Branded to Kill 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Criterion's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Branded to Kill" sets a new benchmark for the film's presentation, offering a remarkable viewing experience that significantly upscales its visual quality from past versions. This release is a 4K Blu-ray/Blu-ray combo pack, with the 4K disc being Region-Free, while the standard Blu-ray is Region-A locked. The 4K restoration, meticulously executed by Nikkatsu Corporation and the Japan Foundation from the original 35mm camera negative at Imagica Entertainment Media Services, Inc., breathes new life into the film. Despite the absence of HDR/Dolby Vision grading which might concern some enthusiasts, the native 4K resolution provides an impactful visual upgrade. Density levels have visibly improved, making grain fluctuations more harmoniously balanced, especially evident in sequences that demand high visual fidelity, like the shootout at the big bunker.

Visuals have risen to a commendable level of finesse, achieving splendid grayscale enhancements that introduce an enriched perception of depth. The depth is most notable in darker scenes, where previously crushed blacks now reveal nuanced shadows without losing detail. The exceptional preservation of detail, alongside an impressive handling of film grain - especially in daylight scenes, showcases the film in a never-seen-before light. The contrast and black levels are notably superior, lending animated sequences a fresh vibrancy. Despite initial reservations about the potential mishandling of grain and the lack of HDR, this 2160p, HEVC-encoded presentation surpasses expectations with its refined grain structure and pristine source condition.

However, potential buyers should note that the supplementary 1080p Blu-ray does not benefit from the new restoration, recycling the aged master from the 2011 release, which may disappoint those not equipped for 4K viewing. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts and connoisseurs of Japanese cinema and film restoration alike, this release of "Branded to Kill" is a compelling purchase. Its transformation underpins not only a technical triumph but also a renewal of Seijun Suzuki's classic, ensuring its mesmerizing visual narrative endures with exceptional clarity and depth for future generations to appreciate in unparalleled 4K quality.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Branded to Kill" comes with a singular audio offering, a Japanese LPCM 1.0 track complemented by optional English subtitles that integrate seamlessly within the frame for an unobtrusive viewing experience. This choice of audio reflects a dedication to maintaining the original sonic integrity of the film, providing viewers with an authentic and immersive auditory experience. Initial comparisons with the first Blu-ray release disclose slight enhancements in clarity, particularly noticeable in sequences bustling with action, suggesting that some restorative efforts might have been applied to this vintage track.

Despite being housed in a mono configuration, the LPCM 1.0 track manages to deliver a balanced and dynamic presentation of dialogue and music, efficiently utilizing the limitations of its original production design. Interestingly, while shootout scenes potentially posed a challenge under such constraints, they are skillfully executed without any hint of tininess, thus preserving the intensity and atmosphere of these pivotal moments. The quality of the source material also deserves commendation, appearing to be in pristine condition, which further elevates the overall auditory experience.

In essence, while the present audio track may not signify a monumental leap forward when set against its Blu-ray predecessor, it is undeniably proficient in drawing out the maximum potential from the film’s original sonic elements. The auditory aspect of "Branded to Kill" in this 4K UHD Blu-ray release, through its meticulous balance and preservation of clarity, ensures that enthusiasts and newcomers alike are offered a sonically pleasing journey into this cult classic, anchored by an audio track that is both technically competent and faithful to its roots.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Branded to Kill" offers a visually remarkable upgrade but falls short by replicating the supplementary content from its 2011 1080p Blu-ray counterpart, without integrating any bonuses on the 4K disc itself. The extras, while scarce, are rich with insights into the film's chaotic production narrative and its aftermath, particularly through interviews featuring the enigmatic director Seijun Suzuki, his assistant Masami Kuzuu, and the effortlessly charismatic lead, Joe Shishido. These conversations, albeit limited in quantity, delve deep into the creative processes, the unique challenges faced during production, and the film's enduring influence. The included trailer and a detailed booklet serve as valuable add-ons to the cinematic experience, providing context and further appreciation for Suzuki’s groundbreaking work. Despite the lack of new materials or updates in this package, the existing extras remain indispensable for fans and first-time viewers alike, offering a glimpse into the legacy of a film that defiantly stood against convention.

