The American Friend Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of Wim Wenders' The American Friend, presented in the 1.66:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, offers an impressive 1080p video transfer. This restoration was supervised by director Wim Wenders himself and executed by ARRI Film & TV Services, delivering a 4K digital transfer from the original 35mm negative. The remastering process has ensured excellent visual quality, preserving the film’s depth and clarity even in shadow-heavy scenes. Vibrant, nuanced colors and outstanding image stability highlight the meticulous attention to detail. A fine layer of grain pervades the film, contributing to a natural, cinematic texture without problematic alterations such as artificial sharpening.

The technical proficiency of this transfer is evident in the robust color reproduction and contrast levels. Bold hues like the vivid reds in Ripley’s bedroom are rendered with great precision, enhancing the visual storytelling. The fine detail captured throughout the film, from the texture of cobblestone streets to the subtle variations in shadowed areas, attests to the high-quality scanning and restoration process. Whites appear accurate and blacks are rich, contributing to excellent shadow delineation. Moreover, the image remains free of dirt, damage, or any unwanted artifacts, ensuring a pristine viewing experience.

Overall, this Blu-ray release from Criterion stands out due to its professional restoration efforts backed by the Wim Wenders Stiftung and German Federal Film Board. Whether experiencing the film's nuanced colors or its remarkable depth in exterior shots, viewers will find this version of The American Friend to be a substantial upgrade from previous DVD editions. The only caveat is its Region-A locking, necessitating compatible playback equipment for access.

The Blu-ray release of "The American Friend" boasts a singular audio track: German DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, with substantial segments in English. Optional English and English SDH subtitles are available. This newly remixed track is derived from the original tapes, with the process overseen and approved by the Wim Wenders Stiftung, resulting in a refined and dynamic audio experience. Although some might have preferred an additional mono track, the 5.1 surround mix proves to be an excellent substitute. Jürgen Knieper's score is masterfully integrated, filling the surround channels and enhancing the film’s atmospheric tension.

Speech, featuring a mix of English, French, and German dialogues, remains clear and predominantly focused in the front channels. However, due to thick accents, some viewers may rely on subtitles for better comprehension of the English dialogue. The overall balance is commendable, maintaining crispness with no reported instances of pops, dropouts, or digital distortions. The low frequencies provide robust support for both music and effects, particularly during action sequences, while ambient noises effectively enhance scenes requiring heightened immersion. The only notable mix discrepancy occurs in an early scene where the music momentarily overpowers the dialogue between Ripley and Hogarth; otherwise, the balance of elements is exceptional throughout.

The Blu-ray release of "The American Friend" includes a compelling array of extras that provide deep insights into the film's production. Wim Wenders shares his inspiration and technical choices in a comprehensive interview, complemented by Bruno Ganz's reflections on his acting transition and experience on set. The audio commentary from 2002 features rich discussions between Wenders and Dennis Hopper, providing crucial context on the film's conception and aesthetic decisions. Additionally, a collection of deleted scenes with commentary, the original trailer, and an essay by Francine Prose emphasize the film’s historical and artistic value. These extensive features make this edition a must-have for cinephiles and scholars.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original trailer for the film in German and English with subtitles.
• Wim Wenders: Interview discussing inception, casting, and film techniques.
• Bruno Ganz: Interview reflecting on his role, career, and interactions with cast and crew.
• Audio Commentary: Detailed discussion on production history, casting, and cinematography.
• Deleted Scenes: Collection of scenes with optional commentary.
• Leaflet: Illustrated essay by Francine Prose.

Wim Wenders' "The American Friend" (1977), a remarkable film nominated for the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, marks its Blu-ray arrival courtesy of Criterion. The movie is a notable adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s work, specifically her novel "Ripley's Game," and showcases Tom Ripley (Dennis Hopper), an enigmatic art dealer in Cold War-era Hamburg. Here, Ripley intricately entwines his fate with that of Jonathan Zimmermann (Bruno Ganz), a picture framer suffering from a terminal illness. This unexpected connection sees Zimmermann coerced into committing murder for a French gangster, framing the narrative’s dark and tension-filled core.

Shot by frequent collaborator Robby Müller, the film’s unique visual style is illuminated using fluorescent lights, embodying an unusual yet captivating neo-noir aesthetic. Wenders, renowned for his New German Cinema contributions, imbues the film with a darker and moodier atmosphere compared to its predecessor "Purple Noon." This tonal shift is paralleled by the film's geographically diverse backdrop, spanning Hamburg, Paris, and New York, thus enriching the narrative’s texture. Both Hopper and Ganz deliver exceptional performances that elevate their characters beyond typical archetypes; Hopper's nuanced portrayal deviates from a traditionally slick Ripley to a more complexly reserved individual, while Ganz's Zimmermann remains sympathetic despite his grim endeavors.

"The American Friend" thrives on its daring narrative structure and bold characterizations, which might polarize audiences. Its intricate plot twists and the gripping tension of Zimmermann’s assassination sequences underscore Wenders’ prowess in stirring psychological thrillers. The film’s compact scope does not detract from its impact, thanks to Wenders' deft storytelling and Müller’s masterful cinematography. This Criterion release further complements the viewing experience with exclusive interviews, archival commentary, and a thought-provoking essay by Francine Prose, rendering it an essential title for cinephiles and collectors alike.

Wim Wenders' "The American Friend" is a masterful blend of New German Cinema and film noir, offering a captivating crime thriller. Featuring an intricate plot where a German man's life descends into chaos after contacts with a dubious American art dealer and a notorious French gangster, the film delves deep into themes of trust, deception, and desperation. The character of Tom Ripley, portrayed compellingly by the late Dennis Hopper, stands out as an older, menacing figure, adding depth to the narrative. The cinematography by Robby Müller captures the film's moody atmosphere beautifully, enhancing the experience.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "The American Friend" is sourced from an outstanding new 4K restoration, making it the definitive edition for home viewing. The high-definition transfer maintains the film's visual essence and attention to detail, ensuring that Müller's work is fully appreciated. Supplementary features on the disc, both archival and newly produced, provide valuable context and insights into the film's production. This attention to supplemental material enriches the overall package and will delight cinephiles interested in the process behind this cinematic gem.

In conclusion, "The American Friend" not only stands as one of Wim Wenders' most stylish films but also as a significant entry in the canon of crime thrillers. Criterion's meticulous restoration and comprehensive presentation make this Blu-ray an essential acquisition for any serious film enthusiast. Highly recommended for its gripping narrative, strong performances, and impeccable restoration.