The French Connection Blu-ray Review

"The French Connection" Blu-ray presents the film in its widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio with MPEG-4 AVC 1080p coding, offering a visual experience that aligns closely with director William Friedkin's vision, albeit one that may not reach the pinnacle of Blu-ray's potential in terms of clarity and purity due to deliberate stylistic choices. Friedkin's remastering, while preserving the film's original gritty aesthetic and cool color temperature that almost pushes darker scenes towards monochrome, has sparked debate for its heavy-handed grain and distinctive blue tint. Despite these choices, which some may argue detract from the video quality, it's undeniable that the presentation offers ample detail in several scenes, remarkable given the film's age. However, the remastering process has not been without contention, notably between Friedkin and cinematographer Owen Roizman, the latter expressing disapproval of the new color timing which significantly alters the film's original look.

This Blu-ray edition showcases the iconic opening of Marseille with a degree of refinement and a crisper detail in broader shots than seen in previous releases. Yet, as the film transitions to Brooklyn, it adopts a starker contrast with deeper blacks that occasionally suffer from crush, emphasizing the grain that permeates throughout, particularly in dimly lit sequences. This grainsome texture contributes to the film's authentic representation of early '70s New York, though it may challenge viewers expecting a cleaner, more polished visual. Moreover, enhanced detail in certain segments provides a fresh perspective on some scenes, though inconsistency in image quality due to Friedkin's controversial color adjustment process has left fans divided. The reimagined colors and altered contrast certainly deliver a unique viewing experience that sharply deviates from Roizman's original cinematography, eliciting strong reactions regarding the fidelity of this representation to the film’s initial theatrical release.

The discourse surrounding this Blu-ray's video quality is heavily influenced by Friedkin's revisionist approach to the film's color palette and grain structure. While some detail and sharpness are notably improved in specific sequences, the overall effect of Friedkin’s alterations has been polarizing. The director’s decision to aggressively modify colors and contrast has had a profound impact on the film’s appearance, inspiring debate among cinephiles and industry professionals alike. Despite arguments for and against these changes, it is clear that "The French Connection" on Blu-ray remains a testament to Friedkin’s enduring influence over his work. However, the deviation from historical accuracy in terms of visual representation reiterates the complexities involved in remastering classic films for modern home video formats. As such, this Blu-ray serves both as a showcase of technological progress in film restoration and a reminder of the delicate balance between preserving and reinterpreting cinematic history.

"The French Connection" Blu-ray edition showcases a meticulous upgrade to dts-HD Master Audio 5.1, which significantly enhances the original monaural soundtrack, breathing new life into the auditory experience. The diverse musical score by Don Ellis emerges as a highlight, with its sharper, more detailed presentation allowing for an accurate appreciation of the intricacies involved, from the dissonant brass sections to the deep bass and vigorous strings/percussion. This upgrade facilitates a rich, open soundfield that effectively employs the entire audio system, offering a detailed two-dimensional soundscape. Notably, the dynamic range remains faithful to the original's intent, providing punchy dynamics without sounding artificial. Ambient effects and dialogue have been given particular attention, ensuring clarity and depth across various scenes, from bustling city environments to intense chase sequences.

While the effort to revitalize this iconic soundtrack is evident, there are occasional drawbacks attributable to its age. Some dialogue can appear subdued in comparison to other elements within the mix, and certain original production choices, like the removal of Hackman's yells during the chase scene, may distract contemporary audiences. Additionally, the implementation of ADR and Foley work shows its age, at times standing out against the otherwise immersive soundscape. Despite these minor gripes, the restoration team's endeavor to preserve and enhance the audio fidelity is commendable. The decision to include multiple audio options, including the original mono track, provides listeners with a choice that respects both purists and those seeking an immersive surround experience.

The balancing act between honoring the original mono composition and exploring the capabilities of modern audio codecs has yielded remarkable results. Gunshots, car chases, and the chaotic subway ambiance are conveyed with convincing clarity and room-filling presence, achieving an effective blend of front and rear channels that enriches the film's tense atmosphere. This careful handling ensures that classics like "The French Connection" continue to leave a lasting impression on contemporary audiences, demonstrating that even films rooted in the past can find new resonance through technological advancements in audio remastering.

The Blu-ray release of "The French Connection" presents a rich and varied selection of extras, meticulously designed to appeal to both film aficionados and newcomers to this classic film. A standout feature is the dual commentary tracks, offering deep dives into the filmmaking process by director William Friedkin and the dynamic reflections of stars Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider. Friedkin's introduction and the inclusion of extensive documentaries, such as "The Poughkeepsie Shuffle" and "Making The Connection: The Untold Stories Of The French Connection," enrich the narrative with historical context and behind-the-scenes insights, making this edition a comprehensive study of the film. The technical aspects, especially the controversial color timing alteration by Friedkin, the isolated score, and the detailed analysis on the iconic chase sequence, demonstrate an unparalleled commitment to preserving and enhancing the film's legacy. The blending of these elements, alongside a plethora of additional features like deleted scenes, featurettes focusing on character and craft, and an exploration of the film's influence on the noir genre, ensures that this release is an essential addition to any collection.

