DVD Corner

Seven Psychopaths Blu-ray Review

“Seven Psychopaths” is another winner from writer/director Martin McDonagh.

The plot: Seeking inspiration for a new story, an alcoholic screenwriter (Marty) gets more than he bargains for as he gets swept up into the criminal underworld by means of his pal Billy (a dog thief/actor who harbors a secret) and Billy’s criminal partner Hans (an aging man with a sick wife). When Billy and Hans swipe a crime lord named Charlie’s Shih Tzu as part of their moneymaking scheme, all hell breaks loose as Charlie tries to hunt down and kill those responsible for his missing pet.

In his follow-up to the fantastic and underrated “In Bruges,” writer/director Martin McDonagh has created yet another funny, quirky crime flick filled with violence, plot twists, and, more importantly, a truly unique voice. It’s a cleverly written story within a story tale that spirals out of control with each passing minute. Sure, the last half hour or so in the desert might feel a bit drug out when it’s all over and done with, but it doesn’t hamper any enjoyment derived from this film.

As impressive as the script is, however, it’s the cast that makes the material come to life. The always reliable Sam Rockwell delivers another knockout performance in a career full of them. Scene stealer Christopher Walken delivers a truly funny and touching performance that is arguably one of his best in years. Colin Farrell, whose best work seems to come with McDonagh, also shines as the main character Marty. In fact, the entire ensemble really gives it there all here including Woody Harrelson as the villainous Charlie and Tom Waits as a creepy psycho.

Video/Audio:

The film, which is presented in 2.40:1 1080p, has an intentionally grainy look to it, but don’t let that distract you. The cinematography by Ben Davis looks gorgeous here (especially the desert scenes).

With rapid gunfire and rapid fire dialogue, the 5.1 DTS-HD MA is sharp from top to bottom.

Extras:
* Ultraviolet digital copy.
* Sony trailers.
* “Martin McDonagh’s Seven Psychopaths” is the standard featurette that sells the film and contains cast and crew interviews and set footage.
* “Colin Farrell Is Marty”- Farrell chats about his character.
* “Woody Harrelson Is Charlie”- Harrelson chats about his character.
* “Crazy Locations”- A short featurette about the locations the cast and crew shot at.
* “Seven Psychocats”- A trailer for “Seven Psychopaths” with cats.
* “Layers”- A weird music montage of clips.

Summary: If you’re looking for something different, look no further than “Seven Psychopaths.” I can’t wait to see what Martin (and his brother John Michael McDonagh for that matter) whip up next.

February 7, 2013 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Seven Psychopaths Blu-ray Review