Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean

One of Altman’s Most Underrated Films

Beautiful restoration of an underrated work from a true master. I was tempted to get the limited edition, but my shelf space doesn’t permit that for now - still, I’m so glad to have this. Upgrading from the previous, almost bare-bones bluray release was a no-brainer.

Memories That Refuse to Stay Buried

Robert Altman turns a cramped Texas five-and-dime into a pressure cooker of nostalgia, regret and long-buried truths, with Karen Black, Cher and Sandy Dennis leading an exceptional ensemble. Cinématographe’s handsome MediaBook presentation and new 4K restoration give this overlooked drama the treatment it has long deserved.

Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean

I don’t have a collective idea of Altman’s work but I have seen enough movies to know that they are very varied. I was intrigued by the actresses in the movie, as well as the amazing cover art for this release but didn’t know anything about the story or background. Realizing this was based on a play makes complete sense but it loses me a little in how it’s set up. Though it accomplishes a lot with very little, I found myself a bit restless during the first hour of the movie. After Joanne emerges, it became more interesting, with the best parts of the movie being the last 25 minutes or so. Regardless, it is a masterclass in dramatic acting and the best part of the movie by far. The special features are excellent. Not all Cinematographer releases are able to have recent interviews with the cast as they tend to be older, directed by auteurs that have gone on to varying levels of success and aren’t available for any commentary or material due to this. This definitely doesn’t have an interview with Cher or Cathy Bates or Karen Black but it’s important themes are highlighted in essays. The packaging for this release is maybe my favorite from Cinematographe so far. The artwork is incredible and the colors are very eye catching. Gorgeous!