Saratoga Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Saratoga" showcases an exceptionally well-crafted 1080p transfer, derived from a new 4K scan of the most suitable preservation elements available. This meticulous process has resulted in an image that vastly surpasses prior home video versions, maintaining a pristine finish by preserving its authentic nitrate film grain without introducing compression artifacts like banding or black crush. The disc employs a consistently high bit rate, ensuring a sharp and stable image from start to finish, free from any distracting blemishes such as scratches, dirt specks, or emulsion clouding.

The film's director of photography, Ray June, originally captured "Saratoga" on 35 mm black-and-white film with spherical lenses. The Blu-ray presentation honors his work with remarkable clarity and contrast, rendering intricate details such as textile patterns and facial complexions with precision. Grayscale is notably excellent with pronounced black levels and crisp whites. The aspect ratio faithfully adheres to the original 1.37:1 format, and the integration of process photography aligns seamlessly, though variations in grain between studio and second-unit shots are minimally noticeable.

Further elevating this presentation, the transfer showcases vivid yet balanced colors alongside consistent shadow delineation and stable grays. The sharpness highlights key details, though close-ups occasionally reveal the actors’ fatigue. Despite slight softness in some sequences and differences in grain structure between studio scenes and second-unit horse racing shots, these do not detract significantly from viewers' overall experience. This transfer stands as a testament to the impeccable craftsmanship of Warner Archive's digital restorations, making it a worthwhile upgrade for enthusiasts seeking to experience the film in its best possible quality.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track of "Saratoga" offers a generally impressive aural experience, notable for its clarity and robust presentation despite the film's vintage origins. Dialogue is predominantly clear and intelligible, facilitating a smooth viewing experience. The track achieves a commendable balance between spoken words, Edward Ward’s musical compositions, and background effects. Notably, the soundtrack captures the vibrant atmosphere of key scenes, such as the enthusiastic rendition of "The Horse With the Dreamy Eyes" and the dynamic sounds of thoroughbred racing. Occasional instances of persistent hiss and slight muffling around the halfway mark may date the mix slightly, yet do not significantly detract from its overall quality.

For enthusiasts of cinematic soundtracks, this mix delivers a satisfying auditory canvas, preserving sonic subtleties such as chirping birds and accentuating more dramatic moments with pronounced bass frequencies, particularly evident during the thundering hoofbeat sequences in the racing scenes. The careful modulation ensures that seven-time Oscar nominee Edward Ward's score maintains its intended dynamic range, resonating cleanly without distortion. While some faint aural artifacts remain, such as soft hiss in quieter sections, these are minimal and largely overshadowed by the strength and richness of the track.

It is worth noting that English SDH subtitles are available throughout the main feature but not for additional content. This audio presentation will likely appeal to audiophiles seeking an authentic representation of the film's original sound environment, with its successful restoration making it a commendable example of a mid-20th-century cinematic audio experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Saratoga" offer a fascinating glimpse into the MGM studio's golden era, capturing both its technical and artistic prowess. The standout feature, The Romance of Celluloid, is a meticulously restored 1937 documentary narrated by Frank Whitbeck. This short film offers an inside look at the film production process at MGM, showcasing everything from the manufacture of Kodak film to the intricate makeup work of Jack Dawn. It also highlights fashion insights from designer Adrian, a musical demo by composer Herbert Stothart, and promotional segments for upcoming films such as "The Bride Wore Red" and "Double Wedding." These segments provide a cultural snapshot, albeit with a text disclaimer addressing historical prejudices. Additionally, the Theatrical Trailer is included, poignantly introduced by Lewis Stone, depicting how MGM completed the film in light of Jean Harlow's untimely death.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Romance of Celluloid: A restored 1937 documentary detailing MGM's filmmaking process and upcoming releases.
• Theatrical Trailer: Introduction by Lewis Stone, addressing Jean Harlow's passing.

"Saratoga" remains a poignant entry in classic cinema, largely due to its association with Jean Harlow's untimely demise. Directed by Jack Conway, this romantic comedy is recognized as Harlow's final film, leading to substantial audience interest posthumously. MGM, known for pairing charismatic stars to enhance box office appeal, found success in Harlow and Clark Gable's onscreen chemistry. Despite Harlow's tragic passing during production, studio efforts—using stand-ins and voice doubles—managed to complete the film in a way that allowed it to become MGM’s highest-grossing release of 1937.

The film centers around Duke Bradley (Clark Gable), a bookie who inherits a horse farm through gambling debts, and Carol Clayton (Jean Harlow), whose family's financial troubles entwine her fate with Duke's. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Saratoga Springs' horse racing culture, yet places more emphasis on romantic entanglements with Carol's fiancé, Hartley Madison (Walter Pidgeon). The storyline, penned by Anita Loos, includes strengths typical of romantic comedies of the era, yet it feels convoluted at times. Supporting performances by the likes of Lionel Barrymore and Hattie McDaniel add dimension, although certain plot closures remain unsatisfactorily wrapped due to production constraints.

The Blu-ray release provides a high-definition visual sweep that emphasizes the technical tricks employed to mask Harlow's absence. While the film’s visuals highlight her evident illness in some scenes, they serve as a haunting reminder of her fading health. The supporting cast, featuring seasoned actors like Frank Morgan and Una Merkel, delivers memorable scenes that bolster the film. However, the chemistry between Harlow and Gable, historically vibrant, feels subdued, reflecting the somber reality underpinning Saratoga’s creation. Despite its flaws as a romcom, "Saratoga" garners attention as a cinematic artifact, marking Harlow’s last contribution to Hollywood's Golden Age.

"Saratoga," directed by Jack Conway, stands out more as a historical piece rather than a sharp romantic comedy. While it marks the last performance of Jean Harlow before her untimely passing, the film succeeds in captivating viewers primarily through its extraordinary ensemble cast, featuring notable stars such as Clark Gable, Lionel Barrymore, and Hattie McDaniel. The movie navigates the challenges of its completion with poise, thanks to MGM's contract talents who elevate its otherwise conventional story. Despite lacking the sharpness found in other collaborations between Gable and Harlow, "Saratoga" remains an engaging watch due to its star-studded lineup.

The Warner Archive's Blu-Ray release significantly enhances the experience with a stellar audio-visual restoration, leveraging a 4K scan from preservation elements to present the film in its best possible form. The transfer bests previous DVD versions substantially and effectively showcases the classic MGM production values and the charisma of its stars. Additionally, the disc includes period-specific bonus features that further enrich the historical context, catering to both longtime fans and newcomers who appreciate classic cinema with all its bygone era charm.

In conclusion, "Saratoga" may not rank amongst the finest works of Gable and Harlow or as a standout in romantic comedy. Still, it charms with its historical importance and a remarkable cast. The exceptional Blu-ray rendition by Warner Archive makes it a worthy addition to any classic film collection. Whether you're drawn to it by cinema history or star power, "Saratoga" delivers a viewing experience that enlightens and entertains.