Extras included in this disc:

• Seijun Suzuki and Masami Kuzuu: Directors Suzuki and Kuzuu talk about "Branded to Kill's" production, Nikkatsu's response, and Suzuki's subsequent sacking.
• Joe Shishido: A compelling interview with the lead actor, reflecting on his work with Suzuki and his role in "Branded to Kill."
• Seijun Suzuki: A look back with Suzuki on his career and filmmaking philosophy during a 1997 retrospective.
• Trailer: The original theatrical trailer for "Branded to Kill."
• Booklet: Features an essay by Tony Rayns and a statement from art director Sukezo Kawahara.

Seijun Suzuki's "Branded to Kill," originally a product of climactic pressure and creative ambition within the rigorous structure of Nikkatsu in the 1960s, re-emerges in a striking 4K UHD restoration by Criterion. This film plunges into the chaotic life of Goro Hanada, portrayed by Joe Shishido, a hitman ensnarled in a spider's web of professional ambition, erotic fixations, and an unsettling obsession with the scent of boiled rice. Hanada's quest to ascend the underworld hierarchy by targeting a foreigner for assassination spirals into a frenetic nightmare as a single misstep precipitates his fall from grace. The narrative, punctured by Hanada's bizarre idiosyncrasies and propelled into the surreal, marks a defiant departure from genre conventions, earning its stripes as Suzuki's most audacious and visually arresting venture.

Crafted with a distinctive blend of dark humor and stylistic bravura, "Branded to Kill" dances on the line between exploitation and high art. Suzuki's mastery over chiaroscuro lighting and jagged editing techniques, showcased in Nikkatsuscope's expansive 2.35:1 aspect ratio, anchors the film's dream-like sequences in a tangible yet paradoxically ethereal reality. This stylistic melding constructs an immersive experience that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally engaging, challenging viewers to navigate its labyrinthine narrative depths. The inclusion of criterion supplements such as archival interviews further enriches the viewing experience, offering insights into Suzuki's creative process and the film's tumultuous production history.

The movie, notorious for its impudent critique of genre norms and its subsequent role in Suzuki’s professional exile, capitalizes on its eccentric narrative and visual experimentation to defy conventional storytelling. While it revels in its own absurdity, it also serves as a compelling exploration of professional ambition and identity amidst the murky ethics of the yakuza underworld. "Branded to Kill" remains a testament to Suzuki's unwavering originality—its restoration in 4K UHD not only revitalizes its technical and aesthetic achievements for a new audience but also reaffirms its status as an indispensable artifact of cinematic rebellion and innovation.

Seijun Suzuki's "Branded to Kill," a film that revolutionized the Japanese yakuza genre with its surrealistic flair and atmospheric depth, has been given a new lease on life in its 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release by Criterion. Esteemed for its provocative narrative and stylish execution, it stands as a testament to Suzuki’s daring and innovative craftsmanship. The film’s leap to 4K resolution is not just an upgrade, but a transformation, offering an unrivaled viewing experience that significantly surpasses its 2011 Blu-ray predecessor. The 2160p presentation meticulously captures the film's distinct grain texture and nuanced black levels, showcasing the dark, atmospheric intensity that defines this 1960s cinematic gem.

However, while the visual presentation of "Branded to Kill" in this release is undeniably exceptional, it does come with a shortcoming—a notably sparse supplemental package. Fans might find themselves longing for more in-depth material that dives into the creation and lasting impact of Suzuki's work. Despite this, the sheer quality of the restoration makes this release a valuable addition to any collection, especially for aficionados of classic Japanese cinema and Suzuki’s oeuvre. The enhanced clarity and depth of the image breathe new life into the film’s bold aesthetic and enigmatic storytelling.

In conclusion, Criterion's 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Branded to Kill" is an essential acquisition for cinephiles dedicated to experiencing pivotal works in the highest fidelity possible. While it may leave some desiring more in the way of contextual content, the pristine quality of the film’s restoration overwhelmingly compensates, affirming its status as an indispensable showcase of Suzuki's visionary artistry and the film’s enduring allure as a pinnacle of 1960s Japanese cinema. It comes highly recommended for those looking to immerse themselves in a visually arresting and atmospherically rich cinematic experience.