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The Inspection Blu-ray Review

“The Inspection” deserves more attention. 

Based on the real-life experiences of writer/director Elegance Bratton, “The Inspection” is a 2005 set story revolving around a young Black gay man named Ellis French. Having been homeless and essentially disowned by his homophobic mother, Ellis decides to enlist in the Marine Corps to try and turn his life around and find a purpose. Although he initially tries to hide his sexuality during boot camp, he is unable to do so and eventually becomes bullied by both sergeants and recruits alike. Despite the hardships, Ellis is dedicated to seeing this journey through.

When you see that A24 logo pop up you know you tend to be in for a notable movie and “The Inspection” is no exception. Writer/director Elegance Bratton makes one heck of a feature film debut here with a very personal, heartbreaking, and intensely moving story about himself essentially. The film looks and feels authentic all the way through and Bratton never feels the need to stuff in drama for the sake of a dramatic beat. It’s clear that he’s pouring in all of his life experiences and emotions into this project about bravery, individuality, sexuality, and trauma and it shows in the final product. To say Elegance Bratton is a filmmaker to watch is an understatement (and he certainly has an eye for visuals as well). 

Jeremy Pope is making quite a name for himself as an actor having starred in musicals, “Pose,” “One Night In Miami,” and now “The Inspection.” Not only does he show real range as an actor, but it doesn’t even feel like he’s acting because he’s that good. It’s no wonder he received a Golden Globe nomination for his work here (although he should have received an Oscar nom as well). You don’t tend to see Gabrielle Union in dramatic work like this, but she certainly makes an impression as the homophobic mother of Ellis. Other standouts here include the always fantastic Bokeem Woodbine as the drill sergeant who goes way too far and Raul Castillo as Rosales who stands by Ellis.   

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. Grade: A-

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. Grade: A-

Extras:
* Digital copy
* 7 minutes and 46 seconds of deleted scenes.
* A24 trailers
* “Protect And Serve: Making The Inspection” contains film clips, interviews, and discussions about the project and cast.
* An insightful commentary by writer/director Elegance Bratton who talks about the personal aspects of the film and the production itself.

February 20, 2023 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Bokeem Woodbine, Gabrielle Union, Golden Globes, Jeremy Pope, The Inspection Blu-ray Review