Arbitrage Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Arbitrage," delivered by Lionsgate Films with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer and a 1.78:1 aspect ratio, encapsulates a visual experience that challenges and rewards the viewer. While there has been some observation about the softness of interior sequences and a wish for stronger contrast in darker scenes such as the gloom of limousines or the opulent shadows of the Millers' bedroom, the overall delivery impresses with its sharpness and fine detail, especially in close-ups. The exterior shots of Manhattan are particularly noteworthy, showcasing excellent stability and vivid representation of the city's vibrancy. Nevertheless, viewers should be prepared for some technical hurdles, notably with the disc's menu navigation and unskippable previews which might detract from the overall viewing experience.

Director Nicholas Jarecki and cinematographer Yorick Le Saux navigate through a precise balance of atmospheres, from the steely coldness of the NY financial world to the warmth of Robert Miller's luxurious domestic life, without letting the film's budgetary constraints show. The detail in every scene—from facial textures to the intricate backgrounds—speaks volumes of their meticulous approach to filmmaking. Their use of color further enriches the narrative, with blue hues painting the financial settings against the more vibrant, well-adjusted tones of personal spaces, never compromising on black and white balance or shadow details even in the darkest scenes.

Technically, while there are some issues with the disc's authoring that might frustrate consumers—like the tedious previews and navigation problems—the video quality itself often triumphs, with a good portion of the film offering a real sense of clarity and depth that immerses viewers into its world. The contrast between characters is not just thematic but visual, with costume and makeup detail popping in high definition. For those experiencing "Arbitrage" for the first time on Blu-ray, despite some navigational annoyances, the video presents a detailed and engaging visual feast that captures both the chill of high finance and the warmth of personal decadence.

The Blu Ray audio presentation of "Arbitrage" is underscored by a meticulously crafted DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which, while not bombastic in its approach, delivers a nuanced and thoroughly engaging auditory experience. The mix prioritizes clarity and subtlety, with dialogue presented crisply, ensuring that every word is discernible and occasionally directionally enhanced for an immersive effect. This restraint extends to the film’s score by Cliff Martinez; it is minimalistic yet effective, enhancing the tension without overwhelming the senses. The dynamic range is commendable, offering fidelity that respects the film's deliberate pacing and the subtle shifts in its narrative.

Surround sound activity, though sparse, is thoughtfully incorporated, marked by selective moments of heightened engagement. Scenes set in crowded spaces, like the art gallery visit, come alive with ambient sounds that envelop the viewer, while specific instances - such as the car crash sequence - are punctuated by impactful low-frequency effects (LFE) that add a visceral dimension to the viewing experience. This cautious application of surround sound and LFE channels underscores the soundtrack's role in augmenting rather than overshadowing the story.

The mix excels in balancing dialogue with ambient sounds and the score, ensuring a seamless auditory flow that keeps the viewer firmly rooted in the narrative without abrupt volume adjustments. Ambient office noises, like ringing phones and rustling papers, add a layer of realism through both rear and sometimes front speakers, while never detracting from the clarity of character interactions. This equilibrium maintains the emotional tone of the film, allowing for a natural progression of tension without resorting to overt manipulation through audio cues. In essence, "Arbitrage's" audio presentation is an exemplar of how restraint and attention to detail can create an enveloping and authentic cinematic experience.

The extra presentation of the Blu-ray edition of "Arbitrage" offers a comprehensive and immersive dive into the making of this gripping drama, blending technical insight with thematic exploration to enrich the viewers' understanding and appreciation of the film. Director Nicholas Jarecki's commentary reveals his personal journey and the passion behind his directorial debut, drawing from his unique background in the commodities business to add depth and authenticity. "A Glimpse into Arbitrage" provides behind-the-scenes perspectives from key cast members and the director, discussing the film's reflection on moral ambiguity and the financial crisis, while "Who is Robert Miller?" delves into the protagonist's complex moral landscape. The collection of deleted scenes, with optional directorial commentary, offers an intriguing look at what might have been, highlighting the difficult editorial decisions necessary to maintain the film's pacing without sacrificing character depth.

