The Rules of the Game 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Criterion's latest release of "The Rules of the Game" in a 4K Blu-ray/Blu-ray combo pack marks a significant step in the film's home video evolution, presenting a meticulously restored version of this classic film. This restoration, a collaborative effort involving the Cinematheque francaise, Les Grands Films Classiques, Criterion Collection/Janus Films, Cinematheque suisse, and with additional funding from Chanel, utilizes the mostly nitrate composite dupe negative for the image and nitrate optical soundtrack negative for the sound. The restoration process also engaged Hiventy for the image and L.E. Diapason with additional work by Criterion for the audio. Despite the original negative's destruction during WWII and subsequent 1959 reconstruction approval by Jean Renoir, this release endeavors to present the film in the best possible quality, acknowledging the inherent limitations of the surviving elements.

The 4K digital restoration's visual presentation offers a slight, albeit not dramatic, improvement over its 1080p predecessor. Observers may note minor enhancements in grain texture, clarity, and image stability, reflecting a more organic filmic appearance that compliments Renoir’s signature deep-focus shots and elaborate staging effectively. However, these improvements might not be profoundly noticeable to all viewers due to likeness in density levels and visual consistency with prior releases, especially when viewed on systems that upscale to 4K. Despite these technical boundary conditions, this rendition succeeds in enhancing fine details and maintaining image integrity, effectively minimizing surface imperfections wherever possible.

Contrary to its Blu-ray counterpart—that sometimes struggles with image consistency, shifting tones, and perceptible print damage—the 4K UHD transfer reveals a commendable advancement in visual fidelity. It delivers improved contrast, a richer grayscale promoting depth perception, and superior shadow delineation reducing crush in darker scenes. Although missing HDR/Dolby Vision grading might seem like a missed opportunity for some, this choice respectfully preserves the film's original aesthetic. Furthermore, the transfer benefits from refined clarity and stabilizations that gently polish rather than transform, respecting the film’s age and source material’s condition. This 4K restoration doesn’t radically redefine the viewing experience but offers a respectful, carefully handled update that will delight purists and cinephiles, taking into account the film's historical context and physical film condition limitations.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Rules of the Game" features a solitary French LPCM 1.0 audio track, accompanied by optional English subtitles for the main feature. This decision to stick with a mono track may raise eyebrows among enthusiasts expecting a modern multi-channel mix, but the restoration efforts behind this auditory presentation command respect. L.E. Diapason, renowned for their audio restoration expertise in France, has meticulously refurbished the track, ensuring that elements like the intricate stage performance come alive with unprecedented clarity. Despite these enhancements, some may argue that the improvements over the 2011 Criterion release's audio are marginal. The undertaking of remastering from the nitrate optical soundtrack negative and sound negative from the 1959 mix was no small feat, aiming to rejuvenate the film’s audioscape to resonate with today's technology.

The remastered LPCM track, while preserving its mono roots, boasts distinct refinements in audio quality that might appear subtle but are undeniably impactful. The restoration process reveals a brighter, more vibrant soundscape where every chirp, raindrop, and footstep enriches the atmospheric canvas of the film. Dynamic elements, such as gunfire, car engines, and the rhythmic sounds of sticks against tree trunks during pivotal hunting scenes, exhibit enhanced depth and realism. This cleaner, more robust track minimizes surface noise intrusion, allowing dialogue to emerge with crystal clear precision against a backdrop of well-balanced musical scores and sound effects.

In conclusion, while battles with its inherent age and technological limitations of its era, this remastered audio track demonstrates a commendable leap in quality. The restoration not only revitalizes the film's auditory appeal with a fuller, richer sound profile but also respects the original mono composition, providing an immersive listening experience without betraying the film’s historical context. Although comparisons with its Criterion counterpart might yield debates among purists, the dedication to preserving and enhancing the audio fidelity of "The Rules of the Game" is evident and appreciable.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Rules of the Game" preserves the richness and depth of Jean Renoir's seminal film with a suite of thoughtfully curated extras that enhance understanding and appreciation of this cinematic masterpiece. The included commentary by Peter Bogdanovich, originally penned by film scholar Alexander Sesonske, alongside Jean Renoir's own introduction, offers foundational insights straight from the source. Comparative analyses, scene dissections by Chris Faulkner, and a deep dive into the film's production history through various video essays and interviews with those close to the production enrich one’s comprehension of the film’s intricate details and its storied past. Particularly noteworthy are the segments featuring Jacques Rivette and David Thompson, which link Renoir's work to broader cinematic and cultural contexts. There’s a seamless integration of both English and French content, with optional subtitles ensuring accessibility. This collection remains as exhaustive as it was in its 2011 Criterion release, serving both as an educational tool and a treasure trove for cinephiles.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Audio commentary from Criterion's 2004 DVD.
• Introduction: By Jean Renoir in French with English subtitles.
• Playing by Different Rules: Analysis and version comparison by Chris Faulkner.
• Scene Analysis: Detailed examination of two scenes by Chris Faulkner.
• Jean Renoir, Le Patron: Jacques Rivette’s program discussing Renoir's process and message.
• Jean Renoir: Part one of a BBC documentary by David Thompson on Renoir’s life and legacy.
• Production History: Video essays on the film's complex production.
• Interviews: Conversations with Max Douy, Mila Parely, and Alain Renoir recounting their experiences on set.
• Booklet: A collection of essays, interviews, and tributes related to "The Rules of the Game".

