Stay as You Are Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of Alberto Lattuada's "Stay As You Are," presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC for a 1080p transfer, presents numerous video quality challenges. The source material appears to be a dated standard definition master, presumably from a VHS release. Consequently, the detail and shadow definition are significantly subpar, with major color identities almost entirely lost. Image stability is intermittent, plagued by shaky transitions and edge flicker, coupled with prevalent damage marks, scratches, and dirt spots.

Reviewers mention that the picture quality is akin to a direct VHS copy, further compromised by a substantial presence of scratches and dust. The image occasionally reveals fine detail, but a consistent softness undermines this. Moreover, a peculiar rainbow effect surfaces in areas with fine detail. The overall color palette, mainly comprising browns and yellows, fails to deliver the intended warmth, instead blending into a dull uniformity. While contrast levels manage to avoid deep, rich blacks, whites are handled relatively better without appearing blown out. Lamentably, there appears to have been minimal effort in upgrading this transfer.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Stay as You Are" includes Italian LPCM 2.0 and English LPCM 2.0 tracks, with optional subtitles for the Italian track. Despite some preferences for the Italian track, it must be noted that several actors, including Nastassja Kinski, were dubbed and issues with depth and clarity are evident. In addition, stability concerns and transcription problems in the English subtitles somewhat diminish the viewing experience. Regrettably, Ennio Morricone's outstanding score also struggles to fully open up due to these audio constraints, indicative of a need for remastering.

While the Dolby Digital 2.0 soundtrack copes reasonably well with dialogue clarity, some scenes exhibit a tinny quality. Dialogue generally remains comprehensible, although the balance between the music and spoken words can be inconsistent. The soundtrack, however, offers a substantial depth, distinguishing itself as one of the stronger components of the audio experience. Sound effects are sparse and unremarkable; they fulfill their role effectively without standing out in any significant way. Overall, the audio, while serviceable, lacks the pristine quality one might hope for in a modern Blu-ray release.

The Blu-ray extras for "Stay as You Are" offer a robust and engaging selection that enhances the viewing experience through a blend of classic and unique additional materials. The included trailers, while varied in language and subtitle options, effectively showcase director Tinto Brass’ stylistic vision. The highlight of the extras is undeniably Ennio Morricone’s beautiful soundtrack, which provides an immersive auditory complement to the film. Listeners can enjoy individual tracks at leisure, akin to a CD, spotlighting Morricone’s masterful compositions. Overall, these well-curated extras are a commendable addition for enthusiasts and collectors.

Extras included in this disc:

Trailer for Stay As You Are: In English, not subtitled. Original trailer for Tinto Brass' Black Angel: In Italian, with imposed English subtitles. Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Listen to the film's soundtrack one track at a time.

Alberto Lattuada's "Stay As You Are" (1978), offers a rich yet provocative narrative that delves into themes of passion, age disparity, and taboo relationships. The film adeptly situates its story around middle-aged architect Giulio Marengo (Marcello Mastroianni), who is trapped in an unfulfilling marriage, and young student Francesca (Nastassja Kinski). The film’s plot thickens when Giulio suspects Francesca might be his daughter from a former love affair with Fosca, thus pivoting the story into ethically murky waters.

Lattuada's direction, combined with Jos� Luis Alcaine's exceptional cinematography, threads a delicate balance between intrigue and discomfort. The chemistry between Mastroianni and Kinski is palpable, adding layers of authenticity to their complex relationship. Despite the potential for a cliché May-December romance, Giulio's yearning for spontaneity and Francesca’s quest for meaningful connection give the narrative depth. However, the emotionally charged storyline sometimes sidesteps the more challenging implications of its premise, opting for romantic escapades over ethical confrontation.

The film benefits enormously from Ennio Morricone's orchestral score, which enhances the emotional resonance of the narrative. While Lattuada skillfully circumvents some pitfalls of controversial material, he leaves key questions inadequately explored. The narrative is often too preoccupied with maintaining romantic tension at the expense of grappling with the real complexities posed by Giulio and Francesca’s relationship. The Blu-ray release by Cult Epics ensures an immersive viewing experience, presenting the film in both Italian and English with subtitles. Despite minor subtitle errors, this release is a crucial acquisition for those interested in classic Italian cinema brimming with both stylistic flair and thematic ambition.

"Stay as You Are," directed by Alberto Lattuada, is presented in its most recent Blu-ray release with significant technical deficiencies that detract from the overall viewing experience. The biggest drawback is the image quality, which appears to have been derived from an old VHS master. This results in a poorly upscaled visual presentation that sadly does no justice to the aesthetic grandeur of Lattuada's work. Black levels are muddy, and there is a persistent lack of sharpness, making this Blu-ray subpar compared to contemporary standards.

The film itself ventures into morally complex and controversial territory but stops short of delivering on its provocative premise. Marcello Mastroianni and Nastassja Kinski offer less than compelling performances, further diminishing the film's potential impact. Additionally, the audio quality, while functional, does not elevate the viewing experience, offering merely adequate sound without any standout qualities.

It is hugely disappointing to see that Alberto Lattuada's very, very beautiful film was not restored before it was released on Blu-ray. The current presentation is very problematic. It appears that Cult Epics used an old VHS master of some sort to produce the Blu-ray and the film looks quite awful upscaled. What is really sad, however, is that the work of this great Italian director has virtually been ignored in North America, this disappointing Blu-ray release could very well remain the definitive home video release of "Stay As You Are."