In this cult-favorite documentary, Mark Borchardt, an aspiring filmmaker from a working-class Wisconsin background, is set on finishing his low-budget horror movie, despite a barrage of difficulties. Plagued by lack of cash, unreliable help and numerous personal problems, Mark wants to complete the film to raise funds for a more ambitious drama. With the assistance of his bumbling but loyal friend Mike Schank, Mark struggles to move forward, making for plenty of bittersweet moments.

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[youtube https://youtu.be/tgmHjkh1298?si=B4Ej3szCxtOZ9Jwa&t=2225]

Video Quality

American Movie arrives on Blu-Ray in its original aspect ratio which is not directly noted as stemming from a new restoration, but the quality is so high we would not be surprised if Sony remastered this in recent years. This is a lovely transfer that all but eliminates any blemishes to the 16mm source outside of the occasional white specks, tiny cuts and other small blemishes. The transfer retains the fetching film grain throughout with nothing looking unnatural and no major instances of spiking.

When you consider the film’s vintage and condition of the source material, it is pleasing to see the material looking so stable and consistent. There does not appear to be any issues with compression artifacts or any other such digital anomalies. The track does show off some fine detail in the environments and clothing of the subjects. Colors present with a decent vividness that pleases. This presentation does a wonderful job of giving new life to this favorite.

Audio Quality

This Blu-Ray comes with a well-rounded DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio track which presents this material as faithfully as you would hope. Interviews come through pretty clearly without being overshadowed by any competing sounds. The filmmakers attempt to capture their subjects as agreeably as possible in all environments, largely succeeding in making sure all this information comes through without issue. Environmental sounds are lightly implemented when in public spaces but not a standout aspect of the soundscape. The music has a fine fidelity when it makes itself known. This audio presentation is a strong representation of the film. There are optional English SDH subtitles included for those who desire them.

Special Features

Audio Commentary: Director Chris Smith, producer Sarah Price, Mark Borchardt and Mike Shank provide a really entertaining commentary track which gives you a lot of background detail on the production of the film along with plenty of humorous musings from the subjects which allows you some insights into how they view the movie.

Deleted Scenes: There are 22 unused scenes totaling 37 minutes provided here featuring moments that were cut for time but are terrifically entertaining for those who like the main feature.

Theatrical Trailer: The nearly three-minute trailer is provided here.

Final Thoughts

American Movie is a classic documentary which shows the dynamic gulf between having an incredible dream and having the tools to make that dream a reality. The subjects at hand are fascinating for a number of reasons, and every choice they make or random thought they express leaves your head spinning in an incredulous haze. This is one of our favorite types of documentaries; stories that follow quirky, real-life people who have colorful personalities. You do not have to be a fan of horror movies to care whether or not this guy gets his made. You just have to admire the attempt to accomplish something against all odds. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has released a Blu-Ray with a great A/V presentation and a couple of cool special features. Any documentary fan worth their salt will want to make time for this one. Highly Recommended

American Movie can be purchased on Blu-Ray directly through MovieZyng or various other online retailers.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.