Miller's Crossing Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, "Miller's Crossing" makes its way onto Blu-ray with a polished 1080p transfer, courtesy of the Criterion Collection. The video transfer originates from a meticulous 2K digital restoration using the 35mm original camera negative. Beyond the visuals, an upgraded 5.1 surround mix has been meticulously crafted by supervising sound editor Skip Lievsay and composer Carter Burwell, executed in 2021 at Warner Bros. Sound, New York, adding a fresh auditory depth to this classic. The enhancement process was carefully overseen by Barry Sonnenfeld, ensuring fidelity to the movie’s aesthetic.

The decision to utilize a 2K master, as opposed to opting for a 4K restoration, might initially appear as an oversight. However, this choice doesn't detract from the viewing experience. The technical outcomes—ranging from clarity, depth, and especially color grading—are comparable to the best in 1080p presentations, holding their own against contemporaneous 4K renditions. Notably, though there are hints of black crush in certain scenes, Barry Sonnenfeld confirms in an included program that the film’s unique look, characterized by dense blacks and shadow details, was intentionally achieved through the use of low-sensitivity film stock. This stylistic choice is evident and contributes to the film's period authenticity.

Despite minor limitations in revealing fine nuances in lower-lit indoor scenes—a constraint more of resolution than presentation—there's no discernible compromise on image quality. Night scenes and darker interiors are rendered with surprising fidelity (highlighted in screencaptures), without any noticeable digital artifacts or stability issues. The Blu-ray presents "Miller's Crossing" in a technically robust format that not only respects but elevates the original material. Lovers of the film should find this release both faithful and impressive. It is important to note that this is a Region-A locked release, necessitating a compatible player for viewing.

The Blu-ray edition of "Miller's Crossing" presents its audio spectacle through an exclusive English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, serving at the high standard of 48kHz, 24-bit quality. This singular choice emphasizes the creators' dedication to delivering a pristine auditory experience, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles enhancing accessibility for all viewers. Within this soundscape, the dialogue takes the forefront as remarkably lucid, allowing every word to be absorbed by the audience without strain, ensuring the narrative's complexity and period-specific vernacular are appreciated fully.

This release's audio presentation shines through its lossless 5.1 mix, which does more than just complement the visual; it envelops the viewer in a sound that can only be described as immersive. Particular scenes, as highlighted in screencapture #4, not only meet but exceed expectations, achieving a 'reference material' status for audiophiles. Such instances showcase the dynamic contrasts that are adeptly crafted, from subtle whispers to the intrusive noise of the film’s setting, providing a rich auditory tableau that enhances the viewing experience substantially.

Moreover, the technical quality of this track stands out for its flawlessness. No anomalies mar the audio's delivery; it maintains a consistent cleanliness and stability, vital for uninterrupted enjoyment. The balance between dialogue clarity and the atmospheric sound design ensures that "Miller's Crossing" on Blu-ray is a prime example of how audio can elevate film storytelling. This focus on technical excellence makes it clear that every decibel and nuance was meticulously configured to produce an engaging and authentic auditory experience, rivaling even the most contemporary releases in audio quality.

The extra presentation of the Blu-ray of "Miller's Crossing" by Criterion in 2021 offers a comprehensive and engaging overview of the film's creation, from its noir influences to the minutiae of its design. Distinguished by newly produced programs, it features in-depth discussions with the Coen Brothers, actors Gabriel Byrne and John Turturro, composer Carter Burwell, music editor Todd Kasow, director of photography Barry Sonnenfeld, and production designer Dennis Gassner, each shedding light on their respective roles in shaping the film. These conversations, supplemented by archival interviews from 1990 and a critical essay in the included leaflet, offer both fans and newcomers a richly detailed insight into the creation and enduring legacy of "Miller's Crossing."

Extras included in this disc:

• Hard-Boiled: The Coen Brothers and Megan Abbott: Joel and Ethan Coen discuss film noir's influence with author Megan Abbott.
• The Actors: Gabriel Byrne and John Turturro reflect on their experiences and the film's qualities with Megan Abbott.
• The Music: Carter Burwell and Todd Kasow discuss the film's score and its fit with the Coens' style.
• The Look: Barry Sonnenfeld talks about his work and stylistic decisions on the film.
• The Design: Dennis Gassner shares insights into how he came to work on the film and the use of color.
• From the Archives: Archival interviews with key actors to promote the film's release.
• Leaflet: Includes Glenn Kenny's essay "Marvelous Americans" and technical credits.

Joel and Ethan Coen's "Miller's Crossing," a film steeped in the traditions of film noir and set against the backdrop of the Prohibition era, has been given a meticulous presentation on Blu-ray by Criterion. The movie, which tells the story of Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne), the close advisor to a crime boss Leo (Albert Finney), delves deep into the intricate dynamics of power, loyalty, and ambition within a city under the grip of organized crime. Through its complex narrative and the struggle between Leo and another crime boss, Johnny Caspar (Jon Polito), over the fate of a swindler Bernie Bernbaum (John Turturro), "Miller's Crossing" crafts a rich tapestry of conflict and moral ambiguity.

Technically, the film is a visual feast, brought to life with exquisite detail on this Blu-ray edition. Director of Photography Barry Sonnenfeld’s contribution ensures that every frame contributes to the atmospheric depth of the story, perfectly encapsulating the era with a striking aesthetic feel. However, despite gathering an impressive ensemble cast and presenting striking visuals, "Miller's Crossing" grapples with balancing style and substance. There is an evident disconnect where the film's rich visual narrative doesn't entirely align with its storytelling pace, leading to moments where character motivations and developments feel somewhat submerged beneath its stylistic veneer.

Amidst these criticisms, an underrated aspect of "Miller's Crossing" is its meticulous attention to ethnic details that lend authenticity and a unique flavor to its period setting, enhancing the atmospheric immersion. While the movie navigates through its narrative with a sometimes uneven keel, it remains a testament to the Coen brothers' ambition to weave intricate tales within the framework of genre cinema. Despite its challenges in marrying its ambitious visual style with coherent storytelling, "Miller’s Crossing" stands as a bold endeavor that ambitiously seeks to pay homage to the noir classics that precede it, making it a compelling piece of cinema that invites scrutiny and appreciation alike.

The Criterion Blu-ray release of "Miller's Crossing" presents an intriguing case for both fans and skeptics of the film. From a technical standpoint, the 2K master, supervised by cinematographer Barry Sonnenfeld, ensures that the film's period visuals are presented with clarity and precision, making it a significant improvement over previous releases. The array of exclusive new bonus features enriches the viewing experience, offering insights and behind-the-scenes looks that are sure to delight enthusiasts and possibly sway the opinions of those less fond of the film.

Despite its technical achievements and the commendable efforts of the cast, notably the outstanding performance by Jon Polito, "Miller's Crossing" continues to divide audiences. The critique that it lacks the cohesive glue of the Coen Brothers' earlier work "Blood Simple" resonates with viewers who have struggled to engage with the film. The beautifully crafted visuals and strong individual performances are frequently mentioned as highlights, yet some argue that these elements do not fully compensate for perceived issues in narrative execution and overall management of the film's complex themes.

In conclusion, the Criterion release of "Miller's Crossing" warrants attention for its superb restoration and the added depth provided by its special features. For fans, it is undoubtedly a collector’s item, offering the best version of the film to date. Skeptics might find new appreciation through the enhanced presentation and additional content. While it may not convert all detractors, this release underscores the cinematic craftsmanship of the Coen Brothers and their collaborators, making it a valuable addition to any aficionado's library.