DVD Corner

Short Term 12 Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack Review

“Short Term 12” is a powerful drama.

“Short Term 12” (which refers to the name of the foster care home for troubled youth) primarily revolves around the character of Grace who is the caretaker of the facility. She’s a sweet, caring, understanding yet stern woman who knows how to connect with the kids that come in and out of her care. Even though she makes it her job (and life) to help others, she struggles to help herself as she bottles up her emotions and past traumas. She also has trouble communicating with her boyfriend/co-worker Mason even though she clearly loves him. Can Grace face her demons and move on with her life?

While there’s obviously more to the story than what I mentioned above (such as the subplots involving a number of teenagers who temporarily live at the home), I am hesitant about going into too much detail about the story. I can vouch for the fact that “Short Term 12” is best seen knowing as little as possible. I had heard bits and pieces about the film from other critics prior to seeing it, but I certainly wasn’t expecting such an emotional cinematic journey. Make no mistake about it; this is a tear jerking, surprising, heartwearming, and sometimes draining drama about connections, life, pain, feeling lost, friendship, and making a difference. Sure, you may only want to see this film once, but you’ll be so glad that you saw it that you will want to tell others to do the same.

I can’t end this review without talking about star Brie Larson. With the Oscar nominations announced this past week, it was disappointing to see that actress Brie Larson was overlooked for a nomination because she certainly deserved one. She gives a fantastic, touching performance as the complex character of Grace. She makes acting look so effortless here as she disappears into this challenging role. It’s no wonder that her career continues to thrive year after year.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? The film has an intentionally raw look to it, but the hi-def transfer still impresses with crisp and clear colors.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD. How does it sound? The track is a bit soft, but it’s sufficient enough.

Extras:
* 2 TV spots and a trailer for “Short Term 12.”
* Foster Care Outreach Information.
* 10 deleted scenes.
* The original short film version of “Short Term 12.” It is interesting to compare the short film to the feature film (which is definitely better).
* “Cast And Crew Screening Featuring The Shivers”- The title says it all. 
* “Making The Music”- A behind the scenes look at composer Joel P West and other musicians creating the score.
* “Behind The Scenes” contains set footage and cast and crew interviews.

Overall Thoughts: “Short Term 12” could have easily been a sappy film, but it’s not at all. It’s a very rich drama that deserves to be seen. Hopefully, it will find more of an audience on Blu-ray and DVD.

January 17, 2014 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Brie Larson, Short Term 12 Blu-ray Review, Short Term 12 Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack Review