Be Kind Rewind

The Blu-ray presentation of "Be Kind Rewind" delivers a strong, albeit not exceptional, 1080p transfer that will satisfy viewers looking for an upgrade from standard DVD quality. With a generally sharp image, the viewers are treated to well-defined details that bring the rickety video shop and its environment to life, from the textures of worn paint to the fine print on VHS box art. Color reproduction is particularly commendable, offering vibrant and balanced hues that make the costumes and set pieces pop, despite occasional flatness and smeariness in dark shades and softer scenes. Blacks are deep, though there's noticeable crush in areas of lower light, which slightly detracts from the otherwise solid visual experience.

Michel Gondry's directional choice of utilizing a slightly bleaker color palette than seen in his previous works does not hinder the clarity and liveliness of the film's presentation on this 1080p/VC-1 transfer. The high-definition showcases strong contrasts, with inky blacks adding depth and vibrancy without falling prey to crushing or blooming problems. Details remain crisp throughout, avoiding significant artifacting or the heavy-handed use of DNR, which ensures that the cluttered aesthetics of Mr. Fletcher’s video store and the intentionally low-quality "Sweded" movie recreations retain their intended charm.

Despite a few deliberate visual inconsistencies intended to augment the narrative's mood, the Blu-ray transfer of "Be Kind Rewind" stands out as remarkably refined. Purists and fans alike will appreciate the lack of noise and edge enhancement, making for a pleasurable viewing experience that greatly surpasses its DVD counterpart. This fidelity to both detail and color support, combined with well-managed contrasts and depth, encapsulates Gondry’s vision effectively, rendering this high-definition version a must-have for admirers of the film’s unique story and creative endeavors.

The audio presentation of "Be Kind Rewind" on Blu Ray, featuring a DTS-HD MA 7.1 lossless soundtrack, offers a deeply immersive and satisfying auditory experience that stands out especially for its use of surrounds and clarity in music reproduction. The surround channels are engaged continuously, creating an enveloping atmosphere that extends to city noises and character-specific sound effects, such as the magnetized antics of Jack Black. Notably, the bass level provides a solid foundation without overwhelming other elements, ensuring that the focus remains on the film's dialogue which is relayed with exceptional clarity through the center channel. This careful balance preserves the integrity and energy of iconic musical selections, including the "Ghostbusters" theme, enriching the viewing experience.

The film's nuanced soundscape is further enhanced by the realistic acoustics and dynamic ambience brought to life through its DTS HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track. The depth of the LFE channel contributes unexpectedly robust low-end bass that highlights mechanical sounds and musical scores, bringing intricate scenes to life. The expanded rear speaker setup authentically replicates the hustle of city life and crowd interactions, allowing the viewer's space to transform into the film's varied environments. Sound positioning and movement across the channels are handled with precision, drawing the listener into the midst of action and dialogue effortlessly.

However, it is worth mentioning a minor shortfall in the audio presentation: while dialogues are generally crisp and take precedence in the mix, their clarity can occasionally suffer due to the surrounding soundscape, particularly in scenes with rich background activity. This inconsistency, though not pervasive, highlights the challenge of balancing a complex audio track where dialogue competes with an active environmental score. Despite this, "Be Kind Rewind's" audio track commendably achieves a theatrical quality ambiance, demonstrating careful attention to detail and a commitment to an authentic auditory experience.

The Blu-ray edition of "Be Kind Rewind" notably enhances the viewing experience with a curated compilation of extras that delve deep into the fabric of the movie, its characters, and its unique setting in Passaic, New Jersey. While presenting all special features in standard definition (480i/p), it offers an insightful mix of behind-the-scenes glimpses and thematic explorations, from the raw making-of footage to the engaging tribute performances. Highlights include a detailed look at the local community's involvement in the film, candid conversations with the cast and crew, and whimsical on-set improvisations, providing both fans and newcomers with a comprehensive understanding of the movie’s heartfelt homage to film history and community spirit. Unfortunately, the lower resolution of these extras contrasts with the potential for high-definition clarity that Blu-ray typically offers, slightly undermining the overall presentation quality.

