Plot: What’s it about?
Can cameras really capture the essence of a normal American household, even when the family members know the cameras are present? Albert Brooks thinks so and to prove his belief, he and a team of cameramen have invaded a typical home, to document what real life is like for these people. So armed with some unusual head mounted camera systems, Brooks and his crew moves in with Warren Yeager (Charles Grodin) and his kinfolk for a period of one year. In this year, Brooks hopes to document real life and then turn it into a real powerplay for himself, so he can rake in the cash and prestige. Of course, the family members are always aware of the cameras and as such, behave in ways they normally wouldn’t, which in turn throws off the realism Brooks wants. So as time ticks on and the Yeagers begin to unravel under the pressure, Brooks also deals with budget problems and slipping confidence in the project. As both sides struggle with the troubles facing them, it seems as though the realism there is much different than either of them expected.
It might be a bit eerie that a movie that came out in the late 70’s predicted the rise of reality-based television. I suppose the tidal wave of these shows do enhance this film’s lasting power, but even as a stand alone picture, Real Life is hilarious and well worth a look. The approach is terrific and while some spots seem rushed, I think most of the movie works well and come on, you have to love those head mounted cameras, eh? Brooks is very good in front of the camera here, but also directs to solid ends, which is impressive since this was his debut in the director’s chair. The rest of the cast is also very good, but this one belongs to Brooks and his maniacal producer character. I know his films aren’t for all viewers, but if you’re a fan of Brooks or just want to see a good flick, then this is a movie you have to check out.
Although he has only directed about a handful of films, written a few more, and starred in even a few more, Albert Brooks seems to have a wealth of experience in this business. I’ve always liked his work and in truth, I was surprised when I learned how few films he has starred in, as I expected to find more than twenty or so appearances. But still, I am glad he does that many and among them, his performance here is one of my favorites. I think he does his best work on his own movies though, so I was never too surprised. I love his rants, raves, songs, and speeches in this film and if you like his style, then you’ll love his turn here also.
Video: How does it look?
It’s hard to compare films from this era versus modern movies. Apples and oranges. But one thing that any fan of Criterion’s discs is we’ll know that the final product will look amazing or at least as good as it possibly can. Real Life has gotten a new 4K re-master and though it’s not the kind of film that screams “I need to be seen in 4K”, it does help with the overall image (obvious pun intended). The 1.85:1 HEVC 4K image gives us a lot more clarity to the image, colors are bolder and brighter and, of course, detail has been improved dramatically. The last time I watched this film was Paramount’s Standard DVD. It’s safe to throw that one out now – this is the new definitive version.
Audio: How does it sound?
This disc includes the original mono track, which seems to handle the basics well enough. The track is clean and shows little problems, but just remember that it’s mono and don’t expect a dynamic presentation. The music and sound effects are well replicated and full, but like I said, this is mono and as such, the range is limited from the start here. The dialogue is the main element here and it sounds terrific, with crisp vocals and always at a proper volume level. I did hear some harshness at times, but nothing to be worried about in the end.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Admittedly, this isn’t one of Criterion’s stacked discs loaded to the gills with extras, but what we’ve got isn’t half bad.
Disc One (4K)
This disc contains no supplements.
Disc Two (Blu-ray)
- Albert Brooks – We get a new segment that runs just a shade over 30 minutes with the acclaimed writer/actor and director. He sheds some light on the inspiration for the film as well as those who helped contribute.
- Frances Lee McCain – We get a knocked down version of the above segment with actress Frances Lee McCain, but it’s also new so there’s something to be said for that.
- Trailer
- Illustrated Booklet – Critic A. S. Hamrah contributes an essay along with the obligatory bevy of production stills.
The Bottom Line
I’m of the belief that Albert Brooks is one of the funniest men to have ever existed. You either get his humor or you don’t. Real Life eerily predicted an era in which reality-based television would dominate. And, well, it was correct. Criterion’s disc looks and sounds great and the addition of a few new supplements is always welcome. Highly recommended.
