Behind the Candelabra

The Blu-ray release of "Behind the Candelabra" showcases a meticulously crafted visual presentation, epitomizing the flamboyant and extravagant lifestyle of Liberace, as envisioned by director-cinematographer Steven Soderbergh. Utilizing the Red Epic camera and a digital intermediate for its source, this 1080p, AVC-encoded Blu-ray delivers a stellar image quality that immerses viewers into Liberace’s opulent world. The film is presented in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio, where the visual aesthetics are suffused with a golden glow, accented with cooler colors outside Liberace's domain. Despite being transmitted on a BD-25, this release is commendably free from compression artifacts, a testament to the efficient compression capabilities of RED footage, particularly notable for its clarity in the absence of film grain which often presents a challenge in terms of compression.

Detail within the visual presentation is generally superb, allowing audiences to appreciate the intricate detailing of Liberace’s mansion, wardrobe, and stage shows. The intentional use of a softer focus and a diffuse glow lends a vintage feel to the film, matching its ‘70s and ‘80s setting, while still maintaining good clarity and depth. This softer quality might limit detail slightly, but it enhances the storytelling by focusing on textures and the vibrant sheen of Liberace's costumes. Vivid colors, solid blacks, and strong contrast are presented without being overstated, maintaining visual fidelity to the film’s thematic essence.

Overall, the Blu-ray video presentation of "Behind the Candelabra" impressively captures Soderbergh’s visual intentions, balancing stylistic choices with technical excellence. The occasional light layer of noise and isolated spikes during darker scenes are minor issues when considering the overall quality of the transfer. The film’s aesthetic, characterized by its golden palette and carefully balanced contrasts and shadows, ensures that Liberace’s glittery world is rendered with authenticity and elegance, making it a feast for the eyes on Blu-ray.

The audio presentation of "Behind the Candelabra" on Blu-ray, featuring a DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack, is a meticulous effort that serves as a fitting tribute to the musical prowess of both Liberace and composer Marvin Hamlisch. Overseen by Steven Soderbergh's frequent collaborator Larry Blake, the mix masterfully recreates Liberace's lavish performances, blending actual recordings of the artist with new renditions to produce a soundstage that truly envelops the listener. The track exhibits exceptional fidelity and a dynamic range that showcases Hamlisch’s final score with precision and warmth, ensuring that every piano note and costume rustle is heard in high definition, though Michael Douglas’s portrayal of Liberace’s vocal performances, while earnest, naturally falls short of capturing the full magic of the icon's live presence.

Dialogues in non-musical segments are crisply rendered, ensuring clarity and proper prioritization within the mix. Ambient sounds and environmental effects are thoughtfully placed, creating immersive settings that range from the intimacy of private moments to the buzz of a lively club. Though modest in its approach to sound design, this restraint accentuates the film’s intimate focus, allowing for a nuanced reproduction of scenes without overwhelming the senses. The attention to detail in sound layering provides dimension to quieter moments, though a slightly more aggressive use of bass and a broader immersive soundscape could have enhanced the overall experience.

In essence, the audio presentation strikes a balance between subtlety and spectacle, mirroring the dual nature of Liberace’s public persona and private life. With clear, well-modulated dialogue and ambient sounds that are naturally integrated into the soundscape, it supports the film’s narrative while paying homage to its subjects. The blend of original recordings and new performances offers a poignant auditory journey through Liberace’s legacy, albeit with a noted underutilization of the surround channels that leaves some potential for spatial immersion untapped.

