The Producers Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Producers" by Shout! Factory, with its AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 1.85:1, boasts an exceptionally high-quality video restitution sourced from a new HD master. According to the press materials, this version preserves the original film's details meticulously, avoiding any unnecessary digital manipulation that could degrade the film's natural visuals. The level of detail is notably enhanced, with colors being revitalized to a significant extent—for instance, Estelle Winwood's dress exhibits a vivid blue that stands out sharply. The attention to texture and detail is particularly evident in the numerous close-up shots favored by director Mel Brooks, enhancing the cinematic experience without compromising the integrity of the original film elements.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive aspects of this Blu-ray release, there are minor technical inconsistencies that merit attention. Some viewers might notice slight density fluctuations throughout the film. These manifest as an almost imperceptible flicker at times, though they do little to detract from the overall viewing experience. Furthermore, certain scenes inherently softer in the original film, such as the playful sequence around Lincoln Center, retain their softness, pointing towards a faithful transfer that respects the film’s original presentation. Additionally, the use of rear projections in scenes like Bialystock and Bloom’s arrival at DeBris' apartment, previously unnoticed by many, becomes more apparent in this high-definition release, showcasing the historical filming techniques used during the movie's production.

Overall, Shout! Factory’s Blu-ray edition of "The Producers" presents a remarkable upgrade in video quality that will surely satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers to Brooks’ comedic gem. While acknowledging minor video imperfections and inherited softness in certain scenes, the release is commendable for its faithful restoration efforts, bringing a newfound vibrancy and clarity to this classic film without succumbing to over-processing.

In the audio department, "The Producers" Blu Ray stands out for offering an authentic auditory experience via two distinct tracks: the original uncompressed LPCM Mono (2.0) mix and a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix, which is a refined version of the Special Edition DVD’s 5.1 soundtrack. The mono track retains the film's original audio fidelity and presents its elements—dialogue, music, and effects—with commendable clarity and balance. It’s a testament to the film's enduring appeal, allowing purists to enjoy the movie as it was initially intended, highlighting the effort to preserve the cinematic experience of this classic.

The 5.1 surround sound mix, on the other hand, introduces a contemporary twist to the film’s auditory presentation. It employs aggressive foley techniques and deliberate panning to simulate a surround sound atmosphere, particularly noticeable in scenes set in Manhattan's outdoors. While this may not appeal to all, especially those with a preference for the film’s original soundscape, it cannot be denied that the music—courtesy of John Morris and Mel Brooks—benefits immensely from the surround mix, offering a richer and more immersive listening experience.

Ultimately, the inclusion of both audio tracks is a commendable decision by Shout!, catering to a wide range of preferences and ensuring that every viewer has the opportunity to experience "The Producers" in a manner that best suits their taste. The LPCM Mono track satisfies purists seeking authenticity, while the DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix appeals to those desiring a more enveloping sound field, especially during musical numbers. This dual approach not only demonstrates an appreciation for the film's legacy but also enhances its accessibility for modern audiences.

The Blu-ray extras of "The Producers" offer a delightful treasure trove for fans of this classic comedy, showcasing a carefully curated selection of content that enhances the viewing experience. Notably, the centerpiece is "The Making of The Producers," a comprehensive documentary teeming with cast and crew reminiscences, providing an in-depth look at the film's creation. Complementing this, "Mel and His Movies: The Producers" presents Mel Brooks in a newer interview, sharing fascinating insights into the film's place in his career. Even though the set misses the misnamed Soundtrack Spot from its Special Edition DVD predecessor, it compensates with unique pieces like a deleted scene featuring Kenneth Mars and a touching tribute from Peter Sellers. Additionally, the inclusion of production sketches and an array of trailers adds layers of context and entertainment, making this collection essential for enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Making of The Producers: In-depth documentary with cast and crew reminiscences.
• Mel and His Movies: The Producers: Mel Brooks discusses the film's significance in his career.
• Deleted Scene: Features Kenneth Mars.
• Peter Sellers' Ad in Variety: An uncredited Paul Mazursky reads Sellers' tribute to the film.
• Sketch Gallery: Production design insights.
• Trailers:
  • The Producers
  • American Masters' Mel Brooks: Make a Noise
  • The Incredible Mel Brooks: An Irresistible Collection of Unhinged Comedy

