Four generations of the Balsano family gather for what may be the last Christmas in their family home on Long Island. Amidst the rowdy celebration, two cousins sneak away to claim the suburban winter wonderland for teenage rebellion.

For in-depth thoughts on Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point, please see my colleague Cameron Ritter’s review from its original theatrical release here.

Video Quality

Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point comes to Blu-Ray in a charming 1080p presentation that brings the feature to life in an ideal fashion. The film provides a cozy aura to the color palette which saturates the screen perfectly in high definition. There are a number of holiday hues in the background that impress with the complexity of the pigment. The transfer reveals texture within the clothing and festive production design that adds valuable depth to the picture. Even with the somewhat nostalgic haziness over the screen, there is never a lack of texture. Skin tones are detailed and natural throughout the ensemble. Highlights are handled with care with no hint of blooming, and the black levels are deep and do not suffer from any crush or compression artifacts. The transfer handles every aspect with the utmost care. IFC Films has treated this one very well.

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray disc comes with a pleasant DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track that effortlessly translates this story. The sound design is very reserved given the narrative demands, but every space conjures a distinct atmosphere that makes you feel as if you are at a family gathering. Dialogue comes through clearly without ever being overshadowed by competing sounds, which include overlapping voices. The story does not require a load of activity in the low end, but there is subtle texture in a few key moments. Environmental flourishes expand the soundscape to give the world some tangible qualities. The score flows through the room with a consistent fidelity. The audio experience is a winner. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided.

Special Features

Interview with Director/Co-Writer Tyler Taormina: A 17-minute interview with the filmmaker in which he discusses his background, what he wanted to accomplish with the film, what Christmas facilitates within this narrative, how he got the film made, the reception to the film, and more.

Behind the Scenes Footage: There is a 23-minute collection of footage from the production provided.

Original Trailer (2:30)

Booklet: A multi-page booklet featuring an essay from film critic Brandon Streussnig is provided that delves into the concept of nostalgia, the work of Tyler Taormina, the themes, and more. There is also a double-sided fold-out poster insert with new art by Michael DeForge and original art from the film.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point is a gentle affair, but it is one that captures the mixed emotions of the holiday season with great thoughtfulness. You have the joy of being with loved ones, yet there is typically some unspoken conflict bubbling just beneath the surface, however major or minor. By creating an exceptional hangout film, director Tyler Taormina has gifted the world with a new holiday staple for those who want something beyond the Hollywood gloss. IFC Films has released a Blu-Ray featuring a great A/V presentation and some nice special features. If you need to shake up your fourth quarter traditions, give this one a look. Recommended

Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point is currently available to purchase on Standard Edition Blu-Ray or with a Limited Edition Slipcover exclusively through Vinegar Syndrome/OCN Distribution.

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

Disclaimer: IFC Films & OCN Distribution have supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.