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Z for Zachariah
[Blu-ray]
Blu-ray A - America - Lions Gate Home Entertainment Review written by and copyright: Abraham Phillips (26th November 2015). |
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The Film
 "Z for Zachariah" is based on a popular book of the same name, written by Robert C. O’Brien. This is a science fiction drama starring a wonderful cast of actors that includes Margot Robbie, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Chris Pine. All three create memorable characters. Viewers experience and understand the plight they are going through in this post-apocalyptic drama. The plot is your basic end of the world scenario, the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust that has destroyed the human race. Ann (Margot Robbie) has survived. She lives in an area that has not been contaminated. She believes herself to be the only survivor. Surprisingly one day while out exploring, she comes across a man, John Loomis (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who is a research engineer that just happened to be underground when the nuclear holocaust hit. Over time their friendship grows. There small little world becomes a peaceful set up. Ann believes after befriending, and helping Loomis, that she and he, are responsible to replenish the Earth. Loomis understands this idea, but for now the goal is to build, and work on projects to better their living surroundings. Soon another man is discovered, Caleb (Chris Pine). Ann, being welcoming, just like she was to Loomis, accepts him into their peaceful world. Loomis on the other hand is very questionable, and finds Caleb suspicious. As you would guess tension builds between the three and a love triangle that emerges causes their tranquility to be disturbed. The film is solidly acted and solidly directed. It's definitely a slow burn and requires some attention and patience for the story to unfold. The movie is not about action, it's a more subdued post-apocalyptic film. The film unfolds as if a piece of a grander puzzle, despite the simple execution of the plot. The shining star to this film is the beautiful and very talented Margot Robbie. Robbie is able to hold your attention and give the emotional reality of the ordeal taking place. She allows you to enter Ann’s world and experience what her character is going through. Equally impressive is her co-star the wonderful and talented Chiwetel Ejiofor. Ejiofor is one of those actors that disappears into his role. His part of John Loomis is given a voice and personality that is mysterious and intriguing. He showcases a dynamic fortitude that captures everything that one might go through in the ordeal they are experiencing. Director Craig Zobel captured a simple yet unique look at the human ability to survive, and also its faults in the end. The other important thing about this film is the dynamic expertise of having only three actors populate your film without losing focus or veering into boredom territory. The Cinematography by Tim Orr is amazing, and another solid plus to the film as are the excellent costumes, make-up, and visual effects.
Video
Presented in 2:35:1 1080p transfer using AVC MPEG-4 encoding, the transfer delivers a beautifully toned film. The imagery is very vibrant throughout even with its darkened plot of the end and survival. The film is gorgeous with many layers of colors that tell a story all by itself. From the natural skin tones to the green and subtle colors of the landscapes, the transfer is beautiful.
Audio
English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (mixed at 48kHz/24-bit). The movie itself has many moments of quietness. There is a silent undertaking in the film and the mix does a good job of balancing the quieter moments with the more intense moments of the film. The moments that are more intense are mixed well, dialogue and action come off clearly. The quite tones and slow burn filming makes the sound all the more enjoyable as the audio comes into play. Subtitles are included in English, English for the hearing impaired and Spanish.
Extras
Several extras are included, a featurette, a collection of deleted scenes, interviews, theatrical trailers among other extras, below is a closer look. "The Making of Z for Zachariah" which has a running time of 11 minutes and 28 seconds. This has interviews and footage of the film being made and completed. There is a reel of deleted scenes which has a running time of 6 minutes. There is also extended interviews with the director and cast. This has a running of 20 minutes and 14 seconds. Those interviewed are director Craig Zobel. Actress Margot Robbie. Actors Chiwetel Ejiofor, and screenwriter Nissar Modi. You also get an original theatrical trailer, which has a run time of 2 minutes and 33 seconds. There are bonus trailers for: - "Maggie" which runs for 2 minutes 8 Seconds. - "The Homesman" which runs for 2 minutes 2 seconds. - "Mr. Holmes" which runs for 1 minute 59 seconds. - "American Heist" which runs for 2 minutes. The case includes an art card that features Mondo Art and also comes with and insert for a digital copy version of the film.
Overall
For those who like slow burn stories, simple stories with subtle execution, you will take to this film. Solid direction and acting. It may not be for everyone. This is not an end of the world film about explosions, or zombies, or fight to the death, it’s an end of the world film about surviving, emotions, and the drama of personalities. If that's what appeals to you then check this one out.
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