Fitzwilly Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Fitzwilly" arrives courtesy of Kino Lorber, presented in a 1080p transfer with a 2.34:1 aspect ratio, utilizing the MPEG-4 AVC codec. It is important to note that the master used is free from overt digital corrections, yet it does exhibit signs of aging that impact the overall quality. The color reproduction stands as the primary limitation; saturation and balance seem suboptimal, thus affecting the vibrancy of the film's visual presentation. Particularly in wider panoramic shots, where natural light plays a significant role, the nuances are less pronounced than expected. Shadow definition could also be superior, though the darker areas maintain decent visibility.

Despite these color-related compromises, the depth of the image is commendably preserved, ranging from good to very good, especially apparent when viewed on larger screens. This ensures that the film remains visually appealing even amidst its limitations. Image stability throughout the transfer remains robust, further enhancing the viewing experience. Minor specks and blemishes are present, yet there is a notable absence of larger, more distracting debris, or any issues such as cuts, warped, or torn frames. This careful preservation amidst inevitable age-related wear underscores a diligent restoration effort for classic cinema enthusiasts. (Note: This release is Region-A locked and requires a native Region-A or Region-Free player for access).

The audio presentation of the "Fitzwilly" Blu-ray is articulated through an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles that seamlessly integrate within the image frame. The clarity and stability of the audio are commendable, presenting dialogue with distinct precision. Notably, Van Dyke's vocal versatility in portraying various personas contributes to the narrative depth. Despite these strengths, there is potential for minor cosmetic audio upgrades through modern digital tools, though their perceptibility remains speculative given the thoroughness of the existing audio transfer.

John Williams’ score, characterized by its light and bouncy nature, aligns well with the film’s charming essence. The song "Make Me Rainbows" by Marilyn and Alan Bergman is aptly featured during romantic interludes, further enhancing the thematic experience. Particularly noteworthy is the Gimbel’s sequence, where diverse auditory elements such as ambient crowd noise and intricate sound effects like scout troupe singing and animated retail chaos converge, creating a vivid soundscape. Exterior scenes intermittently feature realistic traffic noise, though without disrupting the overall audio balance.

Overall, the balance and intensity of the soundtrack contribute effectively to both dialogue delivery and musical accompaniments, framing a thoroughly engaging auditory experience. The dynamic sound design supports the film’s playful narrative without detracting from its plot intricacies, making for a fulfilling audio presentation.

The Blu-ray extras for "Fitzwilly" offer an insightful dive into the film's background and atmosphere. The highlight is a new audio commentary featuring filmmaker/historian Michael Schlesinger and film archivist Stan Taffel, who provide an entertaining and informative analysis. Their discussion explores the film’s unique energy and spirit, perfect for the holiday season, while delving into its production history and contextual era, enhancing the viewer's appreciation. The inclusion of a remastered vintage trailer complements this by allowing a glimpse into how the film was originally marketed.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: A new audio commentary by filmmaker/historian Michael Schlesinger and film archivist Stan Taffel, offering detailed insights.
• Trailer: A remastered vintage trailer in English showcases the original marketing vision of the film.

Delbert Mann's "Fitzwilly" (1967) arrives on Blu-ray with a keen balance of humor and subtle intrigue, underpinned by a sophisticated screenplay that showcases a whimsical interpretation of necessity-driven thievery. The film stars Dick Van Dyke as the titular character, a master thief camouflaged as a loyal butler to Miss Victoria Woodworth, aptly played by Edith Evans. The narrative unfolds initially with ambiguity concerning the motives behind their criminal activities—raising questions whether these deeds are for personal gain or a nobler cause. Quickly, it becomes evident that the thefts are perpetrated to sustain Miss Vicki’s lavish lifestyle under the guise of philanthropy, a twist on typical caper film motives that introduces a unique moral conundrum.

Cinematographer Joseph F. Biroc’s contribution adds a layer of visual elegance and precision, capturing the whimsical yet desperate acts of Fitzwilly's team with an eye that romanticizes the chaos, particularly in the climactic department store scene. The storytelling is adeptly complemented by a lively soundtrack from young John Williams, credited as Johnny Williams, which infuses dynamic energy into the comedic escapades.

The film transcends simple genre categorization, evolving its caper roots into a romantic comedy through Mann’s emphasis on character interactions and comedic elements. This approach is accentuated by the engaging chemistry between Van Dyke and Barbara Feldon, whose character Juliet injects both charm and intellect into the narrative. While some might argue for a more pronounced caper-centric storyline, Mann skillfully maneuvers the comedic tone to enhance the narrative’s rhythm, allowing Fitzwilly and his crew's exploits to resonate with delightful spontaneity. Overall, "Fitzwilly" thrives as a holiday-time romantic comedy with untapped caper potential, offering audiences a compelling narrative layered with humor and heart.

The Blu-ray release of "Fitzwilly" offers a delightful revisitation of this classic romantic comedy, characterized by its charming yet unpretentious nature. The film excels in creating a light-hearted atmosphere, drawing audiences with its engaging storyline and endearing characters. The standout feature is the chemistry between the leads, Fitzwilly and Juliet, which is reminiscent of classic screwball comedies, enriched with witty repartee and a fluctuating romance that anchors the narrative. However, the film's believability is occasionally stretched with contrived plot points, and while it may not deliver uproarious laughter or a stream of memorable one-liners, its heart lies in well-defined character-driven humor and situational comedy.

From a technical standpoint, the Blu-ray presentation offers a commendable audio-visual experience. The transfer quality brings a refreshed clarity to the visuals, enhancing the vibrant 1960s setting in which the story unfolds. The sound quality has been expertly managed to highlight dialogue articulation and musical scores, further immersing viewers in Fitzwilly's world. While some viewers may desire more dramatic scenes or heftier laughs, the focus on subtle comedic moments and character interactions solidifies its appeal.

In conclusion, "Fitzwilly" thrives on its romantic comedy identity, comfortably settling into its charming narrative supported by stellar performances and a nostalgic ambiance. While an increase in focus on the con jobs could enhance engagement for some, the film’s balance of comedy and romance ensures a pleasing viewing experience. It's an ideal choice for a light-hearted movie night, particularly during the holiday season, making it ultimately recommended for both new viewers and fans of classic comedies alike.