In an exclusive artist-in-residency program overseen by an enigmatic patron (RZA), artists in turmoil face a make-or-break ultimatum: unlock their full creative potential or abandon art forever. Yet, the unexpected intrusion of an outsider (Matt Walsh) jeopardizes the program’s delicate balance.
For in-depth thoughts on Not An Artist, please see my colleague Tristian Evans’s review from its theatrical debut here.
Video Quality
Not An Artist comes to Blu-Ray in a 1080p presentation that brings the picture to life without a hitch. Some moments exhibit a bit more vibrancy, but this is not a movie intended to dazzle with its color palette. Highlights are handled well with no signs of blooming, and the blacks are deep and do not suffer any crush or compression artifacts. The transfer handles every space with the ideal amount of care. The transfer reveals texture within the clothing, makeup, and production design that adds worthwhile depth to the picture. Skin tones are detailed and natural all around. Utopia has done a first-rate job with this release.
Audio Quality
The Blu-Ray disc comes with a respectable DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track that easily captures this story. The sound design is not overly bombastic but sounds emanate perfectly in the mix. Dialogue comes through clearly without ever being trounced by competing sounds. Environmental flourishes expand the soundscape to give the world a bit more personality. Music saturates the room when it needs to with a sturdy soundscape. The soundtrack adds some texture to the low end at points. There is nothing to complain about with the audio portion of the disc. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided.
Special Features
- Cast Interviews: A selection of brief interviews with the ensemble is provided that gives insight into their characters and roles in the film.
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- Ciara Bravo (2:05)
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- Clark Moore (1:52)
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- Cleopatra Coleman (1:31)
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- GaTa (1:23)
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- Hayley Joel Osment (2:43)
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- Rosalind Chao (1:11)
- Still Gallery: A minute-and-a-half-long collection of stills from the production is provided.
- Original Trailer (1:44)
Final Thoughts
Not An Artist is a really clever and insightful look at the struggle to create something out of nothing. The film has numerous hilarious moments, but it also delivers some deeper dramatic insights that sneak up on you. This has one of the standout ensembles of the year with several people vying for the MVP spot. This deserves a proper audience to discover all of its charms. Utopia has released a Blu-Ray featuring a smashing A/V presentation and some cool special features. Recommended
Not An Artist 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: Utopia & 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.
