Blu-Ray Review: THE ROVER

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A film that I didn’t get a chance to check out in the theaters was The Rover, David Michôd‘s follow up to Animal Kingdom. A post-apocalyptic film starring Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson that takes place after a economic collapse. Guy Pearce’s Eric leaves his car to go into an establishment. While inside, three men take his car which leads Eric to chase these men in the car they just crashed and take it across the Australian wasteland. We’re not sure what is so important about the car but we know it is important to him. Later, Eric crosses paths with Rey (Robert Pattinson). Rey, wounded, recognizes the car as his brother’s and begins to question Eric until he passes out from a wound.

When you hear the words “Australian wasteland”, images from Mad Max may come to mind. The Rover is not that. It is a relatively low-key film that is nuanced by a unconventional soundtrack and features some great performances from Pattinson and Pearce. Michôd is in complete control with his precision of executing a story that may be mysterious in its drive but intriguing enough to make you want to go down the path he is taking you. Most surprising to some will be Pattinson’s performance. Rey may not be a bright individual but he is loyal – even more so given what had happened to him. Loyalty becomes the center focus of the film in the latter third. Pattinson’s accent may get a bit grating at times but the physical portrayal is something to pay attention to. The film feels like a western mixed in with a buddy road trip film. However, Rey & Eric are not buddies. They are just trying to figure out how to survive. The most troubling thing for some people seems to be the ending. Without spoiling it, I would be doing the same thing. It comes back to the loyalty and doing what is right.

THE ROVER was previously reviewed during its theatrical run by Marie Robinson.

Presentation

Picture – The Blu-Ray is an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.40:1 (Scope) and retains its filmic look. The overall color palette for the film is muted and desaturated. The transfer seems to be in line with the authentic look of the film.

Sound – The only audio track is the lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. The surround speakers take advantage of the unique score to immerse you in the world Michôd brings you into.

Special Features

The Making of THE ROVER (44:48, HD) – The only special feature on the disc is a lengthy behind the scenes segment that goes into detail from the inception of the idea to executing the film. It is divided in 3 parts (that also include Chapter stops). If you are a fan of the film, it is worth taking a look.

Final Thoughts

The Rover is a unique drama with bursts of violence that may not be for everyone but is daring enough to try and reach those willing to watch something different. While the special features may be slim and it is a shame there is no commentary, this is a disc worth owning if you are a fan of the film and is definitely worth a rental for first time viewers.