The Diamond Wizard Blu-ray Review

"The Diamond Wizard" Blu-ray presentation showcases an impressive restoration by 3-D Film Archive, LLC, effectively reviving this classic film in both 2D and 3D versions. This release features a 1.64:1 aspect ratio and a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded transfer, offering remarkably clear visuals for its age. The black-and-white cinematography is preserved well, enhancing grayscale contrast with deep blacks and vivid details, especially in well-lit outdoor scenes and intricate indoor setups like the atomic laboratory. Despite some minor grain and surface blemishes, the image remains stable and visually engaging, providing a quality viewing experience in both the standard and anaglyphic formats.

The stereoscopic presentation is particularly noteworthy, as it was never shown in 3D during its initial release. Offering both polarized and anaglyphic (red/cyan) 3D options, the disc includes glasses for an immersive experience. The depth perception along the Z-axis is expertly achieved, displaying remarkable layering within frames to depict spatial relationships effectively. While pop-outs are present, they are thoughtfully used to enhance storytelling rather than distract. The restoration allows viewers to appreciate the spatial dynamics from living room scenes with layered mirror reflections to bar sequences where furniture arrangement and character positioning emphasize room depth.

In the anaglyphic format, the use of red/blue glasses introduces minimal color shifts but maintains an enjoyable 3D experience, notably improving on past anaglyphic transfers that often caused discomfort. The proprietary software used by 3-D Film Archive ensures a headache-free experience with superior depth illusion compared to older methods. The disc serves not just as a method to view "The Diamond Wizard" but as a testament to the meticulous restoration efforts, making it accessible in its intended 3D format and ensuring a robust presentation for traditional 2D viewers as well. This Region-A locked Blu-ray necessitates compatible playback equipment, but offers a technically sound release worth exploring by enthusiasts of cinema technology advancements.

The Blu-ray release of "The Diamond Wizard" is equipped with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track alongside optional English SDH subtitles. This near-70-year-old film has preserved its original monaural sound, delivering a satisfying audio presentation despite its age. Dialogue clarity is consistently impressive, ensuring vocals remain distinct even amid bustling scenes. Some light hiss and occasional pops do appear, a not unexpected artifact of the era's recording techniques, though they are minimally intrusive and do not detract significantly from the overall audio experience.

The sound effects are notably vibrant and enhance the atmospheric setting of the film. The score by Matyas Seiber offers an engaging noir-ish thrill that complements the visual narrative perfectly without overshadowing the dialogue. The dynamic intensity may not reach contemporary standards due to the original film's limitations, yet this track effectively maintains a connection to its analog roots. Despite some inevitable minor audio imperfections, this release refrains from over-processed digital meddling, allowing the authenticity of its analog characteristics to shine.

In sum, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 track provides a sound design typical of the film’s original era but retains a degree of warmth and authenticity that modern audiences will appreciate. The occasional presence of hiss and sibilance subtly reminds viewers of the historical context without compromising enjoyment or clarity, making this audio presentation a faithful reproduction of vintage cinematic soundscapes.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Diamond Wizard" provide a captivating insight into the film's production and restoration processes. The standout feature is Mike Ballew's commentary, which offers a well-researched exploration of the film's historical context and its impact on 3-D filmmaking. Ballew’s expert narrative, coupled with rare visuals, enhances understanding and appreciation of the era’s technical advancements. The restoration segment showcases the meticulous effort invested in bringing this classic to its original glory, correcting misalignments, and restoring stereo elements for optimal viewing. The alternate opening sequence and remastered theatrical trailer add nostalgic value, allowing viewers to experience the film as initially intended. Although limited in number, these extras are invaluable for film historians and enthusiasts keen on 3-D's evolution.

Extras included in this disc:

• Alternate Opening: A 2D-only U.S. distribution title sequence.
• Commentary: Mike Ballew's insightful audio essay on the film’s history.
• Restoring The Diamond Wizard in 3-Dimensions: Demonstrates restoration efforts.
• Theatrical Trailer: Remastered noir-focused trailer in 2D.

"The Diamond Wizard," directed by Dennis O'Keefe and Montgomery Tully, is a fascinating film that holds the claim as Britain's first 3D movie. Despite its modest narrative familiarities—American Treasury Agent Joe Dennison partners with Scotland Yard to solve both a daring robbery and the mystery of a missing scientist—the film stands out for its historical and technical achievements. The plot, though straightforward with hints of Cold War intrigue, involves counterfeit diamonds and international espionage. America's pragmatic Dennison pairs well with the stoic McClaren, infusing energy and diversity into their pursuit of justice, while Margaret Sheridan's Marline adds a romantic subplot to the mix, though her potential remains underutilized.

From a production standpoint, the film is meticulously crafted. It benefits from Gordon Lang's cinematography and Charles W. Smith's 3D work, offering an immersive viewing experience. The restoration by 3-D Film Archive ensures that today's audiences can appreciate this pioneering effort in both 2D and 3D. With scenes set in varied locations like shadowed Scotland Yard offices or an atomic lab, the film capitalizes on its visual depth. Carefully designed framing highlights this, adding layers to scenes otherwise rooted in typical crime drama settings.

While "The Diamond Wizard" plays to genre formula, the brisk pacing keeps fatigue at bay. The film integrates a workmanlike devotion to craft with solid performances from O'Keefe and Friend, making it engaging despite plotting predictability. Its initial procedural intrigue transitions to fast-paced action, but despite shifts in tempo, it remains compact and entertaining throughout. As a cinematic relic from the waning days of the 3D craze, it embodies escapist charm and technological ambition, making it notable beyond its functional plot.

The Blu-ray release of "The Diamond Wizard" is a commendable accomplishment for fans of classic 3-D cinema. As the first and only Golden Age 3-D film shot in Great Britain, it offers a striking visual experience that belies its early place in the evolution of 3-D technology. The collaboration between Dennis O’Keefe and Montgomery Tully results in a film that compensates for its predictable plot with engaging action sequences and impressive stereoscopic cinematography. The digital restoration by 3-D Film Archive and Kino Lorber allows viewers to appreciate the film’s visual ingenuity as it was originally intended, providing both an impeccable digital 3-D experience and an anaglyph option.

This release stands out in the current landscape of declining physical media and the dwindling availability of 3-D home viewing equipment. The restoration effort reflects significant advancements in the use and appreciation of 3-D beyond mere visual gimmicks, showcasing the film's intent to elevate rather than exploit the format. The release also includes a 2-D version for wider accessibility, although the 3-D presentation continues to be the most faithful to the filmmakers’ vision. Furthermore, it is bolstered by insightful bonus features that offer historical and technical context, enhancing the viewer's understanding of the film's production and the significance of its rediscovery.

In conclusion, "The Diamond Wizard" on Blu-ray is a treasure for collectors and enthusiasts of three-dimensional cinema. This release is not just a nod to nostalgia but a genuine restoration that captures the pioneering spirit of early 3-D filmmaking. Kino Lorber and the 3-D Film Archive have provided an essential addition to any cinephile’s collection. For those intrigued by cinematic history and technology, this release is highly recommended.