Bilitis Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Bilitis" presents an AVC encoded image with a 1.68:1 aspect ratio, derived from a meticulous 4K restoration of the original 35mm camera negative. The signature soft focus cinematography of David Hamilton is maintained with impressive fidelity, skirting common compression pitfalls. This transfer showcases a remarkable level of detail, particularly in skin textures and the intricate patterns of lacy wardrobe. Both urban landscapes and natural scenes exhibit a solid sense of dimensionality. Interiors retain their ethereal quality, enriched by warm color temperatures that include vibrant greens and life-like skintones. Film grain is pronounced yet filmic, and the source material appears well-preserved.

Cinematographer Bernard Daillencourt’s original 35mm capture employs spherical lenses, originally framed at 1.66:1, but this version's restoration embraces the inherent softness and limited contrast of the film's aesthetic. While the use of diffusion filters results in an intentionally muted palette and reduced sharpness, this is authentically reflected in the transfer. Notably, the consistent texture of film grain is generally well-represented. However, the bit rate occasionally falters, leading to minor grain noise, an issue that may be exacerbated under projection but less discernible on smaller displays. Despite these brief lapses, the visual presentation on this Blu-ray is superior to prior releases, illustrating "Bilitis" as vividly as intended within its original artistic confines.

The audio presentation of the "Bilitis" Blu-Ray relies on 2.0 mono DTS-HD Master Audio tracks in both French and English, capturing a lesser-emphasized sonic profile. The French language track is superior in clarity, allowing for an appreciation of dubbed performances despite noticeable sibilance issues. Nevertheless, the score by Francis Lai stands out, with its ethereal synth elements effectively setting dramatic moods. However, it is advisable to lower the playback level to mitigate any resultant distortion from this clarity. The accompanying English 2.0 DTS-HD MA mix appears somewhat muddier compared to its French counterpart.

Technical limitations are apparent due to the unrestored nature of the original optical audio tracks. Background hiss and crackling permeate both versions, indicating the absence of original or restored sound elements. Furthermore, occasional loud pops and subtle dialogue distortions, including excess sibilance, are present, detracting from the immersive experience typically expected from high-definition audio. Users might need to manually select English subtitles when choosing the English audio track, while they automatically pair with the French track.

Ultimately, while the audio retains certain iconic aspects of its period charm, it fails to deliver a consistently high-quality listening experience. The balance between dialogue clarity and score presence is achieved more effectively in the French track yet remains marred by consistent underlying audio artifacts typical of unrefined optical sources.

The extras on the Blu Ray release of "Bilitis" offer a rich, insightful look behind the film. The commentary from film historians Alexandra Heller-Nicholas and Josh Nelson stands out, providing a balanced mix of enjoyment and educational content. Their discussion covers thematic elements such as sexuality and desire, while also tackling the controversies surrounding director Hamilton with a critical lens. They praise Patti D’Arbanville’s performance, framing her as a central figure in the film. Another notable inclusion is the interview titled "The Hamilton Blur," featuring camera operator Noel Very, which adds depth to the visual storytelling techniques used in the film. Samm Deighan’s essay in the booklet further enriches the viewer's understanding with historical context. However, it's important to note that a trailer is not included. Overall, these extras are essential for any serious enthusiast seeking to delve deeper into "Bilitis."

Extras included in this disc:

• Booklet: Features an essay by film historian Samm Deighan.
• Commentary: Film historians Heller-Nicholas and Nelson provide an engaging audio commentary.
• The Hamilton Blur: Interview with camera operator Noel Very.

David Hamilton's "Bilitis" is a 1977 French erotic drama that stands as his first foray into feature filmmaking, subsequently shaped by his controversial photographic style. Known for his gauzy, soft-focus nude photography often featuring teenage girls, Hamilton's directorial debut does not deviate from his signature visual motifs. In "Bilitis," Hamilton collaborates with writer Catherine Breillat to present a narrative of adolescent exploration in discovering sexuality, framed through the perspective of its young protagonist, an apparent effort to blur the lines between art and provocative imagery. This controversial storytelling choice subsequently relegates plot development in favor of cinematic tableaux that replicate Hamilton's photographic reputation, effectively generating a cinematic tone that is both picturesque and discomforting.

The film centers on Bilitis (Patti D'Arbanville), who spends her summer with Melissa (Mona Kristensen) and Pierre (Gilles Kohler), confronting the complexities of sexual awakening and mature dynamics. However, the storyline is secondary, as Hamilton's emphasis lies heavily on creating visual poise rather than narrative substance. The opening sequence, depicting schoolgirls engaged in uninhibited frolic and comparing physical attributes, sets the precedent for the film's nature—prioritizing the visual allure of youthful innocence over cohesive storytelling or emotional engagement. Despite attempts at character development through Bilitis's interactions with predatory men—treated as explorations—the film interrupts these potentially dramatic moments to linger on provocative imagery, undermining any significant narrative weight.

While Patti D'Arbanville's casting might offer some relief in knowing she was older than her character's portrayal, Hamilton's attempts at authenticity are consistently overshadowed by an unsettling focus on adolescence intertwined with mature themes. The ambiance crafted through the film remains unmistakably adherent to Hamilton’s contentious style, creating an experience that oscillates between aesthetic examination and unsettling provocation without resolving its underlying controversy.

The Blu-ray release of "Bilitis" presents a film that, despite its lackluster pacing and uneven performances, is marked by director David Hamilton's intent to craft a sensuous visual experience. There is a certain allure in the film's aesthetic, though it struggles to transcend the controversial themes it tackles. The direction leaves much to be desired, and perhaps the subject matter may have been better served by a filmmaker with a more nuanced approach.

The commentary track included on the Blu-ray, provided by film historians Heller-Nicholas and Nelson, offers a redeeming quality to this release. The historians approach the film with a balance of levity and seriousness, enhancing the viewer's understanding of its complex subjects. Their insights into Patti D’Arbanville’s role, emphatically described as the centerpiece of the film, bring depth to its analysis. Meanwhile, they do not shy away from addressing allegations against Hamilton, providing a candid examination while emphasizing the word “alleged.”

In conclusion, while "Bilitis" may not achieve cinematic excellence in narrative or performance, the accompanying commentary enriches its critique and presents valuable context for the viewer. The historians’ discussion adds both entertainment and scholarly perspective, culminating in a supplementary resource that openly addresses and contextualizes the film’s controversies.