Pal Joey Blu-ray Review

Twilight Time’s Blu-ray release of "Pal Joey" showcases an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The visuals are remarkably colorful and vivid; however, the transfer exhibits a certain softness that might not meet the exceptionally high standards set by some other releases from the label. This slight gauziness is most noticeable in the optical sequences, including the credits and the climactic fantasy scene. Despite these minor issues, the saturated colors and fine details, especially in Jean Louis’s captivating costumes, provide a rich visual experience.

The video quality is generally satisfactory, though not without flaws. The transfer capitalizes on its lush color palette to deliver a visually engaging presentation, even if it doesn't quite reach the pinnacle of sharpness. While the soft look might detract slightly from the overall clarity, it doesn’t significantly undermine the enjoyment of the film. The trade-off between color fidelity and detail sharpness ultimately works in favor of the vivid and immersive viewing experience that "Pal Joey" offers.

The audio presentation of the "Pal Joey" Blu-ray offers two lossless mixes: a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround mix and a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix isn't overly immersive but does expand the music nicely and introduces some ambient environmental sound effects that enhance spatial awareness. Sinatra's voice is reproduced with exquisite accuracy, capturing its slightly aged luster, although the dubbed singing in parts, particularly from the female vocalists in the opening Rainbow production number, can sound somewhat boxy compared to the rest of the soundtrack.

The DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix offers limited stereo separation, likely processed, as noted by Twilight Time’s Nick Redman. Fidelity overall is impressive. This format showcases the music spectacularly and keeps dialogue clear and free from hiss or distortion throughout. Despite not being as immersive as modern surround mixes, both audio tracks deliver a satisfying listening experience that preserves the original charm of this classic film.

The extras included with the Blu Ray of "Pal Joey" offer a delightful array of bonus material that complements the film splendidly. The Kim Novak Backstage Featurette offers a captivating, albeit concise, visit with the iconic actress at her Oregon residence. Novak reminisces about her experiences with costume designer Jean Louis and reflects on how Hollywood pressures influenced her painting pursuits. The Original Theatrical Trailer, hosted by Frank Sinatra, presents an enjoyable viewing despite its somewhat rough video quality. Additionally, the disc includes an Isolated Score Track, meticulously presented in mono through a high-quality DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix, contrary to some reports suggesting a stereo mix. Each of these extras enriches the viewing experience, providing unique insights and preserving the nostalgia of the film.

Extras included in this disc:

Kim Novak Backstage Featurette: Visit Kim at her Oregon hideaway as she reminisces about her career and passion for painting.

Original Theatrical Trailer: A longer-than-usual trailer hosted by Sinatra.

Isolated Score Track: Presented in mono via DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix.

"Pal Joey" is a fascinating cinematic adaptation of the 1940 Broadway musical by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart, derived from a series of New Yorker short stories by John O'Hara. The film that surfaced in 1957 saw notable changes from the original stage production, orchestrated to align with the charisma of Frank Sinatra, who leads the cast as Joey Evans. Joey’s character, initially a morally cracked but likable nightclub entertainer, is softened for the screen into a charming scoundrel rather than a scheming womanizer. This adaptation, while providing a somewhat gentler arc, retains the essence of Joey's opportunism and charm, amplified by Sinatra's superb vocal performances, complemented by Nelson Riddle's inventive arrangements.

The plot centers around Joey's ambition to open his nightclub, backed financially by wealthy socialite Vera Simpson, portrayed by Rita Hayworth. The film introduces notable differences from its stage counterpart, including the transformation of the innocent Linda English into a nightclub dancer with aspirations of singing, portrayed by Kim Novak. The dynamic between these characters looms large, creating a sort of ménage à trois that emphasizes musical performances and individual character arcs. The supporting characters have been significantly revised or omitted, altering the narrative flow, which may seem strange to those familiar with the stage version but offers a cohesive storyline to new viewers.

Despite these alterations, the film remains buoyed by standout performances and stunning musical numbers. Sinatra, at his vocal peak, shines through Riddle's lush orchestrations, which provide elegant showcases for his mature vocal stylings. Hayworth and Novak add significant star power to the film, although neither did their own singing. "Pal Joey" thus may not be a faithful replica of its stage origins, but it stands as an exceptional musical entertainment, elevated significantly by its lead performers and memorable music arrangements.

The Blu Ray of "Pal Joey" offers a compelling restoration of the 1957 classic musical, starring Frank Sinatra, Rita Hayworth, and Kim Novak. Picture quality is reminiscent of the period, with rich colors and solid contrast that effectively bring the vivid world of the brash, well-staged musical to life. The restoration presents a clean and detailed image, though some minor grain is maintained to preserve the film's authentic texture. The sound quality is equally impressive, featuring a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix that highlights the film's notable soundtrack without distorting the dialogue or other key audio elements.

Additionally, the package includes a range of supplements valuable to enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. The isolated 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio score track offers a pure listening experience of Rodgers and Hart's memorable compositions. A notable featurette on Kim Novak, which includes a rare interview conducted by Stephen Rebello, adds depth to her performance and persona beyond the film. Complementing these extras are a theatrical trailer featuring Sinatra, and an insightful 8-page insert by film historian Julie Kirgo that enriches the viewing experience with historical context and rare stills.

For you young 'uns out in the reading audience who are only familiar with Rodgers and Hammerstein, you have a veritable universe of fantastic music to discover in the pairing of Rodgers and Hart. There's no finer filmic place to start than this colorful musical. No, this isn't really Pal Joey, and some of the changes seem a bit odd, especially since Sinatra could have easily pulled off a less likable character. But this 1957 musical is brash, well staged, and features three big movie star performances from Sinatra, Hayworth, and Novak. With good quality video and audio, and a really appealing (if short) featurette, this release comes Highly recommended.