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Valmont
[Blu-ray]
Blu-ray A - America - Kino Lorber Review written by and copyright: Noor Razzak (30th November 2023). |
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The Film
 In the realm of period dramas, "Valmont" stands out as a captivating masterpiece that weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and societal expectations. Directed by Miloš Forman, this film, based on the novel "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" by Choderlos de Laclos, offers a fresh perspective on the intricacies of human relationships in 18th-century France. The film's narrative revolves around the cunning and seductive Vicomte de Valmont (Colin Firth), and the virtuous Madame de Tourvel (Meg Tilly) as he engages in a challenge to seduce the virtuous Madame amidst a web of love, betrayal, and societal intricacies, Valmont's calculated pursuits blur with genuine emotions, leading to tragic consequences. The chemistry between the two leads is nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing the audience into a world where manipulation and passion collide. One thing is for certain, the film's meticulous attention to period detail is incredible. The costume design and set decoration transport viewers to the opulent world of the French aristocracy, enhancing the overall immersive experience. The cinematography, under the skilled eye of cinematographer Miroslav Ondříček, captures the grandeur of the era, creating a visual feast for the audience. The screenplay, adapted by Forman and Jean-Claude Carričre, skillfully navigates the complexities of the source material. The dialogue is sharp and thought-provoking, with each line serving a dual purpose – to advance the plot and delve into the psychology of the characters. The narrative unfolds like a chess game, with each move calculated and every word laden with intention. The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances across the board. Colin Firth's Valmont is both charismatic and conniving, while Meg Tilly brings depth and vulnerability to Madame de Tourvel. The supporting cast, including Annette Bening as the cunning Madame de Merteuil and Fairuza Balk as the innocent Cécile, adds layers to the narrative, contributing to the film's overall richness. Miloš Forman's directorial prowess is evident in the film's pacing and tonal balance. Despite the intricate web of relationships and deceit, the film never loses its sense of coherence. Forman masterfully navigates the fine line between drama and satire, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. "Valmont" distinguishes itself from other adaptations of "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" through its nuanced exploration of morality and consequence. It serves as a timeless reminder that the pursuit of pleasure at the expense of others can have profound repercussions. In a world where societal expectations and personal desires collide, "Valmont" remains a relevant and compelling exploration of human nature. "Valmont" lies in its distinctiveness within the realm of adaptations. As one of several films based on the same source material, it inevitably invites comparisons, particularly with the well-received "Dangerous Liaisons" (1988). Some viewers may find themselves drawing parallels, sparking discussions about which rendition more faithfully captures the essence of Laclos's novel. While the film excels in storytelling, there are some concerns about its pacing. The intricate plot, filled with manipulation and complex character relationships, may demand a patient viewer. Those seeking a brisk, fast-paced narrative might identify moments where the film seems to linger, impacting the overall flow. Despite its undeniable merits, "Valmont" has not attained the same widespread recognition as some of its counterparts. Factors such as marketing, release timing, or competition during its initial debut might have contributed to its relatively lower profile. This, however, does not diminish the film's intrinsic value, as it continues to find an audience appreciative of its unique take on the classic tale. For those intimately familiar with Laclos's original work, "Valmont" may prompt comparisons and scrutiny. While adaptations inherently involve alterations, purists might discern differences or omissions that influence their overall perception of the film. Nevertheless, the movie stands as a testament to the enduring allure of period dramas, offering a thoughtful exploration of morality and consequence.
Video
Presented in the film's original theatrical ratio of 2.39:1 HD 1080p 24/fps mastered using AVC-MPEG4 compression, this new transfer is a 2K scan of the 35mm Interpositive. Not sure why they didn't just do a transfer from the original camera negative, perhaps cost? Perhaps the Original Negative wasn't easily accessible? Either way, fans of this film finally get a release on Blu-ray. The image does look good, but I can't help thinking that could have been better. While there are scenes which sharpness and detail look good, there are also scenes that look lacking in depth and detail with some noticeable softness; the scene at the opera near the 1 hour mark is a good example of this. There is a decent amount of film grain present, and black levels can be a little bit noisy but acceptable.
Audio
A single audio track is included in English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo, if any film could have been boosted by a 5.1 surround track it could be this one, there are so many lush scenes where immersiveness could have benefitted. However, in saying that this track does the job, dialogue is clean and clear, the score bodes well in stereo as well. Optional subtitles are included in English for the hearing impaired.
Extras
Kino Lorber has delivered this film as a "Special Edition" release with a few supplements, below is a closer look. A new feature-length audio commentary is included by Film Historian/Filmmaker Daniel Kremer, Kremer offers an insightful track that covers the production history, on Forman's career, visual style, and films. He offers a critical look at this film, its themes, and challenges the filmmakers faced making it. Definitely worth checking out this track, even if you're not a fan of the film, there's plenty of incredible insights within. "The Art of Seduction: Director Miloš Forman on Valmont" Recorded May 1, 2000 in New York City (15:35) featurette is an interview with the iconic director, he comments on avoiding repetition among one's work, he talks about his other films, his early career, the stages of his career, among other things. The film's original theatrical trailer (2:01) is included as are a collection of bonus trailers for: - "Man on the Moon" (2:35) - "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy" (2:01) - "Masquerade" (1:25) - "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" (3:57)
Packaging
Packaged in a keep case housed in a cardboard slip-case.
Overall
"Valmont" is a cinematic gem that transcends its period setting, offering a timeless exploration of love, deception, and the consequences of one's actions. With its stellar performances, meticulous craftsmanship, and thought-provoking narrative, this film continues to captivate audiences, cementing its status as a classic in the realm of period dramas. Kino Lorber has delivered a respectable release despite the flaws in the transfer the overall package is worth the price.
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