Keiko is a semi-professional boxer who has been deaf since childhood. Her biggest supporter is the owner of her struggling Tokyo gym, but due to the pandemic and his advanced age, her greatest refuge is under threat of closure.
For thoughts on Small, Slow But Steady, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required:
Video Quality
Small, Slow But Steady arrives on Blu-Ray courtesy of Several Futures with a terrific 1080p presentation that presents this as well as it deserves. The transfer avoids all instances of compression artifacts and other digital anomalies. There is exceptional detail permeating the screen within the various environments, and this transfer spotlights so many unique characteristics. There is a valuable amount of texture in shots of the outfits and set design of the gym and the apartment. Skin tones look natural, and there are some notable characteristics on display in terms of perspiration. Colors are deftly saturated with some complex colors emerging in some corners of the screen. Black levels hold firm with no crush spotted, and highlights do not come up short with blooming. Several Futures has come through with a commendable transfer.
Audio Quality
The Blu-Ray comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track in the original Japanese (with optional English subtitles) that captures this meditative material effortlessly. Due to the nature of the narrative, this movie often unfolds for long stretches without dialogue, allowing the environmental effects to creep through more prominently. The track buzzes with life as subtle sounds of the town and nature flow out of the speakers to manifest a rewarding experience. Environmental sounds come through elegantly, and any dialogue is clear without being drowned out by any music or sound effects. Any texture in the low end is subtle at most. This track is a winner from Several Futures.
Special Features
- Making-Of Featurette: A great 46-minute fly-on-the-wall look at the production of the film including an exploration of the training that went into this role, the direction from Sho Miyake, and more.
- Booklet: A multi-page booklet is provided featuring a new translation of a conversation between Sho Miyake and legendary Film Critic Shiguéhiko Hasumi and a new essay by Film Critic Emerson Goo.
Final Thoughts
Small, Slow But Steady is one of the more gentle sports dramas we have seen, yet that is one of the things we love about it. Boxing is at the core of the narrative, but there is a premium put on the inner life of the character. Yukino Kishii is astounding in the lead role, conveying so much without uttering a word. The film requires a bit of patience if you are expecting the normal pace of a sports drama, but it is rewarding once you settle into it. Several Futures has provided a Blu-Ray with a strong A/V presentation along with a decent supplement. Recommended
Small, Slow But Steady is currently available to purchase on Standard Edition Blu-Ray or with a Limited Edition Slipcover exclusively through Vinegar Syndrome.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Several Futures and 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.
For major deals and money off on Amazon, make sure to use our affiliate link! If you are purchasing any of the latest and best in physical media at MovieZyng, you can support us using our affiliate link.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
