The Camp Followers Blu-ray Review

"The Camp Followers" on Blu-ray, presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, offers a video transfer at 1080p that is somewhat lackluster. The release, sourced from an older remaster, exhibits noticeable filtering effects that give the film a flat, upscaled-appearance, reminiscent of a subpar DVD upgrade. While some close-up shots provide borderline decent detail, much of the finer elements have been compromised due to these adjustments. Backgrounds, where detailed nuances matter, particularly suffer from this treatment. Despite a generally good grayscale, inconsistencies lead to black and gray tones appearing muted, detracting from the intended depth and dynamic range of the visuals.

Shot on 35 mm by cinematographer Tonino Delli Colli with spherical lenses for its theatrical presentation, this version appears marred by Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) application, resulting in an overly clean image that lacks film grain texture. Unfortunately, the DNR is inconsistently applied, leading to variable fine detail, with textures appearing either adequate or over-smoothed at different moments. The softening effect is evident from the optical printing during the opening titles, which looks excessively soft, while some dirt from compositing persists—indicative of an older master. The contrast is equally inconsistent; occasional elevated black levels produce a flat, gray undertone in several sequences.

While this release purportedly elevates the film into high-definition realms, it falls short of replicating its original cinematic feel. Image stability and overall cleanliness are commendable features; however, these are outweighed by the disappointment in capturing the filmic quality fully. Without improvements in master sourcing and remastering techniques, the presentation struggles to deliver an authentic viewing experience that matches its 35 mm origins.

The Blu-ray release of "The Camp Followers" features an Italian DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, accompanied by optional English subtitles. The audio presentation is commendable for its clarity and sharpness, although it exhibits occasional thinning. These fluctuations appear to be a characteristic of the inherent Italian overdubbing process, common in films of that period where international actors delivered lines in their native languages, resulting in mismatched lip movements. Nevertheless, these quirks are minor and do not detract significantly from the viewing experience.

The track is free from notable noise, popping, or other audio artifacts, maintaining a clean listening experience. Despite the inherent thinness typical of post-synced dialogues in Italian cinema, the audio remains easy to follow, with a satisfactory English translation provided. This ensures that the nuanced performances of the cast are accessible and comprehensible to a broader audience, preserving the film's intent and emotional weight.

Overall, the audio quality aligns well with expectations for films of its era, delivering an authentic and engaging auditory experience that remains true to its original production style.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Camp Followers" are both informative and well-curated, offering a comprehensive dive into the film's historical and artistic context. The featured introduction by Marco Muller provides an insightful overview of director Valerio Zurlini’s distinctive approach. Muller, with his extensive background in film festivals, delves deeply into Zurlini's reluctance to align with neorealism or comedic styles prevalent among Italian filmmakers of the era, while also discussing the film's casting intricacies. Though initially slated, a commentary by Danielle Hipkins was regrettably omitted. Muller's presentation is rich in content, although the lack of subtitles might limit its accessibility to English-speaking audiences. Overall, these extras significantly enhance understanding of the film's artistic intent and production nuances, making it an essential addition for enthusiasts and scholars.

Extras included in this disc:

Introduction: A filmed introduction by Marco Muller providing context on Zurlini’s filmography and insights into "Le Soldatesse", though not subtitled.

Valerio Zurlini's "The Camp Followers" (Le Soldatesse) is a poignant 1965 wartime drama, now available on Blu-ray from Raro Video. Set against the backdrop of the Italian invasion of Greece during World War II, the film offers a grim portrayal of desperation and human suffering. The narrative follows Lt. Gaetano Martino, portrayed by Tomas Milian, as he is tasked with leading a group of Greek and Italian women—desperate survivors turning to prostitution as a means of survival—through grim terrains filled with danger and despair. The distribution of these women across military outposts underpins a deeper commentary on human exploitation amid wartime chaos. The truck journey, driven by Sgt. Castagnoli (Mario Adorf), mirrors the tense, cynical atmosphere reminiscent of Henri Georges-Clouzot's "The Wages of Fear," evoking a sense of continuous peril underlined by moments of dark humor.

Zurlini masterfully weaves together elements of drama and comedy, creating a unique narrative that diverges from traditional Italian neorealism, while still echoing its thematic focus on human frailty. Notably absent are the aesthetics typical of his peers like Rossellini and De Sica; instead, Zurlini employs a formalist style enriched with elements found in later works by Visconti. This amalgamation is complemented by Tonino Delli Colli’s evocative cinematography, echoing the despair and beauty found in classics like "Mamma Roma" and "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly." While some may critique the casting for lacking authentic Greek representation, the performances by Lea Massari, Marie Laforet, Anna Karina, and Valeria Moriconi provide depth and nuance to this multifaceted war narrative.

Adapted from Ugo Pirro’s bestseller, "The Camp Followers" remains a testament to Zurlini's distinctive cinematic voice. He captures not just the physical journey northward, but a larger reflection on wasted lives amidst the widespread devastation of war. Through intertwining personal stories of tragedy, the film underscores the futility of individual suffering drowned in the broader sea of wartime horror.

Valerio Zurlini's "The Camp Followers" Blu-ray release, while anticipated with high hopes, falls short of expectations due to its technical presentation. This film, an essential part of Zurlini's impressive oeuvre, is a significant yet neglected piece from post-war Italian cinema. The current transfer, released by Raro Video, lacks the visual brilliance necessary to do justice to Zurlini's meticulous direction. While the disc offers minimal extras, they provide some valuable context for those unfamiliar with Zurlini's work, making it a stepping stone for broader exposure to his cinematic achievements.

Despite the challenges associated with this release, the film itself remains an important cultural artifact. "The Camp Followers" offers a critical exploration of an underrepresented theater of WWII, deserving the attention of serious cinephiles. Viewed through the lens of historical and artistic significance, this Blu-ray serves as an entry point for rediscovering a director who has not been accorded the international recognition he merits. Yet, the suboptimal quality of the Blu-ray undermines its value as a definitive edition.

In conclusion, procuring "The Camp Followers" for your collection may be worthwhile if available at a discounted rate, understanding that a restoration worthy of Zurlini's artistry has yet to be realized. There's hope that, with renewed interest, future releases like "Violent Summer" and "Girl with a Suitcase" will be more carefully restored and offered in quality editions that reflect their stature. Treating Zurlini's works with the respect and care they deserve is crucial for their appreciation by future audiences.