Glenn Close stars as Albert Nobbs, available on Blu Ray combo pack May 8, 2012. Courtesy of eOne Films
Albert Nobbs asks the viewer to venture into a world of suspended disbelief, one where the women dressed as men simply look far too feminine to believe…mostly.
A period piece with a twist is how I see Albert Nobbs, the story of a woman living as a man in order to survive the male dominated society of 19th century Ireland.
With all the media attention surrounding this film, the surprise does not rest in the main character’s sexual identity, instead the meat of the story exists in how Albert Nobbs deals with the world in which she is trapped.
While there are some excellent performances (two of which received Oscar nominations), the film lacks that special ingredient that would take it from good to great.
However, the screenplay is well constructed, featuring interweaving storylines between the hospitality workers in the hotel that hold our interest and tickles our curiosity.
What will further your curiosity is the complete disappointment the Blu Ray + DVD combo pack delivers. The video and audio presentation of the feature is solid, but the measly special feature set is baffling. For a film nominated for Best Achievement in Makeup, there isn’t a single featurette providing insight into the process. Instead we receive disjointed Interviews with the cast and crew, and three deleted scenes: one of which should have been left in the final cut, the other two deserved their snip.
Bottom Line: If you enjoyed the film and have no interest in learning more about the process, this is the perfect Blu Ray release for you.
Movie Grade B+
Blu Ray/DVD Grade C-
Runtime: 113 minutes
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1