Extras included in this disc:

• Passaic Mosaic: A raw look around town during the making of the movie with insights from residents and the film crew.
• Booker T & The Michael Gondry: Behind-the-scenes of the Fats commemorative scene with commentary by Danny Glover and others.
• Jack & Mos Improvise Songs: On-set improvisation sessions by the actors.
• A Conversation with Jack Black & Michael Gondry: An unconventional dialogue between the actor and director.
• Fats Was Born Here: The final product showcasing the tribute to Fats Waller.
• The Making of Be Kind Rewind: In-depth look into the production process with interviews and on-set footage.
• Mos Def, Michael Gondry, and Jean-Michel Bernard Live! - Tribute to Fats Waller: A musical performance honoring Fats Waller.
• Be Kind Rewind Theatrical Trailer: The official trailer of the film.

Be Kind Rewind" Blu-Ray's movie presentation illuminates the essence of filmmaking through the lens of desperation turning into a heartwarming venture. At its core, the film celebrates not only the medium of film but also underscores the human values of community, creativity, and perseverance against all odds. The premise of Mike (Mos Def) and Jerry (Jack Black) resorting to remaking classic movies after an accidental erasure of all VHS tapes in their rental store showcases a novel concept. This endeavor, driven by passion rather than high production values, effectively taps into the communal spirit of filmmaking and storytelling, drawing its viewers into a realm where ambition meets resourcefulness. This narrative choice serves as a loving homage to the power of cinema, accentuated by the DIY "Sweded" versions of beloved classics.

The technical aspect of these recreations, though modest in their execution, exemplifies the film's charm and inventive spirit. Michel Gondry's direction ensures that these segments, while humorously low-budget, retain a sincerity and authenticity that resonate with audiences. It's this ingenious blend of comedy and heartfelt storytelling that makes "Be Kind Rewind" a unique cinematic experience. Despite its seemingly whimsical premise, the film delves into themes of community bonds, the struggle against obsolescence, and the universal love for movies. Gondry manages to weave these elements together amidst the backdrop of Passaic, New Jersey, capturing the essence of a town rallying behind an unlikely endeavor.

However, the film navigates through its narrative with pockets of inconsistency, particularly in its tonal shifts between whimsically comic and earnestly heartfelt moments. While Jack Black's comedic flair occasionally overshadows the more subtle narratives interwoven by Mos Def and Danny Glover's performances, it's this very dichotomy that reflects the film's juxtaposition of reality versus aspiration. "Be Kind Rewind" thus emerges as a reflective piece on the importance of creativity, community, and cinema itself. Even amidst its rough edges and uneven pacing, it crafts a touching ode to filmmaking that highlights both its challenges and its unifying power, making it a commendable watch for those who cherish the art of storytelling through film.

The Blu-ray release of "Be Kind Rewind" by New Line Cinema presents a unique and endearing film that transcends traditional movie metrics such as budget and visual effects, instead focusing on the intrinsic value movies bring through spirit, community, and heart. The film emphasizes how creativity and a sense of belonging can transform even the most low-budget film into something truly special, resonating deeply with its audience. Offering more than just makeshift remakes of classic films, it delivers a profound message on the power of movies to unite and inspire. The Blu-ray edition itself boasts commendable technical specifications, featuring good video quality and solid DTS HD MA audio, ensuring viewers receive a satisfying home viewing experience.

The Blu-ray package enriches this already touching film with a variety of extras that dive deeper into its making and philosophy, catering to fans and possibly converting skeptics. Though some may critique the film for not fully realizing its comedic potential or possessing a tightly wound script, its charm and the sheer fun of its subplots cannot be denied. The excellent video transfer and the quality of the audio track underscore the release's appeal, promising an enjoyable watch that highlights the film's core themes of community and creativity.

In conclusion, "Be Kind Rewind" on Blu-ray serves as a testament to cinema's ability to bring people together, underscored by its decent technical presentation and the thoughtful inclusion of special features. While it may not earn universal acclaim for its narrative execution, its heartwarming premise and the quality of the Blu-ray edition make it a recommended addition to the libraries of fans and collectors alike. Its celebration of storytelling and community engagement through cinema is both poignant and impactful, making it a noteworthy release in the realm of home entertainment.