The Edge Of Love (Blu-ray)

Playing loose with the facts and zoning in on one particular sketchy event in poet Dylan Thomas’ life, John Maybury’s film explores the complex ménage a trois that sees the famous poet (played by Rhys), his old flame, Vera (Knightley), and wife, Caitlin (Miller), shacked up in Wales during WWII, until, that is, Vera’s soldier husband (Murphy) returns home from war and throws a spanned in the works.

Unfortunately, the muddled script lacks focus and seems to meander for much of the running time, though a selection of fine performances help keep things fairly lively, and the glossy finish to the striking photography makes Maybury’s movie a great choice for a Blu-ray upgrade.

The opening scene gets the BD off to a great start, with a close up of Keira’s bright red lips practically pouting their way out of the screen. Though the glossy finish never quite seems to fit in with the story and the war-torn surroundings, the enhanced shine on the Blu-ray does add a certain dream-like charm to the film. Sienna Miller enjoys an equally sexually-charged hi-def intro. As she seductively sucks on a cigarette in all her close-up glory, the picture reveals a fantastic amount of detail.

Interior scenes in the dimly-lit smoky bars have wonderful contrast, and the outside locales of Wales look clean, bright and sharp. The various musical interludes sound crystal clear, though dialogue is occasionally a little muted.

There aren’t any exclusive blu-ray features, just the same selection from the previously released DVD.

Overall Verdict: A muddled film that lacks focus, but the Blu-ray looks fantastic.

Special Features:
Audio Commentary With Director John Maybury And Actor Matthew Rhys
Interviews With Cast And Crew
Deleted Scenes
Gag Reel
Photo Gallery

Reviewer: Lee Griffiths