The Tales of Hoffmann Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Collection's Blu-ray presentation of "The Tales of Hoffmann" exhibits an impressive AVC encoded 1080p transfer, maintaining the film's original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. This release stands as a testament to meticulous restoration efforts by The Film Foundation, BFI National Archive, and StudioCanal. Sourced from the original 35 mm nitrate three-strip Technicolor negatives, supplemented by 35 mm separation master positives for previously omitted scenes, the transfer showcases astonishing visual clarity and vibrancy. The restoration process included referencing a 1951 35 mm nitrate dye transfer print, ensuring the colors remain as intended—a vivid tribute to real Technicolor.

The result is a visually captivating spectacle with a robust and finely nuanced color palette. Vivid primaries and intermediary tones like purples and teals dominate the screen, supported by exemplary detail in costumes and props. Although minor signs of aging are visible in select frames and newly reinserted sequences, they hardly detract from the overall magnificence. The meticulously restored monaural soundtrack further enhances the experience, attesting to the high standard of audiovisual fidelity achieved in this edition.

The Blu-ray is a visual feast lacking any noticeable compression issues, with natural-looking grain that complements its vintage aesthetic. While a true 4K release would have been ideal, this 1080p version nonetheless offers a mesmerizing journey through the work’s opulent visuals, made all the more engaging by previously unseen content now seamlessly woven back into the film. Acknowledging the dedication behind this restoration, "The Tales of Hoffmann" Blu-ray edition remains a commendable achievement in preserving cinematic history with technical precision and artistic flair.

The audio presentation of "The Tales of Hoffmann" on Blu-ray features an LPCM Mono track with a bitrate of 1.0 (1.1 Mbps) that demonstrates commendable fidelity and fluidity throughout the experience. While the warm and full-bodied tone effectively supports both instrumental and vocal elements, pushing the volume may reveal minor faltering in the upper midrange, particularly identifiable during Rounseville's elaborate tenor passages. Although this slight issue may be noticeable to audiophiles keen on details, it is unlikely to detract from the overall enjoyment for the general audience.

The soundtrack, entirely prerecorded and seamlessly integrated during filming, has been meticulously curated to eliminate any auditory artifacts such as hiss, clicks, flutter, or crackle, thus providing a clean listening experience. For viewers who may find some of the English lyrics challenging to understand due to their intricate delivery, optional white subtitles offer significant assistance, enhancing accessibility and comprehension during complex sequences.

Overall, this LPCM Mono track is well-suited to both casual viewers and more discerning listeners, delivering a robust and immersive auditory experience synonymous with classic cinema audio standards.

The extras on the Blu-ray release of "The Tales of Hoffmann" offer a comprehensive and enriching dive into the film's history and its impact on cinema. The audio commentary includes director Martin Scorsese and film historian Bruce Eder, originally recorded in 1992, with Eder providing insightful updates to coincide with newly restored footage. George A. Romero contributes an engaging audio commentary, reflecting his deep appreciation for the film. The galleries provide visually rich content, including extensive stills, posters, and Hein Heckroth’s production design sketches. They reveal the extensive artistic effort behind the film's distinctive visual style. Adding historical value, the inclusion of Michael Powell’s 1955 short "The Sorcerer’s Apprentice" exemplifies his creative ingenuity, complemented by parallels to Disney's influential techniques.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insights from Martin Scorsese and Bruce Eder, with updated 2022 comments.
• George Romero Commentary: Analysis by director George Romero who praises the film.
• Stills Gallery: Images and posters from various sources.
• Hein Heckroth Gallery: Design sketches and paintings for production design.
• The Sorcerer's Apprentice: 1955 short by Michael Powell.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer.
• Enclosed Pamphlet: Essay by film historian Ian Christie.

"The Tales of Hoffmann," a cinematic adaptation of Jacques Offenbach's 1881 opera by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, stands as a unique fusion of operatic and balletic elements, showcasing a visually audacious approach that redefines opera on film. The film is crafted as a "composed film," devoid of location work, where every cinematic component synchronizes to form a cohesive artistic expression. The storytelling leans heavily on elegant choreography, primarily through the dancers' intricate movements set to an English libretto by Dennis Arundell, which often substitutes traditional opera vocals. Even the color palette aligns with the film's narrative intricacies: distinct hues accentuate the quirky oddness of Olympia in yellow, the torrid intensity of Giulietta in purplish-red, and the conflicted calmness of Antonia in blue.

The narrative follows E.T.A. Hoffmann, portrayed by operatic tenor Robert Rounseville, as he reminisces about his past romantic entanglements distorted through a tapestry of fantasy and tragedy. Performers like Moira Shearer and Robert Helpmann inhabit multiple roles through segments showcasing Hoffman’s encounters with his enigmatic loves. Shearer's choreography captivates with unparalleled finesse, even when the illusion of operatic singing is intermittently disrupted by the visible mime of non-singing dancers. Although Powell's emphasis seems tilted towards ballet over opera, the film's visual storytelling remains compelling.

Actors under vocal duress, such as Ludmilla Tchérina's portrayal of the slinky Giulietta and Ann Ayars' poignant Antonia, compliment the robust performances. Helpmann’s performance stands apart with a silently expressive style, amplifying the underlying sinister themes. Despite moments where the blend of opera and ballet strains credibility, "The Tales of Hoffmann" never loses its magnetic visual allure or Rounseville’s illustrious vocal performance, ensuring it's an artful cinematic experience that transcends conventional stage boundaries.

"The Tales of Hoffmann" Blu-ray release by Criterion underscores a film of significant artistic vision, crafted by the illustrious duo Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. This distinctive blend of opera and ballet is captured through a lens that merges cinematic artistry with theatrical grandeur, producing a visual spectacle that appeals to discerning film enthusiasts. The Blu-ray presentation excels in delivering sharp and vibrant visuals, enhancing the already rich color palette of the film. High-definition clarity brings new life to the lavish sets and costumes, making it an ideal choice for viewers who appreciate meticulous production and art direction.

The audio quality, pivotal to capturing the intricate blend of opera and music, remains excellent. It aptly preserves the integrity of the original score, ensuring that each musical nuance is presented with precision. While it might not cater to mainstream tastes or those preferring narrative-driven cinema, "The Tales of Hoffmann" conquers its niche with profound artistic expression. However, some may find the film’s operatic elements and indulgent theatricality more demanding due to its inherent opulence and whimsy.

Conclusively, "The Tales of Hoffmann" may evoke nostalgia for certain classic theatrical elements, echoing scenes reminiscent of later cinematic works. Though it straddles the line between operatic splendor and whimsical operetta—perhaps at the risk of alienating some—the powerful visual allure and robust technical presentation on this Blu-ray make it a laudable addition to a cinephile’s collection. Shining through Criterion's commendable supplements, this release offers a rich experience that illuminates how classic films can profoundly influence subsequent art forms. Highly recommended for those seeking to explore a cornerstone of operatic cinema.