Make Way for Tomorrow Blu-ray Review

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of Leo McCarey's Make Way for Tomorrow is presented with an aspect ratio of 1.36:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, featuring a 1080p transfer. The source for this high-definition digital transfer is a 35mm fine-grain master positive, processed through extensive manual cleaning using MTI's DRS and Pixel Farm's PFClean, while Digital Vision's Phoenix addressed small dirt, grain, and noise management. Despite its vintage origins and imperfect preservation over the decades, Criterion’s efforts result in a generally pleasing visual experience with noticeable improvements over previous editions, particularly in grain exposure and balance.

Detail quality and clarity are commendable, though the inherent limitations of the master source do manifest. There are occasional signs of light built-in sharpening, uneven grain distribution, minor scratches, and dirt specks. Still, Criterion's meticulous treatment has substantially mitigated these issues, providing a healthier and less harsh visual rendition compared to the Region-B release. Depth and clarity are enhanced by improved black, white, and grey saturation levels, resulting in more convincing visual depth. However, lighter vertical lines and fluctuating grain levels remind viewers of the film’s age. Overall, while further refinements could be desired for an even healthier appearance, this release stands as the superior option in the market.

This Criterion Blu-ray release demonstrates a significant upgrade in image quality compared to its predecessors, despite some preserved signs of aging. Background elements might appear slightly fuzzy, and close-ups may not achieve modern sharpness levels, but they do exhibit pleasing detail. Contrast and clarity are stable, though not exceptional, and black levels are satisfactory without any notable digital artifacts or enhancements. For enthusiasts of classic cinema, this Blu-ray provides a comfortably nostalgic viewing experience that honors the film’s legacy while showcasing Criterion’s dedication to meticulous restoration work. Note that this is a Region-A locked disc, necessitating a compatible Blu-ray player for access.

The audio presentation of "Make Way for Tomorrow" on Blu-ray features a single English LPCM 1.0 track, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles. Remastered at 24-bit from a 35 mm optical soundtrack print, this track offers a clear and well-balanced audio experience. Comparisons with the lossless track from the Region-B release reveal that significant efforts have been made to reduce background hiss, resulting in a cleaner overall sound. The attention to detail ensures that there are no audio dropouts or digital distortions, providing a consistent listening experience.

The LPCM mono track, despite its vintage origins, demonstrates surprising nuance and subtlety. Small atmospheric details, such as the squeaking of a wooden rocking chair, enrich the storytelling experience and create an absorbing soundscape. Although there is some inherent hiss and surface noise, these elements are minimal and do not detract from the clarity of the dialogue, which remains easily comprehensible even during softly spoken moments. The music score by Victor Young carries a fair amount of presence and tonal depth, enhancing the film's emotional impact. While the track’s dynamic range is understandably limited given its era, it performs admirably within its functional confines, staying mostly unobtrusive throughout the film.

The Blu-ray edition of "Make Way for Tomorrow" contains meticulously curated archival material providing insightful perspectives on the film's production and its historical significance. Despite a modest selection, the depth and quality of the included extras are invaluable for understanding the socio-political context and the creative mind behind the film. Noteworthy is the expert commentary from reputable film historians, deep dives into the director's legacy, and thoughtful essays that enrich the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

Interview with Gary Giddins: A compelling 2009 interview where esteemed writer Gary Giddins discusses the film's production history and socio-political backdrop, alongside the necessity of Social Security and how McCarey's conservatism contrasted with his film's liberal messages.

Tomorrow, Yesterday, and Today: In a revealing 2009 interview, filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich examines Leo McCarey's career, spotlighting "Make Way for Tomorrow" as a poignant narrative on aging and family disintegration.

Booklet: A 28-page illustrated booklet featuring insightful essays by Tad Gallagher, Bertrand Tavernier, and Robin Wood, offering further critical analysis and historical context.

Leo McCarey's 1937 masterpiece "Make Way for Tomorrow" is presented on Blu-ray by Criterion with impressive supplemental features, including in-depth interviews and insightful essays from Tad Gallagher, Bertrand Tavernier, and Robin Wood. This release also respects the original English audio with optional English SDH subtitles, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience. The film, region-A locked, is a timeless classic poignantly chronicling the plight of an elderly couple, Barkley (Victor Moore) and Lucy (Beulah Bondi), who lose their home due to financial hardship and are subsequently separated to live with different children.

The film's narrative revolves around the emotional turmoil and logistical challenges faced by the aging couple and their grown children as they navigate the heartbreaking reality of being unable to provide a unified home for their parents. Barkley and Lucy's attempt to maintain their dignity while living apart underscores the themes of familial duty, guilt, and the inexorable passage of time. Their heart-wrenching reunion in New York City, revisiting memories at the Vogart Hotel, serves as a powerful denouement that eloquently captures their enduring love and the bittersweet nature of their circumstances.

McCarey's direction is marked by understated finesse, drawing superb performances from Bondi and Moore. Bondi's portrayal of Lucy is both sincere and realistic, while Moore complements her perfectly, creating a genuine depiction of a long-married couple facing the final chapters of their lives. This deeply relevant film, which notably inspired Ozu’s "Tokyo Story," remains a vivid portrayal of anxieties and dilemmas that resonate as strongly today as they did over eight decades ago. Criterion's meticulous restoration ensures that "Make Way for Tomorrow" continues to be an impactful viewing experience for contemporary audiences.

Leo McCarey's "Make Way for Tomorrow" is a profoundly moving and timeless classic that sensitively examines the plight of the elderly. Often overshadowed in its time, it stands out today as a work of universal relevance, capturing the intricacies of aging and family dynamics with remarkable wisdom and grace. This film was a significant influence on Yasujiro Ozu’s masterpiece, "Tokyo Story," underscoring its artistic and emotional impact. Despite its delayed transition to Blu-ray in the U.S., this release represents the film in its best form, showcasing exemplary video and audio quality that resurrects this nearly forgotten gem.

Criterion’s Blu-ray presentation of "Make Way for Tomorrow" boasts an impressive video transfer that breathes new life into McCarey's exquisite direction and the film’s heartfelt performances. Although some signs of aging are evident, the restoration enhances the visual experience, delivering crisp black-and-white imagery that conveys the film’s emotional depth. The audio transfer is equally commendable, ensuring that the dialogue and Victor Young’s evocative score resonate clearly. However, it is worth noting that the package is somewhat light on supplementary materials, which could have provided additional context and insight into this landmark classic.

In conclusion, "Make Way for Tomorrow" is a breathtakingly beautiful film that touches the heart in a profoundly special way. It remains an essential viewing experience for its thoughtfulness and enduring themes. Criterion’s Blu-ray release might lack extensive supplemental content but more than compensates with its high-quality restoration of this emotionally resonant drama. Very highly recommended.