Benjamin Bratt gives an outstanding performance as playwright Miguel Pinero in "PINERO,” from BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT.  Pinero’s most noted play, “SHORT EYES,” found great acclaim and numerous Tony nominations, bringing a writer with an honest sense of the streets into the world of high art and entertainment.  Because of Pinero’s background and continued struggles with drug addiction, his writing conveyed a truthful and raw atmosphere that had seldom been touched upon.  The film’s non-linear structure is troublesome at times, but the performances make up for it.  Bratt is terrific, and his real-life girlfriend, Talisa Soto is one of the most beautiful and overlooked actresses in modern day cinema. 

Writer/Director Leon Ichaso has crafted an interesting film, however, in spite of its great acting, its confusing structure prevents if from achieving the kind of brilliance achieved in another film biography of an artist, “BASQUIAT.” 

BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT has presented “PINERO” with its proper 1.85:1 aspect ratio and 16:9 enhancement.  Ichaso disorients the viewer by changing the image from black&white to 16mm to 35mm.  These changes cause the image to vary from slick and glossy to grainy and soft.  Colors vary from “subdued” to “vibrant” depending upon the particular scene.  Contrast is fine, with deep blacks and grays. Fleshtones appear natural.

BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT provides a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix, but surround sound is virtually non-existent.  The front soundstage offers a variety of directional effects, and the musical score is well complimented throughout.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT has provided some extras with this release.  “A LOOK AT MIGUEL PINERO: THE MAN,” is a brief but interesting examination of the film’s production as well as the “man” behind it.  Several trailers are also included.