In a tour-de-force performance, Steve Martin plays Reverend Jonas Nightengale, a slick-as-oil flimflam man who’ll trade salvation for a donation to his touring ministry. Jonas knows how to work a crowd and a con, but his works of wonder are done with mirrors and smoke. When his tour bus breaks down, Jonas pitches his tents in impoverished Rustwater, Kansas. While his alluring manager (Debra Winger) tries to persuade the local sheriff (Liam Neeson) not to close the show, Jonas sets his sights on a beautiful skeptic named Marva (Lolita Davidovich). But making a believer out of Marva is going to take a real miracle. With its heart-warming spirit and rousing soundtrack, Leap Of Faith is a movie that will make you stand up and cheer.
For thoughts on Leap of Faith, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
[youtube https://youtu.be/T7jBM3kHH9s?si=r59bhRNx1L6d33qV&t=1466]
Video Quality
Leap of Faith comes to Blu-Ray with a 1080p transfer that is a fine offering that surpasses DVD quality yet fails to truly dazzle. There are no specific details available about the transfer, but this is pretty clearly derived from an older master that has a softer, aged appearance. A fresh master would inject some life into this one, but the transfer is clear of egregious debris with nice detail that ebbs and flows in terms of quality. Colors are forthright with natural hues permeating the screen, even if we believe a deeper level of saturation is possible. Black levels could be a bit more defined in terms of depth and detail, but we did not experience substantial crush or other artifacts. Specks of print damage linger without stealing focus. The transfer maintains its naturally filmic appearance with some enjoyable detail in the production design and clothing. If Paramount ever revisits this one with a new master, we would welcome it into our congregation.
Audio Quality
Paramount Home Entertainment brings us this Blu-Ray with a lossless DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio mix that translates this material without issue. Dialogue comes through crisp and clear without being overshadowed by the score or sound effects. The film features sporadic hectic moments in the revival tent with rapturous crowds which uses the subwoofer to good effect. The environmental effects are defined evenly and given precise placement throughout the speakers, even if things remain front-heavy. The rear speakers do a fine job of making the world feel more three-dimensional. This is a track that represents this film well. There are optional English SDH subtitles provided.
Special Features
There are no special features provided on this disc.
Final Thoughts
Leap of Faith is a unique effort from Steve Martin as he tones down his overt silliness and dances with something a bit more dramatic. There are still plenty of opportunities for him to channel his energy into his on-stage persona, but this material strives to deliver something more poignant on a thematic level. Martin is very good in the lead role, and his supporting ensemble is quite impressive. The intersection of religion and manipulation is a fertile area to explore, and this movie does just that. Paramount Home Entertainment has released a Blu-Ray with a passable A/V presentation but no special features. If you like the talent or think the premise sounds promising, give it a shot. Recommended
Leap of Faith can be purchased 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: Paramount 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.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
