Memphis Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		4.0
Video		4.0
Audio		4.5
Extras		3.0
Overall		4.0

Memphis Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf February 4, 2015

There is a vibration of life that runs through “Memphis,” which eschews a straightforward narrative approach to soak up the details of the famous city and the picture’s star, musician Willis Earl Beal. Playing a variation of himself, Beal is our guide to madness, watching the broken bluesman attempt to consider his limitations during a potent period of creative blockage, dealing with impatient record label executives and various supporting characters in his life, including his son. Insular but effective, “Memphis” is an evocative odyssey into confusion and the responsibility of influence.

There’s no clear direction for “Memphis,” with helmer Tim Sutton finding the story through glimpses of behavior. Beal is the entry point into the picture, but supporting characters come into focus, each working through pain and frustration tied to Beal, who’s simply trying to survive at this point, facing the end of his career. Emotions are understood but never directly addressed, with Sutton simply following community participants around, finding shape through observation. The city of Memphis is the true star here, stripped of its tourist traps to show a decaying city still clinging to traditions of blues and soul to make it through the day. Highlights are found with atmospheric shots, simply following the personalities as they navigate neighborhoods.

Memphis Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

The AVC encoded image (1.78:1 aspect ratio) presentation preserves the feature's HD cinematography, offering satisfactory detail on skin particulars and neighborhood haunts, while textures on outdoor journeys remain intact, capturing rotting exteriors and natural surroundings. Hues are spot-on, with rich skintones and pleasing greenery, while nightlife neon and lighting registers accurately. Blacks are healthy, delivering distances and evening activities.

Memphis Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 5.1 DTS-HD MA sound mix is more about atmospherics than dramatics, preserving life on the street during Beal's community visits. Dialogue is crisp, with a terrific group dynamic during church visits, preserving natural echo. Music is distinct, offering strong instrumentation and balanced levels. Surrounds are sparse, but supply life with bar visits and large gatherings.

Memphis Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Booklet (four pages) offers an essay by author Robert Gordon.

• Extra Scene (9:31, HD) follows Beal on a visit to a neighborhood prophet.

• Interview (7:53, HD) with Beal is conducted on-set, revealing that the musician is basically playing himself, sharing impatience with questions, but trying to be respectful to the process.

• Podcast Interview (25:35) is an extended audio chat with director Tim Sutton.

• "Teenie and Charles In Session" (4:24, HD) is an extended performance with the blues men.

• A Theatrical Trailer has not been included.

Memphis Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

With verite touches and a love for the heart of blues, "Memphis" holds attention, with Beal's unexpected thoughts and philosophies adding some surprise. It's esoteric work, but considered and well-shot by cinematographer Chris Dapkins, who does wonders with natural light. Come to this in an exploratory mood, and "Memphis" has much to offer.