Beauty and the Beast Blu-ray Review

Presented in a 1.33:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray release of Jean Cocteau's "La Belle et la Bête" from Criterion is a masterclass in film restoration. Featuring a 1080p transfer from a meticulously cleaned original nitrate negative, the presentation leverages a wetgate process, MTI's DRS system, Pixel Farm's PFClean system, and Digital Vision's DVNR system to achieve stunning clarity. The high-definition transfer created on a Spirit Datacine ensures that every frame of the film reflects the original artistic intent. Detail, clarity, and color reproduction appear highly optimized, significantly enhancing the visual experience.

The restoration's success is evident through the consistent grain visible throughout the film. While certain sequences, particularly in the latter half, exhibit slight image fluctuations and softer textures, these are largely due to Cocteau’s use of varied film stocks. Though occasional vertical banding and minor damage marks are present, they do not detract from the overall quality. Black levels fluctuate slightly but maintain sufficient consistency, and contrast remains strong without becoming overpowering. The high-definition transfer achieves a delicate balance between maintaining the dreamlike atmosphere of the original film while offering an impressive level of detail and clarity.

In sum, despite some inherent limitations from the source material, Criterion's presentation of "La Belle et la Bête" on Blu-ray is likely the most definitive version available to date. It offers a breathtaking visual experience that honors Cocteau’s vision while providing modern audiences with enhanced detail and depth. Restorational efforts have successfully minimized previous macroblocking issues and remove noticeable debris, making this a quintessential collection piece for cinephiles.

This Blu-ray presentation of "Beauty and the Beast" houses two primary audio tracks: French LPCM Mono and French DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, all supplemented with optional English subtitles. The meticulous remastering process has enhanced the monaural soundtrack to a commendable level, despite the limitations inherent to its age. The sound restoration, achieved using Pro Tools HD and AudioCube's integrated workstation, efficiently removes unwanted clicks, thumps, hiss, and hum, providing a clear, stable, and surprisingly fluid listening experience. The LPCM Mono track successfully balances the dialogue and the score, although it does lack a certain breadth and fidelity found in contemporary recordings.

The French DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track introduces a more robust dynamic amplitude, with particular emphasis on the strings, contributing to a richer auditory soundscape. However, the preference for the original LPCM Mono track by some enthusiasts is understandable, as it retains a darker, more authentic feel that resonates well with the historical context of the film. While the 5.1 track offers an elevated experience, especially for those keen on modern acoustics, it’s important to acknowledge its efforts in preserving the primal charm of the original material.

In summary, "Beauty and the Beast" achieves a respectable balance between historical audio authenticity and enhanced modern-day presentation. The diligent remastering ensures that dialogues are crisp and music scores fit seamlessly with the visuals, an impressive feat for its time. Despite some inherent limitations in fidelity and dynamic range, this Blu-ray's audio presentation stands strong, providing a clear testament to the film's enduring legacy.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Beauty and the Beast" offers an exquisite range of supplements meticulously restored in 1080i quality, with French Dolby Digital mono audio and optional English subtitles. Highlights include enriching commentaries by esteemed historians Arthur Knight and Sir Christopher Frayling, who delve into the film's production, Cocteau's stylistic evolution, and intricate details from Cocteau’s personal diary. The inclusion of Philip Glass's 1994 opera as an alternate soundtrack is a unique auditory experience, supported by impeccable DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Additional features offer insightful interviews like Henri Alekan’s detailed recollection of the cinematography, and historical documentaries such as “Screening at the Majestic,” further exploring the creative process and technical challenges behind this cinematic masterpiece.

Extras included in this disc:

Philip Glass’ Opera: Operatic alternate soundtrack composed by Philip Glass.

Screening at the Majestic: 1995 documentary featuring cast and crew interviews.

Interview with Henri Alekan: Insights from the legendary cinematographer.

Secrets Professionnels: Tete-a-Tete: Vintage featurette on makeup artist Hagop Arakelian.

Original Trailer: The film’s original French trailer.

Film Restoration: Overview of restoration techniques used.

Stills Gallery: Collection of production photographs and posters.

Commentary by Arthur Knight: Scholarly analysis by film historian Arthur Knight.

Commentary by Sir Christopher Frayling: Historical context provided by cultural historian Sir Christopher Frayling.

Booklet: Includes illustrated essays, Cocteau’s original write-ups, and more.

Jean Cocteau's "Beauty and the Beast" (1946), presented by Criterion on Blu-ray, remains an exquisite example of cinematic poetry. This classic film is often mistaken for a children’s story, but its delicate yet provocative style addresses universal themes meant for adult audiences. While Disney’s lavish animated version dazzles with color, it lacks the elegance and purity that Cocteau’s original encapsulates. Cocteau’s vision is brought to life through Henri Alekan’s impeccable cinematography and the brilliant costume and set design by René Moulaert and Lucien Carré. The aesthetic detail meticulously crafts a world that, although magical, does not rely on camera tricks but on artistic craftsmanship.

Josette Day as Belle and Jean Marais in the dual roles of the Beast and Avenant deliver compelling performances that explore complex themes. Belle’s struggle and ultimate compassion toward the Beast reveal a nuanced portrayal of love, transcending the superficial fear his appearance invokes. Marais's dual performance offers an insightful dichotomy where the prince and the beastly nature within man are seamlessly intertwined. Cocteau’s use of real-life locations and studio constructions imbued with rich details heightens the story's dreamlike quality. The transformation makeup and practical effects used to morph Marais into the Beast still stand as remarkable feats in cinematic artistry.

The essence of Cocteau's work lies in its seamless blend of enchanting visuals and profound thematic elements. Living statues, magic mirrors, and ethereal slow-motion sequences create a dreamlike atmosphere in the Beast's castle, emphasizing Cocteau's background as a poet more than a filmmaker. Georges Auric’s original score perfectly complements this visual festival, while Philip Glass’s opera adaptation adds a contemporary layer for modern audiences. Though some may find the film’s conclusion slightly underdeveloped, this minor flaw does little to detract from the overall marvel of Cocteau's achievement—a film that continues to inspire belief in love and magic.

The Blu-ray release of "Beauty and the Beast" captures the timeless charm and enchanting simplicity that has endeared this classic to audiences for generations. Visually, the transfer is commendable, preserving the film’s original splendor while acknowledging inherent limitations due to aged source materials. The picture quality is sharp and vibrant, though some scenes display minor grain and occasional artifacts, which are expected considering the film’s vintage nature. Audio-wise, the DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track provides a clear, immersive experience that faithfully replicates the engaging score and dialogue, despite some constraints in comparison to modern productions.

The disc excels in its supplementary materials, offering an array of insightful extras that delve deep into both the fairy tale's lore and the meticulous production process. These features enrich the viewing experience, providing context and appreciation for the film's historical and cultural impact. The inclusion of storyboards, behind-the-scenes footage, and commentary tracks adds significant educational value, making this release a comprehensive resource for fans and scholars alike.

In conclusion, one of cinema's greatest classics, Jean Cocteau's "La Belle et la Bête," is given a very special treatment on this Blu-ray release. Considering its age and various inherited limitations, the film looks as good as it possibly can. Naturally, this will be the definitive presentation of "La Belle et la Bête" for years to come. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.