Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion Blu-ray Review

Elio Petri's "Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion" is presented on Blu-ray by Criterion with a remarkable 1080p HD transfer, retaining its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This cinematic gem has undergone an extensive 4K digital restoration, supervised and mastered by Grover Crisp of Sony Pictures, working closely with Cineteca di Bologna and L'Immagine Ritrovata. This collaboration, supported by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, The Film Foundation, and Sony Pictures Entertainment, ensures that every frame of the 35mm original camera negative, scanned at a 4k resolution, is brought back to its pristine condition. Viewers are treated to an immaculately clear and detailed visual experience where colors pop with vitality, especially in the portrayal of natural shades like browns, grays, and blues, alongside deep black levels that add depth to every scene.

The restoration work has left no stone unturned in addressing image flaws such as dirt, debris, scratches, and damage marks which have been painstakingly removed ensuring the film's visual integrity is uncompromised. The efforts of digital image restoration were carried out both at L'Immagine Ritrovata and Colorworks, with Sheri Eisenberg of Colorworks providing expert color grading that preserves the film's atmospheric tension. The audio restoration by Chace Audio by Deluxe enhances this release further, making the overall presentation immaculate.

Detail in the video is nothing short of spectacular; especially noticeable in close-up shots where the minute intricacies of the actors' expressions are vividly captured. The depth achieved in background clarity imbues a lifelike quality to each scene, while the filmic appearance is maintained throughout. Moreover, Criterion's handling ensures there are no compression or stability issues, presenting a visual feast without traces of overzealous degraining or sharpening corrections. This release not only stands as a testament to the film's enduring legacy but also showcases the pinnacle of current restoration technologies. Collectors should note, however, that this Blu-ray is Region-A locked, necessitating appropriate playback equipment.

The audio presentation of "Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion" on this Blu-ray release is facilitated through a singular Italian LPCM 1.0 track, with the addition of proficiently crafted optional English subtitles enhancing its accessibility. Viewers familiar with previous DVD releases will observe a notable enhancement in both depth and clarity upon indulging in this Criterion collection piece. The restoration and remastering efforts shine through impressively, especially when considering the mono track's limitations; it showcases an impressive dynamic for a film surpassing four decades in age. Ennio Morricone's iconic score reaps significant benefits from this audio treatment, exuding greater vibrancy and contributing profoundly to the film's suspenseful and entertaining essence.

Dialogue within the film remains distinct and stable throughout, ensuring that conversations are easily comprehensible, thereby retaining the film's narrative integrity. The audio track's cleanliness is exemplary, with no discernable disturbances, such as pops, cracks, or hissing, which speaks volumes about the meticulous attention dedicated to its remastering. While the absence of a multi-channel option, such as a 5.1 mix, might seem like a missed opportunity for a fuller sound experience, the existing mono mix remarkably holds its own. It encapsulates the listener with its clarity and depth, demonstrating that even with a constrained dynamic range inherent to mono tracks, the audio presentation significantly enhances the viewing experience.

Despite the inherent limitations associated with a mono audio track, this Blu-ray release remarkably demonstrates how strategic remastering can breathe new life into the sound design of classic cinema. The LPCM 1.0 mix efficiently channels the essence of "Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion," ensuring that every auditory aspect, from Morricone's evocative score to the crisply delivered dialogues, is rendered with utmost clarity and impact. The thoughtful inclusion of high-quality English subtitles further complements this audio experience, making it exemplary for both auditory purists and those seeking an accessible entry into this cinematic masterpiece.

