Left Right and Centre Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 1.66:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray presentation of "Left Right and Centre" is a testament to high-quality digital remastering. The 1080p transfer courtesy of Indicator/Powerhouse Films enhances the film's visual appeal significantly. Notable improvements include superior delineation, clarity, and depth, demonstrating the meticulous care taken in the remastering process. The grayscale is convincingly stable, and blacks are rich without appearing artificially boosted, providing an authentic viewing experience. Visual fluidity is commendable, ensuring smooth transitions without any loss of detail.

The transfer boasts excellent image stability, maintaining the integrity of the original film without introducing distracting digital anomalies. Despite minor inherited density fluctuations, these do not detract from the overall quality. The balance of grays and whites is deftly handled, contributing to a nuanced and immersive visual experience. Importantly, the grain exposure remains intact, free from undue digital noise reduction or other interventions that might compromise the film's texture. Overall, the lack of age-related artifacts is impressive and enhances viewing pleasure.

Prospective buyers should note that this Blu-ray release is Region-A locked, necessitating a native Region-A or Region-Free player to access its contents. This restriction will be crucial for those outside Region-A territories but does not overshadow the excellence observed in this remastering effort. This Blu-ray transfer is a model of how classic films can be preserved and enhanced for contemporary audiences while respecting the original artistic intent.

The audio presentation of the "Left Right and Centre" Blu-ray features an English LPCM 1.0 audio track, true to its source material from the late 1950s. This single-channel setup is indicative of the era, and while it lacks the dynamic range and immersive qualities of modern formats like DTS or Dolby Atmos, it provides a faithful reproduction, maintaining the integrity of the original film experience. Optional English SDH subtitles are offered, which are precise and well-timed, enhancing understanding for viewers.

The audio itself is remarkably stable, with no discernible aging effects even at elevated volumes. The upper register remains clean, which is impressive for a production of its age. Dialogue is consistently clear and articulate, ensuring that all exchanges are easy to follow without any distortion or muffling. Although the dynamic intensity is modest, this is characteristic of films from the period that typically do not rely on action-packed sequences or elaborate orchestral scores to engage their audience.

In summary, the LPCM 1.0 track on this Blu-ray is expertly preserved, offering a clean and stable auditory experience. While it doesn't compete with modern audio technologies in terms of surround effects or bass impact, it successfully presents the film as originally intended. Audiophiles who appreciate authenticity will find satisfaction in this presentation, while viewers seeking more contemporary audio experiences might feel the limitations of its mono configuration.

The Blu-ray release of "Left Right and Centre" offers a robust compilation of extras that enhance the viewer's appreciation of the film's production and contextual backdrop. Critic Josephine Botting's insightful examination of the film's style and its significance within Sidney Gilliat's oeuvre is particularly illuminating. The comprehensive BEHP interview with art director John Box, conducted by Rodney Giesler, gives an in-depth look into Box's legendary career. Michael Brooke's audio commentary provides a thoughtful critique of the film, while the image gallery showcases engaging promotional material from the time of release. Furthermore, the archival documentary "Election in Britain" provides historical context to the political environment during the film's setting. The inclusion of a 44-page booklet adds depth, featuring essays and contemporary reviews. These curated extras offer both informative and engaging insights into the cinematic and historical setting of "Left Right and Centre."

Extras included in this disc:

• Josephine Botting: Screening the Candidates: Critic discusses the conception and style of the film.
• The BEHP Interview with John Box: Art director John Box talks about his life and career.
• Commentary: New audio commentary by critic Michael Brooke.
• Image Gallery: Gallery of original promotional material.
• Election in Britain (1960): Archival documentary on the UK's political system.
• Booklet: 44-page booklet with new essays, overview of critical reviews, and technical credits.

Sidney Gilliat's "Left Right and Centre" (1959), recently released on Blu-ray by Indicator/Powerhouse Films, is a compelling blast from the past. Set against the backdrop of the British political landscape of the late 1950s, the film humorously yet predictably portrays the competition for working-class votes between the Conservative and Labour parties. Ian Carmichael plays Robert Wilcot, an unpolished Conservative candidate, who unexpectedly finds common ground with his Socialist opponent, Stella Stoker, played by Patricia Bredin. The political satire, while initially promising, often succumbs to cliché, and its sharpness is blunted by an overpowering romantic subplot that unfolds precisely as expected.

Gilliat's film fits neatly within the mid-20th-century British comedy canon, usually characterized by wit and eccentricity, and familiar to audiences from small U.K. comedies of that era. Despite possessing a rich premise filled with potential targets for satire, the film often flounders with predictable dialogue and situations. Alastair Sim adds his unmatched flair as Lord Wilcot, albeit in a regrettably limited role that fails to leverage his talents to critique the political masquerades of the era effectively. This oversight marks a significant shortfall in a storyline that could have thrived on Sim's nimble comedic touch.

Despite its inherent superficiality and conventional romance arc, viewing "Left Right and Centre" today may nonetheless provoke reflection given the drastic evolution of British political parties since its release. As the film paints a now-unrecognizable political landscape, it indirectly sparks discourse on contemporary issues like political realignment and class representation. While the movie may lag in delivering robust satire or dynamic character development, it remains a quaint artefact of its time, offering moments of nostalgia intertwined with subtle humor reflective of bygone British comedic sensibilities.

"Left Right and Centre" presents an intriguing juxtaposition of politics and romance, though it struggles to fully capitalize on its potential. The film is anchored by strong performances from Ian Carmichael and Alastair Sim, whose talents unfortunately aren't matched by the script's depth. This results in a viewing experience that feels like a missed opportunity but still offers value as a historical lens into the mid-20th-century political landscape. The portrayal of the archaic versions of the Conservative and Labour Parties almost serves as a time capsule, providing context that's surprisingly relevant in today's socio-political climate. It's a film that holds appeal primarily for fans of classic British cinema or those with a keen interest in post-war political narratives.

The Blu-ray release is complemented by a range of supplements that enrich the viewing experience. Josephine Botting's 21-minute video essay, "Screening the Candidates," offers insightful background on both cast and crew, tapping into the lesser-known aspects of '50s British cinema. The archival BEHP Interview with John Box adds a layer of historical commentary that serves well alongside Michael Brooke's official audio commentary. Additionally, the educational short "Election in Britain (1960)" and the image gallery collectively enrich this release, making it especially valuable to film historians and aficionados of classic British films.

In conclusion, while "Left Right and Centre" may not entirely fulfill its narrative potential, its historical significance and the robust Blu-ray supplements make it worthy of exploration. It is particularly recommended for enthusiasts of Ian Carmichael and Alastair Sim, as well as those interested in the convergence of cinematic and political history. This edition alone provides enough substance to warrant its place in a discerning collector’s library.