The Blu-ray extra for "Behind the Candelabra" predominantly features "The Making of Behind the Candelabra", a concise but enlightening behind-the-scenes look. Although brief, this featurette is rich in detail, combining interviews with the cast, including Douglas and Damon, as well as key production and costume design team members, who share insights into the film's careful crafting to capture Liberace's extravagant lifestyle authentically. The discussions delve into adapting the source material, the actors' experiences embodying their roles, and the meticulous effort to recreate Liberace’s luxurious homes and flamboyant costumes. Despite its depth, the absence of director Soderbergh among the interviewees is a notable gap. Additionally, a promotional trailer for HBO Films auto-plays at startup but can be skipped.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Making of Behind the Candelabra: A featurette providing an in-depth look at the film’s production, from casting to costume design, albeit without input from director Soderbergh.

Steven Soderbergh's "Behind the Candelabra", available on Blu-Ray, dives deeply into the complex and closeted relationship between Scott Thorson and the dazzling entertainer Liberace, portrayed brilliantly by Matt Damon and Michael Douglas, respectively. Soderbergh chooses to navigate this biographical film through Thorson's eyes, steering clear of the clichéd trajectory of rise, fall, and redemption that taints many biopics. Instead, we're given a raw and intimate exploration of their life together, marked by its opulence as much as its eventual toxicity. The film brilliantly captures their dynamic, evolving from a fairy-tale romance into a spiral of jealousy, control, and substance abuse, exposing the underbelly of celebrity and the costs of keeping up appearances.

The technical prowess of "Behind the Candelabra" bolsters its storytelling, with HBO's production providing a lavishly detailed backdrop that brings Liberace's world to life. The attention to detail in set design, costumes, and makeup anchors the film's authenticity, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the excess and eccentricity of Liberace's lifestyle. Performances by Damon and Douglas are compelling, capturing the essence of their characters' fraught relationship with sensitiveness and a raw intensity that evolves convincingly over the film's duration. Douglas' transformation into Liberace is particularly commendable, disappearing into his role to unveil the vulnerability and loneliness of the man behind the larger-than-life persona.

Direction by Soderbergh ensures that while the film indulges in the flamboyance associated with Liberace, it never loses sight of the personal story at its heart. The film oscillates between moments of humor and tragedy seamlessly, crafting a narrative that is as touching as it is tragic. Moreover, innovative cinematography and editing complement the storytelling, with Soderbergh utilizing a mix of conventional and dynamic visuals to match the tone of each scene - from the high-energy performances on stage to the more introspective and disorienting sequences reflecting Thorson's struggles. Through its nuanced portrayal of complex characters caught in a swirl of fame, love, and loss, "Behind the Candelabra" offers a poignant glimpse behind the glittering façade of show business.

Behind the Candelabra" on Blu-ray offers viewers a rich and deeply personal look into the life of Liberace, one of the most flamboyant entertainers of his time. Director Steven Soderbergh masterfully captures the essence of Liberace’s opulent lifestyle and his complicated relationship with a much younger man, against a backdrop of love, jealousy, and the pursuit of fame. While the film delves into these complex themes with grace and nuance, it also pays homage to Liberace's early days, hinting at the making of his public persona which today could be seen as a pioneering drag act. The Blu-ray itself shines with a technical presentation that adeptly mirrors Soderbergh’s vision, featuring a sharp video quality and a robust audio mix that together enhance the viewing experience.

However, the Blu-ray package leaves something to be desired in terms of extras, offering only a single featurette that, albeit interesting, feels insufficient for those keen on diving deeper into the film's production or Liberace's life. Despite this shortcoming, the disc is an essential addition to the collection of any cinephile or fan of the legendary entertainer. It successfully combines a meticulously crafted biopic with a superior technical presentation, underscoring the film's significance and ensuring its recommendability.

In conclusion, "Behind the Candelabra" Blu-ray stands out not only for its compelling narrative and exceptional performances but also for its technical superiority. Although it might fall slightly short on special features, the overall quality of the film and its presentation makes it a worthwhile investment. This Blu-ray provides a vibrant window into the extravagant world of Liberace and is a testament to the artistry of Steven Soderbergh and his team. Highly recommended for its insightful exploration of an iconic figure and for capturing a bygone era with authentic fervor.