Downhill Racer Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Downhill Racer" presents a meticulously restored 1080p HD transfer in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This presentation, derived from a 35mm fine-grain master positive, was supervised by Maria Palazzola and executed with precision by colorist Sue Gates of Modern VideoFilm, Los Angeles. Significant efforts were made to manually remove thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, and other anomalies using advanced technologies such as MTI's DRS, Pixel Farm's PFClean, and Digital Vision's Phoenix. The resulting image showcases a significant improvement over previous DVD releases, offering sharper detail, especially in close-ups that reveal intricate facial features and textures.

The transfer excels in several aspects, including colors that are well-balanced and saturated, providing a vivid and natural viewing experience. Black levels are deep and inky, while skin tones appear lifelike. However, some minor fluctuations in density are occasionally noticeable during the skiing sequences, attributed to the use of handheld 16mm cameras during filming. Despite this, the overall stability of the image is commendable, with no significant compression issues or problematic sharpening adjustments. While the grain is not as well-resolved as it could be, it remains decently defined throughout the film, maintaining an authentic filmic quality.

The transfer ultimately provides a visually pleasing experience, although a few tiny printed dirt marks remain. The absence of large cuts, damage marks, or torn frames further solidifies the quality of this release. Criterion's effort to present "Downhill Racer" in this updated format has resulted in a product that honors the original aesthetics while enhancing the viewer's experience through modern restoration techniques.

The Blu-ray release of "Downhill Racer" features a singular LPCM 1.0 mono audio track, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. This mix, remastered from the original soundtrack, effectively eliminates any pops, cracks, and hiss, delivering a clean auditory experience. The clarity and sharpness of the audio, especially during the race sequences, stand out distinctly. Each ambient sound and effect is sharply defined and free from digital distortions, underscoring the meticulous sound balance. However, it's important to note that the original sound design lacks the nuanced dynamics and fluidity that contemporary audio mixes offer, which might not meet the expectations of some audiophiles.

While the mono mix is commendable for its clarity and well-layered sound effects, the absence of a 5.1 surround sound option is somewhat disappointing, particularly for a sports film where immersive audio could significantly enhance the viewer's experience. Dialogue reproduction is exceptional, consistently clear and easy to follow. Although the sound design’s simplicity limits the immersive potential, the overall audio presentation remains solid, maintaining high fidelity without any dropouts or distortions. This consistency ensures that while the mix may not leverage advanced sound technologies like Dolby Atmos or DTS, it delivers a reliably clear and engaging listening experience reflective of its period.

The Blu-ray release of "Downhill Racer" provides an in-depth and commendable array of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience through meticulous retrospectives and comprehensive interviews. The disc includes insightful featurettes such as "Redford and Salter," where Robert Redford and screenwriter James Salter delve into the film's origins and production nuances. "Coblenz, Harris, and Jalbert" offers a behind-the-scenes look through the eyes of key production personnel, detailing the unique production challenges and techniques utilized. Additionally, "Michael Ritchie at the AFI" presents illuminating audio excerpts from the director’s seminar at the American Film Institute, giving a profound understanding of Ritchie’s directorial vision and influences. The archival featurette "How Fast?" provides a nostalgic glimpse into the film's promotion with behind-the-scenes footage narrated by Redford.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original trailer for "Downhill Racer."
• Redford and Salter: Featurette discussing the film’s development and production.
• Coblenz, Harris, and Jalbert: Insights into the film’s production from key crew members.
• Michael Ritchie at the AFI: Collection of audio excerpts from a seminar by the director.
• How Fast?: Archival promotional featurette narrated by Robert Redford.
• Leaflet: Illustrated leaflet featuring Todd McCarthy's essay "Trailblazers."

Michael Ritchie's "Downhill Racer" (1969) delves deep into the volatile psyche of a professional athlete, offering a raw and unflinching portrait of ambition and moral ambiguity. Set against the backdrop of various European ski resorts, where international skiers vie for top prizes, the film focuses primarily on David Chappellet (Robert Redford). A newcomerto the U.S. team, Chappellet's fierce determination to succeed transforms him into a figure both admired for his talent and reviled for his arrogance. Coach Claire (Gene Hackman) and the team grapple with his overbearing attitude, ultimately tolerating his behavior as long as he delivers victories. The cinematography captures the tension of elite skiing through the use of hand-held 16mm cameras and real stunt doubles, editing this footage seamlessly into the narrative to amplify the competition's intensity.

Chappellet’s character is a cocktail of pride, obsession, and emotional vulnerability. His brief romance with Carole (Camilla Sparv) serves as a rare window into his more human side, though it quickly closes as Chappellet reverts to his uncompromising quest for gold. This relentless ambition costs him dearly in terms of personal relationships, yet he remains indifferent as long as he can ascend to victory. This toxic blend of talent and hubris paints a troubling parallel to modern sports figures whose behavior is excused as long as they remain winners.

The screenplay, originally penned by James Salter, underwent significant modifications by Ritchie and Redford, resulting in reshaped relationships and pivotal scenes. The uncompromising depiction of Chappellet's journey provides a stark narrative on how relentless ambition can justify reprehensible behavior, making "Downhill Racer" not just a sports film but a compelling psychological study. Through its documentary-like presentation and psychological insight, the film offers a potent critique of the often harsh world of competitive sports, highlighting the unsettling reality that success can overshadow morality.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Downhill Racer" offers a captivating revisit to a film that goes beyond the typical sports drama to delve into the psyche of a professional athlete. The story exposes the toxic culture and ruthless standards within professional sports, themes that sadly continue to resonate in today's competitive college athletics. The high-definition transfer sourced from Criterion's initial DVD master yields exceptional visual quality, bringing the stark, icy landscapes to life, and providing a textured backdrop for the tension-filled narrative.

Robert Redford delivers a compelling performance as the ambitious skier, with Gene Hackman offering strong support. Their portrayals reflect the dark realities of pursuing victory at any cost, a narrative that remains both timely and poignant. The audio and video presentations from Criterion significantly enhance the viewing experience, demonstrating meticulous care in preserving the film's integrity while offering modern enhancements.

The Blu-ray also includes an impressive array of bonus features that provide additional insight into the film's production and thematic relevance. From behind-the-scenes footage to interviews with the cast, these extras enrich one's understanding and appreciation of this classic film.

In conclusion, "Downhill Racer" is a film that was ahead of its time and remains highly relevant today. Criterion has excelled in bringing this movie to Blu-ray with high-definition quality that does justice to its powerful story and performances. This release comes highly recommended for both its technical excellence and its compelling exploration of sports culture.