Jean Renoir's 1939 cinematic tour de force, "The Rules of the Game," has been meticulously restored and presented in 4K UHD by Criterion, cementing its place within the pantheon of film history. This masterpiece, a sharp and satirical glance into the frivolities of the French bourgeoisie on the brink of World War II, masterfully combines biting social commentary with the trappings of a farce. Through its rich tableau of characters - from the lovesick aviator André Jurieux to the aristocratic Marquis de la Cheyniest and his entangled household - Renoir explores the intricate dances of love, loyalty, and societal expectation, all set against the backdrop of a lavish country estate gathering.

Renoir's direction innovatively employs a free-roaming camera and deep focus to capture the complex interplay between characters across multiple social strata, blurring the lines between foreground and background, and between main plot and subtext. This visual style, accompanied by the film's rapid dialogues and interlocking relationships, crafts a cinema that is as engaging in its narrative as it is in its technical brilliance. The restoration brings this out with exceptional clarity, ensuring that every detail, from the nuanced performances to the lush settings, is presented with pristine precision. Renoir utilizes both montage and long takes to draw viewers into a world where every glance and gesture carries weight, allowing the film's thematic richness and narrative complexity to fully emerge.

Criterion's release not only showcases the film in unprecedented quality but also enriches it with a comprehensive collection of supplementary materials that delve into the film's storied history and its initial controversial reception. Notably, the inclusion of the 106-minute cut approved by Renoir after decades of restoration efforts provides audiences with the most complete version of this pivotal work. The absence of HDR in this 4K presentation may seem a missed opportunity to some, yet the exquisite detail and depth captured within each frame proves that "The Rules of the Game" remains a visually stunning experience. As layers of socio-political critique unfold through Renoir's adept storytelling, this edition underscores why, over eight decades later, the film continues to resonate with audiences and critics alike, bridging cinema’s past and present with unparalleled artistry.

Criterion's latest release, the 4K UHD Blu-ray/Blu-ray combo pack of "The Rules of the Game," presents a compelling case for both newcomers to Jean Renoir's magnum opus and those pondering an upgrade from the 2011 Blu-ray edition. This new package boasts a pristine 4K restoration, promising viewers an enhanced visual experience, especially those equipped with large screens or projectors. While the absence of HDR may seem like a missed opportunity, the improvements in image detail and texture are undeniable. The remastered audio complements this visual upgrade, ensuring that the film's nuanced sound design is more accessible than ever. The inclusion of all previous Blu-ray supplements rounds out a release that is as comprehensive as it is technically impressive.

It's important to note, however, that the leap to 4K doesn't redefine the viewing experience dramatically due to the inherent limitations of the source material. Both the 4K and the 2011 Blu-ray versions deliver exceptionally solid presentations of the film, with differences that, while noticeable to the discerning eye, do not drastically alter the cinematic texture that Renoir crafted so meticulously. This observation isn't to diminish the value of the upgrade but rather to temper expectations: the enhancements, though modest, refine rather than transform.

In conclusion, Criterion’s release of "The Rules of the Game" in 4K UHD is a testament to the company's dedication to film preservation and its commitment to elevating cinema classics with the best possible presentation. While not a monumental leap in visual fidelity, the thoughtful restoration, improved audio, and comprehensive supplements make it a worthy addition to the collections of cinephiles and a recommendable upgrade for those seeking the finest version of Renoir's masterpiece. For newcomers and veterans alike, this edition is highly recommended, underscoring its status as an essential piece of film history presented with care and respect for its source material.