"I, Tonya," based on the incredible true events, is an examination of Tonya Harding, the most controversial figure in the history of figure skating, and the headline-grabbing scandal that mesmerized a nation. Presenting multiple, and at times contradictory, perspectives of the events, the film explores the ways public opinion can be permanently shaped by news agendas and tabloid culture. The film tells the story of a complex story of resilience and perseverance, as a rebellious working-class girl pursues her dream competing in a "ladylike" sport, only to be caught up in controversy and criminal circumstances created by her involvement with those closest to her. Though Harding was the first American woman to complete a triple axel in competition, her legacy was forever defined by her association with the infamous attack on fellow Olympic competitor Nancy Kerrigan. (Gary Reber)
Special features include commentary with Director Craig Gillespie; five deleted scenes (HD 17:25); five featurettes: "All Sixes: The Perfect Performances Of I, Tonya" (HD 03:44), "Irony Free, Totally True: The Story Behind I, Tonya" (HD 03:39), "Working With Director Craig Gillespie" (HD 02:28), "The Visual Effects Of I, Tonya" (HD 04:28), and "VFX" Anatomy Of The Triple Axel" (HD 11:58); theatrical trailers; upfront previews; and a Movies Anywhere digital copy.
The 2.39:1 1080p AVC picture, reviewed on a Sony Bravia Z9D 4K Ultra HD HDR display, upconverted to 2160p with greater resolution and luminance, was photographed digitally using the Arri Alexa 65 (6.5K) camera and on Kodak Vision3 film stock using the Arricam LT and Arriflex 235 camera and sourced from a 4K master Digital Intermediate format. The picture exhibits a general rawness, with a stylized appearance and a saturated color palette. Hues are warmly rendered. Fleshtones are generally natural in hue, though, a bit rough, just as Tonya is rough in temperament. Contrast is generally acceptable with good black levels and revealing shadows. Resolution is good with nice detail exhibited throughout, especially in close-ups, but there is a softness that often appears. Overall, this is a pleasing picture with a slight documentary feel. (Gary Reber)
The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack is very much dialogue focused, yet driven by a pop and rock, as well as powerful orchestral music score with a wide and deep soundstage that aggressively extends the surrounds. Atmospherics enhance the realism as well as the occasional sound effect. Dialogue is consistently intelligible, including Tonya's and others' narration, which is slight forward sounding. Otherwise, dialogue is generally wanting in spatial integration. Overall, the soundtrack is a mixture of interviews, raw dialogue, and skating rings and arenas with all the accompanying sonics. The impact is effective in the telling of a extraordinary story. (Gary Reber)