context is beautifully captured through meticulous attention to period detail and nuanced storytelling.

This Blu-ray release from Blue Underground does true justice to the film with a strong technical presentation. The video quality brings out the vivid colors and intricate textures of the Australian scenery, while preserving the film’s atmospheric warmth. The audio is equally adept, delivering clear and well-balanced sound that enhances the viewing experience. The disc also features a variety of extras that provide valuable insights into the film’s production and its lasting impact.

Despite not being in line with Blue Underground's customary fare of horror films, "My Brilliant Career" stands out with its quality presentation and supplemental materials. While its slow-moving pace may not appeal to all viewers, drama enthusiasts will find much to admire in its rich themes and stellar performances. This Blu-ray release comes highly recommended for those seeking a deeply engaging period drama.

Conclusively, as a different and superior take on a timeless story of rebellion against tradition, "My Brilliant Career" is a milestone in Australian cinema. The Blue Underground Blu-ray release underscores this achievement with excellent technical quality and an appealing assortment of extras. A noteworthy addition to any film collection, it captures beautifully what it means to forge one's own path and deserves its place among must-see cinematic works.