6.9 | / 10 |
Users | 4.0 | |
Reviewer | 3.5 | |
Overall | 3.5 |
How does Bobby Bowfinger, Hollywood's least successful director, get Kit Ramsey, Hollywood's biggest star, in his ultra low-budget film? Any way he can.
Starring: Steve Martin, Eddie Murphy, Heather Graham, Christine Baranski, Jamie KennedyComedy | 100% |
Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC
Video resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 1.84:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.85:1
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit)
English SDH, French
Blu-ray Disc
Single disc (1 BD)
Region free
Movie | 4.0 | |
Video | 3.5 | |
Audio | 3.5 | |
Extras | 2.0 | |
Overall | 3.5 |
Writer Steve Martin (L.A. Story) and Director Frank Oz (What About Bob?) turn the camera around for a lighthearted look at the fringes of the Hollywood system and one group's dedication to get their picture made at any cost in Bowfinger, a film about guerrilla filmmaking, passion for the process, and sacrifice in the name of getting the shot. "A beautiful lie" is how one character describes the story during in an informal after-action report. It's a fitting reflection for the story, about how rogue filmmakers who don't always follow the rules -- bending and breaking them as needed -- do follow their hearts in an effort to make something of themselves by making something on the outskirts of the normal process. Candid, funny, and engagingly insightful not so much into the system but rather the human spirit to achieve, the film gives audiences access to more than just the roving set for a minor, would-be major, motion picture, offering instead a glimpse into the spirit of the movie world and the ups and downs that make it tick, whether on a major blockbuster or a shady indie.
Bowfinger's 1080p transfer falls somewhere between "good" and "acceptable." It's a bit frustrating in typical Universal catalogue fashion, leaving some scenes appearing strong and faithful and others a bit lacking. When it's on, which is often, the image is rather nice, with a light and effortless grain structure, firm details, and well-rounded colors. Stability doesn't maintain throughout. A number of shots and scenes appear much more flat, absent the organic film-quality of the better moments. "Run-down," "dreary," "dull," and "flat" define select moments where textures are less than ideal, grain is less obvious, and colors less dynamic. Fortunately, those superior moments that hold firm in terms of balanced color and that reveal some pleasant clothing and environmental textures outweigh those others. Black levels and flesh tones alike are fine. Print wear is mostly obvious over the opening title sequence and is much less to nonexistent for the bulk of the film. Hardcore videophiles may balk, casuals will be pleased, and those in-between shouldn't fret too much.
Bowfinger features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack that's enjoyably aggressive as necessary. One of the best sonic moments in the movie comes during a scene in which Jiff is tasked with crossing a busy highway, walking towards the camera with cars coming and going at top speed in both directions. The vehicles whoosh back and forth across the soundstage, engaging all of the speakers and reinforcing the sense of high-speed peril the character must traverse. Music plays with commendable detail and front-end width. Surrounds are used more in a support role rather than an active role. Light ambient effects fill in some gaps here and there. Dialogue drives most of the film, and it's presented as expected, with firm front-center placement, strong vocal detail, and quality prioritization.
Bowfinger contains a few supplements. No "top menu" is included. Extras may be accessed in-film via the pop-up menu.
Bowfinger is a fun little movie made by an infectiously enjoyable plot (albeit one that certainly takes some notes from The Producers) and equally infectious performances. A breezy, agreeable, and re-watchable little film, Bowfinger is a showcase for some of the best actors of its time, all of whom go all-in for one of Frank Oz's best. Universal's Blu-ray is adequate, offering decent video, fair audio, and a few vintage supplements. Recommended.
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