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Darkest Hour Blu-ray Review

Gary Oldman. Need I say more?

Directed by Joe Wright, “Darkest Hour” is a biopic of Winston Churchill that covers the first month of his time as Prime Minister during WWII. The film follows his appointment as Prime Minister following Neville Chamberlain resigning, his not so good reception from his peers due to his spotty record, the pressures he received to negotiate peace with the Germans, and his eventual victories both in war and winning over Parliament and the people. His home life with his Clementine and his working relationship with King George VI also plays a major role here.

Unlike many biopics that hit theaters, “Darkest Hour” thankfully does not try to cram in an entire lifetime of events. Instead, it focuses on the pivotal first month of Churchill’s tenure as PM. If you’re looking for a deep or complex biopic here, you may be slightly disappointed as it’s very much a straight forward and to the point story about politics as well as Churchill as a person and a leader. But that’s perfectly OK as what we do get is a powerful and timely story. On a side note, I do have to say this film also works as a perfect companion piece to both “Dunkirk” and “The King’s Speech.” It would be interesting to watch all three films together.

Of course, as you have no doubt heard by now, the real standout here is actor Gary Oldman who gives the performance of his career. He’s likely to win the gold this coming Oscar ceremony and it’s not hard to see why. He is the movie. Not only does he disappear into the role, but he utterly transforms himself here vocally and physically. Yes, the makeup and hairstyling work deserves a lot of credit here (that team was also nominated for an Oscar), but Oldman commits to the role in a manner you scarcely see.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? A superb transfer that really showcases the moody lighting.

Audio Track: Dolby ATMOS. How does it sound? An ATMOS track seems like overkill for this film, but the higher quality track the better.

Extras: DVD copy, Digital copy, a featurette titled “Into Darkest Hour” which contains set footage, interviews, and discussions about the film, the self-explanatory “Gary Oldman: Becoming Churchill” and an insightful solo commentary by director Joe Wright.

February 17, 2018 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Biopic, Darkest Hour Blu-ray Review, Gary Oldman, Joe Wright, Winston Churchill