NOTE: The below Blu-ray captures were taken directly from the Blu-ray disc.

ADDITION: Criterion - Region 'A' Blu-ray - March 2010: I remember this film very well and so this subsequent Blu-ray viewing was, in some ways, less satisfying than than my initial presentation, but I was certainly wow'ed by the 1080P visuals. The improvement is in the usual areas - detail advances and there is now some depth - colors don't vary much at all. It looks quite strong - but then again so did the Artificial Eye DVD. Much of the sequences are shot outdoor and the 'summer feel', accentuated by Eric Gautier allusive cinematography, is very apparent. There may be a negligible amount of extra information the Criterion frame and it is in theatrical running time (where the PAL DVD has 4% speed-up). With such a modern film the variance in image quality is not as significant as we have seen in older films and restorations. In fact, I might go so far as to suggest a double dip (if you already own the UK disc) based on the appearance only is not recommended - but there are other considerations.

Audio has a powerfully and robust DTS-HD Master 5.1 at 4015 kbps 5.1 but with the dialogue driven film - it is largely wasted. Some 'hints' sneak into the rear speakers and this is a nice touch adding to the aura. Effects sounds are, obviously, minimal but it was always apparent that the Criterion outclasses the older DVD in this area. In concise terms this lossless audio rendition is probably flawless in its attempt to recreate the original film's audio. As usual, there are expertly rendered, optional, English subtitles and my Momitsu has identified it is being Region 'A'-locked.

Supplements come in three digital offerings and some liner notes. There is a new video interview with Assayas in English running almost 1/2 an hour. I liked this as I enjoy hearing this director talk about his film and the directions he is evolving. It was recorded specifically for Criterion in January 2010 - so is very current. There is a 26-minute Making-of documentary featuring interviews with Assayas and actors Charles Berling and Juliette Binoche, and showing the cast and crew on set. Lastly, Inventory is an hour-long documentary by Olivier Gonard, shot partly in Paris’s Musée d’Orsay, that examines the film’s approach to art. It runs over 50-minutes and is a wonderful piece with plenty of art images and light cultured discussion. Criterion have included a 28-page liner notes booklet featuring an essay by critic Kent Jones.