Shotgun Stories tracks a feud that erupts between two sets of half brothers following the death of their father.

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Video Quality

Shotgun Stories debuts on Blu-Ray in its original 2.39:1 aspect ratio from a master that looks very fetching. Sony handles the remastering of all of their titles and, given the results, we would believe this was given a fresh master in recent years. The vital natural film grain of the 35mm material resolves perfectly without swarming or clumping while delivering sumptuous detail in every frame. This barren town is rendered with impressive clarity, especially in the texture of the decaying buildings, the clothing, and the production design.

The cinematography of Adam Stone is akin to a documentary experience, and this disc replicates the style with precision. Black levels are deep without any egregious blocking or compression artifacts, and highlights never struggle with blooming. Facial features are incredibly detailed with sweat and pores textured alongside natural skin tones. The colors are more earthy within the locale with hues naturally saturating the frame rather than stealing focus. Fans patiently waiting for this one to get an upgrade will be thrilled by the results.

Audio Quality

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment delivers a Blu-Ray with both a DTS-HD 5.1 and 2.0 Master Audio track that handles this material favorably. The environmental effects are precisely defined and given a thoughtful placement in the speakers. This is a pretty gentle track, but moments of conflict rouse things sonically. Dialogue comes through clearly without being overshadowed by the score from Ben Nichols and Lucero. All of these new tunes emanate with faithful fidelity from beginning to end. Sony has done a great job with this one. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided.

Special Features

Audio Commentary: Filmmaker Jeff Nichols provides a steady commentary track that is very informative in which he discusses the production of the film, the location shooting in Arkansas, the larger idea behind certain scenes, working with the performers, the score from his brother, the look of the film, and more that is well worth a listen.

Interview with Jeff Nichols: A 14-minute conversation with the filmmaker in which he discusses how he wanted to portray the South in his film, his feelings for the characters, the universal themes of the story, and more.

Photo Book: A collection of photos from the production is provided.

Theatrical Trailer: A two-minute trailer is provided.

Final Thoughts

Shotgun Stories is a terrific debut from Jeff Nichols that confidently weaves a tragic tale of generational trauma. Michael Shannon is in top form as the leader of this trio of brothers who unknowingly sets off this chain of events. While lesser known, the remaining members of the ensemble all deliver great work that allows the emotions to land as intended. This stands tall across from indie dramas from this period. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has released a Blu-Ray with an excellent A/V presentation and a welcome selection of special features. This is your next great discovery. Highly Recommended

Shotgun Stories 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: Sony 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.