My Gun Is Quick Blu-ray Review

My Gun Is Quick arrives on Blu-ray presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, and boasts a 1080p transfer sourced from a beautifully restored 2K master. This release by Kino Lorber is commendable for its excellent grading, offering solid, natural blacks and nuanced grays and whites. Image stability is exceptional, and while minor white specks can be observed, they do not detract from the overall crisp and stylish visual experience. The film stands out for its lack of troubling digital corrections, maintaining an authentic and pristine look that surpasses original theatrical prints.

With its meticulous restoration, the Blu-ray transfer showcases impressive detail and contrast, particularly in night scenes where the contrasts are highlighted effectively. Although there might be room for minor encoding optimizations to enhance grain exposure slightly, this would merely serve as a cosmetic adjustment. Overall, the technical presentation is top-notch, providing an engaging and visually delightful experience for viewers. It should be noted that this is a Region-A locked Blu-ray, thus necessitating a native Region-A or Region-Free player.

The Blu-ray of "My Gun Is Quick" comes equipped with a singular audio track: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Additionally, optional English SDH subtitles are available for the main feature. The audio presentation is notably stable and clear, ensuring an immersive listening experience. Marlin Skiles' compelling soundtrack is rendered with dynamic intensity, effectively enhancing the film's atmosphere without any pops, dropouts, or distortions—exemplifying technical precision.

Dialogue, music, and sound effects are distinctly audible, allowing viewers to fully engage with the storyline and characters. Key scenes, such as the chase sequence at around the 32-minute mark, benefit from the seamless audio integration, showcasing the track’s clarity and stability. This professional-grade audio ensures that "My Gun Is Quick" maintains an engaging and immersive auditory experience for its audience.

The Blu-ray release of "My Gun Is Quick" offers a lean but relevant selection of extras for enthusiasts. The primary feature is the film's vintage trailer, presented in English and without subtitles, which provides a classic glimpse into the film's original promotional efforts. Additionally, the disc includes a collection of trailers for other noir titles from Kino Lorber's catalog, such as "Deadline - U.S.A." and "I, the Jury." This assembly serves to contextualize "My Gun Is Quick" within the broader genre and its contemporaries. Although sparse in additional content, these trailers effectively enhance the viewing experience for aficionados of film noir.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Vintage trailer for My Gun Is Quick. In English, not subtitled.
• Additional Trailers: Additional trailers for the following titles from Kino Lorber's catalog: Deadline - U.S.A., 99 River Street, The Captive City, Shield for Murder, I, the Jury.

The 1957 noir classic "My Gun Is Quick," directed by Victor Saville and George White, is presented on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber using a restored 2K master. This visual restoration enhances the film's stylistic black-and-white cinematography, highlighting its striking visuals which could have become kitschy with the use of garish colors. The straightforward plot, revolving around private eye Mike Hammer (Robert Bray) investigating the murder of a young prostitute, draws on well-worn noir tropes yet maintains an engaging atmosphere through Bray's committed performance and the evocative backdrop of 1950s Los Angeles. Despite a modest budget, the art direction by Boris Leven and the meticulous set designs—from nightclubs to gritty apartments—provide a versatile and authentic visual experience.

Bray’s interpretation of Hammer aligns with Mickey Spillane’s vision, providing the necessary grit and charisma to drive the narrative, even if comparisons to Ralph Meeker's rendition in "Kiss Me Deadly" are unavoidable. The film's supporting cast delivers adequate performances with Jan Chaney’s portrayal of ‘Red’ being notably charming. However, the convoluted plot involving international jewel thieves and a missing ring lacks the depth and wit found in superior contemporaries like "The Maltese Falcon." The narrative relies on genre conventions and predictable twists that somewhat diminish its uniqueness.

Despite these shortcomings, the film remains enjoyable primarily due to its atmospheric tension and memorable visual style. The score by Marlin Skiles adds a lively touch, giving it an additional noir edge. While not reaching the genre-defining heights of its counterparts, "My Gun Is Quick" showcases a compelling slice of mid-century noir cinema, enhanced by Kino Lorber’s excellent Blu-ray presentation. For lovers of classic noir, the film provides a nostalgic yet stylish experience reminiscent of a bygone era.

Kino Lorber's "My Gun Is Quick" Blu-ray release offers a remarkable restoration of this lesser-known film noir, utilizing an excellent 2K master that ensures pristine visual quality. Although the film follows predictable tropes typical of its genre—featuring the sultry dames and shady characters that engender Mike Hammer’s trouble—the stylistic presentation is a standout. The imagery feels authentic and effortless, setting it apart from other noirs where camera angles are overtly calculated to impress. Despite its modest origins, this film’s stylish execution and visual appeal may exceed those of more acknowledged works in the genre.

The character of Mike Hammer, as presented in "My Gun Is Quick," may not captivate everyone, coming across as somewhat pedestrian when played straight. However, for enthusiasts of film noir and Mike Hammer's distinctive persona, this release could be a valuable addition to their collection. While the disc lacks any substantial bonus features, the allure lies in the film's stylish presentation and high-quality transfer provided by Kino Lorber. The movie's straightforward yet engaging narrative makes it a fitting option for genre aficionados looking to expand their libraries.

Overall, the old trailer for "My Gun Is Quick" appropriately highlights the film's appeal: sizzling characters and classic noir troubles. While it may not break new ground or garner universal acclaim, it delivers stylish entertainment without overreaching. Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release, despite its minimal extras, presents the film in an exemplary format that fans of the genre will appreciate. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. (If you enjoy these types of smaller film noirs, also take a look at Scorpion Releasing's release of "The Girl Hunters," where Mickey Spillane portrays his notorious character).