Cora (Meg Stalter) goes home to win back her girlfriend, and soon realizes it’s much more than her love life that needs salvaging.
For in-depth thoughts on Cora Bora, please see my colleague Will Bjarnar’s review from its theatrical debut here.
Video Quality
Cora Bora comes to Blu-Ray in a 1080p presentation that brings the picture to life with the utmost skill. There is a decent sense of vibrancy throughout with some forthright colors abound, but the movie never sacrifices the complexity found in the darker spectrum of the palette. Highlights are handled well with no hint of blooming, and the blacks are deep and do not struggle with any crush or compression artifacts. The transfer handles every setting with the ideal amount of care. The transfer reveals texture within the clothing, makeup, and production design that adds significant depth to the picture. Skin tones are detailed and natural all around. Brainstorm Media has done a first-rate job with this release.
Audio Quality
The Blu-Ray disc comes with a worthy DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track that effortlessly captures this story. The sound design is not overly showy but elements emanate perfectly in the mix. Dialogue comes through crisp and clear without ever being overshadowed by competing sounds. Environmental flourishes expand the soundscape to give the world a bit more life. Music flows through the room when it needs to with a sturdy soundscape. The soundtrack adds texture to the low end at various points. There is nothing holding back the audio portion of the disc. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided.
Special Features
- Audio Commentary: Director Hannah Pearl Utt, writer Rhianon Jones, producer Mallory Schwartz, and executive producer Tristan Scott-Behrends provide an entertaining commentary track in which they discuss the production of the film, the development of certain character traits, scenes that were cut from the film, elements pulled from their lives, and more.
- Original Trailer (2:01)
- Booklet: A multi-page booklet is included featuring an essay by film critic Sara Clements.
Final Thoughts
Cora Bora will be a struggle for some audiences due to the frustrating actions of its lead character, but with a dynamic personality like Meg Stalter bringing her to life, it is difficult to completely dismiss it. The film eventually provides some context that reframes the experience, but some may have already closed the book on their final judgment. This would be a shame, though, as there are some excruciatingly hilarious moments throughout this rocky journey of self-reflection. It may make you want to crawl out of your skin at times, but if you are a fan of Meg Stalter, you will not want to miss this one. Brainstorm Media has released a Blu-Ray featuring a stellar A/V presentation and a nifty commentary track. Recommended
Cora Bora 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: Brainstorm Media & 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.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
