The Outlaw Josey Wales Blu-ray Review

Warner’s 2.40:1 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer of "The Outlaw Josey Wales" excels in visual presentation, offering a rich and detailed viewing experience. The image maintains Bruce Surtees’ original cinematography with minimal distracting anomalies. The anamorphic compositions are well-rendered, although there is occasional softness inherent to the source material, particularly at the frame’s extremities and during deeper landscape vistas. The print’s condition is top-notch, grain structure is consistently preserved, and there is no noticeable noise reduction. Fast-action sequences and panning shots are smooth, and aliasing, banding, or smearing are non-existent.

The film’s colors are strikingly natural, capturing the rustic greens, browns, and earthy hues authentically, with leathery skin tones and unpredictable shadows enhancing the realistic feel. Contrast is predominantly excellent, albeit occasionally on the hotter side, while black levels are deep, adding complexity to night scenes and shadowy interiors. Some scenes, however, reveal minor shadow detail crush. Detail reproduction is commendable; close-up shots exhibit three-dimensional textures, and the material’s weave and environmental elements such as wood grain or blood trickles are exceptionally clear.

While the occasional halos manifest around figures against bright backgrounds, this is likely a result of the original lighting conditions rather than edge enhancement. Comparing this Blu-ray to previous DVD versions from 1999 and 2008 unequivocally shows its superiority in detail and color reproduction. Despite some inherent softness and mild summer haze faithful to the source, "The Outlaw Josey Wales" delivers an immersive visual experience that honors its esteemed cinematography. This video transfer showcases Warner’s consistent effort in providing high-quality catalog releases.

The audio presentation of "The Outlaw Josey Wales" on Blu-ray is delivered in a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, and it far exceeds expectations for a film of its age. The sound design masterfully enhances the film's rich ambiance, immersing viewers in Civil War-era environments with considerable precision. The prologue immediately sets the tone, utilizing natural ambiance from the rear channels to place the viewer alongside the characters. The sound of approaching horses and an inferno are effectively distributed with deep, ominous bass, enhancing the tension. Notably, ballistics in action scenes are meticulously detailed, providing powerful and clear auditory feedback during gunfire and other effects. Jerry Fielding's period-evocative score is seamlessly integrated within the soundfield, adding to the overall immersive experience.

Dialogue clarity is impeccable, preserving Clint Eastwood's distinctive low, gravelly delivery with excellent depth. However, there are occasional instances where dialogue is mixed slightly too low, favoring sound effects instead. Surround use is robust yet not overbearing, creating effective layers of ambiance that include chirping birds and immersive environmental sounds. The dynamic range is commendably wide, providing a robust bass response that comes to life during pivotal moments like Wales's first attack on Union soldiers. The soundscape retains a natural imaging across the soundstage, maintaining fidelity and directionality throughout.

In summary, this DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track offers an impressive upgrade from its mono origins, ensuring that both casual viewers and die-hard fans will be pleased with the audio experience. While it doesn't match the immersive quality of more recent 7.1 Westerns, it remains a noteworthy and respectful enhancement to a classic film. Despite minor mixing issues, the track successfully rejuvenates this thirty-five-year-old movie with current audio technology, making it sound better than ever before.

The extras on "The Outlaw Josey Wales" Blu-Ray are a mixed bag but generally rewarding for fans. The standout feature is the documentary "Clint Eastwood's West," which provides a comprehensive look at Eastwood's contributions to the Western genre with insightful commentary from industry experts. However, Richard Schickel's audio commentary is lackluster, marred by lengthy pauses and redundant descriptions. The vintage featurettes, "Hell Hath No Fury: The Making of The Outlaw Josey Wales" and "Eastwood in Action," offer valuable behind-the-scenes insights and archival footage, albeit in standard definition. Despite some shortcomings, particularly the underwhelming commentary track, the extras overall enrich the understanding and appreciation of Eastwood's work on this seminal film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Richard Schickel provides an impassioned but often slow and repetitive commentary.
• Clint Eastwood's West: A 30-minute documentary exploring Eastwood's Western films and his contributions to the genre.
• Hell Hath No Fury: The Making of The Outlaw Josey Wales: A detailed behind-the-scenes look featuring interviews and on-set footage.
• Eastwood in Action: An 8-minute vintage featurette with behind-the-scenes material from the film's production.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original trailer for the film.

