Obsession Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, "Obsession" is presented on Blu-ray by Indicator/Powerhouse Films with an impressive 1080p transfer. Exclusively restored in 4K, the visual quality stands out, offering a high-definition experience that retains its cinematic essence. Although minor blemishes and density fluctuations are occasionally present, they do not detract significantly from the overall visual clarity and depth, which remain consistently pleasing. The grayscale is well-balanced, with lush blacks that avoid crushing, and healthy grays and whites that maintain a convincing and balanced tone.

The image stability across the film is commendable, contributing to the overall cinematic quality that enthusiasts will appreciate. The absence of unnecessary digital corrections ensures that the film’s aesthetics are preserved, offering an organic presentation that surpasses previous versions. The combination of fine density levels and fluid visuals provides an enhanced viewing experience that reflects the painstaking efforts behind this restoration. This release is Region-Free, ensuring broad accessibility for audiences regardless of location.

The Blu-ray release of "Obsession" features a singular audio track, presented in English LPCM 1.0, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles for accessibility. The dialogue is consistently clear and easily comprehensible, ensuring that viewers will not struggle to understand the film's narrative at any point. The sound design shows no signs of instability, affirming the release's technical quality.

Nino Rota's soundtrack adds substantial character to the viewing experience, though dynamic contrasts remain modest, characteristic of the audio design inherent to post-war cinema. This subtlety in dynamic range might limit the audio’s impact during more intense sequences but maintains an authentic period feel. A mild background hiss is detectable during the film's early segments. While this hiss is not intrusive at standard listening volumes, it becomes more apparent when the volume is increased considerably, suggesting careful adjustment may be necessary for optimal listening comfort.

In summary, while "Obsession" maintains a stable and clear audio presentation fitting to its historical context, the inclusion of only a single LPCM 1.0 track and some minor background hiss indicates that audiophiles might find some limitations in its sonic richness and environmental immersion. The release delivers an experience that remains faithful to the film's original auditory intentions without excessive modern enhancements.

The Blu-Ray extras for "Obsession" deliver an insightful exploration into the film's narrative depth and production nuances. Richard Dyer's discussion delves into the film's stylistic identity and British influences, complemented by a focus on Alec Coppel's inspiration from his novel. The John Player Lecture provides a historic insight with Edward Dmytryk's conversation with John Baxter, recorded in 1972. The exclusive audio commentary by Thirza Wakefield and Melanie Williams offers fresh critical perspectives. Furthermore, the interview with Gordon K. McCallum offers a technical angle, capturing sound recording intricacies of the era. Additionally, an image gallery and an expertly curated booklet enrich the understanding of the film's legacy. These extras provide not just commentary but a multi-dimensional deep dive, offering both historical context and technical examination.

Extras included in this disc:

• Richard Dyer: Discusses the film's identity and influences.
• The John Player Lecture with Edward Dmytryk: Audio conversation from 1972.
• Commentary: Exclusive audio by critics Thirza Wakefield and Melanie Williams.
• The BEHP Interview with Gordon K. McCallum: Audio conversation from 1988.
• Image Gallery: Original promotional materials.
• Commentary Booklet: Contains essays, archival articles, interviews, and critical responses.

Edward Dmytryk's "Obsession," originally titled "The Hidden Room," makes a striking appearance on Blu-ray, courtesy of Indicator/Powerhouse Films. This polished release is well-stocked with supplemental features, providing both historical context and contemporary critique. Notably, the extras include a captivating archival audio conversation with Dmytryk, alongside insightful commentary from critics such as Thirza Wakefield and Melanie Williams. Available in English with optional SDH subtitles, this release is region-free, offering cinephiles global access to this seminal work.

"Obsession" is a deftly crafted thriller, swimming in intellect and tension, where Dr. Clive Riordan's intellect becomes both his weapon and his weakness. Robert Newton delivers a riveting performance as Riordan, a man scorned and meticulously plotting his revenge through a calculated plan that involves public humiliation and planned murder. The film intricately unravels over three carefully designed phases; each step forward in Riordan’s methodology showcases his cold pragmatism and detachment. However, his machinations are challenged by Superintendent Finsbury, whose presence begins to unravel Riordan’s assumed superiority. The narrative becomes a compelling exploration of human intellect versus the unpredictable nature of consequence.

A crucial element enhancing the film's atmospheric tension is the score by Nino Rota, which elegantly underscores the psychological depth and turmoil inherent in the story. "Obsession" deftly dances between brilliance and madness, inviting comparisons to more renowned films such as Hitchcock's "Dial M for Murder," yet carving its niche through its somber tone and grim realism. Dmytryk’s film, though serious, possesses a subtle humor drawn from the interplay of its character’s ambitions and failures, ultimately presenting a gripping tale that leaves audiences pondering the fluid boundaries between reason and folly.

Indicator/Powerhouse Films has delivered a stunning new 4K restoration of "Obsession" on Blu-ray, which retains its vintage allure while enhancing the viewing experience with exceptional clarity and depth. The film itself, a captivating narrative of deception and psychological conflict, remains as intriguing as when it first captured audiences. The high resolution reveals exquisite details, further immersing viewers in its tense atmosphere. The release is enriched by comprehensive supplemental content, including a compelling audio commentary by film historians Thirza Wakefield and Melanie Williams and a visual essay featuring insights from writer Richard Dyer.

The disc also includes a variety of archival materials, offering an informative deep dive into the film's history. Notably, it provides audio interviews with director Edward Dmytryk and sound engineer Gordon McCallum, delivering authentic perspectives from the original creators. A vibrant image gallery accompanies these auditory insights, providing a visual narrative of "Obsession's" production elements. Furthermore, the release comes with a meticulously curated booklet that includes an essay by Fintan McDonagh, archived content on Dmytryk and actor Wayne, and a collection of contemporary critical quotes, contextualizing the film’s enduring legacy.

The intricate supplements significantly enhance the Blu-ray package, ensuring this version of "Obsession" stands out not only for its visual restoration but also for the breadth of its historical and analytical content. The presentation reminds us that "Obsession" offers a multifaceted exploration of the human psyche—one where strategic planning collides with unpredictable improvisation. Whether you're revisiting it or uncovering it anew, this release is invaluable for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Highly recommended.