Cronos Blu-ray Review

Criterion's video presentation of Guillermo del Toro's "Cronos" on Blu-ray is an impressive feat, meticulously supervised and approved by both del Toro and director of photography Guillermo Navarro. The film is presented in its original 1.78:1 aspect ratio, utilizing a high-definition transfer created in 2K resolution from the original 35mm camera negative via a Spirit 4K Datacine. Advanced restoration processes including MTI's DRS system and Pixel Farm's PFClean system were used to remove thousands of blemishes such as dirt, debris, and scratches, while Digital Vision's DVNR system addressed minor grain and noise issues. The result is an image that is markedly free from print damage, delivering a clear and stable viewing experience.

The transfer upgrades the visual quality significantly compared to previous home video versions, offering enhanced detail, better contrast levels, and more accurate color reproduction. Primaries are vivid, especially the reds, although the film’s deliberate earthy tones still exhibit slight muddiness in more flamboyant scenes. Skin tones are generally warm and natural, with exceptions like the marble-like appearance of the dead alchemist adding visual interest. The green glow of Aurora's glow-stick against the shadows is well-pronounced, contributing to the film’s moody atmosphere. Black levels are robust but shadow definition, while improved, isn't as sharp as in contemporary high-definition transfers. Edge enhancement and macroblocking are absent, and the image retains a pleasing organic look.

Overall, this Criterion transfer is a substantial upgrade from earlier releases, elevating fine object detail and visual depth. Textures and intricate details, such as the tufts of curly hair on characters or the tiny threads on their clothing, are more discernible. The antique shop and De La Guardia’s chamber now boast a depth previously unseen. Lacking noise reduction artifacts and preserving filmic integrity, this transfer represents the best visual presentation of "Cronos" to date. Criterion's effort ensures that this edition is both faithful to the original vision and visually stunning for modern audiences.

The Blu-ray edition of "Cronos" boasts a Spanish DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track that delivers an impressive auditory experience, enhanced by the original combination of Spanish and English dialogue. The stereo track, remastered at 24-bit from a 35mm LT/RT magnetic soundtrack, is clear and crisp, with dialogue remaining perfectly clean and highly intelligible throughout. Javier Alvarez's score is characterized by keen warmth and a well-balanced mix, bringing out the intricacies in high strings and piano notes. The intricate clicks and whirls of the Cronos device are delightfully detailed, showcasing width and sharpness, particularly in the device's mechanical spike.

Technical precision is evident as clicks, hums, and hisses were meticulously removed using Pro Tools HD, and crackle was attenuated via AudioCube's integrated audio workstation. The mix stays true to its original dynamic presence, providing depth to the bass without overpowering impacts such as car crashes or meaty blows. The atmospheric elements are equally commendable; for instance, a rainstorm during Jesus' return adds a fine separation across the stereo image, and rumbling thunder offers a genuine low-frequency presence.

Overall, Cronos's audio presentation on this Blu-ray disc is robust and vivid. Despite being a stereo track without surround sound, it leaves a strong impression with its wide range, stable dialogue clarity, and minimal audio artifacts. It may not compete with modern blockbusters in bass-heavy dynamics, yet it remains a standout feature, honoring the film's original auditory intent.

The Criterion Collection's Blu-ray edition of "Cronos" provides an immersive and richly detailed set of extras that will delight fans and cinephiles alike. Guillermo del Toro's commentary is an insightful exploration of the film's creation, highlighting his technical prowess, personal reflections, and candid thoughts on what he would do differently. The package also includes a second, albeit less engaging, commentary track by the producers. Del Toro’s unreleased 1987 short film "Geometria" adds tremendous value, featuring both the film and an informative interview discussing its influences and completion. "Welcome to Bleak House" offers an enchanting tour of del Toro's memorabilia-filled haven, shedding light on his creative sanctuary. Additionally, the gallery of new interviews provides intimate anecdotes from key collaborators, while accompanying stills and a trailer further enhance this comprehensive collection.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Guillermo del Toro: An insightful track with detailed reflections.
• Commentary with Producers: Provides additional context in English and Spanish.
• Geometria: Short film by Guillermo del Toro with an accompanying interview.
• Welcome to Bleak House: A guided tour of del Toro’s memorabilia-filled home.
• Interviews:
  • Guillermo del Toro: Discusses film production and influences.
  • Guillermo Navarro: Cinematographer’s perspective on technical challenges.
  • Ron Perlman: Actor's experience and language barriers.
  • Federico Luppi: Reflects on his character and the film.
• Stills Gallery: A collection of rare photos curated by del Toro.
• Trailer: The original theatrical trailer.

