In this revenge comedy from Academy Award-nominated writer Paul Weitz, Claire (Academy Award winner Jane Fonda, 1978, Actress in a Leading Role, Coming Home) and Evelyn (Academy Award nominee Lily Tomlin, 1975, Actress in a Supporting Role, Nashville) are estranged friends who reunite to get even with Howard (Malcolm McDowell), the petulant widower of their recently deceased best friend. Along the way, Claire reunites with Ralph (Richard Roundtree), her great love from her younger years, as each woman must make peace with her past and learn to treasure the value of a good friend.
For in-depth thoughts on Moving On, please see my colleague Mike Vaughn’s review from its original theatrical release here.
Video Quality
Lionsgate Home Entertainment brings Moving On to Blu-Ray with a very satisfying 1080p video presentation in its original 2.39:1. The image is practically flawless with the bright natural color palette radiating off the screen. The film employs nice splashes of bold colors within the costumes, locations and production design which makes for a visual treat. These elements also provide crystal clear textural details which adds to the immediacy of the frame. Highlights show no signs of blooming, and the black levels are appropriately deep with no obvious digital noise. The flesh tones are natural with a tremendous amount of detail present in close-ups, especially in the makeup. The presentation provides a significant amount of depth on display, especially when the characters are outdoors. Lionsgate has given this one a really wonderful visual presentation.
Audio Quality
This Blu-Ray comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track that handily brings this tale to life. Dialogue always comes through clearly without being overshadowed by any competing sounds. There is not too much in the way of big, kinetic sequences, but the environmental sounds of each setting engage the surround speakers in a believable way. The pleasant score fills the speakers in a well-balanced way which aids the narrative. There are a few exaggerated elements which engage the low end, such as a key moment in a parking garage, but it is not a showcase in that regard. Ambient sounds such as the residents at the retirement home and the chirping of birds are precisely placed in the rear channels. The audio track is not going to be used to show off your system, but it proves to be a great sounding presentation for this feature. There are optional English SDH and Spanish subtitles provided.
Special Features
- Photo Gallery: A minute-and-a-half collection of stills from the production and marketing.
- Theatrical Trailer: The two-and-a-half minute trailer is provided here.
Final Thoughts
Moving On is a film that should not be underestimated. Hollywood has a tendency to use stories starring older performers as an excuse to make them do or say outrageous things, often feeling like their age is part of the punchline. While the marketing may make this film look like another entry in this comedic subgenre, that is not the case. There are some very heavy themes being explored within this, and it is also laugh-out-loud funny while honoring the experiences and legacy of these leading ladies. Age is not a punchline in this film, but rather a natural part of life that is tackled in an emotionally honest manner. This should be the direction Hollywood should strive to lean into for our seasoned veterans; this film is a delight. Lionsgate Home Entertainment has released a Blu-Ray with a pretty excellent A/V presentation but nearly nothing in the way of special features. Recommended
Moving On is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray, DVD and Digital.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Lionsgate 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.
