SUNSHINE STATE-

 John Sayles is well regarded as one of the best writers in Hollywood.  While his films don’t have massive commercial appeal, they tend to be appreciated by fans of story structure and depth of character.  Because he’s not concerned with over-the-top Jerry Bruckheimer style action, or editing, his films aren’t for everyone, reserved more for the
“art-house” viewer.  Still, “SUNSHINE STATE” is his most commercially accessible film to date. 

 “SUNSHINE STATE” tells the story of a Florida community wherein a number of black residents have lived in general tranquility for a long period.  When land developers decide to turn the area into a retirement facility area, some of the townfolk decide to fight back.  Edie Falco, from “THE SOPRANOS,” is excellent as Marly. Her dad owns the popular town restaurant and hotel, which had a notable history as being the hotel for the area, the only area blacks were able to vacation without difficulty for a long time.  When an architect for the land developers, Timothy Hutton, arrives, a relationship between the two begins to complicate matters.  Angela Basset is also outstanding as Disiree, a former resident, newly married, returning home for the first time, and causing secrets of the past to be revisited.  Sayles has always been great with his actors, and “SUNSHINE STATE” offers a so-so plot, filled with incredible characters.  There’s certain to be one that viewers will identify with, and this fact, along with some provocative dialogue and insight, makes “SUNSHINE STATE” better than its storyline suggests.

 COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented the film’s correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  The color values are generally solid. Colors are rich, complimenting the exotic and lively color scheme of the Florida location.  Contrast is fine, with deep solids and blacks.  The only drawback is some infrequent grain present off-and-on throughout the film.  Fleshtones appear natural.

 The Dolby Digital 5.0 mix is fairly restrained. As in most of Sayles’ films, “SUNSHINE STATE” is dialogue-driven, and the absence of an aggressive surround mix is acceptable.  There are some ambient effects, and the score is boosted through surrounds, but most of the directional effects are focused on the front soundstage. 

 A commentary with Sayles is provided, and as with his previous commentaries, he offers aspiring writers a great deal of insight into the writing process, as well as the difficulties of putting together a film more “independent” in nature, than most studio films.  Theatrical trailers for his other COLUMBIA TRISTAR releases are also featured.