|
|
|
Passing Strangers & Forbidden Letters: Two Films by Arthur J. Bressan Jr. Blu-ray
|
|
Vinegar Syndrome Exclusive / Limited Edition Slipcover
Altered Innocence | 1974-1979 | 2 Movies | 154 min | Rated X | Jun 28, 2022
|
|
|
Video
Codec: (40.00 Mbps)
Resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 1.35:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.33:1
Audio
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 (48kHz, 24-bit)
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 (48kHz, 24-bit) ( less)
Subtitles
See individual releases
See individual releases ( less)
Discs
Blu-ray Disc
Single disc (1 BD-50)
Packaging
Slipcover in original pressing
Embossed print, Inner print
Booklet
Playback
2K Blu-ray: Region free
|
|
Price
List price: $34.95
Amazon: $19.84 (Save 43%)
New from: $19.84 (Save 43%)
In Stock
Rating
8 ratings
Blu-ray review
| Movie |
|
4.0 |
| Video |
|
4.5 |
| Audio |
|
4.0 |
| Extras |
|
4.5 |
| Overall |
|
4.5
|
26%
popularity
n/a
fans
|
Passing Strangers & Forbidden Letters: Two Films by Arthur J. Bressan Jr. Blu-ray Review
Reviewed by Brian Orndorf, June 15, 2022
To celebrate the work of director Arthur J. Bressan, Jr. ("Buddies"), Altered Innocence goes the double feature route, presenting 1974's "Passing
Strangers" and 1979's "Forbidden Letters" on this Blu-ray release, highlighting the helmer's interests in the emotional lives of his characters and his
fondness for hardcore sexual adventures.
"Passing Strangers" explores the burgeoning relationship between Tom (Robert Carnagey), an older man, and Robert (Robert Adams), a lonely high
school student. The pair work out a relationship, first by correspondence and soon through physical contact, creating a love affair as they tour San
Francisco.
"Forbidden Letters" tracks the brewing concern of Larry (Robert Adams), a young man awaiting the release of his lover, Richard (Richard Holt
Locke), from prison. Joined by prostitute Iris for moral support, Larry recalls the early days of their relationship, while both men process their
feelings about the reunion.
Bressan, Jr. looks to shape stories out of images, with both "Passing Strangers" and "Forbidden Letters" more about experiences than dramatic
focus. The approach does supply a time capsule quality to the endeavors, with Bressan, Jr. capturing life in San Francisco during the 1970s,
especially the burgeoning gay pride movement, with a parade experience offered at the end of "Passing Strangers." The films move around the city
and visit the great outdoors, and nightlife is detailed in "Forbidden Letters," spotlighting the party scene on the streets.
Of course, there's more to both films than tours of the San Francisco area, with "Passing Strangers" delivering a sensitive portrayal of human
connection between curious men, watching their relationship unfold through letters and time together. It's a sensual study of attraction and
developing trust, and it connects more directly to viewers than "Forbidden Letters," which explores a darker sense of doubt, sold through lengthy
monologues and the reading of correspondence, with Bressan, Jr. aiming to be a bit more poetic with the endeavor, but ends up with a colder
understanding of longing.
Passing Strangers & Forbidden Letters: Two Films by Arthur J. Bressan Jr. Blu-ray, Video Quality
The AVC encoded image (1.35:1 aspect ratio) presentations for both "Passing Strangers" and "Forbidden Letters" do have visible signs of age, with
jumpy frames and mild damage, along with scratches and speckling. Detail is satisfactory, capturing body particulars, including fine hairs and age.
Street tours and nature visits carry compelling dimension. Color is used sparingly but retains vividness, with bright reds and deep blues, and ample
skintones are natural. Black and white cinematography is balanced. Grain is heavy but film-like.
Passing Strangers & Forbidden Letters: Two Films by Arthur J. Bressan Jr. Blu-ray, Overall Score and Recommendation
Both "Forbidden Letters" and "Passing Strangers" look to overcome their X-rated origins with sensitive portrayals of characters seeking to overcome
their confusion and heartache, but lengthy scenes of sexual activity are included, occasionally making for an odd blend of sincerity and primal urges.
More weirdness is encountered along the way (in "Passing Strangers," Robert masturbates to D.W. Griffith's 1919 film, "Broken Blossoms"), but the
features largely concentrate on the personalities involved, with Bressan, Jr. trying to provide a psychological and physical appreciation of lovers
wrestling with hesitation, insecurities, and fears as they embark on new experiences.
Show more titles »« Show less titles
Similar titles suggested by members
Passing Strangers & Forbidden Letters: Two Films by Arthur J. Bressan Jr. Blu-ray, News and Updates
• Vinegar Syndrome Reveals New Partner Label Releases - May 2, 2022
Vinegar Syndrome has revealed eleven upcoming partner label releases. They are: Ilya Muromets (1956), The Coca-Cola Kid (1985), Buster Keaton Rides Again / Helicopter Canada (1965-1966), The Films of Doris Wishman: The Twilight Years (1970-1977), Game of Survival ...
Forum Discussions
No related forum discussions for Passing Strangers & Forbidden Letters: Two Films by Arthur J. Bressan Jr. yet.
|
|
 
|
All countries
Argentina
Austria
Belgium
Brazil
Bulgaria
Chile
China
Colombia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Estonia
Denmark
Finland
Greece
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
Indonesia
Ireland
Israel
India
Latvia
Lithuania
Malaysia
New Zealand
Norway
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Singapore
South Africa
South Korea
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Thailand
Turkey
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
flag icon to the right of the quick search at the top-middle.
[hide this message]
Use the thumbs up and thumbs down icons to agree or disagree that the title is similar to . You can also suggest completely new similar titles to in the search box below.
