Rating summary

Movie		4.0
Video		4.5
Audio		4.0
Extras		4.5
Overall		4.0

The Plot Against Harry Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf July 5, 2024

1970’s “The Plot Against Harry” has an interesting exhibition history. The picture was shot in 1969, with writer/director Michael Roemer confident in the process, but initial reaction to the movie was muted at best. The effort was eventually shelved after a single theater release in 1971. In 1989, Roemer was inspired to try again, submitting the feature to film festivals, where it acquired a second life and critical praise. Roemer’s endeavor was revived, finally reaching audiences, and it’s quality work from the helmer, who submits a fast-paced study of building pressure on a criminal trying to balance the chaos of his life. It’s a sharply acted and textured understanding of stress, with Roemer taking the material to weird and wild places of conflict and control.

Harry (Martin Priest) has just been released from prison, joining right-hand man Max (Henry Nemo) as he resurrects his criminal business, returning to deal with other underworld types. Running into his ex-wife, Kay (Maxine Woods), Harry is introduced to two daughters he never knew he had, and a family life he previously rejected. He also suffers a medical emergency, learning of an enlarged heart, which inspires a mission to set up more legitimate business affairs. However, everyone wants a piece of Harry, with the man spending his hours handling rivals, police and government interests, and his own conscience as he attempts to stabilize his life.

“The Plot Against Harry” is generally labeled a comedy, but it’s not exactly one in the traditional sense. Humor is present, but very subtle, with most of the viewing experience devoted to a level of disorientation facing the main character as he deals with just about everyone. The feature’s pace is set early and generally maintains speed throughout the story, following Harry into a life that hasn’t exactly paused when he was away, forced to clean up messes he created and clarify deals he wants to close. Part of the journey is criminal, trying to define relationships with powerful men in New York City. And there’s family, which is the most interesting element of “The Plot Against Harry,” as he’s suddenly presented with entire lives he’s missed, trying to understand new responsibilities.

The Plot Against Harry Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

The AVC encoded image (1.85:1 aspect ratio) presentation for "The Plot Against Harry" offers a good look at frame information. Skin particulars are present, exploring the age range of the cast, and costuming delivers textures with period outfits. Interiors are also defined as the main character makes his way through various confrontational situations. Exteriors retain depth as well. Cinematography remains defined, with crisp whites and deeper blacks. Grain is well resolved. Source is in decent condition, with some scratches and jumpy frames detected.

The Plot Against Harry Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 5.1 DTS-HD MA mix offers a frontal listening experience. Dialogue exchanges are clear, capturing character interactions and group bustle. Musical offerings are appreciable, with decent instrumentation. Low-end isn't challenged.

The Plot Against Harry Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Booklet (30 pages) contains an introduction from Michael Roemer and essays by Stuart Klawans, Rochard Brody, Georgia Brown, and J. Hoberman.

• Audio Interview (73:17) is a 1990 conversation with writer/director Michael Roemer, recorded at the Cannes Film Festival.

• "Making the Movie" (33:34, SD) is a 2005 interview with writer/director Michael Roemer and producer Robert M. Young.

• Q&A (27:16, HD) is a 2023 discussion of "The Plot Against Harry" with writer/director Michael Roemer, recorded at Film Forum in New York City.

• And a Newly Created Trailer (1:53, HD) is included.

The Plot Against Harry Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Roemer captures terrific atmosphere with the picture, which visits various living spaces and religious events, bringing viewers into the Jewish community as Harry reconnects with family members, sometimes unwillingly. The cast is aces, with Priest just marvelous as Harry, and the ensemble has a cracking script to work with, which pulls off a juggling act of conflicts and concerns while never really slowing down to study anything in great detail. "The Plot Against Harry" is sharp and involving, infused with tremendous personality by Roemer, who commits to an eventful character study, embracing the challenge of extraordinary turmoil and guilt coming for a man facing his mortality.