If.... Blu-ray Review

Criterion’s release of "If...." on Blu-ray delivers an impressive visual presentation rooted in meticulous restoration techniques. Utilizing a high-definition 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 transfer, the footage is adapted from an original 35mm interpositive and boasts a 1.66:1 aspect ratio. Undertaken by Spirit Datacine, the digital transfer underwent comprehensive cleaning to eliminate dirt, debris, scratches, splices, warps, jitter, and flicker using MTI’s DRS system and Pixel Farm's PFClean software. Small dirt, grain, and noise reduction were executed through Digital Vision's DVNR system. This exhaustive process has commendably preserved the film's authentic look, ensuring the final product maintains a natural filmic appeal without becoming overly glossy.

Endorsed by cinematographer Miroslav Ondricek and assistant editor Ian Rakoff, the transfer is notable for improved detail and clarity. The sprucing up efforts include severe dirt removal and controlled degraining, retaining a light but consistent grain layer throughout the film. The originally problematic color-scheme is now balanced and free from previous issues such as color bleed and shimmer. The black-and-white sequences maintain expected grain levels without becoming obtrusive, while stability is steadfast across varied display units, from 50-inch panels to larger projections.

The technical artistry extends to color calibration by Telecine supervisor Lee Kline and colorist Gregg Garvin at Modern Videofilm, Los Angeles. Their work ensures vibrant yet true-to-life colors, particularly with the black tones in the pupils' jackets appearing deep and solid while skin tones reflect naturalistic, pale British complexions. The storage room footage exemplifies these enhancements clearly, showing substantial improvements compared to past releases. Overall, this Blu-ray edition of "If...." is a testament to Criterion's dedication to quality and preservation, delivering a visually satisfying experience for both new viewers and long-time fans.

The audio presentation of "If...." on Blu-ray features a meticulously cleaned-up uncompressed LPCM mono track, remastered at 24-bit from the original magnetic tracks. This effort has resulted in a clean and faithful representation of the film's audio, delivering crisp and clear dialogue throughout. Notably, clicks, thumps, and other audio imperfections have been manually removed using Pro-Tools HD, ensuring a high-quality listening experience devoid of hiss and hum. The soundtrack maintains its integrity, avoiding any artificial enhancements or tinny mono effects, preserving the film's original sound profile authentically.

Despite the LPCM 1.0 track having limited dynamic range, the overall clarity and stability are commendable. Dialogue remains exceptionally clean and easy to follow, an essential attribute for a film of this nature. Additionally, Marc Wilkinson's music score benefits from the lossless treatment, remaining undistorted and complementing the narrative effectively without overwhelming any other elements of the audio. Criterion's decision to include English SDH subtitles further enhances accessibility without detracting from the auditory experience. Overall, this audio presentation stands out for its faithful and meticulous remastering, providing a high-quality soundscape characteristic of the film’s vintage.

The Blu-ray release of "If...." by The Criterion Collection offers a comprehensive set of extras that delve deep into the film's production and legacy. The audio commentary, pieced together from conversations with historian David Robinson and actor Malcolm McDowell, provides rich historical context and personal anecdotes. A 36-page booklet includes an insightful essay by David Ehrenstein, extracts from David Sherwin’s production diary, and a mock interview with Lindsay Anderson. Additionally, the disc features a compelling episode from a BBC Scotland TV series that brings together key crew members in a studio discussion. Interviews with actor Graham Crowden and a documentary by Lindsay Anderson, which won an Academy Award, further enrich the viewing experience, making this release a must-have for fans of cinema history.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insights from historian David Robinson and actor Malcolm McDowell.
• Cast and Crew: In-depth discussion featuring key crew members and excerpts from a video interview with Malcolm McDowell.
• Graham Crowden: An interview with the actor who reminisces about his role in the film.
• Thursday's Children: Lindsay Anderson's award-winning documentary narrated by Richard Burton.
• Booklet: An illustrated booklet with essays and reprinted pieces by David Sherwin and Lindsay Anderson.

