The Cranes Are Flying Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 1.37:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and granted a 1080p transfer, the Blu-ray release of "The Cranes Are Flying" by Criterion showcases an exceptional video presentation. The new digital transfer was meticulously created in 2K resolution from the original 35mm camera negative and restored by Mosfilm. This restoration effort ensures that the film exhibits vastly superior delineation, depth, and stability, with significantly enhanced nuances visible across both darker and daylight footage.

The film’s grain remains organic, providing a faithful representation of fine details and gray scale. Scratches, reel markers, dirt, and tears are minimal to nonexistent, making this transfer a massive improvement over the previous Criterion DVD version. Image fluidity is excellent, contributing to an immersive viewing experience. This Blu-ray represents the definitive home video edition of the movie. Note that this is a Region-A locked Blu-ray release, requiring a compatible player for access.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "The Cranes Are Flying" is delivered through a single Russian LPCM 1.0 track, with optional English subtitles. It is readily apparent that the sound has been meticulously remastered, resulting in a razor-sharp and clean audio experience. The clarity and stability of the sound are commendable, and the dynamic intensity stands out remarkably. Comparisons with the older DVD release reveal that the new lossless track significantly outperforms its predecessor in every respect, offering a superior auditory experience.

This release presents the film’s original mono soundtrack via a PCM track, providing strong and clear dialogue, faithful to the original sound mix and musical score. There are no discernible issues such as distortion, cracking, or hissing, marking a substantial improvement over the previous Criterion DVD. This meticulous restoration likely represents the best audio quality the movie will ever achieve on home video. Technical craftsmanship and attention to detail in remastering have ensured a pristine and engaging audio experience for viewers.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Cranes Are Flying" offer a comprehensive exploration of the film's socio-political context, creative vision, and technical artistry. These supplements weave together insightful analysis and rare archival materials, thereby enriching one's appreciation for this Soviet cinema classic. Highlights include critic Ian Christie's in-depth discussions on the film's environment and style, and archival interviews with key figures like director Mikhail Kalatozov and cinematographer Sergei Urusevsky. Notably, the documentary "Hurricane Kalatozov" provides an extensive examination of Kalatozov’s relationship with the Soviet state, rounding out this meticulously curated set of extras.

Extras included in this disc:

• Ian Christie: Critic Ian Christie analyzes the socio-political backdrop and stylistic elements of the film.
• Mikhail Kalatozov: Archival interview with director Mikhail Kalatozov on 'poetic cinema' and post-war Soviet cinema.
• Portrait of Sergei Urusevsky: Excerpt from a documentary featuring interviews and Urusevsky's drawings.
• The Road to Cannes: Claude Lelouch on his experience witnessing the film’s production and its journey to Cannes.
• Hurricane Kalatozov: Documentary examining Kalatozov’s career and his relationship with the Soviet government.
• Leaflet: Illustrated leaflet with Chris Fujiwara’s essay and technical credits.

Mikhail Kalatozov's The Cranes Are Flying (1957) emerges as a seminal piece of post-Stalin Soviet cinema, diverging from the rigid, propagandistic structure that defined its predecessors. Set against the backdrop of Moscow on the brink of WWII, this poignant narrative centers around Boris (Aleksei Batalov) and Veronika (Tatiana Samoilova), whose idyllic love is marred by the outbreak of war. Boris's impulsive enlistment leaves Veronika heartbroken and initiates a series of misunderstandings that influence their personal trajectories amidst the chaos. Veronika's unwavering hope and Boris's valor encapsulate the authenticity and emotional depth that characterize this film. The narrative focuses on the impact of war on those left behind, reflecting a humanistic approach unprecedented in Soviet cinema at the time.

Technically, The Cranes Are Flying is masterful, characterized by Sergei Urusevsky's groundbreaking cinematography. The fluid and gravity-defying camera movements, coupled with imaginative flashbacks and elegant editing, foreshadow the stylistic nuances of European auteurs like Antonioni and Fellini. The film's expressive visual language enhances the emotive power of the story, with scenes such as Veronika's confrontation with Boris’s cousin Mark and Boris's poignant dream sequence standing out. These technical elements, under Kalatozov's assured direction, craft a cinematic experience that resonates universally and elevates the film beyond mere propaganda.

The performances are equally compelling, with Tatiana Samoilova delivering a multifaceted portrayal of Veronika that anchors the film. Alexei Batalov's solid depiction of Boris and Aleksandr Shvorin’s nuanced performance as the duplicitous Mark further enrich the narrative. Supporting actors like Vasili Merkuryev and Svetlana Kharitonova provide critical contributions that amplify the film's emotional and thematic depth. As the first Soviet film to win the Palme d'Or in 1958, The Cranes Are Flying stands as both a tragic love story and a powerful exploration of war’s toll on the homefront, capturing a universal appeal through its sincere storytelling and innovative technical craftsmanship.

Criterion’s release of "The Cranes Are Flying" on Blu-ray represents a landmark in post-war Soviet cinema and a triumph of visual storytelling. The film, directed by Mikhail Kalatozov, masterfully marries a poignant narrative with groundbreaking cinematography, establishing itself as a masterpiece of the era. The Blu-ray edition boasts an impressive transfer from a new 2K master prepared by Mosfilm, ensuring the best possible preservation of its visual and emotional impact. The exceptional detail and clarity of the high-definition transfer breathe new life into the film's stunning visuals, making this release a vital upgrade from any previous DVD edition.

In addition to the remarkable picture quality, Criterion has included a robust selection of special features that provide valuable insights into the film and its director. This reverent treatment not only broadens our understanding but enhances the viewing experience by contextualizing Kalatozov’s artistic choices and the film’s historical significance. The accompanying features delve into both technical aspects and thematic depths, affording viewers a comprehensive appreciation of the film.

Conclusion: It is not difficult to argue that Mikhail Kalatozov's The Cranes Are Flying is one of the best post-war Soviet films. It tells a very moving, multi-layered story and its visual brilliance is on par with that of many timeless classic European films. Criterion's Blu-ray release is sourced from a fantastic new 2K master that was prepared by Mosfilm in Russia. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.