If I Had a Million Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber presents "If I Had a Million" in a 1080p transfer using the MPEG-AVC codec, preserving the film's original 1.36:1 aspect ratio. The video presentation demonstrates satisfactory delineation and clarity, making it a decent viewing experience, particularly on large screens. While the visuals generally maintain allure, the inconsistency in depth might be noticeable to discerning viewers. The boosted contrast is evident throughout the film, introducing traces of minor sharpening that slightly impact the overall organic quality of the visuals.

The current transfer reveals potential areas for enhancement, particularly in terms of restoration. Numerous blemishes, ranging from small scratches to larger marks, detract somewhat from the immersive viewing experience, suggesting the need for cosmetic improvements. Meaningful stability augmentations could also enhance visual consistency, promising a more polished presentation. Viewers should note that this release is Region-A locked, necessitating a compatible Blu-ray player for access.

Overall, while the existing transfer provides an enjoyable viewing experience, a more comprehensive restoration could significantly elevate the visual fidelity and authenticity of "If I Had a Million." Although not detrimental to enjoyment, these technical adjustments would benefit both casual viewers and cinephiles seeking a pristine historical film experience.

The Blu-ray release of "If I Had a Million" offers an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, supported by optional English SDH subtitles. This mono audio presentation faces some challenges common to films from its 1932 origin. Notably, there are periodic clarity fluctuations, with certain sequences sounding thin and box-like. These irregularities could result from both age-related degradation and limitations inherent in the original recordings. While these anomalies are noticeable, they do not significantly distract from the viewing experience; instead, they shape an authentic archival quality consistent with early cinema.

Despite these minor issues, the audio maintains an enveloping quality that aligns with contemporary expectations for a vintage film presentation. The dynamic range is appropriately restrained, reflecting the technology of its era. Still, these technical characteristics might disappoint those expecting modern soundscapes but will delight purists seeking historical fidelity. Overall, this DTS-HD Master Audio track adheres to standards expected from an older film and balances well with the Black-and-White visuals, ensuring both elements complement each other effectively to deliver a cohesive viewing experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "If I Had a Million" provide an enriching experience for film enthusiasts and cinephiles alike, coupling a classic cinematic piece with insightful value-adds. The highlight of the supplementary materials is the comprehensive audio commentary by esteemed filmmaker Allan Arkush and critic Daniel Kremer. Their discussion reflects deep insights and a profound appreciation for the film's historical and cultural significance. While brief, the vintage trailer enhances nostalgia, offering viewers a glimpse into the promotional strategies of the film's era. These well-curated supplements contribute substantially to understanding this classic and its impact on cinema history. However, some may find the lack of subtitled options for certain features slightly limiting, but overall, they enhance the Blu-ray's appeal significantly.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary One: Exclusive new audio commentary by filmmaker Allan Arkush and critic/filmmaker Daniel Kremer.
• Trailer: Vintage trailer for "If I Had a Million". In English, not subtitled.

"If I Had a Million" (1932) on Blu-ray offers an intriguing narrative premise: a dying tycoon opts to distribute his fortune by arbitrarily selecting beneficiaries from a phone book, gifting each with one million dollars—a sum equivalent to about one hundred million today. This anthology film diverges from typical genre-specific or uniformly directed counterparts by presenting a tapestry of varied stories helmed by different directors, including Ernst Lubitsch and Norman Z. McLeod. The segments range in length and tone, with contributions from luminaries like W.C. Fields and Gary Cooper. While the disparity in segment strength is notable—some are brilliantly executed while others less so—the breadth of genre keeps the viewer engaged throughout.

The film deftly weaves humor with social commentary, examining how sudden wealth disrupts the lives of assorted characters. Notable scenes include a man using his newfound riches to confront societal hierarchies, and a prostitute indulging in luxury symbolizing newfound agency. Yet, the comedic elements often intertwine with poignant reflections on human nature. The narrative crafts a "social theater," where winners—aware or oblivious to their fortune—adopt roles shaped by societal expectations, only for their facades to crumble when confronted by their newfound wealth. This exploration becomes especially compelling in a segment featuring soldiers courting an unsuspecting local girl, unveiling genuine relational dynamics beneath superficial roles.

Cinematically, "If I Had a Million" distinguishes itself through the collaborative input of its directors, each inflecting their segments with unique stylistic signatures. Despite occasional predictability, the film succeeds in maintaining viewer interest through its all-star cast and diversity in storytelling. Coupled with supplemental features like commentary by Allan Arkush and Daniel Kremer, the Blu-ray release promises both entertainment and introspection, engaging audiences in musings over wealth's impact on human behavior.

"If I Had a Million" on Blu-ray is an exemplary piece that reveals the timeless question: how would an unexpected windfall change one's life? This 1932 anthology film charms with its ambitious storytelling, marrying humor and introspective scenarios, each exploring the transformative power of sudden wealth. The narrative dissects human nature, unraveling the facades people wear in their day-to-day lives and painting a vivid image of how money can redefine personal relationships and self-awareness. It challenges viewers to reflect on their instincts, morals, and deeply rooted desires, weaving a tapestry that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Blu-ray features an engaging trailer and a new audio commentary track. Commentary by historian/filmmaker Daniel Kremer and filmmaker Allan Arkush, although technically impeded by a possibly remote recording setup, brims with enthusiasm and intriguing insights. Their engaging discussion enriches the viewers' experience, providing historical context and uncovering layers within the film that might go unnoticed without their expert perspective. Such supplementary content enhances the value of this release, making it a comprehensive package for classic film aficionados.

In conclusion, "If I Had a Million" is a compelling film that remains relevant with its universal themes of identity, moral choices, and human nature’s complexity in the face of sudden wealth. This Blu-ray edition, augmented by its insightful commentary and original trailer, offers an enriching experience that truly showcases the film's enduring appeal. It's an essential addition for those who appreciate classic cinema crafted with thoughtfulness and humor. Recommended for both film historians and those seeking timeless storytelling.