Guillermo del Toro's debut feature film, Cronos, presents a distinctive take on the vampire genre with its unique blend of gothic storytelling, inventive mythos, and character-driven narrative. Released in 1993, the film showcases del Toro's raw talent and visionary approach that would later flourish in masterpieces like Pan's Labyrinth and the Hellboy series. The plot revolves around Jesus Gris (Federico Luppi), an antique dealer who stumbles upon an ancient mechanical scarab hidden within a statue, which grants him immortality but at a grotesque cost. Featuring memorable performances from Ron Perlman as the antagonistic nephew Angel and a chilling turn from Claudio Brook as the dying industrialist Dieter de la Guardia, Cronos intricately explores themes of time, mortality, and human obsession.

As a debut, Cronos is notable for its remarkable ambition and execution despite a limited budget. Del Toro's characteristic fascination with the horror genre extends beyond mere shock value; instead, he embeds poignant symbolism and intricately woven emotional narratives that convey deeper existential queries. The film is often compared to Victor Erice's The Spirit of the Beehive for its subtle religious and political overtones. The most poignant relationship is between Jesus Gris and his granddaughter Aurora (Tamara Shanath), highlighting del Toro's recurring exploration of familial bonds amidst fantastical backdrops.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release does justice to the film with an impeccable high-definition transfer that retains the original’s filmic quality. The audio is clean and clear, enhancing the atmospheric score and sound design without overemphasizing any channels. Noteworthy supplemental features include del Toro’s short film Geometría, two insightful commentary tracks, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the director’s house. This comprehensive package enriches the viewing experience by providing context to del Toro’s creative evolution, offering fans and newcomers alike a deeper appreciation of this early gem in his illustrious career.

Guillermo del Toro's "Cronos" receives a sophisticated and meticulously crafted release on Blu-ray that underscores its importance as both a cinematic milestone and a collectible item. As del Toro's debut film, "Cronos" exudes an impressive level of confidence and style, signifying the emergence of an auteur with a unique vision—a blend of horror with profound humanism. The Criterion edition elevates this film with a pristine presentation, vastly improved picture and sound quality, and a trove of invaluable extras, including audio commentaries and interviews with del Toro himself. This enriched context provides deep insights into the mind of a director who is as passionate about cinema as he is modest.

The film intricately weaves a narrative where classical horror elements are redefined; vampires are portrayed as elderly men running antique shops, while true monstrosity is embodied by the affluent who covet eternal youth. Such innovative storytelling, combined with emotional depth, showcases del Toro's expertise in crafting genre films that resonate on a human level. The deluxe Blu-ray package furthers this resonance with additions from previous releases and new material that enhances the viewing experience, ensuring that fans of del Toro and the genre at large will find this edition irreplaceable.

Conclusively, the Criterion Blu-ray release of "Cronos" is not only a testament to Guillermo del Toro's burgeoning genius but also a stellar example of how modern technology can rejuvenate classic films. The supplementary content, especially del Toro's participation in commentaries and interviews, is indispensable for cinephiles and scholars interested in the evolution of his craft. In essence, for those who cherish emotionally potent horror and appreciate cinematic craftsmanship, this Blu-ray is a compelling acquisition; for others, it is highly, highly recommended.