Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" truly showcases the exceptional quality that film enthusiasts have come to expect from movies shot in 70mm, such as "The Sound of Music," "2001: A Space Odyssey," and "Baraka." Utilizing the Super Panavision 70 format, this classic musical benefits immensely from a meticulous restoration process, boasting a 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer that highlights an extraordinary level of fine detail. Viewers will delight in observing the crisp weft of Dick Van Dyke's corduroy coat, the intricate textures of the craggy seaside rocks, and the lustrous surface of the iconic car itself. Every frame revels in the display of fine-grained imagery, enriching the viewing experience with vivid textures and intricate set details that breathe new life into this beloved story.

Colors in the transfer are rendered beautifully, presenting bright primaries alongside creamy skin tones, all underpinned by a rich saturation that adds vibrancy to every scene. Deep blacks and ideal shadow delineation avoid any instance of crush, while maintaining tight contrast that enhances the depth and overall presence of the image. The natural grain structure and a spotless print underscore a proficient restoration, free from unnecessary digital manipulations. Some minor issues like moiré effects on tightly spaced lines—noticeable on Chitty's front grill—are present but do little to detract from the overall excellence of the video quality.

In summary, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" on Blu-ray may not surpass the visual spectacles found in certain other 70mm restorations, but stands out as a stellar example of what careful and respectful film restoration can achieve. Fine details, color fidelity, and an almost perfect balance of shadows and lights catapult this presentation into a high echelon, making it nearly impeccable. This is a testament to the care taken in preserving such a classic film for current and future generations to appreciate in stunning clarity.

The audio presentation of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" on Blu-ray elevates an already enchanting musical to new auditory heights, courtesy of its lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround mix. This upgrade mirrors that of classics like "The Sound of Music," prioritizing a clear, immersive experience where the songs and score shine. The incorporation of a 7.1 mix ensures that the audio envelops the listener, creating a vivid soundscape where instruments and vocal performances are showcased with impeccable clarity. The meticulous mix allows even the subtlest of sounds to traverse the room, presenting a dynamic and engaging auditory experience that breathes life into the film's magical moments.

From the onset, it's evident that the surround sound capabilities are fully utilized, with effects such as motorcars and the titular Chitty Chitty Bang Bang itself zooming around the listener in an almost tangible manner. Sound elements are positioned to maximize the immersive experience, with cross-channel movements particularly notable for their creativity and precision. Scenes bustling with activity, such as the carnival, are layered with various sounds, from ambient music and crowd murmurs to distinct foreground noises, all contributing to a rich and captivating audio environment.

While the mix predominantly excels, it is not without minor flaws. Some instances of slightly subdued dialogue—whether sung or spoken—occasionally emerge, though these moments are few and far from detracting significantly from the overall experience. Most audio elements, especially vocals, are presented with a clarity and brightness that ensure they stand out in the mix. Overall, the audio upgrade of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" on Blu-ray is a triumph that complements the film's visual spectacle, making it an essential experience for fans and audiophiles alike.

The extra presentation on the Blu-Ray of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" offers an enriching experience that complements the main feature, meticulously crafted to engage fans and newcomers alike. Incorporating a variety of interactive features, such as the Sing-Along and Music Machine, these extras invite audiences to immerse themselves further into the film's enchanting world. The disc also includes games like the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Driving Game and Toot Sweet Toots Musical Maestro, adding an interactive dimension to the viewing experience. Furthermore, the inclusion of interviews and vintage featurettes, such as remembering the film with Dick Van Dyke and insights from Pierre Picton on the iconic motorcar, provide a deep dive into the film's legacy. The Sherman Brothers' Demos offer an audio-only treasure, revealing the creative process behind the movie's memorable music. Meanwhile, the photo and vintage advertising galleries serve as a visual feast, rounding off a comprehensive package that both celebrates and elucidates the film’s enduring appeal.

