DVD Corner

Blue Is The Warmest Color Blu-ray Review

“Blue Is The Warmest Color” is one of 2013’s very best films.

Based on the graphic novel by Julie Maroh, “Blue Is The Warmest Color” revolves around a high school student (Adèle) who is trying to find herself and figure out her sexuality. One day, while she’s walking across the street, she passes by a blue haired woman (Emma) whom she becomes entranced by. As luck or fate would have it, Adèle later meets the slightly older art student Emma again after randomly walking into a lesbian bar. From there on out, Emma and Adèle become fast friends and eventually fall in love. The two seem meant for each other, but as their relationship unfolds, issues begin to emerge.

Even though ‘Blue’ clocks in at 179 minutes, you likely won’t care (or even notice) because it’s such an absorbing character drama about love, heartbreak, mistakes, sexuality, identity, confusion, loneliness, and relationships. Much like director Richard Linklater’s “Before” trilogy, director Abdellatif Kechiche’s take on “Blue Is The Warmest Color” feels entirely real and naturalistic. As a viewer, you get the feeling as if you are a fly on the wall observing this couple over the span of several years which makes the movie all the more engrossing.

Of course, ‘Blue’ wouldn’t be nearly as impressive were it not for the incredible performances by actresses Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux. The two stars have such impeccable chemistry together and they truly make the characters their own. It’s a real shame Seydoux and Exarchopoulos were overlooked in many Award ceremonies because they gave two of the finest performances from 2013 without question.

Much has been said about the explicit sex scenes, but in my humble opinion, it’s much ado about nothing. If you can’t handle the mature material, that’s on you. Now, if the sexual content was gratuitous for no apparent reason, I could understand the criticisms. As is, however, the scenes serve a purpose. ‘Blue’ is a story that is largely about the intimate relationship between Emma and Adèle. You can’t sidestep the sexual nature of their relationship as it is integral to the characters and the story.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.35:1 1080p. How does it look? You can’t ask for a better transfer.

Audio Track: French 5.1 DTS-HD (with English subtitles). How does it sound? Whether it’s an intimate moment or a lively scene in a club, this track delivers.

Extras:
* A trailer and TV spot for “Blue Is The Warmest Color.”
* A booklet featuring a thoughtful essay by B. Ruby Rich.

Overall Thoughts: “Blue Is The Warmest Color” is the type of film that sticks with you long after you see it. Essential viewing for film buffs.

February 25, 2014 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Abdellatif Kechiche, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Blue Is The Warmest Color Blu-ray Review, Blue Is The Warmest Color Criterion Blu-ray, Blue Is The Warmest Color Graphic Novel, Léa Seydoux