Larceny Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release of "Larceny," presented in a 1.36:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, showcases a 1080p transfer that is sourced from an older master. This transfer bears resemblance to that used for "Alias Nick Beal," bringing a commendably organic yet imperfect visual experience. The film’s age is subtly apparent through its non-optimized delineation and inconsistent density levels, contributing to variances in grain exposure. Despite these minor aging signs, the lack of intrusive digital restoration artifacts results in an overall satisfactory high-definition appearance.

There are some inherent imperfections, such as specks, black marks, and occasional blemishes, though they do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. These elements contribute to a certain nostalgia that aligns well with the film’s historical context. Cinephiles will appreciate the unaltered authenticity this transfer retains, making it a quality addition to any Blu-ray collection. However, it's important to note that this release is Region-A locked, necessitating a compatible player for viewing. Overall, while not flawless, this Blu-ray video presentation faithfully preserves the film’s original character with minimal modern interference.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Larceny" provides an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, with optional English SDH subtitles enhancing the main feature. The audio quality is notably clear and supports the film's dialogue-driven narrative effectively. Despite its age, the soundtrack maintains a level of clarity that allows key dialogues to resonate, characterizing personalities with distinctive vocal tones. However, minor fluctuations in the sound can be detected, subtly pointing to the production’s era. While these imperfections are non-distracting, they do hint at the potential for improvement should a comprehensive audio remaster occur in future releases.

From a technical standpoint, the 2.0 Mono DTS-HD Master Audio format successfully balances the musical score with character interactions. Dialogue delivery is precise, significantly aiding the viewer's engagement with the storyline. Specifics such as the brashness in Winters’ vocal portrayal and Duryea's cool delivery underline character dynamics effectively. Despite Payne's less dynamic vocal performance, the overall tonal quality remains consistent throughout. Leith Stevens’ film score complements the narrative without drawing undue attention, serving a functional purpose in elevating the film's atmospheric backdrop. Overall, while not groundbreaking, the audio fidelity offers an authentic experience reflective of its cinematic origins.

The Blu-ray of "Larceny" provides a rich tapestry of extras that delve deeply into the film's production and historical context. The standout feature is the Commentary by Eddy Von Muller, who articulately explores "Larceny" beyond its film noir classification, offering insightful critiques and factual detail regarding the era and the filmmakers' careers. His engaging commentary demonstrates a nuanced understanding, providing listeners with both educational content and critical perspectives. This supplementary content is layered and informative, enhancing the viewer's appreciation for the film and its creative background.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Insightful analysis by Eddy Von Muller on film noir elements and historical context, intertwined with critiques and factual information.

George Sherman's "Larceny" (1948), presented on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber, offers a gripping exploration of con artistry with sharp performances and intriguing plot dynamics. The film introduces us to Silky Randall (Dan Duryea) and his team of con men, including Rick Mason (John Payne), as they navigate the dangerous waters of high-stakes deception. These con artists masterfully orchestrate schemes, targeting wealthy individuals by manipulating their desires and emotions to elicit substantial financial investments. The unfolding narrative takes a tantalizing turn when Rick, in a classic ruse, charms the affluent widow Deborah Owens Clark (Joan Caulfield) in Mission City into financing a concocted war memorial project, only to fall into a web of unexpected personal entanglements.

The performances in "Larceny" play a pivotal role in elevating the film from standard noir to something memorable. While Payne, Caulfield, and Shelley Winters deliver compelling work that injects vitality and tension into the narrative, it is the chemistry among them that truly captivates. As they navigate the shadows of mistrust and moral ambiguity, their character interactions offer fresh, unscripted surprises, blending melodrama with an air of unpredictability. This rich interplay keeps viewers engaged, even as the storyline treads familiar ground, maintaining suspense without over-relying on typical crime film tropes.

While Irving Glassberg's cinematography might not stand out when compared to his other notable collaborations, the visual elements remain serviceable enough to convey the setting's requisite mood and tension. Overall, "Larceny" succeeds by focusing on its characters' psychological manipulation and the strategic exploitation of societal flaws, providing a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of crime and humanity. It's a gripping watch that delves deeper than just crime entertainment, allowing viewers to ponder the enticingly flawed world it presents.

"Larceny," now available on Blu-ray, emerges as a noteworthy contribution to classic film noir collections, primarily due to its intriguing storylines and commendable performances. While the film lacks the ideal roughness often associated with noir anti-heroes, it compensates with an ensemble cast that includes John Payne, whose portrayal, although more polished than gritty, is compelling. Shelley Winters’ performance is particularly striking, adding vitality and depth to the narrative. This Blu-ray release utilizes a well-maintained master, courtesy of Universal Pictures, ensuring a visually pleasing experience.

Despite its brisk pacing, the film occasionally sacrifices depth for speed, leaving certain plot elements underdeveloped and predictable by design. The story offers a mix of suspenseful twists and comfortable predictability that feels nostalgic, especially for those familiar with genre conventions. The film's availability on Blu-ray addresses the gap in access previously encountered by noir enthusiasts, delivering a much-needed addition to the libraries of classic film collectors.

In conclusion, while "Larceny" may not attain the heights of the most revered noir films, it remains an engaging watch, thanks to its capable cast and the aesthetic quality achieved through Kino Lorber's release. Its imperfections are overshadowed by the film's charm and historical significance. Its availability on Blu-ray is highly recommended for connoisseurs eager to explore the spectrum of mid-century cinema treasures.