Extras included in this disc:

• William Friedkin Introduction: Friedkin discusses the Blu-ray format's advantages.
• Commentary by William Friedkin: Deep dive into filmmaking processes and the real-life story behind the film.
• Commentary by Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider: Personal reflections on their roles and filmmaking.
• Isolated Score Track: The Grammy-winning score, isolated with insights.
• Trivia Track: Pop-up trivia about the real French Connection case.
• Deleted Scenes: With optional director commentary.
• Anatomy of a Chase: Friedkin explores the famed chase scene's creation.
• Hackman on Doyle: A retrospective interview with Gene Hackman.
• Friedkin and Grosso Remember the Real French Connection: Insightful look back with real detective Sonny Grosso.
• Scene of the Crime: Friedkin and Randy Jurgensen discuss filming.
• Color Timing 'The French Connection': Friedkin on the remastering process.
• Cop Jazz: The Music of Don Ellis: Analysis of Ellis's experimental score.
• Rogue Cop: The Noir Connection: Examines the film’s impact on noir.
• BBC Documentary: The Poughkeepsie Shuffle: In-depth documentary on real events and film making.
• Making The Connection: The Untold Stories Of The French Connection: Retrospective documentary featuring Sonny Grosso.

"The French Connection" on Blu-ray encapsulates the zenith of 1970s filmmaking, bringing to life the gritty and raw essence of New York City through the lens of detectives "Popeye" Doyle (Gene Hackman) and Buddy Russo (Roy Scheider). Their relentless pursuit of a narcotics smuggling ring not only carved a niche in cinematic history but also set a precedent for the cop thriller genre. Despite its age, the film's iconic car chase, courtesy of William Friedkin's Oscar-winning direction and Owen Roizman’s cinematography, remains a benchmark for action sequences—its realism and intensity untouched by time. The movie, based on a true story, triumphed at the Oscars, claiming awards including Best Picture and Best Actor for Hackman's stellar performance. This representation is as compelling today as it was over four decades ago, thanks to its powerful narrative and dynamic pacing.

Hackman and Scheider deliver performances that are both compelling and nuanced, inhabiting their roles with a grit and resolve that underscores the film's tension and drama. The chemistry between the two leads, combined with Fernando Rey's portrayal of the elusive antagonist, crafts a narrative that is as engaging as it is suspenseful. The authenticity of the characters and the detailed depiction of their investigative work underline the film's commitment to realism, setting it apart from the more stylized presentations typical of today’s cinema. The Blu-ray edition offers viewers a chance to re-experience the meticulous detail and atmospheric depth of the 1970s New York, highlighting the film’s enduring appeal.

On a technical level, "The French Connection" Blu-ray stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of 1970s cinema, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in an era where storytelling was paramount, and action sequences were grounded in palpable reality. The transfer preserves the film’s distinctive visual style, from the grimy streets of New York City to the intense, claustrophobic feeling of the chase scenes. Despite its slow load times on modern players, this Blu-ray presentation demands patience, rewarding viewers with a cinematic experience that is both immersive and nostalgic. It's a poignant reminder of a time when films were driven by character development and plot rather than spectacle, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with today's audience just as powerfully as it did upon its original release.

The Blu-ray release of "The French Connection" presents a conundrum for cinephiles and tech enthusiasts alike. On one hand, this edition brings forth a notable audio and video upgrade that immerses the viewer in the gritty, pulse-racing chase that defines the movie. Utilizing equipment such as the JVC DLA-RS20 1080p High Definition Front Projector and Philips TSU9400 Pro Series Touch Panel Remote Control among others, it is evident that the technical prowess deployed in this release aimed to showcase the film in its best light. However, the meticulous attention to reproducing director William Friedkin’s vision introduces a contentious point: the video presentation's deliberately grainy and cool tone may test some viewers’ preferences, reflecting Friedkin's authentic and unpolished portrayal of a bygone New York.

The abundance of special features and extras included in this two-disc edition cannot be overstated, offering an exhaustive compendium that delves deep into the film’s production, its cultural impact, and its technical achievements. This package is designed to satisfy both newcomers and the most discerning fans of “The French Connection,” signaling an ambitious effort by Fox to honor the film's legacy. Yet, this intent clashes with Friedkin’s controversial adjustments to the video quality, leading to divided opinions. While the lossless audio is a redeeming factor, purists might find the altered visuals a step too far from the original experience, sparking debates on the preservation versus reinterpretation of classic cinema.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "The French Connection" stands as a testament to the complexities involved in remastering classic films for contemporary audiences. While it excels in providing an immersive audio experience and a treasure trove of extras, the decision to align with Friedkin’s vision results in a visual presentation that may alienate some viewers. This release serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between innovation and tradition in the realm of film restoration. Despite these divergences, for those seeking to explore the depths of this Oscar-winning masterpiece and its historical significance, this Blu-ray edition remains a valuable addition to any collection, though it arrives with caveats that warrant consideration.