Save the Date Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image of "Save The Date," presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, is indicative of its low-budget HD digital cinematography. The transfer relies on an intentionally muted, softer aesthetic typical of many indie films. When scenes are well-lit, the visual detail is commendable, revealing facial imperfections, fibrous textures of the wardrobe, and intricate elements of the interior design. However, the softer look often detracts from the depth and clarity one might expect from higher quality productions. Skintones remain natural throughout.

Color presentation leans towards muted tones but showcases moments of vividness, particularly in scenes with concert lighting and exterior green landscapes. This restrained palette includes warm browns, greens, and reds but lacks the vibrancy to make individual hues stand out distinctly. Black levels in dimly lit scenes are muddy, pulling details from the frame, and the presence of noise and banding sporadically affects image quality.

In summary, while the Blu-ray provides decent visual detail under optimal lighting conditions, the overall image tends to be flat with instances of banding and video noise. The film's targeted aesthetic results in a less dynamic viewing experience, but skintones retain a natural appearance. Given the film's modest budget and dialogue-driven nature, these visual constraints are noticeable yet understandable within its context.

The 5.1 DTS-HD MA sound mix on "Save the Date" offers a commendable audio presentation, considering the film's limited sonic scope. Surrounds convey a satisfactory sense of crowd ambiance during party sequences, while concert performances manage to envelop listeners effectively, offering an immersive experience. The dialogue is generally clear and understandable, though there are instances where it appears somewhat disconnected from the overall sound mix, causing a few shrill peaks during argumentative scenes. The low-end handles musical performances and soundtrack cuts competently, although the scoring remains supportive but unremarkable.

Ambient noises and sound effects blend well, accurately portraying environments such as concert audiences and party chatter. Despite the lack of determined directional sound movements, the atmospherics remain pleasant and add to the overall experience. The dynamic range is moderately broad but could benefit from greater expansion. While this isn't the most outstanding audio presentation, it serves its purpose effectively for this indie comedy. Overall, "Save the Date" delivers an acceptable auditory experience, enhanced by its functional surround sound and consistent dialogue clarity.

The extras section of the Blu Ray for "Save the Date" is an engaging and insightful offering. Michael Mohan's audio commentary stands out for its lively, detailed analysis of the film's production challenges, recorded in his apartment. It's a refreshing and candid take on low-budget filmmaking that also amusingly includes anecdotes like defending against foot fetish accusations. Deleted scenes reveal more about the characters, while outtakes provide a brief behind-the-scenes look at filming mishaps. The mini-comic offers a unique, graphic perspective on the screenwriter's journey. Additional content includes music videos and trailers, adding to the comprehensive nature of this release.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insightful discussion by writer/director Michael Mohan recorded at his apartment.
• Deleted Scenes: Optional commentary from Mohan; showcases more character interplay.
• Outtakes: Short compilation of filming bloopers.
• "Accidents": Music video directed by Mohan.
• Mini-Comic: Graphic story of screenwriter Jeffrey Brown’s experience.
• Trailers: Teaser and theatrical trailers.

"Save the Date" aims to situate itself within the romantic comedy genre but falters with both its romantic and comedic elements. Written and directed by Michael Mohan, the film explores the complicated love lives of two sisters, Sarah (Lizzy Caplan) and Beth (Alison Brie), culminating in a slew of existential crises masquerading as quaint indie charm. The story follows Sarah, a commitment-averse bookstore manager who fumbles her way through relationships with her musician boyfriend Kevin (Geoffrey Arend) and devoted admirer Jonathan (Mark Webber). Concurrently, Beth navigates the unstable terrain of wedding planning with her indifferent fiancé Andrew (Martin Starr). While the premise has potential, the delivery suffers from uninspired pacing and an over-reliance on awkward scenarios that disengage rather than amuse.

Mohan's attempt at capturing the indie “feel” is noted with a hip soundtrack and modern visual aesthetics. However, the film’s momentum is consistently hindered by repetitive narrative beats and underdeveloped character dynamics. The characters’ neuroses and self-sabotaging behaviors are intended to feel genuine but instead come across as tedious and forced. Notably, Sarah's oscillation between romantic partners lacks the depth needed to elicit empathy or investment from the audience. Her interactions, particularly the botched marriage proposal scene, lean more towards discomfort rather than authentic emotional turmoil, leading viewers to feel disconnected from her plight.

Despite its shortcomings, "Save the Date" does benefit from strong performances by its cast. Caplan, Webber, and Arend exhibit commendable emotional range, elevating the material beyond its monotonous script. Even though some characters verge on narcissism, their portrayals manage to inject moments of genuine humanity. Nevertheless, these sporadic highs are insufficient to salvage a film weighed down by predictable plot developments and an overall lack of originality. Mohan’s endeavor to create a Cassavetes-like exploration of modern relationships ultimately leads to an unsatisfying amalgamation of indie tropes and underwhelming narrative execution.

“Save the Date” is a romantic comedy that delivers a mixed bag of performances and technical qualities. The acting, particularly by Lizzy Caplan, feels repetitive and overly familiar, while Mark Webber’s performance stands out with a refreshing amiability reminiscent of Eric Stolz. The film leans heavily on its actors to make up for a script that lacks strong emotional connections, leaving many scenes feeling unsure and disoriented. The plot falters near the conclusion, offering a test of character affinity that may leave some viewers disengaged.

The movie's technical aspects are underwhelming, with average video and audio quality that do not particularly impress. However, the Blu-ray release compensates for these shortcomings with a variety of excellent extras that may appeal to fans of the genre. Despite its shortcomings, the film's cast and storyline provide some entertainment value, even if it does not revolutionize the romantic comedy landscape or remain memorable.

In conclusion, "Save the Date" is a fundamentally enjoyable film with notable performances and an engaging plot, though it does falter in emotional depth and technical execution. It is worth a watch for its star-studded cast and well-crafted extras, even if it ultimately does not leave a lasting impression.