Garden of Evil Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Garden of Evil" boasts an exceptionally impressive video transfer, presented in a faithful 2.55:1 aspect ratio and encoded in 1080p using the AVC codec. This early Fox CinemaScope feature, masterfully shot by Milton Krasner and Jorge Stahl Jr., utilizes Mexico's stunning locales to great effect, providing both literal and figurative color to the narrative. The transfer excels in showcasing the richly detailed landscapes and outdoor scenes, with sharpness that holds up well even in long shots. However, the image quality occasionally dips, particularly during optical scenes and some nighttime sequences where the detail becomes murky. The contrast is notably strong, although a few day-for-night shots appear slightly underexposed. The natural grain field is maintained without resolution issues.

Color reproduction is generally solid with rock-steady blues and reds, capturing the scenic beauty of the film's setting. Nonetheless, there are moments where skin tones appear slightly sallow or overly orangey, especially in the early cantina scene. Although these issues are relatively minor, they do periodically detract from the overall consistency of the color palette. Black levels are deep and contribute to an evocative visual presentation, adding to the film’s dramatic tension. Damage to the film is almost negligible, with only a few minor instances of dirt, debris, or small scratches observed, further highlighting the high-quality restoration work done for this Blu-ray release.

Overall, "Garden of Evil" on Blu-ray provides a more refined visual experience than ever before. The high-definition transfer allows for vibrant, detailed outdoor scenes and brings out fine textures in costumes and facial features during close-ups. Despite minor inconsistencies in color and sharpness, this presentation is undoubtedly the best the film has looked since its original release.

Twilight Time’s Blu-ray release of Garden of Evil impresses with its array of audio options, all rendered in DTS-HD Master Audio. Available in 5.1, 4.0, and 2.0 mixes, the audio presentation caters to various listening preferences while showcasing the film's rich sonic landscape. The standout is the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix, which enhances the surround activity and low-end presence of Bernard Herrmann's exceptional score. Each mix ensures that dialogue remains clear, natural ambient sounds are immersive, and there's no evidence of phasing typically associated with re-engineered surround tracks.

In addition to the three main audio tracks, Herrmann’s score is also available as an isolated DTS-HD Master Audio 3.0 option. This isolated track allows aficionados to appreciate the nuances of Herrmann’s rare Western genre composition without distraction. Across the board, these mixes exhibit superb fidelity, with no age-related audio artifacts like hiss, crackle, or thumps. The original theatrical 4.0 mix offers a nostalgic yet high-quality listening experience faithful to the film’s initial release, while the stereo 2.0 track presents a slightly more straightforward, albeit equally competent, audio option.

Overall, Twilight Time’s attention to audio detail in this release is exemplary. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix stands out for its superior engagement and dynamic range, making it the preferred choice for a fully immersive sound experience. However, the availability of the original 4.0 mix ensures that purists can enjoy the film as it was initially presented. The isolated score track is a valuable inclusion for fans of Bernard Herrmann’s work, providing a rare opportunity to delve deep into his Western score compositions. This meticulously crafted audio presentation sets a high standard for future Blu-ray releases in terms of both versatility and quality.

The Blu-ray extras for "Garden of Evil" are a well-curated collection that offers informative and engaging content for film enthusiasts. The Isolated Score Track, presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 3.0, allows viewers to appreciate Bernard Herrmann’s memorable score in pristine quality. The Audio Commentary, featuring film and music historians Nick Redman, John Morgan, Steven C. Smith, and William T. Stromberg, predominantly focuses on Herrmann's contributions, with occasional insights into the actors and the studio system. The featurettes, all presented in standard definition, delve into various aspects of the film's production and its key personnel. The Travels of a Gunslinger offers exclusive interviews with the children of Gary Cooper and Henry Hathaway, along with vintage audio recordings. Additional featurettes provide profiles of director Henry Hathaway and actress Susan Hayward, enhancing viewers' appreciation of their work.

