DVD Corner

Arthur (2011) Blu-ray Review

“Arthur” is another pointless remake.

The plot: A rich drunk manchild (Arthur) is threatened to be cut off from his fortunes by his mother unless he marries business woman Susan. Unfortunately for Arthur, he doesn’t love Susan and has fallen in love with another woman (Naomi). The question for virtually the entire film is “What will Arthur do?”

Like most remakes these days, the 2011 version of “Arthur” feels positively needless. The original is by no means a great film, but there’s no denying that Dudley Moore and John Gielgud’s characters were iconic. In other words, you can’t see anyone else doing protraying those characters. Now, I’m not knocking the cast of the new “Arthur.” Russell Brand is adequate as Arthur, but he’s just not Dudley Moore. Likewise, Helen Mirren (who certainly classes up the film) isn’t Hobson either, but she’s undeniably the best part of the film (as well as the heart of the film). Essentially, the talented cast all deserved better here than a mostly humorless remake that no one wanted to see. Their acting talents are far better suited for material that is less by the numbers and more unique. Of course, that might be a tall order for Hollywood these days…

Summary: Stick with the original instead.

The 1.85:1 1080p picture quality is a bit of a disappointment to be honest. The picture often looks a little fuzzy and the colors are noticeably overexposed. You’re almost better off watching the DVD version instead. 

The 5.1 DTS-HD audio track is also a bit of a letdown. While it’s decent enough, the track was a little soft for my taste.

Extras:
* DVD and digital copy.
* Warner ads.
* A very short gag reel.
* 7 additional scenes.
* “Arthur Unsupervised!”- A rather chaotic extra that contains behind-the-scenes footage, outtakes, interviews, etc.

July 21, 2011 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Arthur (2011) Blu-ray Review, Arthur Blu-ray Review, Arthur Russell Brand, Helen Mirren