Review by Gary Tooze

Production:

Disc:

Video:

Audio:

 

Subtitles:

English (SDH), English, none

 

Extras:

• The Making of A Single Man (16:08)

• Previews

Bitrate:

 

Description: In Los Angeles 1962, at the height of the Cuban missile crisis George Falconer, a 52 year old British college professor is struggling to find meaning to his life after the death of his long time partner, Jim. George dwells on the past and cannot see his future as we follow him through a single day, where a series of events and encounters, ultimately lead him to decide if there is a meaning to life after Jim. George is consoled by his closest friend Charley, a 48 year old beauty who is wrestling with her own questions about the future. A young student of George's, Kenny, who is coming to terms with his true nature, stalks George as he feels in him a kindred spirit. A romantic tale of love interrupted the isolation that is an inherent part of the human condition and ultimately the importance of the seemingly smaller moments in life.

 

 

Audio :

The DTS-HD Master 5.1 at 3956 kbps seems most apparent in the awesome piano score from Abel Korzeniowski. This is essentially an arthouse film and the music is so evocative bringing out substance in the contemplative quiet moments. It was a big part of my viewing. There isn't notable separation and the film is generally passive without demonstrative effects. I suspect that the track is supporting the film precisely. There are optional subtitles in English and English (SDH) only - the commentary as well.

Extras :

Director/producer Tom Ford gives a solid commentary touching upon many important aspects of the film's production. Beyond that is a 20-minute Making of with Firth, Ford, and Julianne Moore giving soundbytes of their take on A Single Man. This is actually pretty good and worth the time invested. There are also the proverbial 'Previews' and an untested movieIQ+sync and BD-Live, through the Internet, that connects you to real-time information on the cast, music, trivia and more while watching the movie.

BOTTOM LINE:
If you aren't aware - this is a magnificent film. I had a highly impressive viewing on Blu-ray. Once again I see some middling critical response but I, personally, consider this close to a masterpiece with Firth's performance worthy of an Oscar (he was nominated but did not win). I also love Julianne Moore. Sony have given the film some justice with a great a/v Blu-ray transfer and the commentary adds further value. I wish all films I reviewed were this good - I give a very strong recommendation.