Extras included in this disc:

• Isolated Score Track: Listen to Bernard Herrmann’s score in DTS-HD MA 3.0.
• Audio Commentary: Insights from film and music historians focusing on the score and Bernard Herrmann.
• Travels of a Gunslinger: The Making of 'Garden of Evil': Interviews detailing the film’s production.
• Henry Hathaway: When the Going Gets Tough: A look at the life and career of the director.
• Susan Hayward: Hollywood's Straight Shooter: Overview of Susan Hayward’s career.
• TV Spot: Original promotional clip for the film.
• Original Theatrical Trailers: Two vintage trailers showcasing CinemaScope and Stereo technology.

"Garden of Evil" (1954) offers a blend of breathtaking Mexican landscapes, an all-star cast, and a narrative that intertwines Western and psychological drama. Directed by Henry Hathaway, this film features performances by Gary Cooper, Susan Hayward, Richard Widmark, Cameron Mitchell, and Victor Manuel Mendoza. The story follows three drifters—Hooker (Cooper), Fiske (Widmark), and Daly (Mitchell)—who are roped into a rescue mission to save Leah Fuller's (Hayward) husband from a mine collapse. Although the plot touches on themes reminiscent of "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre," it quickly pivots to focus on character dynamics and interpersonal tensions rather than pure action.

One of the notable aspects of "Garden of Evil" is its commitment to visual storytelling. Shot in CinemaScope, the film capitalizes on the vast Mexican terrain, making effective use of matte paintings and real volcanic residues for added dramatic effect. Cinematographers Milton Krasner and Jorge Stahl Jr. manage to capture the expansive landscapes beautifully, overshadowing some narrative shortcomings. Bernard Herrmann's magnificent score further elevates the movie's atmosphere, although the film’s pacing sometimes dips into soap operatic territory, especially as the characters engage in protracted dialogues that distract from the central rescue plot.

While performances are generally strong—with Cooper's stoic presence and Hayward’s grit standing out—the film's character-driven approach can feel uneven. Widmark’s Fiske lacks depth compared to more robust roles, and Mitchell's portrayal of Daly often tilts into bluster. Despite this, Hathaway’s direction keeps the film engaging, emphasizing dialogue and character over action. The narrative reaches a climax with a confrontational shootout, although its impact may feel muted due to the earlier, slower pace. "Garden of Evil" may not capture the visceral thrill of other Westerns of its era but stands out as a visually ravishing character study set against an impressive natural backdrop.

The Blu-ray release of "Garden of Evil" is a commendable showcase for both the film’s technical artistry and the timeless charm of Fox's CinemaScope technology. The cinematography is particularly extraordinary, capturing the vibrant reds and oranges of daytime scenes and the stark night exteriors with impressive fidelity. However, the transfer's quality does reveal the somewhat unconvincing day-for-night photography, a minor flaw evident under such scrutiny. The audio presentation includes multiple listening options: a faithful DTS-HD 4.0 mix, a robust 5.1 surround mix, and a stereo 2.0 track. Each track is flawless, giving viewers the flexibility to choose based on personal preference. An isolated score track highlights Bernard Herrmann's rare foray into Western music, accompanied by detailed commentary from film historians.

This film deviates from the typical action-packed Western template, offering a slower-paced narrative focusing more on character development and emotional depth. The intriguing plot revolves around desperate individuals attracted to a married woman amid the threat of an Apache attack, providing a more nuanced story than the average horse chase or gunfight. Performances by the cast are stellar, with Susan Hayward delivering a particularly memorable role. The supplementary package enhances the experience further with insightful featurettes that delve into the production, Director Henry Hathaway, and the actors' contributions.

In conclusion, "Garden of Evil" may not exemplify the traditional high-octane Western but excels in showcasing Hayward's talent and the grandeur of widescreen CinemaScope. This Blu-ray release, with its excellent technical merits and valuable supplementary content, stands out as an exceptionally satisfying package. Highly recommended for fans of classic cinema and Westerns alike.