Manila in the Claws of Light Blu-ray Review

Criterion's release of "Manila in the Claws of Light" boasts a transfer presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, delivering a 1080p resolution sourced from a meticulous 4K restoration. The 2013 restoration utilized the 35mm original camera negative, supplemented by input from the film's cinematographer, Mike De Leon, ensuring color grading consistency with reference prints. The restoration addressed common issues such as color decay, resulting in a vibrant and artifact-free presentation, though some deviations in dynamic range and grain exposure were noted.

The restored transfer shines with remarkable detail and color fidelity, encapsulating the hot and humid settings through sharp visuals and robust color reproduction. Primaries are particularly bold, with blues and reds prominent throughout, while black levels predominantly maintain a deep richness, despite occasional instances of haziness that slightly soften the image. This imperfection, while noticeable, is sporadic and barely detracts from the overall viewing experience. Digital flatness is observed in darker scenes, potentially impacting depth and perceived authenticity. However, the cleaning of debris, damage marks, and other age-related imperfections results in a notably stable and clean frame, indicative of Criterion's high standards.

While some aspects of the digital restoration yield a slightly artificial feel, and grain handling could be improved, the overall imagery remains engaging and immersive. The transfer effectively retains critical visual details—important for the film’s gritty and emotional narrative—underscoring the excellent work done in restoring this Filipino cinematic classic to near-original glory.

The Blu-Ray presentation of "Manila in the Claws of Light" is presented with a singular Tagalog LPCM 1.0 audio track, complemented by optional English subtitles. The clarity and stability of the lossless audio are exceptional, barring one minor segment where a subtle echo effect is present. The music is well-balanced, though the dynamic intensity remains limited, aligning with the film's original organic sound design. This limitation is reflective of the period during which the film was made and adds authenticity to its auditory allure.

The Tagalog LPCM 1.0 mix, though robust, can occasionally feel front-loaded with minimal spatial depth. At times, certain dialogue segments appear dubbed and slightly disconnected from the overall soundscape, lacking the organic feel evident in other parts of the audio track. Notably, scenes set at the construction site stand out due to their cavernous acoustic quality, where the reverberations of construction sounds and voices effectively create a claustrophobic atmosphere. Busy city street sequences also shine, capturing the hustle and bustle while simultaneously evoking a sense of isolation amongst crowds. Despite minor age-related artifacts like breaks and small pops, these do not detract significantly from the overall effective and faithful auditory experience of the film.

The Blu-ray release of "Manila in the Claws of Light" offers a robust collection of extras that significantly enhance the understanding and appreciation of the film. From Martin Scorsese's introductory remarks, which provide context and backstory on Lino Brocka's contributions to Filipino cinema, to a comprehensive archival documentary chronicling the film's production, these features provide depth and historical perspective. A standout is the extensive documentary "Signed: Lino Brocka," exploring Brocka's transformative impact on the Filipino film industry. Additionally, Tony Rayns' insightful video program delves into the socio-political environment in the Philippines during the film's creation. The included illustrated leaflet featuring an essay by Jose B. Capino rounds out this exemplary set of extras, making it a must-have for enthusiasts of Filipino cinema and film history.

Extras included in this disc:

• Introduction: Short video introduction by acclaimed director Martin Scorsese.
• Manila... A Filipino Film: Archival documentary chronicling the production history.
• Signed: Lino Brocka: Documentary on the life and work of Lino Brocka.
• Challenging the Viewer: Asian cinema expert Tony Rayns discusses Brocka’s work and socio-political context.
• Leaflet: Illustrated leaflet with an essay by Jose B. Capino and technical credits.

Lino Brocka’s Manila in the Claws of Light (1975) emerges on Blu-ray with Criterion’s notable attention to detail and comprehensive supplemental material. This re-release offers an authentically raw depiction of 1970s Manila, underpinned by a precise restoration and an illustrated leaflet featuring an essay by Jose B. Capino. Set in Tagalog with optional English subtitles, the feature is Region-A locked, ensuring an immersive and culturally rich viewing experience.

Opening abruptly, the film thrusts viewers into the harsh realities of Manila's atmosphere, evoking immediacy akin to a vintage documentary. The narrative follows Julio (Bembol Roco), a desperate provincial fisherman, on a mission to find his lost love, Ligaya (Hilda Koronel). Interspersed with flashbacks, the storyline maintains a deft balance between documentary realism and romantic intimacy. The film does not merely seek to juxtapose stark urban contrasts but delves into the protagonist’s emotional journey through hyper-detailed vignettes of everyday struggles.

Manila in the Claws of Light aligns stylistically with classic Italian neorealism, drawing comparisons to landmarks such as Bicycle Thieves. Brocka's commitment to unfiltered narratives grants the film a timeless quality, bolstered by hauntingly authentic performances from both leads and non-professional actors in supporting roles. The complex portrayal of economic desperation amidst political turmoil offers a viscerally impactful cinema piece. This Blu-ray release is indispensable for cinephiles and those interested in socially poignant storytelling, as it marries adept technical execution with profound emotional resonance.

"Manila in the Claws of Light," directed by Lino Brocka, stands as a seminal piece in Philippine cinema, masterfully capturing the socio-political landscape of its time. As Brocka's most iconic work, it delves deeply into the struggles of its characters against the backdrop of economic turmoil and political unrest. The film excels in its raw portrayal of urban life and human resilience, making it both a compelling watch and a significant cultural artifact. It’s not a film you turn to for comfort, but rather one that you admire for its profound storytelling and impactful cinematography.

The Criterion Collection has done an admirable job with this Blu-ray release, presenting the film with a high-quality A/V transfer. However, the 4K restoration work, executed at L'Immagine Ritrovata, leaves much to be desired. The color grading appears awkward and sometimes artificial, detracting from what could have been a spectacular visual presentation. Despite this shortcoming, the film’s essence remains intact, and the accompanying array of bonus features provides substantial context and insights that augment the viewing experience.

In conclusion, "Manila in the Claws of Light" is an extraordinary film that deserves to be seen, studied, and appreciated. Although the 4K restoration might not meet some expectations, the value of experiencing Brocka's storytelling outweighs these technical flaws. If our review has piqued your interest, we recommend renting this Criterion release to decide if it deserves a place in your permanent collection. Ultimately, the film’s relevance and emotional depth make it a must-watch for those interested in powerful foreign cinema. RENT IT.