The Criterion Collection's Blu-ray extras for "Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion" offer a comprehensive and immersive exploration into the cinematic world of director Elio Petri, composer Ennio Morricone, and actor Gian Maria Volonté. Viewers are treated to a variety of content ranging from original trailers, both in Italian and English, to profound documentaries and insightful interviews that delve deep into the creative processes and socio-political undertones of the film. Of particular note are the in-depth documentaries "Elio Petri: Notes About a Filmmaker" and "Investigation of a Citizen Named Volonté," which provide extensive biographical perspectives, enriched by discussions with iconic directors, actors, and the legendary composer himself. Additionally, the inclusion of a well-curated booklet featuring scholarly essays and excerpts adds a textual layer to the film’s analysis. These extras, meticulously curated, are indispensable for aficionados of Italian cinema, offering unmatched insights into the film's historical context, thematic depth, and its seminal contributions to film art and society.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailers: Original Italian and English-language trailers.
• Elio Petri: A glimpse into Petri's creative vision through a French television program.
• On Investigation: A new video interview with film scholar Camilla Zamboni.
• Elio Petri: Notes About a Filmmaker: A comprehensive documentary on Elio Petri's life.
• Investigation of a Citizen Named Volonte: A documentary on Gian Maria Volonté's career.
• Music in His Blood: Ennio Morricone discusses his film collaborations.
• Criterion Booklet: An illustrated booklet with insightful essays and excerpts.

Elio Petri's masterful "Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion," a 1970 cinematic tour de force, eloquently explores the murky waters of power and corruption, presented in a prestigious Blu-ray edition by Criterion. This Italian political thriller, while steeped in the genre's conventions, elegantly transcends them through its compelling narrative and innovative storytelling. The film follows a high-ranking police inspector, brilliantly portrayed by Gian Maria Volonté, who embarks on a chilling game of deception following the murder of his mistress. Through an intricate series of flashbacks, Petri meticulously unravels the twisted dynamics of the inspector's relationships and his cynical abuse of power, inviting viewers into a provocative examination of authority and impunity.

The narrative intricacy is matched by technical prowess; the film’s utilization of flashbacks not only enriches character development but elevates the suspense to a palpable intensity. With its seamless blend of psychological depth and societal critique, Petri's film captures the essence of the Italian political climate of the 1970s, leveraging its narrative to comment on the broader themes of justice system corruption and societal apathy. This thematic richness is complemented by Ennio Morricone’s haunting score, which underscores the film’s atmospheric tension and psychological depth.

"Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion" is not just a film; it’s an audacious commentary on power's corruptibility and the illusion of moral superiority. Its relevance remains undiminished, echoing through contemporary global politics. The Criterion release does justice to Petri’s vision, offering a visually and aurally pristine presentation that ensures audiences can fully appreciate both the film's technical achievements and its complex narrative architecture. With meticulous restoration and a wealth of supplementary materials, this edition is an essential acquisition for cinephiles eager to delve into Italian cinema's provocative core.

"Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion," directed by the talented Italian filmmaker Elio Petri, receives a masterful treatment in its transition to Blu-ray. The collaboration for this release involved a meticulous 4K restoration, conducted by Colorworks and Cineteca di Bologna at L'Immagine Ritrovata, presenting the film in possibly its most pristine form since its original release. This restoration effort ensures that both visuals and audio meet the highest standards, reflecting the film's significant role in cinema and reaffirming its standing among the top five Region-A Blu-ray releases of the year. The enhancement beautifully encapsulates the director's vision, alongside the remarkable performances, direction, and unforgettable score, signaling a release that Criterion Collection admirably pushes into the realm of essential ownership.

The Blu-ray edition not only showcases an exceptional video presentation that ranks among the best of the year but also boasts superior audio quality that does justice to the original sound design. Adding to the allure are the comprehensive extras included, which delve deep into the making and significance of the film, providing an enriched viewing experience. This release confirms Criterion's commitment to honoring cinematic masterpieces with the respect and care they deserve, setting a high bar for home entertainment.

In conclusion, "Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion" on Blu-ray stands out as a definitive acquisition for cinephiles and collectors alike. The collaboration behind the restoration, coupled with Criterion's dedication to quality, results in a release that is not only visually and auditorily superior but also rich in content. It’s a pinnacle example of how classic cinema should be preserved and presented in the digital age. The Blu-ray edition of Elio Petri's magnum opus is, without a doubt, VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, serving both as a testament to the filmmaker's genius and Criterion's excellence in film curation.