La Cage aux Folles

Edouard Molinaro's "La Cage aux Folles" is presented in a remarkable 1080p HD transfer by Criterion, showcasing the film in a 1.67:1 aspect ratio, closely preserving its original aspect ratio with meticulous encoding via MPEG-4 AVC. This exceptional release is sourced from a new digital transfer created in 2K resolution using a Spirit 4K film scanner from a 35mm interpositive. The extensive restoration process involved the manual removal of thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, and unwanted artifacts with the assistance of MTI's DRS and Image Systems' Phoenix for noise, grain management, and stabilization, supervised by Maria Palazzola and colored by Gregg Garvin at Modern VideoFilm in Burbank, CA. This release sees a significant enhancement from the dated R1 DVD version by MGM, offering a visually vibrant and faithful representation of Molinaro's directorial vision.

The film's characteristic soft and warm look is reproduced with integrity, featuring a broad spectrum of natural colors that pop off the screen, especially in scenes set within the club that are effectively muted yet immensely detailed. The skin tones are rendered with impressive naturalism, complemented by deep and rich black levels. The transfer excels in reproducing fine details such as makeup lines, wrinkles, and the intricate designs of costumes which further accentuates the visual flamboyance of the drag queens' attire. Despite minor fluctuations in sharpness due to the original cinematography, these moments do not detract from the overall clarity and depth of the image.

Criterion's dedication to quality is evident in the stable contrast levels, absence of heavy digital filtering or unwarranted sharpening adjustments ensuring a consistently pleasing and organic viewing experience. While there are negligible light compression artifacts, they do not mar the visual splendor of this presentation. Fans of "La Cage aux Folles" will find this Blu-ray release to be a definitive upgrade, presenting the film in its best ever seen visual fidelity, free from distracting video anomalies like banding and aliasing. This meticulous effort guarantees a viewing experience that honors the film's cinematic essence and is sure to delight its admirers.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "La Cage aux Folles" presents its audience with an exclusive French LPCM 1.0 mono audio track. Despite the lack of a more immersive 5.1 audio option, this release impresses with its refined lossless audio quality. The singular track configuration might seem limited to aficionados of multi-channel soundscapes, particularly given the film's rich musical sequences and vibrant nightclub scenes. However, the audio does an outstanding job with what it provides. Dialogue is presented with crystal clarity, ensuring that every word is easily discernible, free from any form of audio imperfection such as scratches, hisses, pops, or cracks. Additionally, the optional English subtitles complement the track well, offering an excellent translation for non-French speakers.

Ennio Morricone's memorable score and the various musical numbers within the film benefit greatly from the nuanced dynamics and depth of the mono track. While a multi-channel setup could have potentially elevated these elements further by offering a more layered auditory experience, the current mix does not disappoint. The balance between dialogue, music, and ambient sounds is meticulously maintained throughout, showcasing a well-calibrated dynamic range that brings out the best in both quieter and more sonically ambitious scenes.

In summary, this audio presentation stands out for its clean, balanced, and dynamic performance. The French LPCM 1.0 track, supported by high-quality English subtitles, showcases an adept handling of the film's diverse audio elements—from spirited musical interludes in the nightclub to subdued conversational exchanges. Although a 5.1 surround sound option is conspicuously absent, the existing setup offers a surprisingly rich auditory experience that pays homage to the film's lively atmosphere and detailed sound design.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray extra presentation of "La Cage aux Folles" offers a comprehensive and vivid look into the film's legacy, enhanced by a selection of thoughtful and meticulously curated supplements. The standout is undoubtedly the candid video interview with director Edouard Molinaro, providing deep insights into the film’s creation and his tensions with lead actor Ugo Tognazzi, alongside discussions about the film's reception and its cultural impact. Additionally, the archival footage featuring Jean Poiret and Michel Serrault revisits the duo's comedic genesis, offering a nostalgic look back at their early work and the stage version of La Cage aux Folles. Laurence Senelick’s interview adds academic depth, exploring drag performance's evolution and its mainstream acceptance. The inclusion of both English and French trailers, along with a richly illustrated booklet featuring critical essays, rounds out the extras, making this edition a definitive resource for both fans and scholars of the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Edouard Molinaro: A revealing interview with the director that delves into the behind-the-scenes challenges and achievements.
• Archival Footage: A collection of historical performances by Jean Poiret and Michel Serrault, capturing the essence of their early careers and contributions to La Cage aux Folles.
• Laurence Senelick: An insightful discussion on the significance of drag in theater and its influence on modern cinema.
• Trailers: Original English and French trailers that offer a glimpse into the film's marketing and reception.
• Booklet: A beautifully crafted booklet featuring essays and critiques on the film’s legacy and impact.