Clint Eastwood's 1976 film, "The Outlaw Josey Wales," exemplifies the director's visionary skill while reinvigorating the Western genre. The movie follows the tumultuous journey of Missouri farmer Josey Wales, whose thirst for revenge is ignited by the brutal murder of his family. In mere minutes, Eastwood transitions from a peaceful domestic scene to the advent of a ruthless, battle-hardened avenger as the Civil War wanes. The film’s concise scripting and propulsive pacing ensure that viewers are immediately engrossed in Wales’ quest for vengeance, eschewing prolonged exposition without sacrificing narrative depth. Departing from Leone and Siegel’s influence, Eastwood forges a new path for Western cinema with robust action sequences, a richly textured atmosphere, and an eccentric cast that includes standout performances from Chief Dan George and Sondra Locke.

Eastwood’s depiction of Josey Wales as a haunted but principled gunslinger anchors the film's emotional and thematic core. Far from being a one-dimensional tale of revenge, "The Outlaw Josey Wales" delves into the sociopolitical nuances of post-Civil War America, capturing a nation shell-shocked by conflict and underscoring the necessity of reconciliation. The character of Wales is intricately developed; though initially driven by rage, his interactions with a ragtag group of outcasts reveal his latent humanity and capacity for loyalty. The movie adeptly balances moments of grim violence with surprising levity, avoiding mawkish sentimentality and instead presenting a deeper, multifaceted portrayal of Western life.

The film’s cinematography, handled masterfully by Bruce Surtees, complements its narrative ambitions, presenting striking vistas and raw landscapes that draw viewers into its complex mythos. Eastwood’s dual role as actor and director showcases his versatility, steering clear of conventional Western tropes to offer a grittier yet subtly poignant vision. The dialogue is memorable, replete with wit and gravitas, while the expertly orchestrated shootouts elevate the tension. Through its fresh perspective and unexpected narrative turns, "The Outlaw Josey Wales" solidifies its place not only as a remarkable Western but as a significant work in Eastwood’s illustrious career.

` The Outlaw Josey Wales is a stellar release that showcases Clint Eastwood's mastery in the western genre. This Blu-ray reissue from Warner Bros is remarkable for both its stunning video transfer and robust DTS-HD Master Audio track. Fans of Eastwood’s work and newcomers alike will find this edition compelling, thanks to a meticulous restoration effort that brings out the film's original charm and intensity. The visual quality captures the sweeping landscapes and gritty realism with near-perfection, making for an immersive viewing experience.

In addition to the technical brilliance, the set includes a selection of special features that, while not extensive, are intriguing and enhance the overall value of the package. The production and behind-the-scenes insights provide valuable context and deepen appreciation for the film. The packaging itself is elegant, adding a further layer of appeal and ensuring it stands out on any shelf. Even those who own earlier editions will find sufficient improvements in this release to justify an upgrade.

For long-time enthusiasts and those new to this classic, The Outlaw Josey Wales on Blu-ray represents an essential addition to any collection. The excellence in video and audio quality, combined with thoughtful special features, make this edition a must-have. Eastwood has indeed left an indelible mark on the western genre, and this release cements The Outlaw Josey Wales as one of his finest achievements.

Unforgiven may be considered Clint Eastwood's preeminent stamp on the genre (and rightfully so), but The Outlaw Josey Wales remains one of the director's best. Young filmfans should take advantage of its latest release and discover what more grizzled cinephiles have known since 1976. And what a release it is. Warner's video transfer hovers close to perfection, its DTS-HD Master Audio track is a strong one, and its special features add solid value to an already impressive package. If you're familiar with Josey Wales, toss out those old DVDs and prepare yourself for another outstanding catalog presentation from Warner Bros. If you have yet to see the film, though, might I humbly recommend a blind buy. It's that good.

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