A novelist struggling with writer’s block finds romance in a most unusual way: by creating a female character he thinks will love him, then willing her into existence.
WHAT WE THOUGHT
“Ruby Sparks” moves gradually from hip romantic comedy to meta-horror – although it feels like there’s a bit too much of the former, as I got the feeling that the zany pixie girl and self- hating writer stereotypes were being indulged more than they were being deconstructed. So what could have been a really interesting Woody Allen-esque philosophical rabbit-hole ends up cutting a far more familiar, shallower groove. But still, it’s satisfying to see a cautionary flourish to go with the wish fulfillment.
There is something to be said for what Kazan and Dano almost accomplish here. They have amazing chemistry that leads to spectacular ideas happening on a low budget. Plus, they command a cast of such heavyweights that everything comes out looking amazing. There’s just one catch, why can’t it stick the ending? I’m not going to spoil it or anything, but there’s just so much build-up to nothing.
The Blu-Ray comes with a ton of featurettes that cover almost every aspect of the production. The DTS-HD 5.1 track holds up well for material like this. However, I found the 1080p transfer to flat and drab throughout. It’s not home theater material, but good for a quiet night. I’d recommend a purchase.
RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW!
