Plot: What’s it about?
Mystery Train is more than just a simple storyline, it’s three simple storylines, which manage to come together because of one man, Elvis Presley. The three stories follow different people, and we learn about why they feel the way they do about the legendary King of Rock & Roll. Instead of giving a total plot synopsis, I’m simply going to describe the three smaller stories which make up the big picture, and allow the rest to unfold as you watch the movie itself. The first storyline follows a young Japanese couple, as they venture into America’s heartland to visit Graceland, along with other Elvis related shrines along the way. The second tale involves Luisa, whose husband has passed away, and her unusual situation, finding herself surrounded by all things Elvis. The third and final yarn involves Johnny, an Elvis wannabe who certainly has the looks (sort of) and moves (kind of) of his idol.
This, like all Jim Jarmusch films, is an acquired taste, and is certainly not for everyone. Jarmusch paints an interesting canvas here, using his trademark slow pace and detailed characters. While the dialogue is excellent, and the quirky nature of the film is charming, the pace will throw many viewers off the trail. So, if you enjoy slow moving character driven pieces, you’ll want to check this one out. For those of you with shorter attention spans or no tolerance for mucho dialogue, the grass on the other side is greener, stick with what you like. With an eclectic cast and some wonderful writing, I feel this is Jarmusch’s strongest work to date, really capturing his style and outlook on the subject. If you’re looking to enter the world of Jarmusch’s cinema, there’s no better way to enter than this movie. I recommend this movie very highly, and the disc, although bare bones, would make a nice purchase for fans of the movie.
Man, what a diverse and unusual cast this movie called together. Masatoshi Nagase (Cold Fever, Autumn Moon) and Youki Kudoh (Snow Falling On Cedars, Heaven’s Burning) give very unique performances as the young Japanese couple. One of my favorite supporting actors, Steve Buscemi (Armageddon, Trees Lounge) appears in this movie as well, turning in a typical solid performance. Two musical performers appear as actors, with blues artist Screamin’ Jay Hawkins (Dance with the Devil, Two Moon Junction) and member of The Clash, Joe Strummer (Straight to Hell). While the two should keep their day jobs, they are better than most musicians who attempt acting. The supporting cast includes Tommy Noonan (Last Action Hero, The Monster Squad), Rick Aviles (Ghost, The Saint of Ft. Washington), Nicoletta Braschi (Life is Beautiful, Down by Law), Rockets Redglare (Stranger Than Paradise, Stars and Bars), and Elizabeth Bracco (Trees Lounge, In The Soup).
Video: How does it look?
Mystery Train is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen widescreen transfer. The overall image quality is excellent, vastly superior to previous releases. Even though the film uses darker tones to enforce the overall theme, colors appear very bright and lush, and only minor errors crop up, usually with the reddish tones. Contrast levels sometimes wander into overly dark shades, but for the most part they are consistent and correct. The transfer is free from compression errors as well.
Audio: How does it sound?
Aside from the music, which is by Jarmusch regular John Lurie (who directed the excellent series “Fishing with John”), the audio is reserved, and stays in the front channels most of the time. Some subtle use appears, but it is infrequent and minor. Dialogue is crisp and consistent, with no serious separation issues to contend with.
Supplements: What are the extras?
The only supplement is an insert booklet, which contains some production notes.
