Jabberwocky Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of Terry Gilliam's "Jabberwocky" showcases a remarkable video restoration sourced from a 4K digital scan by BFI National Archive and The Film Foundation, with director Terry Gilliam’s approval. Presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, the transfer employs an MPEG-4 AVC encode at 1080p resolution. The restoration reveals significant textural details, particularly in costuming, foliage, and the stone structures of the castle, providing a vivid film-like quality punctuated by a naturally maintained grain structure. However, it should be noted that certain scenes remain soft and blurry, limitations seemingly tied to the source material rather than any oversight or failure in the technical restoration process.

This new restoration effectively captures both the organic density and texture native to the original photography while avoiding issues such as problematic sharpening or digital tinkering. Image stability is consistently excellent throughout. However, the color grading has a colder, greenish tint—characteristic of projects finished at L'Immagine Ritrovata—which may occasionally diverge from what some might expect, yet it fits the film's period atmosphere. Variability in detail presentation persists, with some impressively resolved shots contrasted by others plagued with noise and lack of detail, particularly in scenes requiring higher lighting levels. Meanwhile, the black levels are mostly deep and accurate with some fluctuation.

In conclusion, while “Jabberwocky” may not boast the most impressive 4K restoration due to inherent limitations of its source material, the effort invested by the restoration teams is evident and largely successful. The overall improvement from previous versions is significant, presenting the film in the cleanest and most faithful manner to date despite inherent source drawbacks.

The newly remastered DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack for "Jabberwocky," overseen by director Terry Gilliam, presents an impressive adaptation of the film's original audio. The track exhibits a strong coherence in the delivery of its witty dialogue, which is projected cleanly across the front channels. Effects such as the monster's growls and metal clangs provide a convincing soundstage, even if some sounds are a bit tinny due to the original source material. The bustling city scenes with their ambient noise create a sense of scale, despite the film's limited budget. However, the score suffers slightly, maintaining a mono-like quality despite the surround mix, and could have benefitted from a dedicated restored monaural track.

The 5.1 mix is sometimes surprisingly aggressive, which may feel slightly out of sync with the historical setting of "Jabberwocky." Enhanced sequences like monster attacks and knights galloping are distinctly effective, offering immersive ambient activity. Dialog remains clean and stable, although thick accents and occasional movement make subtitles beneficial at times. Fortunately, there are no audio dropouts or digital distortions. Ambient noises like local wildlife, city crowds, and jousting tournament sounds fill the soundstage well, offering excellent directionality and fluid imaging between channels.

Despite the absence of a mono option, the new DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track remarkably upgrades the original mono soundtrack. It delivers broad and expansive soundscapes complete with background activities like chirping birds and distant voices, enhancing immersion significantly. The mid-range clarity ensures precise sound detailing in higher frequencies while low-end impacts are notably authoritative. The dialogue is well-prioritized, with intonation that makes every line appreciable. This surround track makes for an engaging and, at times, unexpectedly immersive listening experience, aligning well with the quirky nature of Gilliam's unique vision.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of "Jabberwocky" delivers an outstanding array of supplemental features that provide a comprehensive dive into the film's production and legacy. Renowned highlights include a highly engaging audio commentary from 2001 by Terry Gilliam and Michael Palin, offering insightful anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. The new documentary "Jabberwocky: Good Nonsense" features recent interviews with Gilliam, Palin, and Annette Badland, exploring various facets of the film's making. Valerie Charlton's segment discusses the intricacies of designing the titular monster, while rare audio excerpts with cinematographer Terry Bedford provide historical context. Additional features include the original UK opening sequence, a detailed sketch-to-screen comparison, a recitation of Lewis Carroll’s poem by Palin and Badland, and the original trailer.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Terry Gilliam and Michael Palin's 2001 commentary.
• Jabberwocky: Good Nonsense: New documentary featuring interviews.
• Valerie Charlton: The Making of a Monster: Interview with special effects artist.
• Terry Bedford: Archival audio interview with the cinematographer.
• Original Opening: The UK opening sequence.
• Sketch-to-Screen Comparison: Archive program comparing sketches to final scenes.
• Lewis Carroll's Jabberwocky: Reading by Michael Palin and Annette Badland.
• Trailer: Original "Jabberwocky" trailer.

Terry Gilliam's "Jabberwocky" marks a pivotal entry in his filmography, being his first solo directorial effort after co-directing "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." This madcap adaptation of Lewis Carroll's nonsense poem demonstrates Gilliam's distinct style, mixing unorthodox, yet realistic characters with bizarrely plausible scenarios. The narrative follows Michael Palin's bumbling hero, Dennis Cooper, as he navigates a kingdom in chaos, inadvertently becoming entangled in various roles from witch to beast-slayer. In typical Gilliam fashion, the film offers sharp reflections on societal stupidity, borrowing heavily from the dark humor and visual gags characteristic of Monty Python.

Set against the backdrop of the fictitious Dark Ages, "Jabberwocky" combines slapstick comedy with socio-political commentary, mirroring contemporary inanities with anachronistic humor. Despite its rough edges, owing to budget constraints and Gilliam’s nascent directorial skills, the film delivers an engaging blend of historical farce and surrealist fantasy. The production features wide-angle shots and unusual close-ups, highlighting Gilliam's evolving visual aesthetic. Standout moments include a jousting tournament filled with exaggerated violence and comedic carnage, underscoring the film's absurdity.

Palin delivers an endearing performance as Dennis, whose relentless optimism and naivety make him the perfect conduit for Gilliam’s existential musings. His journey from a rural simpleton to an inadvertent hero encapsulates the film's exploration of fortune and misfortune, conveyed through happenstance and luck. A reflection of Gilliam's later masterpieces, such as "Brazil" and "Twelve Monkeys," "Jabberwocky" foreshadows the director's fascination with hapless heroes in chaotic worlds. While the film may feel like a companion piece to "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," it crucially establishes Gilliam's unique cinematic voice, blending humor with deeper philosophical inquiries.

The Criterion Collection's Region B-locked UK Blu-ray release of Terry Gilliam's "Jabberwocky" is an essential addition to any film enthusiast's collection. Featuring a meticulous 4K restoration, the video quality showcases noticeable improvements, although it still reflects some inherent visual eccentricities of the original 1977 production. The audio presentation is robust, delivering dialogue and score with impressive clarity. Complemented by an extensive array of new and archival bonus features, including behind-the-scenes content and interviews, the Blu-ray package offers a comprehensive viewing experience.

"Jabberwocky" stands as a peculiar yet delightful entry in Gilliam's filmography. While some critics initially dismissed it, expecting something more akin to Monty Python’s sketch comedy format, this directorial debut has carved out its own niche over the years. It features Gilliam's signature surreal humor and imaginative storytelling, providing a portal into his bizarre, yet captivating universe. Although the film has rough edges and moments that feel reminiscent of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," it remains undeniably unique and showcases Gilliam's burgeoning auteur style.

Overall, Criterion’s Blu-ray release of "Jabberwocky" offers a definitive version of this cult classic. The improved audiovisual quality and extensive supplementary materials elevate it beyond a mere nostalgic trip. For fans of Gilliam or those seeking to explore his early work, this release is highly recommended. Jabberwocky's quirky charm and absurd narrative ensure that it's not just watched but experienced, making it a must-have for dedicated cinephiles.

Gilliam fans should check this new Blu-ray release out.