Review of Return Of Martin Guerre, The

Introduction

Highly acclaimed in its native France, Martin Guerre picked up 3 French Academy awards for writing, production and music, as well as an Oscar recognition for best costume designs. This is a forgotten classic being rejuvenated on the DVD medium.

Based on a factious story that took place in Artigat, a French Village in the Pyrenean foothills, Martin Guerre tells the story of a man returning home eight years after abandoning his family to goto war. However, when he shows up, his family & the locals have a hard time believing this is the man they once knew, as all of his defining characteristics have drastically changed, which leads to him being suspected as an imposter. He is dragged to court where a battle ensues to uncover the truth.

Video

Apart from some notable grain during scenes involving dim lighting, there`s no issues with the visual aspect at all. Long-running fans of this film will be delighted at the quality of print 22 years on from its first theatrical run in France.

Audio

Unfortunately, the French track is the only track, but it it`s all relatively even throughout with clear & crisp dialogue.

Features

For such a highly acclaimed film, I`d have expected some form of extras other than static screens filled with text. Sadly, that`s all that`s on offer.

Conclusion

Martin Guerre epitomizes great foreign cinema, with some truly remarkable performances all round, and a compelling story which brings with it some of the most breath-taking cinematography ever put to film. Though the absence of an English track & any extras may disappoint many, that shouldn`t detract from anybodies desire to own this disc.