Mean Streets Blu-ray Review

Mean Streets receives an impressive Blu-ray release presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, captured with MPEG-4 encoding, and rendered in a 1080p transfer by Criterion. This release notably stems from an exclusive new 4K master, prepared following a meticulous 4K restoration sanctioned by Martin Scorsese and Thelma Schoonmaker. Sourced from the original 35mm camera negative and scanned in 3K using a Lasergraphics Dorector film scanner, the remaster emphasizes faithful representation. The undertaking involved mastering supervisors including Martin Scorsese, with color grading led by Yvan Lucas at Company3.

While viewed both in native 4K and 1080p, the regrading process has sparked varying opinions. Although the newly introduced color grading and dynamic range alterations aim to enhance visual prowess, they evoke mixed reactions due to noted discrepancies such as color shifts and dynamic range fluctuations. Despite these concerns, the film's imagery remains stable across formats, with the bar scenes gaining particular acclaim for their clarity in 1080p. Although the 4K regrade doesn't ostensibly elevate beyond what could have been attained through excellent raw 4K files, the spotless appearance of the film in 1080p demonstrates a commitment to visual integrity.

This Criterion release also offers a Region-A locked disc, ensuring viewers use compatible players for access. Despite some debate over the aesthetic alterations, the technical proficiency in scanning and mastering retains the essence of Scorsese's classic while promising fans and enthusiasts a fresh perspective on an iconic piece of cinema history.

The audio presentation of the "Mean Streets" Blu Ray features the original monaural soundtrack, meticulously remastered from the 35 mm dialogue, music, and effects magnetic track. Presented in English LPCM 1.0, the lossless audio effectively manages the elements, providing a clean and immersive listening experience. Dialogue is well-defined and boasts excellent room penetration, ensuring clarity and engagement without disruption. While there could have been an enhancement in depth and weight of the sounds to provide a richer auditory experience, this aspect remains a minor concern given the overall quality.

No encoding anomalies were detected, further attesting to the proficiency of this audio transfer. Optional English SDH subtitles are available to aid understanding of the main feature, accommodating varying audience needs. The audio presentation upholds the cinematic integrity of the classic film "Mean Streets," delivering a robust and faithful auditory match to its visual counterpart. This release stands out as a commendable representation of its audio heritage, maintaining high standards for both technical execution and audience enjoyment.

The Blu-ray release of "Mean Streets" offers a rich suite of extras that cater to film enthusiasts and deepen the understanding of Scorsese's iconic work. These extras include thoughtful retrospectives and insightful commentaries. Notably, the selected-scene audio commentary features both Martin Scorsese and actress Amy Robinson, providing personal reflections and contextual frameworks around the film's development. The engaging video essay by critic Imogen Sara Smith adds a fresh narrative dimension by exploring the film’s physicality and its themes of brotherhood. The disc also includes significant archival footage and interviews, such as a fascinating discussion with director of photography Kent Wakeford and excerpts from the documentary "Mardik: Baghdad to Hollywood." These features are complemented by an essay from critic Lucy Sante, enriching the overall package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Excerpted Conversation with Richard Linklater: Scorsese shares personal insights about the film's creation.
• Selected-Scene Commentary: Audio reflections by Scorsese and Amy Robinson.
• A Body Among Other Bodies: Video essay by Imogen Sara Smith on the film's themes.
• Interview with Kent Wakeford: Cinematographer discusses his collaboration with Scorsese.
• Mardik Martin Excerpt: Documented insights featuring key contributors of "Mean Streets."
• Martin Scorsese: Back on the Block: Archival featurette discussing New York influences.
• Trailer: U.S. trailer of the film.
• PLUS: An Essay by Lucy Sante: Illustrated leaflet offering critical perspectives.

Martin Scorsese’s "Mean Streets" (1973), recently released on Blu-Ray by Criterion, presents a raw exploration of street life in Little Italy, focusing on the precarious dynamics of a young Mafia-linked trio. At its center is Charlie (Harvey Keitel), whose ambitions are tempered by loyalty to his impulsive friend Johnny Boy (Robert De Niro). Johnny, a volatile figure characterized by his disregard for financial obligations, incurs the ire of loan shark Michael, pulling Charlie deeper into danger. The narrative deftly illustrates the turbulent interplay between personal ambition, friendship, and the harsh realities of Mafia life, with Tony (David Proval) offering a stable yet peripheral presence in their lives.

The film intricately captures the vibrant yet perilous Italian-American enclave, where faith and loyalty are interwoven with criminal undertakings. Charlie’s internal struggle is poignantly portrayed; his aspirations and moral dilemmas are emblematic of Scorsese’s thematic focus on conflicted souls in compromised environments. Though Johnny Boy is a liability, Charlie’s unwavering attachment to him represents the dichotomy of his desires for upward mobility versus deep-seated loyalty. The presence of Teresa (Amy Robinson) introduces additional complexity to Charlie’s world, challenging his notions of love and guilt amid his criminal veneer.

Scorsese’s direction imbues "Mean Streets" with an unpredictability that mirrors the genuine risks and moral ambiguities faced by real-life gangsters. Despite its unvarnished portrayal, the film resonates with authenticity, offering an intense and immersive experience that highlights the fallibility and fears of those living on society's fringes. Recognized with accolades including De Niro's Best Supporting Actor award from the National Society of Film Critics in 1974, the film remains a seminal reflection of Scorsese’s mastery in depicting the gritty reality of organized crime dynamics.

The Blu-ray release of "Mean Streets" by Criterion offers a new 4K restoration that has been approved by director Martin Scorsese and editor Thelma Schoonmaker. This restoration captures the essence of Scorsese's depiction of his youthful experiences in New York City with sincerity and simplicity. The film remains a quintessential work, celebrated for its authentic narrative and vivid representation of the gritty urban landscape of the time. However, the restoration does dramatically alter the original film's appearance, which may impact the viewing experience.

While this 4K version provides a polished visual upgrade, it is essential to note that these changes may not align with every viewer's nostalgia for the original aesthetic. Hence, potential buyers should consider previewing this edition before purchase to ensure the updated visuals meet their expectations. The improved clarity and detail could be appealing, but they may also detract from the film's original cinematic texture.

In conclusion, Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Mean Streets" with its new 4K restoration offers significant improvements in clarity and detail. However, it significantly alters the film's original appearance, which may not align with all viewers' preferences. Prospective buyers are advised to preview this edition prior to committing to this upgrade, balancing between the allure of enhanced visuals and the preservation of the film's initial aesthetic integrity.