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Cyrano Blu-ray Review

2021’s “Cyrano” is well worth watching despite its musical problem.

Directed by Joe Wright (who is best known for “Atonement” and 2005’s “Pride And Prejudice”), “Cyrano” is both based on the original classic “Cyrano de Bergerac” stage play and 2018’s stage musical by Erica Schmidt (who also penned the screenplay for this film adaptation). While Cyrano may be the titular character, the story is more of an ensemble piece about Roxanne (an orphan who desires true love), the slimy Duke De Guiche (a powerful man who covets Roxanne), a not so articulate soldier named Christian (who falls for Roxanne) and Cyrano (a longtime friend of Roxanne who loves her deeply). When Roxanne confides that she has eyes for Christian, Cyrano decides to help out Christian in wooing her despite the fact that he loves her. Unfortunately, Duke De Guiche threatens to derail everyone’s plans.

There are many folks out there who detest musicals, but I am not one of them. Not only do they have a grand history in cinema, but films like “Singin’ In The Rain” and “The Wizard Of Oz” are among my very favorites. With all of that said, “Cyrano” should not have been a musical. If the cast was comprised of musical veterans it would have been a very different story, but, let’s face it, Peter Dinklage and company are not singers. The poor songs really detract from what is an otherwise compelling adaptation of this romantic tragedy. I realize that the musical element was part of the twist on this timeless tale, but it doesn’t work here.

Thankfully, the non-musical elements shine bright. Peter Dinklage may not be able to sing, but he’s sure one hell of an actor. He makes the character of Cyrano his own while also bringing the iconic layered character to life. Haley Bennett (Roxanne), the ever reliable Ben Mendelsohn (Duke) and Kevin Harrison Jr. are equally fantastic in their respective roles. Everyone plays off of each other so well here. The cast chemistry is simply excellent. 

Joe Wright also deserves credit for creating yet another memorable period piece. He has a knack for getting the best out of his performers and staging scenes filled with wondrous production design and award worthy costume design. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. How does it look? Expect a quality hi-def print.

Audio Track: 7.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? From the music on down, this 7.1 track is nothing short of being lively.

The only extras are a DVD copy, a Digital copy, Universal trailers and a featurette titled “An Epic Adventure: The Making Of Cyrano” which includes interviews, set footage, film clips, and discussions about this version.

April 21, 2022 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Cyrano (2021), Cyrano Blu-ray Review, Cyrano de Bergerac, Cyrano Movie, Peter Dinklage, Roxanne