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Love Story: Paramount Presents Blu-ray Review

“Love Story” is a quintessential romantic drama.

1970’s Oscar nominated “Love Story” is the story of a romance between a preppy young Harvard man (Oliver) who comes from money and a whip smart music loving young woman (Jenny) who does not come from money. The film chronicles their romance over time as they advance their careers, get married, and struggle to stay afloat. Their happiness is cut short, however, when a tragedy strikes.

Based on the Erich Segal novel (who also wrote the script), “Love Story” is a simple but moving romantic drama that has long been celebrated as one of the best cinematic love stories and one of cinema’s most noted tearjerkers. Sure, some critics and audiences have dismissed it as manipulative and syrupy and I can certainly see their point, but ultimately the works for two reasons- Ryan O’Neal and Ali MacGraw.

Prior to 1970, many romantic movies tended to feel forced, phony, or rushed, but there’s something honest about the central character’s relationship. Between their banter and the trials and tribulations of a relationship, “Love Story” has a sense of realism to it. A lot of that is due to the pitch perfect chemistry between Ali MacGraw and Ryan O’Neal who absolutely sell the movie and the characters. Arthur Hiller does a fine job directing and there’s no denying that Francis Lai’s score is nothing short of haunting and iconic, but O’Neal and MacGraw make the movie believable. Ray Milland and John Marley also deserve praise for playing the respective fathers of Jenny and Oliver as well.

As for the script, there’s some cliched material about class and overdone father-son drama to create more tension and conflict, but they don’t detract from what is an otherwise quality romantic drama.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? The super sharp 4K restoration is sure to please fans.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? Expect a nice crisp 5.1 track.

Extras:
* “Love Story” theatrical trailer
* Digital copy
* Commentary by director Arthur Hiller
* “Love Story: A Classic Remembered”- A retrospective featurette on the film and its history.
* Filmmaker Focus: Leonard Maltin On Love Story”- A new interview with the esteemed critic.
* A TCM intro by Ben Mankiewicz.

February 17, 2021 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Love Story Blu-ray Review, Love Story Movie, Love Story: Paramount Presents Blu-ray Review, Ryan O'Neal