Distributor: Arrow Video(UK)Author: James Ackland The then brothers, Larry and Andy Wachowski (Matrix trilogy, Jupiter Ascending) take their comic book beginnings and smash out a visually stunning debut with the 1996 neo-noir film Bound. Financed by film legend Dino de Laurentiis as something of a directorial audition to secure the Matrix gig, the Wachowskis delve deep into smokey, sexy noir territory and it works! Corky (Gina gershon) an ex-con trying to make ends meet as a plumber meets Violet (Jennifer Tilly) and her mafia connected boyfriend Caesar (Joe Pantoliano) and the sparks begin to fly. Any time sex and the mafia are on film, money is soon to follow. Once Violet starts a steamy affair with Corky she confides that 2 million dollars of mob blood money could soon come their way. The scheming lovers then plot Caesars demise. Oscar nominee and bonafide Sexpot, Jennifer Tilly (Bullets over Broadway) is perfectly cast as Violet. Stuck in a loveless and dangerous relationship, Violet is looking for a way out.Tilly oozes an almost reptilian sex appeal and it's easy to see why Gershon's Corky is pulled in so easily. Gershon (Showgirls) is also fantastic as Corky, a sexy, hands on dyke who is always only a tip away from falling back into her old ways. The 2 female leads buck convention as this could easily have been played off in a boy meets girl story. This creates a fresh approach to a dangerous relationship. As Corky admits "If there's one thing I can't stand about sleeping with women, it's all the fucking mind-reading." Pre Matrix Joe Pantoliano is criminally underrated for his performance as money launderer Caesar. His performances is threatening while also comedic. The wheels turning in his head are played out beautifully and at times the wheels stop altogether and panic sets in his expressions and reaction choices are priceless. Why Pantoliano isn't consistently in bigger films is a shame. If you liked him as Ralphy in the Sopranos you'll love him here! The Wachowskis take wholesale stock from the school of Hitchcock and Scorsese and yet it's not out of place and doesn't feel stolen as the noir setting and vivid colours demand the bold use of the camera. Few locations and small sets almost give the film a theatre play like experience. Cinematographer Bill Pope collaborated perfectly with the Wachowskis and give many visual nods to Frank Miller's Sin City graphic novel. There are definite hints at what was to come, especially the use of telephones and bullets for their next project, The Matrix. Lauded by the Gay and lesbian community and critics upon a its release the film didn't fair as well at the box office as the film was marketed to 18 year old boys who may have missed the nuances of the characters in favour of the flesh. Sex in 1990s film was huge, from Basic instinct (1992) to the Cruel intentions (1999). Bound certainly is a great addition to a decade of sizzling erotic thrillers. Bound is a well crafted double entendre. It mixes sex, danger, relationships and choices together seamlessly. When Corky asks Violet "are you gonna fuck me?" Are we missing the word "over"? Find out!!! Enjoy and I hope it finds a fresh audience with this blu-ray rerelease upgrade. Video: 4/5 Presented here on Blu ray in 1080p the film looks beautiful. Released in the original Aspect ratio of: 1.85:1 We see Bound filling the frame to great effect. The colours pallet looks amazing and adds to the noir element. Turn the lights off and allow bound to paint a lovely picture in your living room. Audio: 4/5 The film is presented in Dolby 5.1 and 2.0 and it's sounds fantastic. From the quieter intimate moments to the huge over the top Pantoliano rants and raves. Extras: 3/5 High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentation Optional 5.1 Surround and 2.0 Stereo audio Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing Audio Commentary with Writer/Directors the Wachowskis, Stars Jennifer Tilly, Gina Gershon, and Joe Pantoliano, Editor Zach Staenberg, and Consultant Susie Bright Femme Fatales – Interviews with Stars Gina Gershon & Jennifer Tilly Hail Ceasar! – An Interview with Actor Joe Pantoliano. Here’s Johnny! – An Interview with Actor Christopher Melloni Modern Noir: The Sights & Sounds of Bound – Interviews with Director of Photography Bill Pope, Editor Zach Staenberg, and Composer Don Davis Vintage EPK Featurettes (US & International Versions) Theatrical Trailers TV Spots Still Gallery Images Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Sam Smith Collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the film by James Oliver Unfortunately the only Wachowski addition to the extras is in the audio commentary with the main cast. Making of featurettes, interviews with composer Don Davis, editor Zachary Stanberg and director of photography Bill Pope help delve into the making of the film greatly. Trailers, TV spots and stills gallery flesh out the extras Buyers note: Arrow ship to Australia from their site and charge only charge £3.50 for shipping. You can use your PayPal account, and they have no international charges. Overall: 4/5 M: 4/5 V: 4/5 A: 4/5 E: 3/5 BUY FROM ARROW FILMS Take two: Fans of the great car chase film VANISHING POINT (1971) may notice director Richard Sarafian appear as crime boss Gino Marzzone.
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