The critically acclaimed “IRIS” is now available on dvd from BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT. While the film does offer some wonderful performances, and itss subject matter-compelling, it fails to offer any real depth.  Based on the life of writer Iris Murdoch, the film focuses on the turmoil that Alzheimer’s disease brings upon her and those around her, especially Jim Broadbent, in a well-deserved Oscar-nominated performance.

Even at 90 minutes, the film is beleaguered at times by its confusing narrative structure. The earlier part of the film moves back and forth in time, where we are introduced to Kate Winslet as the younger version of Judi Dench. Everyone is great, and the performances actually make up for the lack of substance here.  “IRIS” plays like an incredibly well-acted movie-of-the-week.

BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT has presented “IRIS” in its proper 1.85:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  The image is adequate, but lacks the sharpness and definition of more recent BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT dvd releases.  Colors are also a bit more subdued than we would have liked.

Fleshtones appear natural for the most part, but there are spots where they lean towards an unnatural look.

The Dolby Digital 5.1 mix is restrained for the most part, with virtually no surround moments.  The front soundstage offers some directional effects, but this is a dialogue-heavy film and most of the sound is focused on the center channel.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

BUENA VISTA offers two featurettes with this presentation.