Lindsay Anderson's cult classic If.... has been skillfully brought to Blu-ray by The Criterion Collection, presenting the film in 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 with a widescreen 1.66:1 aspect ratio. The image quality is exceptional, showcasing a clean yet filmic appeal that preserves the fine grain and intricate details synonymous with its British heritage. The color palette is distinctly British, providing a nostalgic feel. Complementing the visuals, the LPCM mono audio track has been meticulously restored, eliminating any age-related hiss, snap, crackle, or pop, ensuring clear and crisp dialogue throughout.

The film masterfully blends reality and fantasy, alternating seamlessly between black-and-white and color photography under Miroslav Ondříček's (Amadeus) skilled cinematography. This technique enhances the surreal atmosphere and mirrors Mick Travis's (Malcolm McDowell) intense disillusionment and rebellious spirit as he navigates the oppressive environment of a British boarding school. The narrative structure initially deceives viewers into reminiscing about schoolboy nostalgia but gradually unravels into a dark, anarchic call for rebellion. This transformation is starkly portrayed through Mick's journey from critique to outright revolt against the oppressive system embodied by characters like Rowntree (Robert Swann).

The thematic depth of If.... is profound, laden with provocative sentiments on anarchy and systemic critique. Anderson's direction clearly condemns not just the school but the entire English system for its double standards and resistance to change. The audacity of the film’s narrative — illustrated through bold statements like "One man can change the world with a bullet in the right place" — resonates with its Cannes Palme d'Or accolade. Criterion enriches the viewing experience with substantial supplementary features, including a documentary by Lindsay Anderson, interviews, and a commentary track featuring film critic David Robinson and Malcolm McDowell, rounding out a comprehensive package that honors this pivotal piece of cinematic history.

Review 1: Criterion's Blu-Ray presentation of "If...." is a superb transfer, showcasing remarkable video and audio improvements. The film’s crisp visuals and balanced sound design enhance its already profound impact. Anderson's direction remains timeless, rendering it a powerful commentary on rebellion and societal norms. Undeniably worth the purchase.

Review 2: The transfer quality of "If...." on Blu-Ray by Criterion is nothing short of stunning. There's a noticeable clarity in the picture and a depth in the audio that was absent in previous editions. The color grading is meticulous, preserving the film's original aesthetic while enhancing detail. This release is an essential upgrade for collectors.

Review 3: "If...." has been meticulously restored by Criterion, resulting in a Blu-Ray edition that highlights the film’s enduring power and controversial nature. The audio-visual enhancements are substantial, offering a much richer viewing experience. This edition does justice to Lindsay Anderson’s visionary work and is highly recommended for both new viewers and long-time fans.

Review 4: The Blu-Ray release of "If...." by Criterion offers a pristine presentation of this classic British film. The video transfer is clear and sharp, and the sound quality is excellent, lending new life to Anderson’s critique of institutional oppression. This release is indispensable for connoisseurs of British cinema and Criterion collectors alike.

Review 5: Criterion has outdone itself with the Blu-Ray release of "If....". The restoration is impeccable, with significant improvements in picture and sound. The film itself remains a poignant and powerful critique of British society, now more relevant than ever. It’s a must-have for any serious film collector.

Criterion's Blu-Ray edition of "If...." stands as a remarkable testament to the film’s enduring impact. The transfer quality is exceptional, presenting Lindsay Anderson’s provocative narrative with enhanced clarity and depth. Audiences will appreciate the meticulous attention given to video and audio parameters, creating an immersive viewing experience that outshines previous editions.

The new transfer boasts noticeable improvements in both visual fidelity and sound design. Sharpness and color grading are impressive, capturing each frame with precise detail while preserving the original aesthetic vision. Audio enhancements are equally striking, with balanced sound that elevates the film's powerful themes of rebellion and societal critique.

In conclusion, Lindsay Anderson's "If...." remains a profoundly relevant and controversial piece of British cinema. Criterion’s presentation raises the bar, making significant upgrades to both video and audio quality. This edition is not just recommended but essential for collectors and enthusiasts of groundbreaking cinema.