3:10 to Yuma Blu-ray Review

The presentation of Delmer Daves' "3:10 to Yuma" on Blu-ray, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, sets a high standard for classic western restorations. The film benefits from a digital transfer created in 4K resolution on a Spirit 4K scanner from a newly restored 35mm fine-grain master. Further restoration work performed in 2K ensures the visual fidelity is exceptional. Supervised by Grover Crisp and colorist Tess Walsh, the meticulous care taken during the process is evident in the final product.

The high-definition transfer showcases consistently sharp and detailed imagery. Close-ups reveal intricate details such as every pore and wrinkle, as well as textures in clothing and set pieces, like bed sheets and tablecloths. The wide panoramic shots, particularly those capturing Arizona's desert landscapes, offer impressive depth and fluidity. The balance of whites, grays, and blacks is striking, with the outdoor scenes looking especially vibrant. Additionally, there is an evenly distributed light grain that complements the film's crispness without introducing any artificial post-production sharpening or stability issues.

Furthermore, the black-and-white cinematography of Charles Lawton, Jr. shines through. His use of dramatic lighting and deep shadows enhances the film's visual impact. The transfer allows for an appreciation of Lawton's distinctive style, highlighting the contrast and gradational details that contribute to the narrative's tension and atmosphere. The lack of large damage marks, debris, or warps speaks to the effectiveness of the restoration effort. Overall, this Blu-ray release offers a stunningly organic presentation that stands as one of the most sophisticated and stylish renditions of a classic western on the format to date.

Criterion's "3:10 to Yuma" Blu-ray offers two exceptional audio tracks: the English LPCM 1.0 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Both tracks, derived from the original 35mm magnetic master, present a splendidly crisp and well-rounded audio experience. The LPCM monaural track delivers clear, distortion-free dialogue free of hisses, clicks, or pops. Frankie Laine's iconic song "3:10 to Yuma" resonates beautifully in both formats.

Despite the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 designation, it predominantly maintains a front-heavy, near-mono presentation. This track subtly enhances the audio with broader imaging and a more full-bodied feel. This alternative demonstrates excellent acoustical detailing, warmth, and well-defined mid-range clarity during intense segments. Ambient effects translate into front channels with flawless directionality, while the bass remains appropriate to the film's era, offering appreciable palpability in music and action sequences.

Listeners preferring the DTS-HD track will find it marginally more engaging than the mono version due to its broader soundstage that brings a welcoming richness to the film's auditory atmosphere. However, both tracks ensure precise, crystal-clear dialogue prioritized centrally, preserving every nuance and intonation of conversations, especially the tense interactions between Wade and Evans. Ultimately, the choice between these superior tracks is a matter of personal preference.

The Blu-Ray extras for "3:10 to Yuma" are meticulously crafted, offering insightful perspectives on both versions of the classic film. Elmore Leonard, the original story's author, delivers a compelling interview that delves into how his story was adapted by Delmer Daves and subsequently reimagined by James Mangold. He provides thoughtful commentary on the cast and characters' moral quandaries, highlighting the nuanced differences between the original and the remake. Another highlight is Peter Ford’s interview, which sheds light on his father Glenn Ford's illustrious career and his impactful performance in "3:10 to Yuma". These interviews not only enhance appreciation for both adaptations but also provide a rich contextual framework for understanding their production backgrounds. An illustrated booklet featuring an essay by critic Kent Jones further deepens the viewer's engagement with the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Elmore Leonard: Author Elmore Leonard discusses his story's adaptations and the films' characters.
• Peter Ford: Glenn Ford's son reminisces about his father's career and his role in "3:10 to Yuma".
• Booklet: Illustrated booklet with an essay by critic Kent Jones.

Delmer Daves’ “3:10 to Yuma” (1957) stands as a quintessential psychological Western, brought vividly to life by its Criterion Blu-ray release. The plot, adapted from Elmore Leonard’s story, revolves around rancher Dan Evans (Van Heflin) and notorious outlaw Ben Wade (Glenn Ford). Evans, struggling financially, volunteers to escort Wade to Contention City, where he must board the 3:10 train to Yuma prison. The narrative’s core centers on their evolving relationship, set against the backdrop of a treacherous frontier. The tension escalates as Wade's gang closes in, with character transformations and moral ambiguities taking precedence over traditional shootouts.

The film’s strength lies in its deep character study and the interplay between good and evil. Dan Evans transitions from a desperate, cautious man into someone willing to risk his life for a semblance of honor and financial respite. Conversely, Ben Wade's character reveals layered depths; despite his criminal prowess, he exhibits a longing for stability and potential redemption. The interactions between Evans and Wade are masterfully penned by Halsted Welles and orchestrated by Daves, creating a narrative where intense dialogues replace conventional action sequences to explore complex moral landscapes.

Visually, “3:10 to Yuma” excels with Charles Lawton Jr.’s stunning cinematography. The use of light and shadow imparts a subtle noir aesthetic uncommon in Westerns of the era. Lawton's panoramic shots of the rugged landscape juxtaposed with intimate, tension-filled close-ups enhance the film’s atmospheric depth. The performance by Glenn Ford as the cunning yet oddly likable Wade and Van Heflin's portrayal of the morally torn Evans anchor the film with gravitas. Additionally, Felicia Farr’s role as Emmy, though brief, adds emotional texture to the storyline. This Criterion edition not only preserves the film’s visual and narrative integrity but also enriches the experience through insightful supplements.

The Criterion Collection’s Blu-ray release of Delmer Daves's "3:10 to Yuma" delivers a masterclass in presenting classic westerns on a modern platform. The film, a tense and suspenseful drama centered around the moral dilemmas faced by Dan Evans (Van Heflin) as he escorts the dangerous criminal Ben Wade (Glenn Ford), is meticulously restored to showcase its visual and auditory grandeur. The harrowing narrative is accentuated by the sharp black-and-white cinematography which is rendered with impressive clarity and depth in this high-definition edition.

The audio quality is near-reference, bringing Elmore Bernstein’s stirring score to life, and enhancing every gunshot and whispered conversation. The Blu-ray’s transfer maintains the integrity of the original film elements, offering an enhanced viewing experience that remains faithful to Daves's directorial vision. Purists will appreciate the respect given to the film’s substance, without excessive modern enhancements that could detract from its classic charm.

While the bonus materials provided are somewhat sparse, they are curated to provide valuable insights into the film’s production and historical context. However, avid collectors and aficionados might find themselves wanting more in this segment. These minor shortcomings do not detract from the overall high quality of the release.

It was a special treat to revisit Delmer Daves's 3:10 to Yuma on Blu-ray. I think that it looks stunning, undoubtedly the best it ever has. I truly hope that after this release and Jubal Criterion will also consider bringing other classic westerns to Blu-ray. Some classic European westerns would also be great to see in the collection. Do not hesitate to order 3:10 to Yuma, folks. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.