The Mirror Crack'd Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 1.89:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, "The Mirror Crack'd" Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber showcases a refined 1080p transfer. Derived from the 2K master utilized by StudioCanal for their 2017 Region-B release, this version stands as arguably the finest within the Agatha Christie Collection. The delineation, clarity, and depth are exceptional, lending a near-4K visual fluidity that is strikingly immersive. The color grading is superbly executed, with vibrant saturation and balanced primaries enhancing the overall visual appeal. Notably, the film is spotless, devoid of any problematic digital adjustments, indicating a high-quality encoding process.

Comparing this transfer to previous DVD releases reveals a significant upgrade in visual fidelity. The English countryside settings and Hollywood-style costumes exhibit enhanced clarity and detail. Elizabeth Taylor’s elaborate headwear, along with facial features and makeup effects, including the aged depiction of Angela Lansbury, are rendered with remarkable precision. Black levels are deep and inky, occasionally nearing crush but not detracting from the overall experience. While there is an inherent hazy quality to certain scenes—authentic to the film's original cinematography—this does not impact the integrity of the transfer. Free from age-induced distortions such as speckling or scratches, the transfer stands as nearly flawless and immensely satisfying for viewers.

This Blu-ray release of "The Mirror Crack'd" features a single audio track: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles. The audio restoration is impeccable, delivering a clear, sharp, and clean sound experience. Notably, John Cameron's score maintains a substantial presence throughout the film, marked by impressive dynamic contrasts that enhance the viewing experience.

Originally presented in mono, the reworked DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix effectively transforms it into a full stereo presentation. This remix brings a certain depth and dimensionality, particularly evident in scenes like the grand party and on the movie set, where voices and foot traffic create a bustling atmosphere. Although primarily conversational with minimal on-screen characters, the audio mix ensures dialogue remains clean and well-balanced. The atmospheric sound levels are spot on, supporting the film's narrative without overshadowing it. Moreover, if equipped, the DTS Neural:X option provides an additional boost, albeit unnecessary for most viewers due to the mix's robust quality.

Throughout its runtime, this Blu-ray's audio track exemplifies excellence in balance and clarity, making it a noteworthy enhancement for an already engaging film. The technical excellence of this DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix ensures a satisfying auditory experience, adding richness and depth to the narrative of "The Mirror Crack'd."

The extras on the Blu-ray of "The Mirror Crack'd" present a moderate yet engaging assortment. The highlight is the new audio commentary by critics Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell, and Nathaniel Thompson, which offers an in-depth, lively analysis that enriches the viewing experience. Although the additional features primarily consist of trailers and TV spots, they provide nostalgic value and a glimpse into the film's marketing history.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Vintage trailer for The Mirror Crack'd.
• TV Spots: A few vintage TV spots for The Mirror Crack'd.
• Commentary: An exclusive new audio commentary recorded by critics Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell, and Nathaniel Thompson.
• Cover: Reversible cover with vintage poster art.
• Additional Trailers: Additional trailers for multiple titles from Kino Lorber's catalog, including "Death on the Nile" and "Witness for the Prosecution."

"The Mirror Crack’d," directed by Guy Hamilton, compellingly explores the quaint village life of St. Mary Mead disrupted by a Hollywood film shoot. The ensemble cast, with stars like Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson, infuses the production with palpable energy and charm. Particularly noteworthy are the portrayals by Angela Lansbury as Miss Marple and the interplay between Taylor's Marina Rudd and Hudson's Jason Rudd, which provide both dramatic tension and light-hearted moments. Lansbury stands out, bringing a distinct sense of period authenticity to her role that aligns seamlessly with Agatha Christie’s source material.

This 1980 thriller balances a narrative replete with Hollywood satire and classic whodunit elements. The plot, centering around the poisoning at a local soiree intended for Taylor's character, unfolds with a mix of humor and suspense. The screenplay benefits from Hamilton’s seasoned direction, although it occasionally reveals too much too soon, potentially diminishing the final reveal for some viewers. The film adeptly maintains an underlying sense of danger, contributing to a satisfying tension that threads through its entirety. Despite some flaws in adhering too closely to real-life Hollywood scandals, the film’s ticking-clock element and strong performances ensure it remains engaging.

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release is a commendable presentation featuring a fully restored version by StudioCanal. The supplementary materials, including vintage promos and insightful audio commentaries, enrich the viewing experience. The disc is accessible with English SDH subtitles and region A locking. While "The Mirror Crack’d" might not top some Christie aficionados' lists, it is undeniably entertaining, thanks to Taylor's scene-stealing presence and Lansbury’s impeccable embodiment of Miss Marple. This Blu-ray edition proves to be a valuable addition for classic mystery enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "The Mirror Crack'd" offers a both entertaining and technically impressive experience. Adapted from Agatha Christie's classic novel, the film is directed by Guy Hamilton and showcases Angela Lansbury's outstanding performance as Miss Marple, alongside a star-studded ensemble including Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and Kim Novak. While the narrative may tip its hand for the keen-eyed viewer, the witty dialogue and dynamic interactions between the cast make it a captivating watch. Especially noteworthy is Kim Novak's comedically vibrant performance.

The Blu-ray itself is sourced from an excellent 2K master crafted by StudioCanal, resulting in a pristine video transfer that captures the film's rich, period-specific aesthetics. The audio mix is equally impressive, enveloping the viewer in a well-balanced soundscape that enhances the overall experience. Although the bonus features are somewhat limited, the included audio commentary provides valuable insights and adds depth to the viewing experience.

In conclusion, "The Mirror Crack'd" is an engaging and stylish adaptation that stands out due to its exceptional cast and witty script. Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release does justice to this classic film with superior audio-visual quality and a thoughtful commentary track. This release is Highly Recommended for fans of murder mysteries and classic cinema alike.