There’s no question that Michael Douglas has rarely failed to impress moviegoers with his solid acting. We can forgive and feel sorry for him in having to do a sex scene with Sharon Stone (a fate that no one should have to face), and know that nearly every other film has been a winner. “Solitary Man” is no different. But then, in a way it is. Months before the recent announcement that Douglas is battling throat cancer, he stepped into the role of Ben Kalmen. As if art was planning on imitating life, Kalmen is given the news that he has cancer and has to decide just what he is going to do about it. Initially he goes on a binge of spending and sexual exploits, but finds himself reined in by his best friend of 30 years, Jimmy (Danny DeVito). Made even more poignant by the recent real life diagnosis, “Solitary Man” allows powerful performances by both Douglas and DeVito, more so than you might expect from the latter.

As the actors have been friends nearly that long, it shows in every scene they share. Their characters act and interact like real friends should, even when their lifestyles are so diverse. This is a true actor’s piece and worth every moment to watch.

Anchor Bay recently released the Bluray edition, and it is easily one of their better ones to date, and while this is not a big special effects film that requires it, the transfer is near perfect. No blemishes and the color palette is well defined. Dialogue is clear and never muffled over by the surrounding music or background noises.

The Bluray offers a commentary by writers/directors Brian Kopplemann & David Levien and they are joined by actor Douglas McGrath. It’s not one of those edge-of-your-seat commentaries, but it doesn’t need to be for this type of film and their conversational attitude lends itself to the information they wish to share. There is also a making of feature which is well worth a look.

“Solitary Man” is a surprisingly good film, with solid performances. If you are at all a Michael Douglas fan, I highly recommend it.

Directed by: Brian Kopplemann & David Levien
Starring: Michael Douglas, Mary-Louise Parker, Jenna Fischer, Jesse Eisenberg, Imogen Potts, Susan Sarandon
Extras: Audio Commentary by Writer/Director Brian Koppelman, Director David Levien, and Actor Michael Douglas; Solitary Man – Alone in a Crowd
Specification: Widescreen 1080p (2.35:1); Dolby Digital 5.1
Studio: Anchor Bay
Release Date: 9/7/2010
MPAA Rating: R
http://www.solitarymanmovie.com

We'll give Solitary Man (Bluray) a B.