Gimme Shelter Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Gimme Shelter," presented in its original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.33:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC for a 1080p transfer, offers a significant visual enhancement from previous versions. This high-definition upgrade, executed under the supervision of co-director Albert Maysles along with Lee Kline and Maria Palazzola overseeing the telecine, audio, and 35mm restoration, materializes from a meticulous conversion process involving the 16mm camera originals and 35mm duplicate negatives. The result is a presentation where fine details, definition, and grain structure receive a noteworthy boost in clarity and authenticity. Although the film exhibits a pronounced graininess inherent to its 16mm origins, indicative of its era and filming conditions, the cleanup efforts have been substantial, successfully minimizing distractions without compromising the film's raw and gritty aesthetic.

The visual fidelity of this Criterion release shines particularly in its color reproduction and depth of field improvements. Colors, which appeared muted in the standard-definition version, now reveal a richer palette, with reds, blues, browns, and blacks displaying enhanced vibrancy and depth. Despite unavoidable flaws due to the original material like minor flecks and occasional scratches – noticeable during the Madison Square Garden performance and as Mick Jagger reviews footage – the overall quality remains impressively preserved. The transfer also successfully rectifies issues found in earlier releases, such as blockiness and color inconsistencies.

Thanks to the diligent restoration efforts and the inherent advantages of the Blu-ray format, "Gimme Shelter" benefits from an improved visual presentation that respects the documentary's historical context while offering viewers a clearer window into the tumultuous events it chronicles. The film's texture, from the granular quality of large crowd scenes to the nuanced details in facial expressions and environments, is greatly enhanced. Flesh tones maintain consistency across various lighting conditions, and black levels are notably improved, ranging from deep inky blacks to more nuanced shadows where details slightly crush. The visual restoration allows for an immersive experience that captures both the intimacy and intensity of its scenes with remarkable clarity.

The Blu-ray edition of "Gimme Shelter" offers an immersive auditory experience via its two main audio tracks: the English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and the English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Starting with the latter, this 5.1 track is both intense and enveloping, presenting a clear, understandable dialogue from the front center channel, while brilliantly using the surrounds to capture the chaotic blend of voices among the crowd and the richness of the music. Despite some distortion in the Altamont performances, likely a source limitation, other studio tracks play with an energizing clarity that invites higher volume levels, not due to any imbalance but purely for the joy of experiencing great rock 'n' roll as it should be heard. This track stands out for its increased dynamism and effective use of the subwoofer, adding depth with the menacing rumble of motorcycle engines and enhancing Bill Wyman's bass lines beyond their usual presence.

Conversely, purists might find solace in the quality of the English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, which arguably provides a more authentic, albeit simpler, auditory experience reminiscent of the original film's era. Prioritizing simplicity and balance, this stereo mix captivates with Mick Jagger's commanding vocals, precise guitar solos, and an ambient crowd noise that together encapsulate the film's live performances without overwhelming. The bass is well-rounded and convincing, crafting a dynamically strong audio environment that admirably supports the visual content.

In comparison, while the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track elevates certain elements such as crowd immersion and instrumental prominence (notably bass and drums), it may introduce a shift in balance that some viewers could find less appealing than the consistent level maintained by the 2.0 track. However, both tracks stand as compelling reasons to consider upgrading from previous standard definition versions of "Gimme Shelter," highlighting the marked improvements in audio technology that offer fans a varied yet uniformly enriching listening experience tailored to differing preferences for immersion and authenticity.

The Blu-ray extras for "Gimme Shelter" offer an invaluable deep dive into the tumultuous events surrounding the Altamont Free Concert, providing a comprehensive and multifaceted exploration that is as engaging as it is informative. With a detailed 1969 KSAN Radio Broadcast featuring pivotal figures from the concert, viewers are treated to an audial history lesson that feels immediate and raw. The Outtakes section, despite the poor condition of some prints, offers a precious glimpse of The Rolling Stones and guests in their prime, capturing moments of spontaneity and the electric atmosphere of their performances. The Images from Altamont provided by photographers Bill Owens and Beth Sunflower add a poignant visual dimension to the narrative, while the Audio Commentary recorded in 2000 by Albert Maysles, Charlotte Zwerin, and Stanley Goldstein offers insightful retrospections on the making and impact of "Gimme Shelter." Complemented by a richly curated booklet, these extras form an essential complement to the documentary, enriching our understanding of one of rock's most notorious moments.

