Blu-Ray Review: Being There

1979
Directed By Hal Ashby

If you've never seen Hal Ashby's amazing Being There, stop what you are doing and go see it. The film contains one of the best lead performances of all time delivered by Peter Sellers. He's best known for over his top Inspector Clouseau... yet here he is the complete opposite... so understated. He is amazing to watch.

On Blu-Ray, the film is also amazing to watch. The transfer is so good... every time Jack Warden appeared I though to myself "why didn't anybody think to trim his nose hairs?" The film lacks any flashy visuals that would stand out in high-def, but the film shines by itself.

The trailer, two cut scenes and an inferior alternate ending are included as special features. The gag reel that plays during the films credits is also included by itself ... but stay tuned for some funny hi jinks after it plays out.

The disc also has a 15 minute look back at the film. This features actress Illeana Douglas, who visited the set to see her grandfather Melvyn Douglas (who costarred and won an Oscar.) It's pretty much a fluff piece, but entertaining.

I wish there were a commentary track that went into detail on the making of the film. That would have sealed the deal as this being a perfect package for Being There... instead it's just a good package.