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SRP $24.98

1.85:1

STEREO

WELLSPRING

Jafar Panahi created a stir with his debut film, "THE WHITE BALLOON." His latest film, "THE CIRCLE," has just received a decent, although imperfect, transfer from WELLSPRING. The story focuses on a group of women escapees from prison.

Panahi is a great storyteller, and much is learned without words. As hard as it is for anyone to stay free on the outside of jail, it's immediately obvious that in Iran, as a woman, it's harder!

There's little doubt that all of these women are going to be caught, but the driving desire which keeps them going, is nothing more than to succeed at something before having to return.

While one of them hopes to make it to safe haven far away, others have difficult or simpler wishes, but all of them seem equally, just out of reach.

While the story is powerful, Panahi doesn't use a straight narrative. This style might turn off some viewers, but if one affords a little patience, there are wonderful things that happen as the film unfolds.

WELLSPRING has presented the film with its proper 1.85:1 aspect ratio, without 16:9 enhancement. The image is decent, but inconsistent. It's often sharp, but, there are also moments where it's colors and resolution are restrained, and blemished. Fleshtones are consistent.

WELLSPRING has provided a 2.0 Stereo mix for this release, with the original Farsi dialogue. There are some ambient effects, but direction and surround effects are virtually non-existent.

Surprisingly, WELLSPRING has provided an excellent interview with the director, Jafar Panahi. He discusses the story, unusual cinematography and more! There are also two trailers.