How Green Was My Valley Blu-ray Review

20th Century Fox's Blu-ray presentation of "How Green Was My Valley" stands as a masterclass in film restoration and digital transfer. The 1080p/AVC-encoded presentation showcases an exceptional restoration of a 35mm print, or potentially the original negative. The efforts have ensured an image free from scratches, hairs, and debris, and the absence of sustained brightness or contrast fluctuations is praiseworthy. Fleeting white specks barely mar this otherwise immaculate transfer. The film's grain structure is meticulously preserved, delivering a natural, filmic experience unmarred by digital noise reduction or edge enhancement. Clarity is superb—character faces reveal the minutest details, from craggy skin to clothing textures like wool. The black and white balance in Arthur C. Miller’s award-winning cinematography boasts deep blacks and crisp, well-calibrated highlights.

Astoundingly clean, the transfer of "How Green Was My Valley" reveals a level of clarity and depth rarely seen in black-and-white photography. Cinematographer Miller's ability to capture both the grit of the coal mines and the pastoral beauty of the Welsh countryside (albeit shot in Malibu) is impeccably rendered with exceptional gray-scale variance that enhances meticulous details. The fine grain structure maintains the film's visual integrity while imparting a natural smoothness that belies its age. Black levels are richly deep, especially perceptible in the coal mines, with excellent shadow delineation and no detectable noise or crush even in the darkest scenes. Close-ups are striking, capturing the glow of young faces and the depth of more careworn features with equal emphasis. This transfer not only thrills film classics aficionados but stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of well-preserved cinematography.

The Blu Ray of "How Green Was My Valley" presents a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, marking a significant yet controversial upgrade for this classic film originally recorded in mono. While the enhanced track operates in a multi-channel configuration, this arrangement is conservative with its use of rear speakers, primarily for ambient effects and music, such as during Ivor and Bronwyn’s wedding scene. Overall, the sound mix stays front-focused without hampered attempts at immersive audio effects, making for an unobtrusive listening experience. The mix impresses with its clarity and dynamic balance, ensuring dialogue remains intelligible even amidst thick Welsh accents. Though some Welsh sing-a-longs show minor upper-register distortion, the majority of the audio remains clean, without any pop or crackle interruptions.

The redevelopment of this aged audio source into a modern DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix occasionally juxtaposes the film’s intimate nature with its technologically superior soundscape. Alfred Newman's score is rendered with high fidelity and room-filling swells, but it lacks some tonal depth expected in contemporary soundtracks. Dialogue is consistently well-managed and articulate, even though certain stretches featuring softer-spoken characters maintain clarity. A minor hiss surfaces during quieter moments, yet this does not diminish the overall cleanliness of the track. Bass frequencies are solid, especially notable during a late-film explosion which delivers a satisfying rumble.

Given the trade-offs inherent in the transition from mono to 5.1 surround sound, the disc prudently includes the original mono track for purists who prefer an authentic auditory presentation. This strategic inclusion underscores Fox’s commitment to both preserving historical authenticity and providing a modernized experience for contemporary viewers.

The extras on the Blu-Ray release of "How Green Was My Valley" are few but substantial, providing deep insights and historical context that augment the film. The Audio Commentary is a split effort with actress Anna Lee Nathan sharing personal anecdotes and Joseph McBride offering critical and historical analysis. This dual perspective is both engaging and informative, covering casting decisions, director John Ford's relationships with the cast, and the social climate depicted in the film. Additionally, the Hollywood Backstories featurette is a 2001 TV documentary that offers a comprehensive look at the film’s production, featuring interviews with key figures like Maureen O'Hara and Roddy McDowall. Rounding out the disc is the Theatrical Trailer, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the film's initial release.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insights from actress Anna Lee Nathan and critic Joseph McBride.
• Hollywood Backstories: How Green Was My Valley: A mini-documentary on the film's production history.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original preview of the film.

John Ford's "How Green Was My Valley," the 1941 Best Picture winner, remains a significant piece of cinema history despite the controversy it often attracts for besting "Citizen Kane." Ford's heartfelt depiction of a coal-mining family in a South Wales village offers a poignant contrast to Welles' groundbreaking film. Based on Richard Llewellyn's novel, Ford's adaptation meticulously captures the socio-economic struggles and unyielding spirit of the Morgan family through its episodic narrative. Filmed in stark black and white instead of the originally planned Technicolor due to wartime constraints, the film’s visual austerity enhances its gritty realism and nostalgic aura.

Notable performances define the film, particularly Roddy McDowell as young Huw, whose portrayal is both tender and earnest, anchoring the emotional weight of the story. Supporting actors Donald Crisp and Sara Allgood shine as the resilient Morgan parents, embodying both strength and vulnerability. The film’s structure as a memory play enriches its narrative depth but also results in an occasionally sprawling storyline with underdeveloped subplots. Despite this, Ford’s direction ensures that the film amasses a cumulative feeling of loss and hope, resonating deeply with audiences both in its time and today.

The visual composition is meticulous, with Ford's ability to convey emotion through imagery standing out. Though some might critique the film’s episodic nature and incomplete coverage of the source material, Ford's skillful blend of lyrical storytelling and stark realism preserves its poignant essence. The collective efforts of an outstanding cast and high production values result in a film that whispers its artistry, subtly yet profoundly affecting viewers and solidifying its place in cinematic history.

How Green Was My Valley Review: Blu-ray Edition

How Green Was My Valley is a celebrated classic that has earned its place in cinematic history for its poignant depiction of a bygone era. Directed by the legendary John Ford, this mid-century melodrama showcases his prowess beyond the familiar westerns. Ford's direction, combined with exquisite performances from Roddy McDowell, Donald Crisp, Maureen O'Hara, and Sara Allgood, vividly brings to life the tale of a tight-knit family navigating the perils of mining, economic strife, and societal changes. This Blu-ray release from 20th Century Fox does full justice to the film’s legacy with a stunningly restored high-definition transfer.

The technical aspects of this Blu-ray release are nothing short of exemplary. The visuals are crisp and clear, offering a faithful representation of the film's original cinematography. The lossless multi-channel audio track ensures that every dialogue, musical score, and ambient sound is captured with pristine clarity. Additionally, the Blu-ray includes a selection of informative and engaging extras that delve deeper into the film's production and its impact on the industry.

In conclusion, How Green Was My Valley remains a heartwarming and moving portrait of family and community. While it may not possess the innovative flair of Citizen Kane, its emotional depth and storytelling have solidified its status as a beloved classic. The Blu-ray release from 20th Century Fox is a must-have for any film enthusiast, offering an opportunity to experience this timeless piece with enhanced audio-visual quality and insightful supplementary content. Highly recommended!