Eyes Without a Face Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of Georges Franju's "Eyes Without a Face" is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, and boasts a 1080p transfer. Leveraging a high-definition transfer from a Spirit HD film scanner and the original 35mm camera negative, the release ensures a superior viewing experience. Depth and clarity have been dramatically improved compared to Criterion's previous R1 DVD release, making this Blu-ray version a significant upgrade. The contrast and sharpness levels are impeccably stabilized, with solid blacks that aren't overly harsh and well-balanced whites. A good range of grays further enhances the rich visual experience.

The attention to detail is evident in the transfer, with excellent image stability and no large damage marks, cuts, debris, stains, warps, or splices. Grain is retained and well-resolved, contributing to the film’s authentic look. Despite a few sequences where slight adjustments could enhance perfection, the overall compression is commendable. Contrast levels are superb, lending a luxurious depth, particularly noticeable in the incredibly detailed black-and-white cinematography. Emotive close-ups reveal fine details such as Pierre Brasseur's expressive brow and the intricate textures of facial hair and clothing.

While some fleeting moments are hazy or less refined, these instances are rare and do not detract from the overall experience. This high-definition transfer works wonders on the hauntingly beautiful visuals and meticulous cinematography of the film. Viewers can appreciate the pristine clarity and depth that this Blu-ray version provides, ensuring "Eyes Without a Face" looks better than ever before. Criterion's meticulous restoration efforts culminate in a visual feast that is both technically impressive and aesthetically captivating.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Eyes Without a Face" is defined by its solitary French LPCM 1.0 track, accompanied by optional English subtitles for the main feature. The lossless audio track, remastered from the original 35 mm negative, ensures that almost all inherent crackles and hisses typical of older films have been effectively removed. This results in an exceptionally clean and precise sound that allows Maurice Jarre's atmospheric score to shine. Specifically, the bassoon and oboe solos emerge with a lush quality, devoid of any thinness or distortion, enhancing the overall auditory experience.

Despite the limitations of a monaural track, "Eyes Without a Face" achieves an impressive balance and clarity. The dialogue is crisp and well-rounded, providing an elevated auditory experience that complements the film's striking visuals. Background noises, such as the eerie sounds of dogs howling and whining, are deftly integrated into the soundscape, adding to the film's unsettling atmosphere and depth. The absence of background hiss, pops, or audio dropouts further solidifies this as a rich and pristine audio track, crucial for a film that relies equally on sound and visual elements to narrate its story.

The extras in the Blu-ray edition of "Eyes Without a Face" are comprehensive, providing valuable insights into both the film and its creators. Notable is the inclusion of Georges Franju’s seminal short documentary "Blood of the Beasts," which reveals the grim reality of Parisian abattoirs. This piece, alongside a modern interview with legendary actress Edith Scob, offers a compelling context to appreciate Franju's directorial approach and the film's unique tone. The disc also features several trailers and TV excerpts where Franju discusses his methodology and the horror genre, supplemented by an interview with screenwriters Pierre Boileau and Thomas Narcejac.

Extras included in this disc:

• French Trailer: Original French trailer with English subtitles.
• U.S. Trailer: Trailer for a double-bill presentation with The Manster.
• Blood of the Beasts: Franju's short documentary on Paris slaughterhouses.
• Franju on the Film: Franju discusses Blood of the Beasts.
• Edith Scob: Interview with the film’s lead actress on her role and Franju's direction.
• Le Fantastique: Franju on differentiating fantastic and horror cinema.
• Boileau-Narcejac: Screenwriters discuss their collaborative process and works.

Georges Franju's 1960 masterpiece 'Eyes Without a Face' weaves an intricate tale of horror, blending poetic beauty with stark realism. The film centers on the mad surgeon Dr. Génessier (Pierre Brasseur), who, consumed by guilt and obsession, strives to restore his disfigured daughter Christiane's (Edith Scob) face. Assisting him in his ghastly quest is Louise (Alida Valli), who abducts young women to supply their faces for Christiane’s countless failed grafts. The first half of the film meticulously outlines the doctor’s eerie experiments and Louise’s methodical search for victims, interspersed with haunting close-ups of Christiane's masked visage, portrayed with unsettling yet poetic visuals.

The narrative takes a sharp turn in the second half, replacing its earlier dark elegance with a visceral sense of realism. Disturbing sequences, evocative of medical instructional films, showcase Franju’s unique ability to unnerve without sensationalism. These shifts accentuate the film's capacity to oscillate between serene beauty and raw horror, a quality that solidifies its status as an exemplary piece within the genre. The juxtaposition found in 'Eyes Without a Face' is akin to Franju’s work in 'Blood of the Beasts', where mundane Parisian life starkly contrasts against the brutal reality within an abattoir, imbuing a similar unsettling, detached style that enhances the disquieting effect on audiences.

Franju's direction, coupled with Eugen Schüfftan's evocative cinematography and Maurice Jarre’s deceptively whimsical score, constructs a deeply affecting atmosphere. Brasseur delivers a spine-chilling performance as Dr. Génessier, and Scob's portrayal of Christiane is hauntingly poignant—her expressive eyes conveying deep despair and yearning. Valli’s embodiment of Louise lends further complexity to her ostensibly malevolent role. This film defies simple categorization; it remains a haunting treatise on identity, guilt, and the very human yearning for redemption and normalcy behind the veneer of monstrous acts.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of Georges Franju's "Eyes Without a Face" is an impressive restoration that English-speaking fans will greatly appreciate. The transfer rivals, if not surpasses, Gaumont's Region-B edition and is worlds ahead of the previous R1 DVD release. The film’s haunting visuals, presenting a unique blend of surreal art house aesthetics and body horror elements, have significantly influenced horror cinema, despite its relative obscurity in modern popular culture. Criterion’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that every frame of this cult classic is presented with pristine clarity, making it a definitive upgrade for collectors and new viewers alike.

"Eyes Without a Face" may appear tame by contemporary horror standards; however, its impact remains undeniable, particularly through one iconic scene that leaves a lasting impression. Franju’s work transcends simple genre classification, carving a distinctive niche between body horror and psychological thriller. Originally overlooked and only later embraced for its technical brilliance and eerie narrative, the film’s legacy continues to grow with each home video re-release. Criterion’s edition breathes new life into this seminal piece, allowing audiences to fully appreciate its nuanced storytelling and atmospheric prowess.

In Conclusion, Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Eyes Without a Face" stands as a testament to the film's enduring significance. It offers fans an opportunity to experience Franju’s visionary work in unparalleled quality. If this film holds a cherished place in your movie collection, upgrading to this Blu-ray edition is not only warranted but essential. Buy with confidence—this release comes highly recommended for everyone from horror aficionados to classic film enthusiasts.