One of the most exciting new directing talents to emerge in recent years is JC Chandor, responsible for the likes of Margin Call and All Is Lost; in 2015 he made what was arguably his finest film to date, the Oscar Isaac-starring A Most Violent Year. Set in 1981 and following the trials and tribulations of a young, thriving oil magnate in New York City, the film shows his business and personal life come under fire right at the moment when he has every penny he owns on the line in a huge business deal. Chandor's cinematographer, Bradford Young (also known for Selma), is responsible for the gorgeously moody representation of New York during its statistically most-violent year on record (giving the title its name), and witnessing the drab beauty in which its all portrayed is a joy to witness on Blu-ray. The extra features included here are some of the most in-depth for what is essentially an indie drama, especially the commentary track which features Chandor and two of the film's producers. Chandor has a wonderful tendency to really get into the nitty-gritty of the most important beats in the film, which makes for absorbing illumination as to the subtleties of the film's story and themes.
Cinephile since 1993, aged 4, when he saw his very first film in the cinema - Jurassic Park - which is also evidence of damn fine parenting. World champion at Six Degrees of Separation. Lender of DVDs to cheap mates. Connoisseur of Marvel Comics and its Cinematic Universe.
