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Mindscape
R2 - United Kingdom - Studio Canal Review written by and copyright: Samuel Scott (22nd August 2014). |
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The Film
 ***This is a technical review only. For reviews on the movie from various critics, we recommend visiting HERE.*** Don't let her in. Mark Strong, in his first leading role in a feature film, plays John, a mind detective paid to enter people’s memories and uncover the reality behind their alleged crimes. But what will he make of his new assignment, the brilliant but troubled teenager Anna? Played with effortless panache by one of America's best upcoming talents - American Horror Story's Taissa Farmiga. As John enters her mind and becomes more involved in her sometimes brutal memories, he must decide if she is indeed the victim of unspeakable trauma or a very clever and manipulative sociopath. Produced by Jaume Collet-Serra (ORPHAN, UNKNOWN, NON-STOP), Mindscape is a suspenseful horror with a fantastic twist… The British cast also includes Brian Cox (The Bourne Identity) and Luther's Indira Varma and Saskia Reeves.
Video
Studio Canal have released Jorge Dorado's feature-length directorial debut using the original aspect ratio of 2.35:1. The transfer is in PAL format, is anamorphic, and looks very good indeed - as should be expected for such a new movie. As with most features in the psychological thriller genre, "Mindscape" uses quite a dark palette, with a lot of focus on blacks, browns, reds and blues. Blacks are inky and deep throughout, and the various shades are distinct and clear, though there is some minor crush on occasion. The infrequent use of lighter colours provide a vivid contrast where required, and add the appropriate depth. Details are strong from beginning to end, especially when it comes to scenes which focus on particular items during the memory sequences (the letter opener for example). Facial close-ups show off the various blemishes in the actors skin, and background items, whilst scarcely fuzzy, look good too. The transfer has a natural grain running throughout (film was shot on 35mm using an Arriflex camera) which never feels noisy, even during the darkest scenes with little natural light. There is no damage worth mentioning such as scratches or dirt. The film runs 94:35 and is uncut.
Audio
There are two audio options available: - English Dolby Digital 5.1 - English Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo For my viewing, I opted for the English Dolby Digital 5.1 track, which did a great job in adding to the tense atmosphere. The score by Lucas Vidal (Fast and Furious 6, The Quiet Ones) is pretty much what you would expect for he genre, but the way it makes full use of the sound field, does mean it feels above average. What does impress, is the use of smaller effects. Creaks, footsteps, police dogs barking in the woods - all sound great and the directionality is top notch. The LFE enjoys the boost it receives during the more tense scenes, with some low-end rumblings as well as the odd striking thump. Dialogue is clear and easy to understand throughout, and there are no problems such as drop outs or scratches. Unfortunately, no subtitles have been included.
Extras
None.
Overall
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