Ace High Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Ace High" by Kino Lorber, presented in its original 2.35:1 Techniscope aspect ratio, offers a meticulously detailed 1080p transfer, sourced from a new 4K master prepared by Paramount Pictures. This restoration showcases the film's visuals with a level of clarity and depth that can be described as reference-quality. Film grain, skin tones, and the color palette are brilliantly preserved, presenting a visually organic appearance that highlights the careful grading needed for darker footage, avoiding any detail loss due to crushing. Notably, this revitalized version surpasses previous DVD releases, setting a new benchmark for spaghetti western restorations.

The masterful restoration delivers an immaculate viewing experience with minimal defects, such as scratches or dirt, present in the original negative. With a runtime of 122 minutes, the film retains its authentic look from the 35mm original camera negative, further enhanced by the smooth representation of fine details. Although there is a small segment where the visuals soften and flatten, likely due to irreparable damage in the original elements, this does not detract from the overall stunning quality achieved. This brief inconsistency is handled with precision, indicating careful reconstruction rather than digital mishandling.

Overall, this Blu-ray release is expertly packaged and Region-A locked, requiring a compatible player. The inclusion of the classic Hanna-Barbera animated Paramount logo adds a nostalgic touch to an already impressive presentation. This release represents an exemplary standard in restoring and delivering classic films to high-definition formats, providing home viewers with a cinematic experience that closely emulates its original glory on the big screen.

The Blu-ray release of "Ace High" presents the audio in an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 format, offering a technical upgrade over previous DVD editions. This format preserves the original mono soundtrack with commendable fidelity, capturing the essence of the film's dialogue, sound mix, and Carlo Rustichelli’s music score. Dialogue clarity is notably strong, although minor unevenness can be detected due to some overdubbing. The dynamic intensity of the audio blends well with the film's action sequences, reflecting the characteristic vibrance of a late 1960s spaghetti western.

While the music during the opening credits gives a slightly compressed sound, likely a result of inherent source limitations, the audio track overall remains robust with a healthy upper register. Distortion and auditory artifacts such as hissing, flutter, popping, and crackling are minimal, ensuring an immersive listening experience. This release's audio presentation significantly surpasses that of the previous Paramount DVD, delivering what is potentially the best auditory rendition of the movie available on home video. Optional English SDH subtitles are available and are neatly contained within the image frame when activated, providing additional accessibility without detracting from the visual experience.

The extras on the "Ace High" Blu-ray deliver both informative content and nostalgic value, appealing to anyone interested in the filmmaking process and vintage cinema promotions. The standout feature is the exclusive new commentary by filmmaker Alex Cox, offering insights into thematic elements and stylistic influences from Sergio Leone that director Colizzi incorporates. This engaging audio track is a must-listen for those wishing to delve deeper into the film's artistry. Accompanying this are multiple trailers, serving both as a window into the film's original marketing efforts and as a call back to classic cinema of the time. These extras manifest a blend of educational and sentimental offerings that enhance the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Filmmaker Alex Cox: Insightful discussion on themes and stylistic references.
• Theatrical Trailer: A vintage U.S. trailer showcasing the film's original promotion.
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Includes trailers for related classic films such as "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" and others.

Giuseppe Colizzi's "Ace High" is celebrated in this Blu-ray release for its dynamic narrative and notable performances. The film features the seasoned duo Bud Spencer and Terence Hill as bounty hunters Hutch Bessy and Cat Stevens, who find themselves outwitted by the charismatic bandit Cacopoulos, played by Eli Wallach. The narrative is set in the Wild West, with the film delving into themes of greed and moral ambiguity. Cacopoulos, released from prison, manipulates circumstances to reclaim his stolen wealth, leading to a reluctant alliance with the betrayed bounty hunters to confront an old nemesis, casino owner Drake, portrayed by Kevin McCarthy. This setup fosters a blend of comedic chemistry and character-driven humor that distinguishes it from other spaghetti westerns of its time.

The film, part of a trilogy and a direct sequel to "God Forgives... I Don't!" (1967), exhibits Colizzi’s intent to blend humor with traditional elements of the spaghetti western genre, arguably taking cues from Sergio Leone while striking its own tone. The cinematography by Marcello Maschiocci contributes significant visual flair, capturing the stark yet vibrant landscapes of the Wild West. Despite its humor sometimes being uneven—oscillating between slapstick and more refined quirks—this does not detract significantly from the engaging storyline or character performances. Wallach's role echoes his famous turn in “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” adding depth through his morally complex character.

"Ace High" also merits attention for its ensemble cast, including Brock Peters as the high-wire performer who complements the trio’s dynamic ensemble. The absence of overt political themes, a contrast to Leone's works, makes it a refreshing entry in the genre. Ultimately, for enthusiasts of spaghetti westerns, "Ace High" offers a rich tapestry of action, wit, and character interplay that should not be missed.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Ace High" elevates Giuseppe Colizzi's classic spaghetti western to a new level of appreciation with its remarkable 4K restoration. The visual fidelity presented here sets a high standard, with crisp imagery that brings the film's vivid landscapes and dynamic scenes to life. This release is more than just a movie; it's an experience, providing both a visual feast and a hearty selection of special features, including an exceptionally informative commentary track. The impeccable attention to detail in the transfer turns every moment into a native 4K delight, making it an essential upgrade from its previous DVD counterpart.

The restoration does justice to the film’s blend of action and humor, ensuring that modern audiences can enjoy the same charm that made it memorable since its initial release. Throughout viewing, the film maintains its authenticity while improving technical aspects, making the narrative even more engaging. The soundtrack and dialogue maintain clarity, allowing the viewer to appreciate this cultural piece without distraction. Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the genre, this Blu-ray elevates "Ace High" in all aspects.

In conclusion, this edition of "Ace High" is exemplary for anyone interested in film preservation and spaghetti westerns. Paramount's diligence in restoring this cinematic piece has resulted in a product that feels fresh yet nostalgically rich. As the film features an impressive marriage of comedy and western elements, it's delightful for both cinephiles and casual viewers alike. Strongly recommended as a valuable addition to any collection, it marks another success for both Paramount and Kino Lorber's ongoing legacies.