Extras included in this disc:

• 1969 KSAN Radio Broadcast: A captivating auditory revisit to the aftermath of Altamont through the perspectives of notable figures involved.

• Outtakes: Rare archival footage that showcases the vitality of The Rolling Stones during their MSG performances and the spontaneous behind-the-scenes interactions.

• Images from Altamont: A collection of potent images capturing the infamous concert from photographers Bill Owens and Beth Sunflower.

• Trailers: Original and re-release trailers that encapsulate the film's essence and historical context.

• Audio Commentary: Exclusive insights from the documentary's directors and collaborator, providing deeper understanding into the creation and impact of "Gimme Shelter".

• Booklet: A compilation of essays and reflections that provides rich contextual backgrounds, critical analyses, and personal anecdotes related to The Rolling Stones and the Altamont concert.

Gimme Shelter" (1970), directed by Albert Maysles, David Maysles, and Charlotte Zwerin, presents itself as a stirring document of a tumultuous time in cultural history, encapsulating the end of an era that many hoped would epitomize peace and love. The film, released on Blu-ray by Criterion with a high-definition transfer supervised by Albert Maysles, is masterfully constructed from 16mm camera originals and 35mm duplicate negatives, preserving the gritty, spontaneous energy of the event it chronicles—the ill-fated Altamont Speedway Free Festival headlined by The Rolling Stones. Unlike the hopeful tones of "Monterey Pop" and the chaotic yet communal spirit of "Woodstock," "Gimme Shelter" serves as the dark culmination of the '60s counterculture movement, a stark contrast to its predecessors in what can be considered an unintended trilogy that navigates the complexities of the late 1960s.

The Rolling Stones' performance, marred by erratic singing and disorganization, starkly reflects the chaotic atmosphere of Altamont, overshadowed by violence that signaled the demise of the optimistic '60s counterculture. The brutal realities presented are magnified by the harrowing decision to employ the Hells Angels as security, leading to altercations that culminated in the tragic death of Meredith Hunter. The film’s rawness is further enhanced by its use of handheld cameras, resulting in jerky footage that adds to the sense of immediacy and unpredictability. The inclusion of scenes where the Stones and others view and comment on the footage offers a reflective layer to the narrative, showcasing the bewildering disconnect between the performers and the escalating violence among the crowd.

Crafted with a blend of concert footage, candid interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, "Gimme Shelter" transcends simple musical documentation. It encapsulates the volatile intersection between idealism and reality, serving as a powerful, cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked freedom and lackluster organization at large public gatherings. Its significance is further cemented by Criterion's meticulous preservation and the thoughtful inclusion of supplemental material that enriches one's understanding of this pivotal moment in rock history. Navigating through the chaotic landscape of Altamont, "Gimme Shelter" offers an introspective look into an event emblematic of a cultural shift, marking not only a seminal moment for The Rolling Stones but also for the collective American consciousness during a time fraught with upheaval and change.

Gimme Shelter," revered for its raw and honest portrayal of a pivotal moment in rock history, elicits a wide range of responses from viewers. While some may argue that its significance has been overstressed or admired for the wrong reasons, there's no denying the film's powerful impact and historical value. It stands as a testament to an era marked by both cultural vibrancy and turmoil, documented through the unfiltered lens of The Maysles Brothers. Their commitment to the Direct Cinema movement enabled a genuine portrayal of events, undisturbed by the manipulations of narrative cinema. This Blu-ray presentation captures the essence of "Gimme Shelter" with remarkable clarity, ensuring that the film's intricate details and emotive power are preserved for audiences to experience.

The technical quality of this Blu-ray release meets high standards, offering viewers an immersive dive into the tumultuous atmosphere surrounding the Altamont Free Concert. By maintaining the documentary's raw authenticity and providing a crisp visual and audio experience, this edition serves both as a valuable historical document and a compelling cinematic experience. The significance of "Gimme Shelter" is further accentuated through a presentation that respects its source material, ensuring that the film's message and aesthetic are conveyed with integrity.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray release of "Gimme Shelter" is an essential addition for both historians of cultural movements and enthusiasts of cinema verité. Its capacity to capture a moment of profound cultural shift, without relinquishing the truth for spectacle, makes it a compelling watch. Despite variances in viewer reception regarding its historical importance, the film remains an important cultural dialogue through its candid portrayal of events. Through this release, "Gimme Shelter" continues to provoke thought and invite reflection on the complexities of history and documentation, solidifying its place in both cinematic and cultural archives.