A long awaited update for this cult feature is finally here
Dogma on 4K is a long awaited release for many. The film, out of print for years has long carried a pretty price on the DVD aftermarket. Now, with various rights issues resolved, one of Kevin Smith’s most loved and controversial films is finally getting the UHD treatment, and more than that, a host of new extra features to celebrate it’s 25th anniversary.
For those unfamiliar, the film centers on two exiled angels, Bartleby (Ben Affleck) and Loki (Matt Damon). Weary of their lives among mortals (and Wisconsin), they find news of an act by New Jersey Cardinal Glick (George Carlin) act that could spell forgiveness for their sins, and a return to their former heavenly above. The problem is that this return would infer the fallibility of God, and doing so could mean the obliteration of existence. The heavenly host looks to head off this catastrophe by recruiting a mortal woman and lapsed Catholic Bethany (Linda Fiorentino), who is charged by a messenger from God (a gloriously exasperated Alan Rickman) to block the duo’s scheme however she can. And so begins a theological road trip, enlisting the help of some religious icons along the way.
Despite (or perhaps because of) courting controversy upon its original release back in 1999, Dogma quickly built up a cult following. Kevin Smith’s work draws from plenty of the lore surrounding Catholicism and the Bible itself, but a more pointed view on organized religion, corruption, and capitalistic leanings in this modern age. These are explored by key plot points/characters that superficially seem inflammatory, but serve purpose to the tale. Fallen angels, an excised (and black) 13th disciple, a cartoonified “Buddy” Christ mascot, a female God, and perhaps most triggering of all, a descendent of Christ working at an abortion clinic. While not as witty or subversive as Month Python’s The Life of Brian, Smith’s indie feature is distinctly his own. An iconoclastic road trip that explores many of the questions people have about faith and doubt, cruelty and forgiveness. if you’ve ever mused on how the evils that occur in the world do so even under the sight of God, its probably going to work for you. If you’re wary, the film doesn’t mock believers, but rather takes aim at those who hide behind the shield of religion, or are selective in following the teachings of the bible, or interpretation of its words.
At times Dogma is a little too smug with its perceived wit and insight, but that’s pretty on brand for Kevin Smith. What sells the film more is that it doesn’t take itself too seriously, playing with some ongoing elements from his wider cinematic universe (hello Jay and Silent Bob), as well as indulging his penchant for some more surreal elements and nods to pop culture. Serving as his step up from low-budget fare, he does stumble a little with some of the shifts in scope (and budget) lacking the grandeur needed to sell it, the Golgotha shit demon scene being a good example.
The standout though is the cast, with Damon and Affleck having a rollicking time as the lead duo, fallen angels, Chris Rock and Salma Hayek giving their all as Rufus (the aforementioned 13th disciple) and Serendipity respectively. Aside from the fantastic Rickman, Linda Fiorentino is the standout with a fiery and assured performance that grounds much of the film and plays a good counterpoint to its inherent silliness.
The Package
A long awaited visual refresh does not disappoint. Details are notably improved over the earlier releases (yes I have those rare items), and color and contrast both impress, even in high brightness situations. Depth of image also complements the increased level of detail. Grain is present, and feels naturally represented. There are a few close-up scenes where a little softness creeps in, as well as with some of the digital effects, but this is likely to be an issue with the source print rather than the 4K process.
New Special Features include:
- Physical Media Introduction with Kevin Smith: A message from the director celebrating this new release, as well as the 4K format
- Revelations: Making Dogma: An 80 minute documentary that largely centers around Smith’s conception of the films premise, and development. A great new addition that weaves in plenty of personal reflections from the filmmaker
- Establishing Shot with Robert Yeoman: The cinematographer reminisces on the making of the film and the fruits of his labor 25 years on
- Dogma Q&A: Smith and his friend/podcaster Joe Smith field an audience Q&A on the film
- More Sermons from the Mount: Reflections on the film, most notably sharing details on how Alanis Morrisette joined the cast
- 25th Anniversary Teaser & Theatrical Trailer
Legacy Special Features include:
- Audio Commentary with Kevin Smith, Ben Affleck, Jason Lee, Jason Mewes, Scott Mosier, and Vincent Pereira
- Technical Audio Commentary with Kevin Smith, Scott Mosier, and Vincent Pereira
- Deleted Scenes with Intros: An entire films worth, over 100 minutes!
- Outtakes: Around 15 minutes of messups
- Jay and Silent Bob Secret Stash Commercial: A NJ comic book store ad
- Judge Not: In Defense of Dogma (2001 Documentary): A decent dive into the controversy surrounding the film upon its release
- Storyboards
- Original PSP Introduction with Kevin Smith
- Showest Sizzle: Low quality preview footage
- Easter Egg – How Jay Thinks Kevin Directs & How Kevin Directs:
- My Opinion by Mrs. Harriet Wise: A ribbing of the viewer centered around the films themes
- Original Theatrical Trailer, UK Teaser Trailer, TV Spot – US, TV Spots – 2 UK spots
The Bottom Line
Dogma on 4K reaffirms its cult status. An oft juvenile comedy that manages to land many of the punches it aims at abuses of religion and power, and the institutions behind them. The 4K is not just a great visual upgrade, but also comes with a selection of new extra features (as well as a trove of legacy ones) to further burnish the package.
Kevin Smith’s Dogma is available on 4K-UHD now
