Title: Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
Format: Blu-ray + DVD + Ultraviolet Digital Copy
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Directed by: Stephen Daldry
Written by: Eric Roth
Starring: Tom Hanks, Thomas Horn, Viola Davis, John Goodman, Jeffrey Wright, Max von Sydow
Studio:Warner Bros. Home Entertainment
Rating: 
Review by: Sarah Jones
The Film
Almost everyone remembers where they were and what they were doing when they found out about the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001. Some were directly affected, knowing someone who was killed in the attacks or in the rescue efforts.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close portrays such a story, but it is also a story about trying to move on after losing a loved one and trying to find meaning in the pieces they leave behind.
Oskar’s father was in one of the towers when they went down. After his father’s death, Oskar (Thomas Horn) finds a key in his father’s closet and sets off on a journey to find out what the key belongs to in one last puzzle from his father. His quest will unite him with a mysterious mute and many other people who are struggling in their own lives as well.
The movie is emotional, with bursts of humor and triumph. Although not all questions are answered and truths discovered, Extremely Loud has more of a realistic feel to it than typically happy Hollywood endings.
The Blu-ray
The Special Features included in the set begin with “Making Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close,” in which the director and actors discuss what it was like to adapt this movie from the novel on which it was based. The “Finding Oskar” featurette showcases Horn in his first acting role. The extraordinary story of a 9/11 victim is shared in the “Ten Years Later” feature. Finally, in “Max von Sydow: Dialogues with the Renter,” the actor’s son celebrates his father’s performance.
The subject matter of this movie might be difficult for some to watch. Although it is a story of loss, it is also a story about connection to loved ones and strangers alike. The Special Features add some good insight into the making of the film. It is a well-rounded set; however, the heavy subject matter may make it a movie that is tough to watch more than once.
For more info, www.extremelyloudandincrediblyclose.warnerbros.com
Pads & Panels received a copy of the Blu-ray courtesy of the studio for review purposes.
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