Mirage Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Mirage" by Kino Lorber's Studio Classics features a 1080p AVC encoded transfer with an original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The transfer seems to originate from an older master, indicated by a certain processed appearance. This presentation wavers between showing an odd enhancement effect where sharpening combines with filtering, affecting the natural grain structure and rendering some scenes with a smooth, almost textureless quality. Despite these processing idiosyncrasies, the black and white cinematography delivers adequate detail levels, particularly on fabrics, with notable healthy contrast and solid blacks. However, viewers will encounter the occasional age-related artifacts such as minor scratches and nicks.

In terms of film grain, the presentation maintains a generally organic feel, although density shifts are noticeable from scene to scene. These shifts bring variable but occasionally commendable levels of detail and grayscale fidelity. While dirt, dust, and scratches present themselves, they are subtle enough not to detract significantly from the viewing experience. Overall, this iteration is a marked improvement over previous DVD releases and arguably the best rendition available for home viewing, despite its apparent reliance on a less than pristine source. The presentation could benefit from more rigorous restoration efforts to fully realize the film's potential in the current high-definition format.

The "Mirage" Blu-ray disc presents a remarkably refined audio experience through its DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track. Quincy Jones' iconic score is a standout feature, delivering both spacey cues and more traditional melodies with impressive clarity and rich tonality. Celestas and reverb-infused accompaniments have notable force and vividness, while the more conventional themes resonate with warmth and a welcoming soundscapes, showcasing the intricacies of Jones’ compositions.

The dialogue across this mono track is exceptionally crisp and well-balanced, ensuring that every spoken word is communicated with precision and without interference from the music or background audio elements. This release establishes a sophisticated sound mix that enhances the viewing experience, making it arguably the definitive audio presentation of the film for home viewing audiences. Optional English subtitles are available for those who require them.

For enthusiasts and collectors, this Blu-ray likely represents the pinnacle of home video audio quality for "Mirage." It surpasses previous DVD iterations, confirming noticeable improvements in ambiance and fidelity, all while maintaining the integrity of the original soundtrack. The blending of Jones' memorable score with articulate dialogue signifies a polished audio production, heightening the immersion for dedicated fans and newcomers alike.

The Blu-ray extras for "Mirage" offer an insightful and engaging collection of content that delves deeply into the film's production and legacy. A notable addition is the Audio Commentary featuring historians Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell, and Nathaniel Thompson, who unequivocally argue against the film's categorization as a Hitchcockian thriller, offering a fresh perspective on its elements. Diane Baker's A Face in the Dark interview provides valuable personal anecdotes and insights about her role and experiences during the film's production. The Animated Image Gallery showcases a curated selection of 96 stills, comprising behind-the-scenes shots and original advertising materials that reveal the visual history surrounding the film's release. The Theatrical Trailer offers a nostalgia-drenched glimpse into the original marketing approach. Additionally, trailers for other Kino Lorber releases enrich this comprehensive package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: In-depth analysis by film historians.
• A Face in the Dark: Diane Baker shares her memories.
• Animated Image Gallery: Collection of promotional materials.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original film trailer.
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Includes various additional trailers.

"Mirage" emerges as a thrilling cinematic endeavor directed by Edward Dmytryk, with a plot that intricately winds through the realm of amnesia and mystery. Gregory Peck stars as David Stillwell, an accountant plunged into turmoil after emerging from a blackout with no memory of the past two years. As he seeks to unravel his mysterious predicament, the film sets forth on a visual and narrative journey reminiscent of midcentury noir, yet with a unique modern flair. Joseph McDonald's cinematography and Dmytryk's direction highlight New York City's brief but effective contributions to the mise-en-scène, bolstering the film’s tense atmosphere. Peck delivers a compelling portrayal of Stillwell, his performance nuanced and resonant as he navigates alliances and threats from characters like Shela (Diane Baker) and enigmatic figures such as “the Major” (Leif Erickson).

The multi-layered narrative, penned by Peter Stone, employs fractured storytelling techniques with flashbacks that initially disorient but eventually coalesce into a coherent whole upon subsequent viewings. The suspense is intensified by the underlying question of trust and nefarious motives that plague Stillwell's quandary. While the film's ultimate revelations veer toward incredulity, they contribute to a late-blooming political theme, exposing societal mistrust and exploring the dichotomy between peace and conflict. The script’s cleverness, as noted in related commentary, positions "Mirage" as an intriguing follow-up to "Charade" and a thematic sibling to "Arabesque," marking it as an essential part of a vintage suspense triptych.

The ensemble cast elevates the film’s appeal, with Walter Matthau as the amiable detective Ted Caselle and George Kennedy offering gravitas in villainous roles. The commentary on character dynamics and plot devices recalls Hitchcockian influences, albeit more symbolic than direct, creating a thrilling tapestry that has earned "Mirage" critical reevaluation over time as one of the finest thrillers from its era.

"Mirage" has achieved a certain level of intrigue that leaves audiences both curious and entertained, although it doesn't quite reach the iconic status of films like "Charade." The chemistry between Gregory Peck and Diane Baker is charming, though somewhat understated. Peter Stone's writing keeps viewers engaged with its complex twists and turns that align with the protagonist's journey. Despite this strong narrative, technical aspects of the Blu-ray release present some caveats.

Kino's efforts to bring "Mirage" to Blu-ray should be recognized, especially given the movie's newfound appreciation as an overlooked thriller. While video quality has room for improvement, particularly in delivering a crisp viewing experience, the audio quality is robust, enhancing the overall ambience. The disc is supplemented with a variety of special features that are sure to appeal to fans and film aficionados alike who seek a deeper understanding of its production and thematic constructs.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "Mirage" is a testament to its elevated status over time. Although there are issues with video quality, the film's re-evaluation as a thriller gem makes it a worthy consideration for thriller enthusiasts. The supplementary content and reliable audio deliver added value, making this edition a recommendable upgrade for collectors and new fans seeking to discover its classic appeal.