Plot: What’s it about?
Robert Axle (Kevin Spacey) was one of the most successful pitchmen around, with the most popular products and a face that millions knew and trusted. His informercials were everywhere, so whenever there was a hot new invention, chances are you’d see Axle right next to the product. But that was before one of the products he pitched became infamous, responsible for injuries to thousands of consumers. For his role in the product’s damages, Axle found himself in prison for eight years. Once he is released, his life is a shell of what it once was. His fortune is gone, his family turned their backs on him, and his public image is in the gutter. But Axle is determined to rebuild, one step at a time. He begins to repair the relationship with daughter, make amends with his ex-wife, and find a new idea to take him back to the top. But a return to the life he once knew will not only take a great idea, but also a lot of hard work and soul searching.
I wasn’t sure why Father of Invention was given the direct-to-video treatment, especially since the cast is rock solid, led by Kevin Spacey. As it turns out, the film has some great moments, but is also rather inconsistent. The main issue is that the writers couldn’t make up their minds about the tone, is this is a character study with dark humor, or a broad comedy with stereotypical characters? The shift in tone that happens often in Father of Invention is drastic, sometimes turning on a dime in the middle of a scene. While I like unusual creative decisions, this one just doesn’t work. But thanks to Spacey and the rest of the cast, the material is elevated above the base level of potential. So scenes that should be awful are often tolerable and the best moments really shine, so the writers really owe the cast a lot here. As far as a recommendation, if you’re a fan of Kevin Spacey, then you’ll want to see this, but for others I’ll stick to a moderate rental recommendation.
Video: How does it look?
Father of Invention is presented in 2.40:1 widescreen. This movie has been given a sharp, well detailed transfer. While the film uses a rather natural visual design, the movie’s cinematography is excellent and well showcased here. The image is ripe with detail, the kind of subtle visible depth that we love from high definition. The colors look bright and bold as well, while black levels are dead on and never waver.
Audio: How does it sound?
A Dolby TrueHD 5.1 soundtrack is provided, which sounds quite good. Of course the film is driven by dialogue, so the surrounds don’t get much exercise. But better to have the audio like this, with a natural sound, than to force in presence. I found vocals to be well placed, at a proper volume, and free from errors. A couple of scenes do actually feature some surround spikes, while the music also has a full sound, so there is some life in this mix. This disc also includes English and Spanish subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes a behind the scenes featurette.
