MovieFreak.com - The Pianist DVD Review

DVD REVIEW

Pianist, The (2002)

Starring: Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann

Director: Roman Polanski

Rating: R

Studio: Focus Features/Universal

Release Date: 6.03.03

Review Posted: 6.07.03

Spoilers: None

By John Teves

Synopsis

An adaptation based on the autobiography of the acclaimed Polish composer, Wladyslaw Szpilman, who detailed his survival during World War II, and narrowly escaped a roundup that sent his family to a death camp. A composer and pianist, Szpilman played the last live music heard over Polish radio airwaves before Nazi artillery hit. There, in Poland, Szpilman struggled to stay alive--even when cast away from those he loved. He spent the duration of the war hiding in the ruins of Warsaw and scavenging for food and shelter. Szpilman eventually reclaimed his artistic gifts, and confronted his fears--with aid from the unlikeliest of sources.

The Video

THE PIANIST appears in an aspect ratio of 1.85:1; the image has been enhanced for 16X9 televisions. The film presented a breath-taking picture. Sharpness seemed flawless. The film remained distinct and well defined at all times. I noticed no signs of softness. No major concerns related to jagged edges; I did notice some mild edge enhancement, but not enough to merit a major concern. Colors were brilliant. Universal demonstrates an even range of colors on this palette. Blacks appeared dense, while shadow detail was accurately thick; low-light shots were well defined. Ultimately THE PIANIST was visually stunning.

The Audio

THE PIANIST is presented in both DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1. I detected no major difference, with the exception of the DTS track offering more resonance. This was somewhat of a subdued track however the both audio tracks offered a good mix that kept the speakers active with ambiance. Speech came across natural and distinct; music score sounded grand, which fit the films overall presentation. The score was clear and distinct, showing solid range through out the films presentation. Effects demonstrated fine characterization and accuracy, Ultimately THE PIANIST offered a truthful audio track for it’s presentation.

The Extras

A Story Of Survival: Insight into the Making Of the Film and Its Authenticity
Roman Polanski's Own Story of Survival During WWII
Behind-the-Scenes Interviews With Oscar Winners Roman Polanski, Adrien Brody and Ronald Harwood
Clips of Wladyslaw Szpilman Playing the Piano

Summary

Outside of Schindler's List, THE PIANIST is one of the best holocaust films I’ve seen in awhile. Roman Polanski does an extraordinary job at directing this work of art as does Adrien Brody, who gives a valiant performance as the Holocaust pianist Szpilman. To think that Brody actually lost weight by starving himself, learned to play the piano, and lived a life of isolation to get into his character. Brody’s worked paid off; THE PIANIST was nominated for 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and winner of 3 Oscars.

As a film, THE PIANIST is very long, however the extensive presentation is worth viewing. The DVD provides exceptional picture and sound, with some historical extras. This DVD comes Highly recommended.

DVD Rating: 4 out of 4

Review originally appeared on DVDFreak.net

DVD REVIEWS BY JOHN TEVES:

- Cheers: Season One

- Frasier: Season One

- Catch Me If You Can

- Young Guns: Special Edition

- Far From Heaven

- 8 Mile

- Army of Darkness: Boomstick Edition

- Blue Crush

- Bourne Identity