Directors: Roman Polanski
Actors: Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz, John C. Reilly
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: March 20, 2012
Running Time: 80 minutes
Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
I never had the chance to see the play “Gods of Carnage”, which this film is based on but I am sure happy to get a chance to see this film. I really enjoyed it. I felt that it was very intelligent and sharp. The film really carries a stage feel basically stay inside one apartment the entire time. Though I think that was the feel that director Roman Polanski was aiming for. The film works best as a stage play, so I say keep it in stage play format.
The cast is so extraordinary in this as well. Of course I can’t compare to the various Broadway casts. Prior to this film, I was at a point where I would honestly avoid an film from Jodie Foster…well this just changed it. She was absolutely hysterical and necrotic at the same time. Kate Winslet is also hysterical as well and really nails the role. Christoph Waltz shows his comedic side very well after his amazing performance in “Inglorious Basterds”. Last but not least John C. Reilly delivers yet another notable comedic performance.
The story itself feature two sets of parents that come together to discuss an incident between each of their sons. The incident starts off civil but then slowly stirs out of control into this comedic explosion of events. The group going from have a drink of water to liquor to fighting up a storm. It is really well directed by Polanski and perfectly executed by its cast.
The Blu-ray presentation is decent but doesn’t really get challenged. It does looks good with its 1080o high def resolution and its carries a slightly modified aspect ratio of 2.34:1. The film is all dialogue and definitely contains a clear DTS-HD Master Audio 5.0 track.
The special features are decent overall and lacking any notable commentary tracks. The first feature is called “Actors’ Notes” which runs about 10 minutes and features the four stars talking about the film and its production. “An Evening with John C. Reilly and Christoph Waltz” runs almost 40 minutes and features a Q&A with the actors about the film. There is a short feature with cast/crew interviews called “On the Red Carpet”. Lastly there just the film’s theatrical trailer.
