Kevin Spacey makes his directorial debut in this riveting
biography chronicling the life of Bobby Darin, a nightclub
performer classic songs such as “Splish Splash” and “Beyond The
Sea”. Bobby Darin began life on the streets of the Bronx with a dream to perform at The Copacabana, which was the top nightclub
during the 60's.
CRITIQUE
“Beyond The Sea” is not your average run of the mill
biography. The film opens with Bobby Darin the “King of Cool”
performing in a nightclub; at this point you kick back and relax
because you think you know what to expect. Then suddenly Bobby Darin
notices a child staring intently at him and yells “Stop, Stop!”. What
appears to be a nightclub performance is actually the filming of Bobby
Darin’s life story. “Beyond The Sea” keeps the viewer on his/her toes,
because the story is constantly changing and is not always linear.
Performances from top to bottom are excellent throughout,
but Kevin Spacey steals the show as Bobby Darin. No Lip-synching here,
yes that’s Kevin Spacey singing all of Bobby Darin’s classic songs.
This is an incredible feat considering that Kevin Spacey also wrote,
produced and directed this film. William Ullrich is also very good as
“Little Bobby” who is Bobby Darin’s conscience and shows whenever the
elder bobby needs to be brought back to reality. Bobby Darin is before
my time and I only know him because of the songs “Splish Splash” and
“Beyond the Sea”, this however did not hinder my enjoyment of the
film. It doesn’t matter if you’re a Bobby Darin fan or not, Kevin
Spacey cast and crew have made a film that everyone can enjoy.
THE VIDEO
Lions Gate Home Entertainment presents “Beyond The Sea” in
16:9 anamorphic widescreen format. The subtitle option on this DVD is
Spanish. The video quality on this DVD is excellent. The print is
clear and contains virtually zero specs. The colors, which are
abundant in this film, look spectacular. Only in the Superbit format
would video on this DVD look any better.
THE AUDIO
Lions Gate Home Entertainment presents “Beyond The Sea” in
English Dolby Digital 5.1 surround and 2.0 stereo sound. The audio
just like the video is excellent. All speakers get a good workout,
especially during the musical performances. If you have a good system
you are in for an audio treat.
THE EXTRAS
Director and
Producer Commentary: Excellent
commentary in which Director Kevin Spacey and Producer Andy Patterson
discuss the insights as well as the trials and tribulations of getting
this film made. The enthusiasm of Kevin Spacey and Andy Patterson
makes this commentary interesting to listen to.
Making of
Featurette: Interviews with Cast and Crew: Pretty good, but I think this extra is lacking in depth.
Most of the information found here is also provided in the excellent
Director and Producer Commentary.
FINAL THOUGHTS
“Beyond The Sea” is an excellent film that you should check
out regardless if you’re a Bobby Darin fan or not. Kevin Spacey’s
wonderful performance as Bobby Darin cannot be overstated, especially
considering the fact that it is actually Kevin Spacey singing and
performing all of Bobby Darin’s classics. Trust me, pick up “Beyond
The Sea” you won’t be disappointed.
