Cypher (2002) |
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Cypher (2002) |
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| General | Extras | ||
| Category | Action |
Main Menu Introduction Menu Animation & Audio Audio Commentary-Filmmakers Interviews-Crew-Behind The Scenes Interviews-Cast-Jeremy Northam, Lucy Liu Theatrical Trailer |
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| Rating |
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| Year Of Production | 2002 | ||
| Running Time | 91:31 | ||
| RSDL / Flipper | RSDL (66:27) | Cast & Crew | |
| Start Up | Menu | ||
| Region Coding | 2,4 | Directed By | Vincenzo Natali |
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Studio
Distributor |
 Warner Home Video |
Starring |
Jeremy Northam Lucy Liu Nigel Bennett Timothy Webber David Hewlett |
| Case | Amaray-Transparent-Secure Clip | ||
| RPI | $39.95 | Music | Michael Andrews |
| Video | Audio | ||
| Pan & Scan/Full Frame | None |
English Dolby Digital 5.1 (448Kb/s) English Dolby Digital 2.0 (224Kb/s) English Audio Commentary Dolby Digital 2.0 (192Kb/s) |
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| Widescreen Aspect Ratio | 1.78:1 | ||
| 16x9 Enhancement |
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| Video Format | 576i (PAL) | ||
| Original Aspect Ratio | 1.85:1 | Miscellaneous | |
| Jacket Pictures | No | ||
| Subtitles | None | Smoking | Yes |
| Annoying Product Placement | No | ||
| Action In or After Credits | No | ||
Cypher is the latest science fiction thriller from up & coming Director Vincenzo Natali. Several years ago, Natali delivered a wonderful thriller made on an absolute miniscule budget. That film was Cube. Cube became an instant cult favourite and spawned an inferior sequel without Natali at the helm. Natali has now confirmed with the release of Cypher, his second feature film, that he is a talented filmmaker with a bright future. Made for ten million dollars, Cypher proves that you don't need a mega budget to deliver quality science fiction thrills.
Jeremy Northam plays Morgan Sullivan, a mild mannered accountant who craves excitement. To satisfy his longing for stimulation, Morgan goes to work for Digicorp as a company spy. Sullivan discovers that his assignments are not what they seem. He may in fact be the victim of a global brainwashing scheme masterminded by his employer. Aided by a mysterious woman, Rita (Lucy Liu), Sullivan realises that his survival, and any hope in discovering the truth lies with a notorious deep cover operative known as Sebastian Rooks. Has our hero's search for Rooks become a deadly quest for the truth or has Digicorp driven Sullivan insane with its corporate brainwashing?
The film's plot may sound convoluted, but in the hands of Natali the story unfolds intelligently and swiftly. There are many plot twists and red herrings thrown at the audience during the film, but all loose ends are neatly tied up during the climactic third act. The film also features a fine acting ensemble with the standout being Jeremy Northam. Northam manages the transformation from meek to manic with an honest, sympathetic performance that captures the audience's empathy. I found myself totally caught up in Morgan Sullivan's plight and ultimate denouement. Lucy Liu has a minor role, but nevertheless gives an engaging performance as the mysterious Rita.
Like all the best Dystopian fables Cypher utilises a production design that seems familiar yet remains strangely elusive to give the film a timeless quality. This concept which worked wonders in classics like Brazil, Blade Runner, and most recently in the underrated Gattaca works well within the confines of Natal's film.
There are several special effects sequences that are well mounted and are seamlessly integrated into the story. One in particular involving an underground data storage facility is a visual delight and adds a further element of class into an already strong piece of directorial work.
Cypher is a dynamic, well made science fiction thriller deserving of a wider audience.
Cypher has been blessed with a pristine transfer courtesy of Warner Home Video.
The film is presented in an aspect ratio of 1:78:1 and is 16x9 enhanced for widescreen viewing.
Sharpness levels are flawless with no aliasing issues to be found. Shadow details are perfectly rendered with a wealth of fine background detail visually apparent. Black levels are strong and there are no grain or low level noise problems.
Colours are intentionally muted and make wonderful use of available light sources.
The transfer is devoid of unwanted artefacts and other film particles.
The film's RSDL layer change is at the 66:27 mark and is well placed.
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The film has been given an English audio track in Dolby Digital 5.1, another in Dolby 2.0 surround and a final commentary track in 2.0 surround.
Dialogue is always clear, with no audio sync problems.
The film's score is by Michael Andrews. The music captures the feel of the story wonderfully and never becomes over-bearing.
Surround channel usage is first rate. Directional fields are fully utilised with on-screen action dominating rear channel capabilities. The subwoofer adds a solid reverberation level to all proceedings.
Warner Home Video have combined a wonderful 5.1 track with a pristine transfer. Simply excellent.
| Dialogue | |
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NOTE: To view non-R4 releases, your equipment needs to be multi-zone compatible and usually also NTSC compatible.
The R4 version of this DVD is the only one currently available.
Cypher is a thought-provoking futuristic thriller that keeps you guessing to the end. The disc looks and sounds wonderful and comes with a few nice extras.
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| Audio | |
| Extras | |
| Plot | |
| Overall | |
| Review Equipment | |
| DVD | Pioneer DV-535, using S-Video output |
| Display | LG 76cm Widescreen Flatron Television. Calibrated with Video Essentials. This display device is 16x9 capable. |
| Audio Decoder | Sony HT-K215. Calibrated with Video Essentials. |
| Amplification | Sony HT-K215 |
| Speakers | fronts-paradigm titans, centre &rear Sony - radio parts subbie |