Extras included in this disc:

• Feature Commentary with Director Nicholas Jarecki: Insightful revelations about Jarecki’s transition from writing to directing, fueled by personal passion.
• A Glimpse into Arbitrage: Cast and crew discuss the film's themes and its reflection on real-world financial turmoil.
• Who is Robert Miller?: A featurette examining the protagonist's morally complex persona.
• Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary: Offers alternate takes and deeper character insights, including:
  • Robert's Disappointment
  • Rumors in the News
  • Reina Questions Jimmy
  • Dead End Evidence
  • Is the Money Worth It?
  • Brooke's Realization

Arbitrage," directed by Nicholas Jarecki, positions itself within the burgeoning subgenre that scrutinizes the moral ambiguities of America's financial elite. The film, engagingly anchored by Richard Gere’s portrayal of venture capitalist Robert Miller, cleverly navigates through the intricate dynamics of deceit, familial bonds, and corporate fraud. Unlike other financial dramas that may alienate audiences with jargon-heavy dialogue, "Arbitrage" manages a compelling narrative without presupposing a deep understanding of its financial underpinnings. The plot skillfully interweaves Miller's desperate measures to conceal his company's massive losses and personal indiscretions, resulting in a sophisticated blend of suspense and drama akin to the thematic endeavors of films like "Margin Call."

The movie shines in its ability to maintain a brisk pace, despite what some might consider dry subject matter, turning potentially mundane financial intricacies into pivotal plot devices. It diverges from the procedural drama format, instead offering a tight, character-driven story that highlights the extent of Miller’s deception and its unraveling. The casting is spot-on, with Gere delivering one of his finer performances, imbued with a layered complexity that evokes both empathy and disdain. Susan Sarandon and Tim Roth provide commendable support, enriching the narrative with their nuanced portrayals.

"Arbitrage" doesn't merely entertain; it prompts reflection on the ethics of power and privilege. Jarecki's direction ensures that the audience remains engaged with the personal and ethical crises confronting Miller, making the film accessible without diluting its critique of systemic greed. Moreover, it subtly yet effectively comments on contemporary societal issues without feeling preachy or detached from reality. While comparisons to other financial crisis films are inevitable, "Arbitrage" sets itself apart with its sharply written screenplay, strong performances, and a masterfully executed tension that propels the narrative forward, marking it as a noteworthy contribution to its genre.

Arbitrage" on Blu-ray emerges as a compelling thriller that transcends the typical boundaries of high-finance dramas, largely due to the skilled direction of Nicholas Jarecki and a standout performance by Richard Gere. The film weaves a gripping tale of duplicity and survival in the financial world, enhanced by a supporting cast that brings depth and nuance to the narrative. Unlike its more sober counterpart "Margin Call," "Arbitrage" injects a thrilling cat-and-mouse dynamic that elevates the storyline, providing both tension and excitement. Susan Sarandon delivers a remarkable performance, adding to the film's appeal, although Tim Roth's role has received mixed reactions. The central character, played with smarmy elegance by Gere, stands as one of the most intriguingly complex figures in recent cinema.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Arbitrage" capitalizes on these strengths with excellent picture and sound quality that immerses the viewer in the high-stakes world of Wall Street. The screenplay challenges not only with its thrilling plot but also with its reflection on recent economic turmoil, making it relatable to viewers. This balance of entertainment and thoughtful commentary is skillfully achieved, with Jarecki’s direction hinting at a promising future for the filmmaker. The ensemble cast's performances are universally strong, contributing to the film's success as a multifaceted thriller.

In conclusion, "Arbitrage" on Blu-ray stands out not only for its engrossing story and superb acting but also for its high production values. As a film that cleverly mixes elements of drama and thriller genres, it offers both an engaging viewing experience and a critique of greed and moral ambiguity in the financial world. This Blu-ray release is highly recommended for its ability to entertain while provoking thought, making it a must-see for fans of intense drama and fine filmmaking.