Marie: A True Story (1985) Warner Archive Collection Blu-ray Review

Sissy Spacek is an award winning actress. Probably best known for her performances in Stephen King's classic Carrie and the biopic Coal Miner's Daughter. But even as she in now in her 70s she still is active. She starred in the Amazon Prime Video series Night Sky. The feature film Sam and Kate. And at the time of this review she is film Die, My Love.

In 1985 she took the lead role in the biographical film "Marie: A True Story." Now as next year (2025) this film will becelebrating it's 40th anniversary of its theatrical release. Warner Archive Collection have decided to restore and release this film on Blu-ray.

Synopsis: Pay the man, get out of prison. It's a sweet deal for the Tennessee officials who let killers and rapists go free for a price. And who would have the guts to defy the state's power elite? No one, except a courageous single mom named Marie Ragghianti. This gripping film tells the true story of a woman who became head of the Tennessee parole board, then stood up to lies, threats and murder to blow the whistle on her bosses -- and send many of them, including the governor, to the pen. Sissy Spacek brings luminous intelligence to the role of Marie, and the remarkable supporting cast includes Morgan Freeman, Jeff Daniels and screen-debuting Fred Thompson (later a Tennessee senator) playing himself, Marie's real-life attorney.

I love films based on real people. Now the script seems to drag a bit in spots, but is still a well crafted account. Sissy Spacek really shines here. But she is not alone here, there is some great performances by Jeff Daniels (Arachnophobia) and Morgan Freeman (The Shawshank Redemption).

This film is not a film for the entire family. There are some adult situations, including domestic violence, sexual content with a mild rape scene and adult language. But this dramatic film would be a great film to sit down and watch with older teens. It is a great conversation starter.

Marie: A True Story have transferred this film to Blu-ray in 1080p in 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The audio is an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

This new transfer is really beautiful. The picture is crisp with natural film grain. The skin tones are perfect. There are no digital artifacts to be seen and no damage to the picture that I found while watching this release. The audio is super clean with no hiss or pops. The dialogue is clear and the soundtrack balances nicely.

Now in addition to a beautiful looking transfer, this Blu-ray release includes a 2 Minute theatrical trailer. Granted that is a bit skimpy on the bonus features, but it is better than nothing. This is the only thing I would change about this release, a little more bonuses.

I really enjoy the acting of Sissy Spacek. She brings a realism to everything she does, and this film is not different. I am so glad to add this film to my collection. Warner Archive Collection continually amazes me with the quality of their Blu-ray releases.

If you are a fan of Sissy Spacek or biographical films, with Marie: A true Story you get the best of both worlds. And if you want to see it in the best quality possible you need this Blu-ray. Head over to MovieZyng and order your copy today.


Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) the Blu-ray of Marie: A true Story receives......