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Reminiscence Blu-ray Review

“Reminiscence” never lives up to its potential. 

“Warner Bros. Home Entertainment provided me with a free copy of the Blu-ray I reviewed in this blog post. The opinions I share are my own.”

2021’s “Reminiscence” is a sci-fi neo-noir set in the year 2050. The story takes place in Miami which has become a flooded city due to climate change. The central characters (Nick and Watts) operate a technological business (The Tank) which allows clients to relive memories. One such client (a nightclub singer named Mae) walks in trying to find out where her car keys are and this is when the story begins to take off. Nick falls for Mae and they develop a relationship, but things go south when Mae disappears. While working with the police, Nick finds clues about Mae and obsessively searches for her as he is led down a path containing criminals, secrets, drugs, murder, a child, and lies.

Written and directed by Lisa Joy, “Reminiscence” has a promising start in the first half-hour. Not only was the world building interesting with the flooded Miami location and the technological advancements, but I found myself really drawn to the sci-fi neo-noir vibe that certainly had shades of “Blade Runner.” Unfortunately, after that half-hour mark ends, it’s all downhill for the movie. This is the type of movie where the more the story unfolds, the less engaging it becomes. It’s a convoluted tale about memories, nostalgia and the past that never comes together like it should.

The good news is there are quality performances here. Hugh Jackman makes a good lead as per usual. He gives it his all here. Thandie Newton is memorable as Watts. She’s always been a rather underrated actor. Rebecca Ferguson (who is having a banner year) steals the movie though as the secretive and seductive Mae. She’s fast becoming one of the best actresses around. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. How does it look? From the lighting to the CGI, this very visual movie shines in hi-def. Note: This title is also available on 4K. 

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, Atmos never disappoints. 

Extras:
* Digital copy
* A physical letter from Lisa Joy
* A music video for the song “Save My Love.”
* “You’re Going On A Journey”- A featurette that essentially sells the story and concepts of the movie.
* “The Sunken Coast”- A look at the world building of the futuristic flooded version of Miami.
* “Crafting A Memory”- A featurette about the concept of memories within this film.
* “Reminiscence: A Family Reunion”- A look at the team behind the movie (many of whom have worked together before).

November 9, 2021 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Hugh Jackman, Neo-Noir, Rebecca Ferguson, Reminiscence Blu-ray Review, Sci-fi