Jonathan Demme was one of the brightest spots of filmmaking in the 1980s.
Like early Spielberg, his sensibilities for Americana were funky but authentic.
He liked weird people, but not in an ironic or grotesque way.
He loves people, and it shows in every bit of his casting.
It stars Jeff Daniels and Melanie Griffith, and introduced the world to Ray Liotta.
Check out our review of the film on Blu-ray after the jump.
Image via Orion
Jeff Daniels stars as Charlie Driggs, a guy eating lunch decides to dine and dash.
Instead of taking him to work, she takes him to a motel for some frisky sex.
Hes also keeping a secret from Lulu, who later reveals her real name is Audrey.
Image via Orion
Rays with Irene (Margaret Colin), and asks them out for drinks.
There her big secret is revealed, and the stakes rise.
And one of the great pleasures is watching the cast interact with the supporting players.
Youre invested in their journey, and their odd pairing.
But then also Jeff Daniels was an actor to behold in the 1980s.
Hes still a great leading man, but his work here is career-best.
He manages to both be that corporate asshole, and show the person beneath.
Its nice to see Criterion release this andBlow Outin quick succession.
The Criterion collection Blu-ray presents the film in widescreen (1.78:1) and in DTS-HD 2.0 Stereo surround.
Extras consist of an interview with director Jonathan Demme (33 min.)
and writer E. Max Frye (9 min.).
Demmes talk is as deep as most commentaries and covers all the terrain youd want him to single out.
He also covers the great casting, and virtually everything you could want to know about the film.
And if I havent given him enough credit in this review he deserves it.
Its a great script.
The films theatrical trailer is also included.