Extras included in this disc:

• Sing-Along: Karaoke-style lyrics for film songs.
• Music Machine: Sing-Along mode without lyrics.
• Chitty Chitty's Bang Bang Driving Game: Interactive game.
• Toot Sweet Toots Musical Maestro: A game that can be played during the film.
• Remembering Chitty Chitty Bang Bang with Dick Van Dyke: Interview with Dick Van Dyke.
• A Fantasmagorical Motorcar: Interview with Pierre Picton.
• Sherman Brothers' Demos: Audio-only song demos by Richard and Robert Sherman.
• Vintage Featurettes: Including "The Ditchling Tinkerer," "Dick Van Dyke Press Interview," and "The Potts Children's Featurette."
• Photo Gallery: High-definition gallery.
• Vintage Advertising Gallery: Including various trailers and TV spots.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," the iconic family film cherished across generations, readily stirs a blend of nostalgia and amusement with its dazzling voyage through whimsy and adventure. Directed with an imaginative flair, the movie pivots around the eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts (played by the ever-dynamic Dick Van Dyke) and his miraculous car. Set against the backdrop of the 1910s English countryside, the narrative weaves through Potts' endeavors alongside his children, Jeremy and Jemima, and the charming Truly Scrumptious, delivering a concoction that pays homage to the innovative minds of Ian Fleming and Roald Dahl. Despite its sprawling run-time of 145 minutes, certain sequences remarkably encapsulate the essence of childhood wonder, albeit others—like the "Lovely Lonely Man" interlude—beckon for brevity in a film teetering on the edge of brilliance and excess.

The presentation of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" on Blu Ray excavates the rich textures and vibrant hues of its fantastical universe, though it's the film's foundational elements—storytelling and character arcs—that curate a mesmerizing experience. The journey to Vulgaria entrenches viewers in a dichotomy between the idyllic and the ominous, courtesy of the menacing Child Catcher, etched against the film's more saccharine moments. This dichotomy reveals the film's elaborate tapestry—one interlaced with inventiveness, fear, and an undying spirit of adventure.

As a cinematic piece, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" thrives on its capacity to defy ordinary constraints; a car that transcends land, air, and sea marks just the beginning of its rebellion against reality. Though critiqued for narrative extravagance and a semblance of narrative disarray in translating from fairytale to screen, it unequivocally secures a rare feat: mesmerizing the younger demographics while reigniting adult fondness for fantastical storytelling. The Blu Ray rendition revitalizes this magic, albeit reminds us that within its brilliance lies a tale of multifaceted textures—wherein the charm of yesteryears battles the scrutiny of contemporary sensibilities.

The Blu Ray presentation of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" stands as a testament to the meticulous care and dedication invested in preserving cinema classics for new generations. Emulating the treatment given to "The Sound of Music," this release is graced with a sparkling new high definition transfer, ensuring that every whimsical detail and vibrant hue of this family-friendly musical bursts forth with newfound vigor. Complementing the visual restoration, the inclusion of a lossless 7.1 surround sound audio track envelops viewers in the film's iconic score and playful sound effects, thereby elevating the viewing experience to match contemporary auditory expectations without sacrificing the film's original charm.

While "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" may not enjoy the same level of universal adoration as some of its counterparts, its restoration warrants praise for the sheer commitment to technical quality exhibited. The film, admittedly extensive in its runtime, navigates through its narrative with a blend of goofiness and fun that has a timeless appeal. For those who found joy in its fantastical journey during childhood, this revamped version stands as a beacon for sharing those cherished moments with their own children. The technical prowess applied here does not merely aim to polish but to immortalize a piece of cinematic history in its most deserving quality.

In conclusion, the Blu Ray presentation of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" encapsulates a remarkable feat of cinematic restoration. With its superior high definition transfer and immersive 7.1 surround sound, it breathes new life into a classic that, despite its length, remains endearing to both young and old audiences. This release is not just recommended but celebrated as a bridge connecting generations through the magic of film, offering a shared experience that transcends its dated origins to deliver unabated joy and entertainment.