Four Frightened People Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Four Frightened People" by Kino Lorber offers a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition transfer in the original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The scan presents a reasonably detailed visual experience, though it is slightly marred by the presence of thin scratches, indicating some wear and a need for a more thorough restoration effort. Black levels, while functional, do not reach optimal depth, suggesting room for improvement in shadow detail. Despite these issues, the high-definition encode compensates with clarity, maintaining a satisfactory viewing quality consistent with expectations for older cinematic archives.

This Blu-ray release includes an audio commentary by film critic Nick Pinkerton, focusing on historical context and the atypical nature of the film within Cecil B. DeMille's oeuvre. Pinkerton's commentary delves into the production's backdrop, from its Hawaii location shoots—uncommon for the time—to its narrative choices, which bypass typical introductions for a more immediate unfolding of events. The commentary further explores DeMille’s career trajectory and his approach to filmmaking, underlining this film as an exploration of social class dynamics rather than his hallmark epics. Although delivered in a monotonous voice, Pinkerton provides an informative perspective that enriches viewers' understanding of the film's place in 1930s cinema.

Overall, the video presentation serves as a commendable effort to bring this lesser-known DeMille work to modern audiences, with technical imperfections acknowledged against the film’s historical and production backdrop. Fans of classic cinema and DeMille enthusiasts will find the Blu-ray a valuable addition to their collection, enhanced by auxiliary content providing insights into this unique cinematic piece's legacy.

The Blu-ray release of "Four Frightened People" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono audio track, providing a reasonably good, though not flawless, audio experience. The dialogue consistently remains clear and comprehensible throughout the presentation, albeit with some background hiss that slightly detracts from the overall sound quality. While the track's clarity may not match the high standards set by other Kino Lorber Studio Classics releases, optional English SDH subtitles are available to ensure accessibility.

One notable aspect is the track's low volume level, necessitating a higher volume setting for a comfortable listening experience. Despite its shortcomings, the audio track effectively supports the film's atmospheric elements. Animal noises, including those of a water buffalo, a cobra, and a mischievous chimpanzee, contribute to an ambient soundscape. Subtle auditory details enhance the film's environment, from the unnerving whistling in a bamboo forest to the ominous rumblings of natives intertwined with the beating of drums, amplifying the dramatic tension. This immersive layering underscores the intended mood despite the technical limitations.

Overall, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track on this Blu-ray, while exhibiting some minor imperfections such as background hiss and inadequate volume levels, successfully captures the essence of the film's sound design. It manages to convey the atmospheric and thematic elements effectively, supporting the narrative with a focus on environmental and situational sound cues. Such attention to auditory detail enriches the viewer’s experience, maintaining engagement with subtle yet significant sound interactions.

The Blu-ray extras for "Four Frightened People" come with a variety of features that demonstrate a meticulous effort to enhance the viewer's understanding and appreciation of the film. The standout feature is an insightful audio commentary by film critic Nick Pinkerton, providing a critical analysis throughout the film’s progression. The high-definition theatrical trailer is also included, along with a well-curated collection of trailers from distributor Kino Lorber, showcasing other classic films available. These additions offer not only a nostalgic journey through vintage cinema but also a deeper look into the cinematic context of the era, making it a well-rounded experience for cinephiles and casual viewers alike. While the selections are mostly presented in standard definition, they collectively add significant value for enthusiasts who wish to further explore the classical works related to this film's genre and period.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Film Critic Nick Pinkerton: A detailed analysis throughout the film.
• Four Frightened People Theatrical Trailer: The original high-definition trailer.
• Collection of Trailers from Kino Lorber: A compilation of selected trailers from other classic films.

"Four Frightened People," directed by Cecil B. DeMille, is a captivating adventure-thriller that expertly intertwines mystery and survival set against the backdrop of a perilous Malayan island. The film is propelled by a compelling narrative developed from the novel by E. Arnot Robertson, showcasing a group of diverse characters including Judy Jones, portrayed with magnetic charm by Claudette Colbert. Alongside her, Herbert Marshall delivers a robust performance as Arnold Ainger, though Colbert undeniably commands the screen with her exuberance. The storyline unfolds as they and other passengers are forced from their steamship into the unforgiving jungle to escape the deadly bubonic plague. Here, DeMille crafts an intriguing exploration of both the island's inhospitable terrain and the human spirit under duress.

The film's technical excellence elevates its storytelling. Roland Anderson’s art direction immerses the audience in an island that feels both enchanting and foreboding, effectively setting the scene for this high-stakes drama. Coupled with Milo Anderson's detailed costume designs, the film’s visual components reinforce its adventurous tone, particularly noted in Claudette Colbert’s tailored outfits that enhance her character's presence. Karl Struss’s cinematography is visually inventive, employing the stark contrasts of black-and-white visuals to enhance the film's mysterious ambiance.

Supporting this visual feast is a potent musical score by Karl Hajos, John Leipold, Milan Roder, and Heinz Roemheld, which amplifies the on-screen tension without overshadowing it. The score complements Bartlett Cormack and Lenore J. Coffee’s screenplay, which is lauded for its engaging dialogue and well-drawn characters. These elements combine seamlessly under DeMille’s direction, resulting in an adventurous gem that shines within its genre, marking "Four Frightened People" as an overlooked classic that maintains both historical and cinematic intrigue.

"Four Frightened People" offers an intriguing intersection of adventure and drama, helmed by the legendary Cecil B. DeMille. Though primarily celebrated for his grand epics, DeMille's direction creatively navigates the more intimate yet suspenseful narrative of this film. The storyline unfolds as a melodramatic romp through the jungle, utilizing time-honored tropes like the fish-out-of-water scenario to inject humor and tension. While the film occasionally feels dated, it is elevated by a stellar performance from Claudette Colbert, whose charm and wit bring depth to her character and captivate the audience throughout.

The Blu-ray release of "Four Frightened People" provides a commendable visual and auditory experience, preserving the ambiance of the 1934 original. The restoration process ensures that the film’s picturesque jungle settings are rendered in vibrant detail, creating an immersive viewing experience. The audio quality maintains clarity and balance, effectively conveying the atmospheric score and dialogue. This home release allows both longtime DeMille enthusiasts and newcomers to appreciate the film's unique blend of comedy, drama, and romance.

In conclusion, "Four Frightened People" is an entertaining and worthwhile addition to any classic film collection. DeMille fans will appreciate exploring his work beyond his monumental epics, finding charm in his treatment of a smaller-scale narrative. Despite its occasional anachronisms, Claudette Colbert's engaging performance alone makes the film a must-see. Highly recommended for both its historical significance and entertainment value.