Edouard Molinaro's "La Cage aux Folles," or "Birds of a Feather" as it's known in English, stands as a testament to the timelessness of humor and the universality of the themes of acceptance and tolerance. Released in 1978 and graced by the performances of Ugo Tognazzi as Renato, the owner of St. Tropez's most extravagant drag club, and Michel Serrault as Albin, the club's star attraction, the film navigates their comedic yet poignant journey as they confront societal norms. The occasion arises when Renato's son announces his engagement to the daughter of a conservative political figure, setting the stage for a series of deceptions and revelations. With a backdrop lensed by Armando Nannunzzi and an enchanting soundtrack by Ennio Morricone, "La Cage aux Folles" captivates not only with its narrative but also with its technical finesse.

Central to the film is the dichotomy between appearances and authenticity, explored through the duo's efforts to mask their true selves in a bid to conform to conservative expectations. This transformation extends from the personal to the physical as they redecorate their vibrant home into a bastion of conservatism. However, true identity cannot be camouflaged by mere superficial changes, leading to an unfolding of events that humorously and heartwarmingly champions the value of being true to oneself. The film's success, underscored by its Oscar nominations, including Best Director and Best Costume Design, is a reflection of its ability to resonate across cultural and temporal boundaries.

Director Molinaro, alongside Tognazzi's reluctant yet remarkable portrayal of Renato and Serrault's flamboyantly heartfelt Albin, crafts a narrative that blends clichés with novelty, evoking laughter and empathy in equal measure. "La Cage aux Folles" not only set the groundwork for future discussions around sexual orientation and identity politics but did so in a manner that was both entertaining and enlightening. The remarkable blend of visual storytelling, superb acting, and a compelling message serves as a reminder of cinema's power to challenge, amuse, and inspire.

Criterion's 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "La Cage aux Folles," directed by Edouard Molinaro, has surpassed expectations, elevating the film's viewing experience to unparalleled heights. The digital restoration brings a vividness to the screen that was previously unattainable, making this adaptation of the renowned stage production appear fresher and more engaging than ever. Coupled with exceptional audio quality, the release faithfully conveys the essence and heart of the original work, ensuring that both visuals and sounds are impeccably presented. Additionally, the inclusion of insightful new video interviews with Molinaro and professor Laurence Senelick adds a substantial value to the package, enhancing the overall appreciation of the film's cultural and historical significance.

The meticulous attention to detail in both video and audio aspects of this release demonstrates Criterion's commitment to honoring the film's legacy. Not only does it serve as a testament to the enduring charm and relevance of "La Cage aux Folles," but it also sets a new standard for the presentation of cinematic classics. The extra content, particularly the interviews, provides fans and new viewers alike with a rare glimpse into the creative process behind this masterpiece, making it a must-own for collectors and enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Criterion's release of "La Cage aux Folles" in 4K UHD Blu-Ray is an essential addition to any film aficionado's collection. Its superior video and audio presentations breathe new life into this beloved classic, while the exclusive interviews offer deep dives into its production and impact. This release not only pays homage to the film's original brilliance but also ensures that it will continue to delight and inspire audiences for generations to come. It comes very highly recommended for purchase, promising both unmatched quality and enriching content.