THE MOVIE

Mulholland Drive is one of the most interesting films of recent time. But, David Lynch has always been an interesting filmmaker and give him an interesting topic (Hollywood) and he was always going to produce something memorable. This film may be ‘weird’, ‘strange’ or just plain ‘confusing’ but it is put together with masterly aplomb and rewards any viewer who is prepared to actually engage in and experience this truly wonderful film.

To give a description of the plot would be like pulling teeth so instead I will just put up Lynch’s summary of what Mulholland Drive is about:

Part One: She found herself the perfect mystery.
Part Two: A sad illusion.
Part Three: Love.

Doesn’t sound like much does it. But upon hindsight it is spot on. Lynch also gives fans a series of clues on whole to figure the film out on the inside cover of the DVD but I would probably suggest not reading these until you’ve seen the film once.

This film is simply awesome and there isn’t really much more I can say about it without spoiling what is one of the best cinematic journeys of recent times. The scene at the silencio club is worth the price of admission alone.

THE TRANSFER

Video:

The film is presented in 1.85:1 widescreen (16x9) and looks very impressive. The image is very sharp and clear allowing you to really see all of the detail on screen, which can be useful, especially on a film like this. The colors on the transfer are spot on and look very natural. There is no lurid leering colors to disrupt the viewer and the disc handles everything thrown at it with panache. Blacks are also rock solid and there is a great amount of shadow detail. There isn’t really much else to say about this transfer, it is very good but then again it isn’t very old and so this level of clarity is to be expected. Oh, there isn’t any chapter stops which can be a tad annoying when you want to go back and look at a certain scene but Lynch didn’t want them so full marks for not including them.

Audio:

The only audio option is an English Dolby Digital 5.1 track. This is simply perfect for this disc and although the R1 DVD does come with DTS I don’t think it is that much of a loss. The dialogue is loud and clear and the syncing is right on. There isn’t much use made of the rear speakers as this track is very front heavy. The score, from Lynch regular Angelo Badalamenti does a wonderful job of creating an off putting atmosphere and is recreated well on the DVD, never overpowering anything else but always remaining there.

THE EXTRAS

With the extras on this DVD it is one of the rare occasions where the R4 disc is better than the R1 version.

First up we have an interview with David Lynch conducted in Cannes. Lynch looks like he isn’t really concentrating (and just got out of bed) and the interview doesn’t give much away.

Next we have a ten minute press conference for the film again from Cannes. This is a bit more informative but again is too brief to be of any real use. Still, it is a good inclusion and is a good chance for Lynch’s fans to see him.

Finally we have a trailer, there is also an Easter Egg with Lynch’s ‘clues’ for the film.

SUMMARY

This is a wonderful film and one that I highly recommend to anyone. Definatly don’t let this one pass by and if you’re having trouble working anything out I suggest you check out this website.