In 1957, Soviet spy Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance) is arrested in New York. Though the trial itself is for little more than show, the government wants it known that he was granted a fair legal defense. To that end, Former criminal lawyer and Nuremberg prosecutor James Donovan (Tom Hanks), now working insurance law, is approached to represent Abel. Despite the obvious personal and professional risks of such a decision, Donovan agrees to take the case, believing it’s his “patriotic duty” to do it’

The soft-spoken Abel, looks like a sad sack of a man. Hardly someone you would ever notice on the street; more average grandpa than international man of mystery. When the two first meet Donovan is struck by Abel’s sense of calm and lack of worry, “Would it help?” Abel replies. At the time, fears and anger toward the Soviet Union was at a fever pitch. That is made painfully obvious by the judge who skirts the law in Abel’s trial and the angry protesters, both in and outside, the courtroom. Although Abel is found guilty, Donovan is able to convince the judge not to send his client to the electric chair. At least with Abel alive, he could be used as a political bargaining chip should the need arise.

Donovan decides to appeal the case to the Supreme Court. Though he ultimately loses in a 5-4 decision, it’s during this time that Donovan reminds us, that both sides have spies and “if they were caught, I am sure you’d wish them to be treated well.” Unfolding events will make his statement rather prophetic. That time comes when young American U-2 spy plane pilot, Francis Gary Powers (Austin Stowell), is shot down and captured by the Soviets. Donovan is once again thrust into service, asked to attend secret meetings in Berlin to negotiate a prisoner exchange: Abel for Powers and, if everything goes as Donovan hopes, an American student named Frederic Pryor (Will Rogers) who was taken into custody while crossing into East Berlin during the wall’s assembly.

At the center of Bridge of Spies is the intriguing relationship between Donovan and Abel. While it’s stretching a bit far to call it a friendship, the two build a strong respect for each other. Initially, Donovan is strictly focused on the due process of law, but he is slowly impressed by Abel’s steadfast refusal to betray his country or his beliefs. It’s the same kind of steadfastness that keeps Donovan on the case, despite public disgust and obvious danger to himself and to a lesser degree, his family.

As we’ve come to expect, director Steven Spielberg is in full command of his environment, putting us right back in the late 1950’s, in both look and feel. The dark, dungy look of East and West Berlin is a particular highlight, thanks to the efforts of longtime collaborator Janusz Kamiński. Tom Hanks is perfectly cast here, balancing his steadfastness with ever-present charm. The real highlight is the performance of Mark Rylance as Rudolf Abel, the man committed to his country and his cause, no matter the consequences.

Presented in the 2.40:1 aspect ratio, Disney has provided an excellent 1080p transfer. Sourced from film, there’s a light grain overlay that accentuates the film’s finer details. Textures are discernable throughout and the period clothing is a real standout. Much of Bridge of Spies is rather, but what color there is—appliances, ties, accents—stand out nicely and are fully detailed. The image looks slightly soft on a few brief occasions, but is otherwise sharp and flesh tones appear natural. Overall, Disney has delivered a fine video transfer.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 lossless soundtrack is equally impressive. A balanced surround mix and dynamic wide range are highlights here, which provides clarity and nuance throughout. The mix of music and dialogue is handled expertly, adding to the overall feel of a scene. Dialogue is always crisp, while Thomas Newman’s score plays a vital part in telling the story.

English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles are included.

 

The following extras are available:

  • A Case of the Cold War: Bridge of Spies (HD, 17:45) Things begin with Steven Spielberg’s family history as it relates to the real life events portrayed in the film and follows with cast and crew scrutinizing the politics and history of the time, the screenplay, espionage and intelligence gathering of the era, the story’s relevance today, character attributes, the Francis Gary Powers and Frederic Pryor stories and more.
  • Berlin 1961: Re-Creating The Divide (HD, 11:35) Cast and crew share the history of the wall and discuss its representation in the film.
  • U-2 Spy Plane (HD, 8:45) The real history of the U-2 aircraft and its representation in the film.
  • Spy Swap: Looking Back on the Final Act (1080p, 5:42) Shooting the sequence in Berlin, which includes a visit with Chancellor Angela Merkel.
  • DVD Copy of the film.
  • Digital Copy.