Blu-ray Review: AmnesiA (2021)

Martin Koolhoven is probably best known for writing and directing the 2016 psychological western film Brimstone that starred Dakota Fanning and Guy Pearce. But his first Dutch cinematic release was AmnesiA released in 2001.

Now Cult Epics are releasing a absolute epic Blu-ray release of Martin Koolhoven's AmnesiA on Blu-ray loaded with bonus features that must be seen to be believed.

Alex, a 28 year-old photographer with a serious problem. He can't photograph people. Now every time he focuses his camera on someone, the same woman appears in his viewfinder. He has been estranged from his family for years, so when his brother Aram phones and asks him to come to their parental home because their mother is severely ill and may not have long to live, he panics. The thought of a confrontation with the area where he grew up and the renewed encounter with his family makes him feel nervous. Nevertheless, that evening he leaves for AmnesiA: the estate of his parents, the spot where he spent his youth.

The story of AmnesiA is a film that keep you guessing all the way through to the end. As you watch the film you try to guess what is real and what isn't, and most of the time your find yourself wrong! Also there is a real claustrophobic feel to AmnesiA the estate. You never know what might be behind a corner. The story is engaging and the acting is believable, finally the direction by Martin is impressive to say the least. Fedja van Huêt is good in a duel role. Also for fans of Game of Thrones will love seeing Carice Van Houten here.

AmnesiA is transferred to Blu-ray in 1080p in 1.66:1 anamorphic aspect ratio. The audio is DTS LPCM 2.0, DTS-HD 5.1 Surround and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround. All three tracks are in the original Dutch. But no worries there is the option for English subtitles.

The Blu-ray of this film has a 4K HD transfer that was taken from the original camera negative. This 4K transfer brings detail to the film. The picture is crisp and clean with no signs of damage. Now a gorgeous copy of the film is not all that is included in this 2 disc Blu-ray set. take a look at the bonus features included.

DISC 1:

* Introduction by Martin Koolhoven

* Audio Commentary by Martin Koolhoven, Fedja van Huet, moderated by Peter Verstraten

* A Brand New 2022 Conversation with Martin Koolhoven & Carice van Houten (44 Mins)

* The Making of AmnesiA (2001, 38 mins)

* Behind-the-Scenes with Carice van Houten (2001)

* Theatrical Trailer


DISC 2: LIMITED EDITION BONUS DISC – The TV films of Martin Koolhoven

* Suzy Q [1999] (85 mins)

* Dark Light (Duister Licht) [1997] (55 mins)

* Trailers

Now in addition to all these great on disc bonus features. There is a new slipcase art by Peter Strain and a Double-sided Sleeve with Original Bonus Film Posters. So as you an see Cult Epics really went above and beyond here and made this release something extremely special.  

Now in the final analysis of this release the 4k transfer is stunning and the bonus features are immense. The only thing that would have made this release better would have been a English dub. As a huge fan of the old Godzilla films those bad dubs are something I really get a kick out of! That would have been a great bonus. 

So if you like foreign dramas AmnesiA may be just the film that you have been looking for. Head over to Amazon and order a copy of AmnesiA today.

Out of 4 Film Reels (4 Being the Best) Cult Epics Blu-ray release of AmnesiA receives....