The Producers" on Blu-ray presents a remarkable case study in the evolution of comedic appreciation and film restoration. Initially received with mixed critical sentiment, Mel Brooks' unabashedly absurd take on the lengths to which show business denizens might go for financial gain has been re-evaluated over time as a comedic masterpiece. This Blu-ray edition showcases the 1967 classic in a manner that not only underlines its historical significance in comedy but also brilliantly highlights its technical and performative genius. Featuring standout performances by Zero Mostel as Max Bialystock and Gene Wilder as Leo Bloom, the film's exploration of the outlandish scheme to produce a guaranteed flop—only to have it backfire spectacularly—has never looked better, thanks to the meticulous restoration enhancing both picture and sound quality that surpasses previous DVD releases.

Technical details aside, the film's content has also aged like fine wine, with its politically incorrect humor and flamboyant self-parody finding a more appreciative audience in modern times. The inclusion of Kenneth Mars as the delusional playwright Franz Liebkind and the campy contributions of Christopher Hewett's Roger DeBris add layers of humor that are both productively shocking and delightfully absurd. The Blu-ray presentation enhances these performances, giving them a vibrancy that breathes new life into Brooks' groundbreaking satire. Furthermore, the film's sharper image and sound quality on Blu-ray bring out the nuances of its iconic scenes, from the infamous "Springtime for Hitler" production number to the manic energy of Mostel's performance, making it an essential upgrade for aficionados of cinema history.

Despite its erstwhile controversial reception, particularly concerning its cavalier treatment of sensitive subject matter, "The Producers" now stands as a testament to Brooks' genius in its Blu-ray incarnation. The restoration work not only preserves but elevates the film’s original vibrancy, ensuring that new generations can appreciate its wit, satire, and technical prowess. This Blu-ray does more than just offer "The Producers" in high definition; it serves as a cultural artifact, showcasing the progression of comedic taste and the importance of preserving cinematic landmarks. Through this lens, "The Producers" on Blu-ray is not merely a successful transfer of media—it is an indispensable bridge connecting past and present views on satire, making it a must-have for collectors and cinephiles alike.

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Producers" captures the essence and manic energy of the original film with remarkable clarity, meeting the expectations of those familiar with Mel Brooks' classic. The transfer to Blu-ray maintains the vibrant dynamics between the iconic duo of Mostel and Wilder, preserving their chemistry and comedic timing that has made this film a timeless piece of cinematic history. The high-quality video and audio enhancements bring a new level of immersion to the viewing experience, allowing both new audiences and long-time fans to appreciate the nuances of the performances and the film's striking visual comedy. The inclusion of all the Special Edition DVD supplements, with the exception of the OCR ad, alongside a new featurette, enriches the overall package, making it an essential addition to any collection.

Despite its occasionally over-the-top antics, "The Producers" stands out for its brilliantly crafted dialogues—most of which were lifted faithfully by Brooks for his musical adaptation—with only a few changes. This aspect might specifically resonate with viewers familiar with the musical version, as it showcases Brooks' genius in translating his work across different mediums without losing its original charm and wit. The Blu-ray release does an excellent job of highlighting these elements, providing a seamless viewing experience that bridges the original film with its later stage adaptations.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "The Producers" is highly recommended for both enthusiasts of classic cinema and newcomers. It not only preserves the film's original appeal but also enhances it with superior audio and video quality. The inclusion of comprehensive special features, including a new featurette, adds substantial value, making it a commendable tribute to Mel Brooks' masterpiece. This release reaffirms "The Producers" as a pivotal work that continues to delight and entertain audiences with its unique blend of humor, creativity, and cinematic excellence.