Cry Freedom Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Cry Freedom" showcases the film in a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC high definition format, maintaining the original 2.35:1 widescreen aspect ratio. The video transfer, while not extraordinary, is a step up from its previous DVD release. The film grain is consistent, adding an authentic texture to the cinematography, and though the colors and finer details are better rendered than prior versions, they fall short of vibrancy.

The Blu-ray employs a dated scan that exhibits signs of aging, including slight fading and wear. Although some dirt and minor specks are visible, there are no overwhelming issues of major print damage—indicating a decent preservation effort. The result is a satisfactory visual experience, though the film's significant historical impact invites a demand for a 4K remastering to truly do it justice.

Overall, this presentation marks an improvement over older formats but leaves room for enhancement. A more comprehensive restoration could offer a more compelling viewing experience, aligning with the film's cultural and historical significance.

The Blu Ray of "Cry Freedom" showcases a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 audio presentation that aims to deliver a faithful rendition of the original stereo soundtrack. The dialogue is consistently clear and strong, ensuring that spoken elements are well-represented with a crisp tonal quality. The Oscar-nominated music score by George Fenton and Jonas Gwangwa also receives an authentic portrayal, enhancing the overall auditory experience.

While dialogue clarity is commendable, the dynamics of the audio mix reveal some inconsistencies. The soundstage can feel somewhat subdued, particularly in its handling of sound effects, which lack the expansive presence seen in higher-end audio formats. This slightly restrained dynamic range does not detract significantly from the audio's overall impact but suggests room for improvement in offering a more immersive soundscape.

This release addresses many of the subtle imperfections found in previous versions, such as crackling or distortion, resulting in a much cleaner presentation. Optional English subtitles further complement the audio for accessibility. Overall, this DTS-HD Master Audio track represents a respectable audio treatment for "Cry Freedom," combining clear dialogue and faithful musical representation, though it may not reach the exceptional auditory depths of more advanced audio formats.

The Blu-ray extras for "Cry Freedom" offer insightful additions tailored for audiences seeking a deeper understanding of the film and its historical context. The highlight is the Audio Commentary by Film Historian Eddy Van Mueller, which provides a comprehensive overview of the movie's production alongside its depiction of real-life events in South Africa, enriching the viewer's experience with academic insights. It is recorded specifically for this release, ensuring relevance and enhanced engagement with the film's themes. Additional marketing materials include a Theatrical Trailer and a selection of Bonus KLSC Trailers for other Kino Lorber films, adding commercial breadth to the package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Eddy Van Mueller: In-depth discussion on production and historical context.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original preview of "Cry Freedom."
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Trailers for "The January Man," "Consenting Adults," and "Mo' Better Blues."

"Cry Freedom", a poignant masterpiece directed by Richard Attenborough, delves deep into the grim realities of apartheid through the lens of real-life protagonists Steve Biko and Donald Woods. This film is an exceptional adaptation of events captured in Woods' book, chronicling his transformation upon meeting Biko. Terrifically portrayed by Denzel Washington, Steve Biko is a formidable activist whose tragic death at the hands of the security police galvanizes Woods, played by Kevin Kline, into action. Kline's performance mirrors the audience's journey from skepticism to empathy and inevitably to allyship. The tremendous chemistry between these leads buttresses the narrative's emotional core, fostering a profound impact.

The film is further augmented by Ronnie Taylor's striking cinematography, which balances the visual majesty of South Africa with the underlying horror of its political strife. This is complemented by a hauntingly beautiful score by George Fenton and Jonas Gwangwa, enriching the film’s emotional landscape. Lesley Walker's meticulous editing ensures that, despite its lengthy runtime, "Cry Freedom" remains engaging without a moment feeling redundant. Additionally, Stuart Craig’s authentic production design elevates the portrayal of this tumultuous era.

Attenborough's direction does not shy away from the brutal realities of apartheid, portraying each scene with empathetic precision and clarity. John Briley’s screenplay skillfully navigates these complexities with respect and authenticity, reflecting a time of tragic injustice with unwavering focus. While some critics note pacing issues post-Biko's death, the film leverages flashbacks to maintain narrative cohesion. Aiding this storytelling are standout performances by Penelope Wilton as Wendy Woods and an ensemble cast that robustly supports the leads. Altogether, "Cry Freedom" is an absorbing drama that solidifies its place as both a cinematic triumph and a vital historical document.

Cry Freedom, directed by Richard Attenborough, stands as an evocative exploration of the brutal realities of apartheid, immortalized through stellar performances by Denzel Washington and Kevin Kline. The film’s narrative effectively captures the spirit and enduring struggle against systemic injustice, resonating deeply with audiences. The 2022 Blu-ray release by Kino, while commendable for its high-definition transfer and insightful commentary track, falls short of fully capturing the film's visual essence. This version offers an upgrade over prior home video formats, enhancing picture clarity significantly compared to the older Universal DVD.

However, the Blu-ray can benefit greatly from a 4K restoration to address finer details that remain elusive in this iteration. A missed opportunity lies in the lack of comprehensive supplemental material that dives deeper into the film's historical context and the apartheid era it portrays. Such enhancements would provide a richer and more enlightening experience for both new viewers and returning fans engrossed by this pivotal narrative. While this version is a valuable collection addition, particularly for aficionados of Washington and Kline’s captivating performances, it leaves room for improvement.

In conclusion, Kino’s Blu-ray presentation of Cry Freedom achieves a satisfactory technical upgrade yet beckons for a more exhaustive edition to better serve its cinematic significance. As we anticipate potential future offerings from renowned labels like Criterion, this release remains essential for enthusiasts who appreciate the film's powerful depiction of justice and freedom. Until a more comprehensive release appears, owning this Blu-ray is advisable, preserving the impact and excellence of Attenborough’s masterpiece in your collection.