Bob the Gambler 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's 4K UHD release of "Bob le Flambeur" offers an impressive visual presentation, leveraging StudioCanal's meticulous 4K restoration to deliver sharp and pristine imagery. Presented in native 4K without Dolby Vision or HDR enhancements, the film still shines with exceptional density levels and a remarkable grayscale. Particularly on larger screens, starting at around 85 inches, the strengths of the restoration become profoundly clear with an evident tightness and fluidity in the visuals. Instances of gamma fluctuations are intrinsic limitations of the source material, not encoding anomalies, and do not detract significantly from the overall viewing experience.

Contrary to concerns that this might be a mere reissue, the native 4K presentation genuinely enhances the film's look. The photographic quality suggests a restoration focused on the original camera negative, resulting in striking contrast and detail, especially notable during optical transitions like fades and dissolves where grain and softness are minimally increased. Textures on clothing and other fine details are rendered with remarkable clarity. Despite lacking HDR, this edition elegantly replicates the visual appeal of a pristine 35mm print, offering a beautifully stable and clean image with minimal artifacts or scratches.

In essence, Kino Lorber's offering is a worthwhile upgrade for enthusiasts, particularly those with large-screen setups who wish to experience Jean-Pierre Melville’s film in its most visually refined form to date. The depths of the 4K makeover elevate the viewing experience, making it easier to appreciate the subtle visual nuances that define this classic film noir.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray release of "Bob the Gambler" features a single audio track: French DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. This monaural track closely mirrors its 2019 Blu-ray counterpart, providing a clean and stable listening experience. The inherent sound design of the film doesn't offer dynamic intensity, yet the audio is never distorted, making for a clear and easy-to-follow soundtrack.

Dialogue remains crisp throughout, ensuring no comprehension issues, and the haunting horn solos in the score maintain excellent fidelity without distortion. Even the subtle Foley and sound effects are presented with remarkable clarity. English subtitles are optional but effective, though some may find their size slightly smaller than preferred. This audio presentation is consistent and effective for the film's vintage style.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Bob the Gambler" offers a compelling suite of extras that enhance the viewing experience. The highlight is the meticulously detailed commentary by historian Nick Pinkerton, rich with insights on the film’s locations, visual style, and the careers of Jean-Pierre Melville and his collaborators. Complementing this is "Diary of a Villain," a modern documentary examining Paris during the film's time, Roger Duchesne’s intriguing life, and featuring in-depth interviews. Additional vintage trailers for relevant French films add nostalgic value. These extras provide both historical context and critical analysis, making this release a valuable resource for cinephiles.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Insightful audio commentary by Nick Pinkerton, detailing various aspects of the film.
• Diary of a Villain: Program on the era, Paris's depiction, and Roger Duchesne's life, with Thierry Crifo.
• Trailer: Vintage French trailer with English subtitles.
• Other Trailers:
  • Le Doulos
  • Touchez Pas au Grisbi
  • Razzia sur la chnouf
  • Alphaville

Jean-Pierre Melville’s 1956 film, "Bob le Flambeur" ("Bob the Gambler"), stands as a pivotal piece in the evolution of French cinema, bridging the gap between American-inspired French film noir and the burgeoning French New Wave. Shot primarily on location with naturalistic lighting by Henri Decae, the film carries an authentic, street-level vibe that contrasts sharply yet harmonizes with the stylized glamour of Hollywood crime films. This classic heist narrative focuses on Bob Montagne (Roger Duchesne), an older, impeccably dressed gambler whose refined style demands respect. Bob attempts a grand heist on the Casino of Deauville after a severe stroke of bad luck leaves him penniless. His meticulous planning, involving crew rehearsals and expert safecrackers, sets the stage for an intense build-up that is ultimately characterized by an unforeseen twist of fate.

Melville’s ability to infuse a casual yet intensely atmospheric cool into the film elevates "Bob le Flambeur" from conventional crime thrillers of its time. Similar to his later work "Le Samouraï," this film’s 'cool' factor is meticulously curated through character presentation rather than overt cinematic stylization. Melville's low-key approach humanizes the characters, adding a level of authenticity and classiness uncommon in contemporary genre pieces. Interestingly, some of these characters were portrayed by real criminals, adding a layer of realism to the film’s narrative density. Despite a few setbacks caused by amateur mistakes and internal conflicts within Bob's crew, the film culminates in an engaging climax that highlights Melville’s mastery in creating tension.

"Bob le Flambeur" offers a lusciously subdued yet intensely engaging cinematic experience. It subtly flirts with Nouvelle Vague sensibilities while maintaining noir elements and setting a precedent for Melville’s later, greater works. This blend of meticulous planning, flawed execution, and atmospheric cool makes "Bob le Flambeur" not just a precursor but a definitive standout in Melville’s distinguished filmography.

Bob le Flambeur's 4K UHD Blu-ray presents a fascinating restoration of Jean-Pierre Melville’s classic 1950s film. The 4K restoration by StudioCanal is nothing short of remarkable. The rich, atmospheric black-and-white cinematography shines with stunning clarity and depth, displaying exceptional detail that enhances the film’s iconic Parisian locations. Silky-smooth contrasts and crisp visuals breathe new life into the aging gambler Bob’s adventures, preserving the gritty yet sophisticated ambiance that Melville meticulously crafted.

Audiophiles will also appreciate the improved sound quality, with the DTS-HD Master Audio track delivering a more immersive experience that respects the original mono presentation. Dialogue is clear and well-balanced with background scores and ambient sounds, maintaining the integrity of the original film. The subtleties in nuances of the film’s soundscape are expertly preserved, enriching the viewer's overall sensory experience.

Bob le Flambeur not only stands as a cornerstone of film noir but also as a testament to Melville’s influence on French cinema. This 4K UHD Blu-ray/Blu-ray combo pack offers an exceptional opportunity to appreciate StudioCanal's meticulous restoration efforts. Fans and newcomers alike will find the upgraded visual and audio quality adds a profound dimension to this cinematic gem. Very highly recommended for any serious collector or enthusiast of classic French cinema.

The two 'coolest' villains in French cinema were created by the same director, Jean-Pierre Melville -- the professional killer that Alain Delon plays in Le Samourai, Jef Costello, and the aging gambler that Roger Duchesne becomes in Bob le Flambeur. Also, all other French films about gamblers that were made after Melville's film essentially copy his blueprint, from Bay of Angels to Any Number Can Win to Cheaters. Some tweak a few things here and there, but the influence of Melville's classic film is always incredibly easy to recognize.

This 4K Blu-ray/Blu-ray combo pack gives you the opportunity to view StudioCanal's excellent recent 4K restoration of Bob le Flambeur in native 4K. I liked what I saw on my system a lot, so if Bob le Flambeur is one of your favorite films, consider an upgrade. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.