Filmworker Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		4.5
Video		4.0
Audio		4.0
Extras		3.0
Overall		4.0

Filmworker Blu-ray Movie Review

A must-see documentary for Kubrick enthusiasts.

Filmworker is a remarkable documentary production exploring the works of Stanley Kubrick and the collaborations he had with his cast and crew (including the special connection Kubrick had with his assistant). Produced by Elizabeth Yoffe (The Peppermint Tree, Carrying Out Our Name) and Tony Zierra (America Off Line, USA the Movie), Filmworker is a must-see documentary for Kubrick enthusiasts.

Leon Vitali (who starred in the role of Lord Bullingdon in Kubrick's Barry Lyndon) decided to make a unique career choice: abandon his professional acting career in order to pursue working with Stanley Kubrick (by any means necessary). The actor wished to work with Kubrick on every film - even if not in front of the camera. Becoming Kubrick's trusted assistant, Vitali ended up working with the beloved filmmaker for decades. When it came to casting or production assistance, Vitali was always ready-and-waiting to be the filmworker that Kubrick came to depend on.

The documentary showcases rare behind-the-scenes videos and photographs to help tell the tale of the unique collaboration between Stanley Kubrick and Leon Vitali. The film also showcases memos that were shared between the two friends. As the documentary delves in to the working friendship, Vitali discusses the genius of Kubrick – and everything that made him wish to work with him on a regular basis.

Cinema perfected.

Expanding on the collaborations between Kubrick and Vitali, the documentary includes interviews with Hollywood professionals who worked closely with Kubrick over the years – delving further in to what it was like to work with a master filmmaker like Stanley Kubrick in their own respective career fields. Filmworker includes interviews with Ryan O'Neal, Brian Capron, Mike Alfreds, Nick Redman, Brian Jamieson, Danny Lloyd, Matthew Modine, and others.

One of the best elements of the feature-film is the music score composed by David Ben Shannon (Pinnacle Man, My Big Break). The score provides Filmworker with a sense of gravity – a clear passion for the story. The music fits the tone of the film and never feels out of place. Bravo.

The production is impressive – featuring cinematography, editing, and direction by Tony Zierra (My Big Break, Invisible Temptation). Filmworker is such a well-made documentary. The film has such clear passion for Kubrick and his work. The documentary paints a beautiful portrait of Kubrick's remarkable genius. Anyone with an interest in the history of Kubrick's behind-the-scenes will be thrilled with the wealth of information. Filmworker is not just a love letter to Stanley Kubrick: it's a love-letter to cinema itself (and those who make movies).

Filmworker Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Arriving on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber, Filmworker is presented in 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition in the original aspect ratio of 1.78:1 widescreen. The release has a generally impressive presentation which benefits from the high-definition encoding. The film showcases a myriad of archival footage (which varies in source-quality) but most of the film clips look excellent. The interviews are largely crisp and impressive looking as well: a nice high-definition upgrade.

Filmworker Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The release includes a selection of lossless audio options: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo. The surround sound track is engaging and makes the film even more fun. Though the track is somewhat reserved sounding compared to a big Hollywood production, the integration of score music and occasional sound effects make the documentary more compelling. Dialogue is crisp, clear, and easy to understand. Optional English subtitles are provided.

Filmworker Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Q&A with Leon Vitali and Director Tony Zierra (HD, 11:00) as moderated by Rodney F. Hill.

Filmworker Theatrical Trailer (HD, 2:27)

The Kid Stays in the Picture Theatrical Trailer (SD, 1:39)

Filmworker Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Filmworker is a work of genius: born of master filmmaker Stanley Kubrick. A love letter to the director, Kubrick's works are explored alongside the history of his collaborations with assistant Leon Vitali and others. The Kino Lorber Blu-ray release provides a nice upgrade in video-audio and some supplements. Highly recommended.