Plot: What’s it about?
Sam (Michael Angarano) invited his former best friend Marshall (Reece Thompson) on a weekend escape, in order to reconnect their once strong friendship. The two arrive at a lakeside locale, which happens to be hosting a wedding on this weekend. At first, Marshall assumes that Sam just wants to crash the event, which makes sense. After all, Sam is a selfish person and free booze and food are things he rarely passes up. But soon the truth is revealed, as Sam has some history with the beautiful bride to be, Zoe (Uma Thurman). The two used to date and while it is obvious she has moved on, Sam hasn’t and is determined to win her back. While her feelings aren’t exactly clear, Sam is convinced he can rekindle the romance. But can Sam prove he is willing to change his life for Zoe, or has he let his chance at true love slip out of his grasp?
There is a good movie in here somewhere, but Ceremony winds up as a middle of the road experience. The film has a good premise and some memorable supporting characters, but is saddled with bland, unremarkable leads. Uma Thurman gives a passable turn, but she isn’t given much of a chance to shine. Michael Angarano is the real albatross of Ceremony, a mediocre performer put into a lead role that no one wants to watch. With several far more interesting characters in the background, it is all the more evident how poorly chosen the main character is. Without a strong lead (both in actor and character), Ceremony is left to thrive on the small moments of the supporting players, which just isn’t enough. I wanted to like this movie, but a poor casting choice and boring central character doom Ceremony. So unless you’re a diehard Uma Thurman fan or can’t pass up a humorous drunk’s performance, you can skip this one.
Video: How does it look?
Ceremony is presented in 2.35:1 widescreen. This a nice improvement over the DVD, but doesn’t pop off the screen like the best high definition treatments. Even so, detail is good and even great at times. Not “wow” great, but very sharp and the image is quite clean as well. No issues in terms of colors, as hues remain natural and contrast is consistent throughout. Not one of the best transfers out there, but this still looks fine.
Audio: How does it sound?
The DTS HD 5.1 option provides a basic dialogue driven comedy mix, but that’s acceptable in this case. I did note that vocals were sometimes a touch too quiet, but aside from that, no issues crop up. In most scenes, the dialogue is clear and easy to pick up, while the music adds some welcome depth to the mix. Not much else I can talk about, this is a pretty by the books comedy track, more than solid. This disc also includes English and Spanish subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release includes several promotional featurettes, some deleted scenes, outtakes, and the complete A Year in a Tent short film.
