Plot: What’s it about?
I’m sure you’ve all heard stories of a musician who enjoyed great success, then toppled from their position, ending up a regular non-famous person again. This is because that happens often in the music business, people fall from grace and return to their day jobs almost daily. Some take this in stride, and are thankful for their time in the spotlight, but others don’t handle the fall as well. Mac Sledge (Robert Duvall) is about to take that dive from the top, and chances are slim he’ll take the downward turn well. Time has not been kind to Sledge, slowly losing his way in the business and on the verge of total breakdown. Sledge chose alcohol to help him through his trials and tribulations, but we all know how troublesome drinking can become. With alcohol taking it’s toll and even more personal issues to deal with, Sledge has all but given up on life and himself. But things could turn around for Sledge, as he meets a woman and her young son. With a loving and supportive family by his side, maybe Sledge can find his way once again.
Although a movie about a country western singer drowning in a bottle isn’t exactly my cup of cinematic tea, I found myself enthralled my this picture. Of course, with Robert Duvall as the lead, I knew the movie would be solid, but this movie has a unique charm and realism that puts it head and shoulders above the crowd. One of the things about this movie I love is how simple it is. No special effects, no flashy sets or costumes, just a rock solid movie with a great cast and story. While the simple nature of the film might send some reaching for No-Doz, those who enjoy this style film are in for a real treat here. I know modern audiences often need a lot of bells & whistles to keep them entertained, but if you have a decent attention span and enjoy well made, realistic films, then you’ll be pleased with Tender Mercies. The previous Artisan disc was acceptable, but this new Anchor Bay edition is superior in most respects. A new transfer, more room thanks to a dual layered disc, and a couple of nice supplements, very cool indeed. I give this film a very high recommendation and if you’re interested, make sure you get this Anchor Bay version.
As I mentioned above, since this movie has no glitz, glamour, or special effects, that puts the burden of the film squarely on the writing and actors. The screenplay was written by Horton Foote, who also wrote the screenplays for To Kill A Mockingbird and Tomorrow, both of which Duvall acted in, as well as others. The director of Tender Mercies, Bruce Beresford, has helmed many films, including the recent Double Jeopardy, with Tommy Lee Jones and Ashley Judd. Other films by Beresford include Black Robe, Driving Miss Daisy, Crimes of the Heart and Her Alibi. The cast of this movie do more than turn in great performances, they give powerful and moving turns here. Robert Duvall, who I believe is the finest actor ever to grace the silver screen, won an Academy Award for his work here, and certainly deserved it. I don’t feel this is his strongest performance (I think his best work is in The Apostle), but this is one of his finest turns, filled with realism and subtle power. The supporting cast includes Wilford Brimley (The Firm), Tess Harper (My New Gun, Ishtar), Ellen Barkin (Drop Dead Gorgeous, The Fan), Betty Buckley (Frantic, Simply Irrestible), and Allan Hubbard.
Video: How does it look?
Tender Mercies is presented in a 1.77:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. I noticed a lot of improvement right from the start here, as the print used is cleaner than Artisan’s transfer, which had some rough spots. The image is also much sharper and more refined, which enhances the visuals and makes for a better overall experience. The film has a dusty visual sense to it, but that is intentional and helps to set the atmosphere for the events. The film takes place in a dusty locale and the visual choices add to the experience, without question. A much improved, most welcome visual treatment here, terrific work indeed.
Audio: How does it sound?
An unremarkable, but always solid audio track is used here, which seems to work well enough, given the material involved. As the film is a laid back, natural kind of picture, the reserved, natural audio presence seems to fit to perfection. The dialogue is well presented, with solid volume and clarity, never overpowered by the other elements. No problems with sounds effects either, as they come through as needed, while the musical soundtrack is clean, crisp, and really enhances the film’s texture. Not a memorable audio track, but with a film like Tender Mercies, this is how it should be, if you ask me. This disc also includes a French language option, but no true subtitles are to be found, as per usual on Anchor Bay releases.
Supplements: What are the extras?
The main supplement here is Miracles and Mercies, a half hour retrospective featurette that is quite enjoyable. The piece is loaded with new interviews with cast & crew members, including director Bruce Beresford, writer Horton Foote, and stars Robert Duvall & Tess Harper, as well as others. I do wish an audio commentary with Beresford, Foote, and Duvall would have been created for this release, but Miracles and Mercies is good enough, I suppose. This disc also includes some talent files, as well as the film’s theatrical trailer.
