SONY has released one of the best films of 2009, "AND EDUCATION" on blu-ray. It's easy to see why writer Nick Hornby's screenplay adaptation was nominated for an Oscar, as so much depth has been added to the original source material, memoirs that had only previously existed on less than 16 pages. The London of 1961 comes to life here, with a feel that's seldom been achieved before. This period, in which London was still looking across the Channel rather than the Atlantic, for its cultural lead, is brilliantly captured, not just with the French records its main character loves to sing to, while lying across her bedroom floor, but in numerous other aspects of the film, as well. Jenny, a bright 16 year old girl, has a middle-class lifestyle, attending a private school, which her hard-working father, Jack(Alfred Molina) scrapes to afford, hoping it will lead to an Oxford education, and ultimately, security. Jack is protective, but he can't protect Jenny from life's surprises and lessons, such as when she meets Jack, a young man, at least 8 years older than her. While walking home in the rain with a cello, following her lessons, Jack, in his sports car, pulls up offering her a lift. Some flirtatious banter leads to him stowing the cello in from the rain, with Jenny walking alongside, at first. Soon enough, Jack's charisma leads him to not only convince Jenny's parents they shouldn't be alarmed at the age difference, but to allow him to take her on a weekend trip to Oxford!  There's a lot more to it than that, but to say more would ruin the wonderful surprises within the multi-layered, brilliant script.  Jack leads a seemingly well-to-do, cultured lifestyle, and it's understandable as to how Jenny, would find Jack's world of art, jazz clubs, travelling and partying, attractive. However, as "AN EDUCATION" progresses, she and the audience become acutely aware that not all in life is as it seems, and choices create necessary consequences.

"AN EDUCATION" is a brilliant, often poignant, always engaging, film! It's not to be missed.

SONY has provided the correct 2.35:1 aspect ratio for this AVC MPEG-4 1080p blu-ray.  Colors are solid, although seldom vibrant, apparently due to the typically overcast environment of the London setting. Detail can be astounding at times, especially in its presentation of the clothes. However, there are scenes wherein detail is soft and the image falls flat. Contrast is generally impressive, with few instances wherein detail is lost to shadow. For the most part, "AN EDUCATION" looks quite good, but it doesn't stand up alongside the best SONY blu-ray releases.

SONY has provided a DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix. The mix has a strong focus towards the front. However, surrounds kick in with great immersive impact during some key moments. The nightclub setting for Jenny's first "couples" date offers a taste of just how good the immersive quality can be in this mix. For the most part, however, surrounds phase in occasionally, to enhance the rain and other elements. Not a reference quality mix, but enjoyable all the same.

SONY has provided some extras for this release. A commentary with the director and two main actors doesn't offer the kind of insight, aspiring filmmakers are often used to on commentaries. However, general fans of the film will probably like the light-hearted banter of all involved. A featurette with behind-the-scenes footage(480p) is only average. However, the LA red carpet premiere(1080i)is worth checking out. Unfortunately, the deleted scenes are only in 480p(several of the 11 offered)are pretty interesting. Trailers for this film and others are offered in full 1080p.