The cult classic from 2006 directed by Tarsem Singh, known for music videos and commercials but in the film world, for his extravagantly beautifully shot films. From confusing and convoluted sci-fi (The Cell) to reimagining Greek tales and fairy tales (Immortals and Mirror Mirror) to the film that he’ll be remembered for, an epic fantastical adventure disguised as a bedtime story.
Inspired by the Bulgarian 1981 film Yo Ho Ho, the story follows a young girl, Alexandria, as she recovers from a broken arm in a hospital in 1915 California. There she befriends an injured stuntman, Roy, who entertains her by telling a story of epic proportions, carefully weaving in people from real life. But as reality and the story collide, there is no hiding from what Roy is planning to do.
If anyone remembers anything about the film, it's the scale and wonder that Tarsem creates. Every frame is a work of art, whether it's one of the many unusual locations across the globe or Roy sitting in his hospital bed. From the set, props and costume design, the latter made by the legendary Eiko Ishioka, every inch of the film is dripping in artistic delight. But this isn’t quality over substance, the story itself delves deeper than a fantasy bedtime story. The real world characters, pain and emotions are dragged into the fantasy, making everything so heartbreakingly real. The Fall is more than just a beautiful spectacle.
When Mubi announced last year that they would be releasing a 4K restoration onto their platform, marking the film being available for the first time on any streaming service, there was hope that a physical release would follow. But Umbrella Entertainment, known for shining a spotlight on overlooked gems, got there first and oh my is this set to be the best release of 2025.
With brand new artwork, hardback book, poster, art cards, slipcase and plenty of extras on the 4K disc, Umbrella Entertainment have out done themselves. Doing the film justice and satisfying fans of the film (and physical media) as they finally have a work of art to accompany the work of art that Tarsem created.