In this elegant crime drama, a mysterious stranger is the lone passenger disembarking from a train in a sleepy French village. His name is Milan (rock icon Johnny Hallyday, Détective), a criminal intent on knocking over the local bank. Upon his arrival, he is befriended by Manesquier (Jean Rochefort, Symphony for a Massacre), a retired poetry teacher. Through their unexpected friendship, both men come to realize they have been given the opportunity to look back on their lives—complete with dashed hopes and unfulfilled dreams. At the same time, both are given the momentary chance to explore the road not taken. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Patrice Leconte (Monsieur Hire, Girl on the Bridge), the dazzling Man on the Train captivated audiences at the 2002 Venice Film Festival, where it won the coveted audience awards for both Best Picture and Best Actor (Rochefort).
For thoughts on Man on the Train, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
[youtube https://youtu.be/8VuXnHIaTrw?t=937]
Video Quality
Man on the Train comes to Blu-Ray with a new digital AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original aspect ratio from a decent enough older master. Minor specks of print damage pop up in fleeting moments without distracting, and clarity and detail is overall impressive. The interior of Manesquier’s abode is rich with interesting production design, and there are elements that are easily noticeable for the first time thanks to this transfer. The cool color palette gives the overall aesthetic a more subdued look, but this appears to be by design from the filmmaker. Skin tones are consistent with subtle facial details easily noticeable in closeup. Black levels show room for improvement, but the transfer is not burdened by much in the way of crush. Digital noise also does not present as a substantial issue here. The movie could benefit from a complete refresh, but this high definition presentation is a pleasing watch.
Audio Quality
The Blu-Ray disc comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track in the original French with optional English subtitles. This is a very subdued film that is mostly made up of exchanges of dialogue, and this track never seems to struggle to convey this information. The score maintains a firm fidelity throughout the duration of the film, as it settles you into the rhythms of the story. You do not experience any moments where it overshadows the dialogue, as the track maintains a good balance so that everything comes through clearly.
Environmental sounds are implemented deliberately to expand the soundscape of the various locations visited. Every sound is rendered well and remains distinct from all other components. This track does not show any majorly noticeable instances of age-related wear and tear. Kino Classics presented this one as well as any fan would want.
Special Features
- Trailers: The two-minute trailer for Man on the Train is provided here. There are also trailers provided for Monsieur Hire, The Crimson Rivers, In Bruges, Eastern Promises, Symphony For A Massacre and The Specialist.
Final Thoughts
Man on the Train may seem like a crime film from the outside, but this particular narrative is more concerned with the inner-workings of its two main characters. The narrative wrestles with themes of regret and other disappointments that accompany the act of getting older. The two performers do a really nice job of making these two very different characters feel like they could be kindred spirits in their own unique way. Kino Classics has provided a Blu-Ray with a good enough A/V presentation but nearly nothing in the way of special features. If you appreciate a contemplative spin on a crime film, you should check this one out. Recommended
Man on the Train is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Kino Classics 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.
