Raw Deal Blu-ray Review

ClassicFlix offers an impressive 2K restoration of "Raw Deal" on Blu-ray, encoded in AVC 1080p resolution and presented in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio. Sourced from a fine grain element held by the British Film Institute, the transfer exhibits a well-preserved grain structure that enhances texture and detail. Blacks are deep and lush, while highlights retain stability, and the grayscale spectrum effectively brings John Alton’s cinematography to life. While the restoration overcomes most issues present in the source material, a few minor blemishes and occasional density fluctuations persist, but these do not significantly detract from the viewing experience.

The image quality maintains consistency with ClassicFlix's high standards, demonstrating excellent sharpness except in intentionally softened shots. The contrast is finely tuned, allowing for robust shadow details with minimal crush. Close-ups are particularly striking with visible fine details like downy hairs and fabric weaves. The overall softness is consistent with the source material, giving a natural appearance. Despite some minor imperfections, the visual presentation of "Raw Deal" effectively showcases the raw essence and stylistic brilliance of film noir.

The Blu-ray release of "Raw Deal" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track, reflecting the film’s period-typical sound characteristics while providing a clean listening experience. Notably, Paul Sawtell's dramatic score, replete with Theremin elements, fills the room with atmospheric depth, although it occasionally borders on sounding slightly boxy. Dialogue clarity is consistently maintained, even in hushed whispers, ensuring comprehensibility throughout.

Sonic components such as gunfire, screams, and screeching wheels are sharply delineated and resonate crisply despite the inherent limitations of the mono track. The restorers have skillfully eliminated any age-related hiss, pops, crackles, or flutter, preserving a pristine audio presentation. Although some sound effects appear exaggerated due to the track's narrow soundstage, they don't suffer from notable distortion or damage, thereby serving the narrative effectively. This restoration delivers a satisfying auditory experience that complements the film’s vintage aesthetics.

The Blu Ray of "Raw Deal" offers a stellar array of extras that delve deeply into the film's production, its place in film noir history, and the careers of its key actors. Author and film historian Jeremy Arnold’s audio commentary is both engaging and thorough, providing insight into the film's three-week production schedule, character analyses, and fascinating behind-the-scenes anecdotes. The featurette "Deadly Is the Male: The Making of Raw Deal" includes enriching commentary from film historians Alan K. Rode, Julie Kirgo, and C. Courtney Joyner, who discuss the film's innovative features such as its rare female narration and graphic violence. Additionally, "Dennis O'Keefe: An Extraordinary Ordinary Guy" is a touching tribute to the actor, featuring personal reflections from his son Jim O'Keefe. The Image Gallery and Restoration Comparison segments further enhance the viewing experience by showcasing the film’s visual enhancements and historical marketing materials.

Extras included in this disc:

Audio Commentary: Jeremy Arnold provides detailed insights.

Deadly Is the Male: The Making of Raw Deal: Commentary on the film's legacy.

Dennis O'Keefe: An Extraordinary Ordinary Guy: Tribute to the actor.

Image Gallery: Collection of stills, lobby cards, and posters.

Restoration Comparison: Highlights the restoration process.

Promo Trailers: Restored trailers for similar films.

Booklet: Includes essay and archival stills.

Anthony Mann’s "Raw Deal" is a striking entry in the noir genre marked by compelling performances and masterful cinematography. The film, a collaboration between Mann and cinematographer John Alton, tangibly exemplifies noir's defining traits—claustrophobia, desperation, and moral ambiguity. Joe Sullivan (Dennis O’Keefe), a convict on the lam, is at the center of a cat-and-mouse game driven by his quest for retribution against mob kingpin Rick Coyle (Raymond Burr). Accompanying him are two women—his loyal girlfriend Pat Regan (Claire Trevor) and Ann Martin (Marsha Hunt), whose involvement introduces complex emotional dynamics that transcend traditional noir tropes.

"Raw Deal" stands out for its riveting narrative and exceptional use of light and shadow to convey a tense atmosphere. The screenplay by Leopold Atlas and John C. Higgins enriches the story with Pat’s present tense narration, which offers incisive psychological insights. The love triangle between Joe, Pat, and Ann propels the plot into a nuanced exploration of loyalty and betrayal. Trevor delivers a standout performance, with her character's transformation stealing the spotlight—her layered portrayal embodies the femme fatale archetype while revealing unexpected vulnerability. Hunt's role, though initially less developed, evolves to show her character's moral awakening, adding depth to the narrative.

The film’s artistry is undeniable, with Mann and Alton elevating standard scenes into visually stunning moments through expert manipulation of depth and extreme close-ups. Notable scenes include an intense fight sequence filmed through fish netting and characters depicted in inky darkness punctuated by pools of light. These stylistic choices amplify the film's uneasy tension and cinematic beauty. Though low-budget, "Raw Deal" never compromises on its artistic vision, offering a high-caliber noir experience underscored by powerful performances from Burr and Ireland that solidify its standing as a quintessential piece of the genre.

"Raw Deal" is presented by ClassicFlix in a stunning 2K restoration, solidifying their status as a premier label for delivering top-notch presentations of significant but often overlooked films. This 1948 film noir, masterfully helmed by Director Anthony Mann and visually realized by cinematographer John Alton, artfully blends a crime story with the complexities of a love triangle. The taut narrative and powerful performances enrich a gripping tale of an escaped convict's relentless quest for retribution against the mob kingpin who wronged him.

ClassicFlix's special edition release is comprehensive, featuring pristine audio and high-definition video that truly do justice to the visual prowess and tense atmosphere of "Raw Deal." The package is further enhanced by a 24-page booklet filled with insightful commentary and a robust collection of supplements that deepen the viewer's appreciation of this noir gem. This Blu-ray edition stands as an essential acquisition for any serious aficionado of the genre, making it a must-have addition to their collection.

ClassicFlix is rapidly becoming one of my favorite new(ish) labels, offering top-notch technical presentations of some lesser-known but still extremely enjoyable (and some might even argue important) films. "Raw Deal" is my personal favorite of the Mann-Alton collaborations that ClassicFlix has offered film lovers, and it has a really peculiarly twisted sensibility that pushes some noir tropes into dangerous new territory. Highly recommended.