The Part Overtakes The Whole In Synecdoche, NY

Oh, Philip Seymour Hoffman; how you’ve changed since Twister. Even if his character isn’t as fun loving as Dusty Davis, I’m still looking forward to Sony Pictures Home Entertainment’s release of Synecdoche, New York on DVD and Blu-ray March 10th.

Caden Cotard (Philip Seymour Hoffman) has hit a rough patch in his life. He is depressed, suffers from a number of physical ailments and his wife abandons him. Caden’s ray of light comes in the form of a grant that enables him to pursue any artistic endeavor he pleases at any cost. He puts the money towards a monumental theater project, one in which the part overcomes the whole, hence the title. Reality and art begin to overlap each other as Caden works to manage his mock New York set populated by thousands of actors as well as his troubling personal issues.

Starring one of my favorite actors could guarantee some interest in a film, but not necessarily a DVD purchase. But, Synecdoche, New York does not only star Philip Seymour Hoffman, but a large list of other acclaimed actor as well. There’s Samantha Morton (nominee 2002; Best Actress in Leading Role; In America), Michelle Williams (nominee 2006; Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role; Brokeback Mountain), Catherine Keener (nominee 2005; Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role; Capote), Emily Watson (nominee 1998; Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role; Hilary and Jackie), and Dianne Wiest (winner 1994; Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role; Bullets Over Broadway). A roster like that has got to mean something.

Both the DVD ($28.96) and Blu-ray ($39.95) versions come with a modest selection of special features. There’s four featurettes including “In and Around Synecdoche, NY,” “The Story of Caden Cotard,” “Infectious Disease in Cattle: Bloggers Roundtable” and “NFTS/Script Factory Masterclass with Charlie Kaufman.” You’ll also get screen animations and some bonus previews. If you opt for the Blu-ray version, you’ll get access to BD-Live content as well.