Woman of the Year Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of George Stevens' "Woman of the Year" retains its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio and features a 1080p transfer encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, courtesy of Criterion. Utilizing a 2K resolution digital transfer created from a 35mm fine-grain master positive, the transfer process involved using a Lasergraphics Director film scanner. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in every frame, maintaining the natural grain structure and ensuring no visible degraining corrections are applied. Density fluctuations due to aging are minimal and do not detract from the overall integrity of the image. With superbly resolved very light and healthy grain, the film presents an organic and authentic appearance throughout its entirety.

The black levels are rich and deep, and whites appear crisp, delivering excellent contrast and gray scale variance. Hepburn's wardrobe patterns resist shimmering, enhancing the depth and detail of the picture. The enhanced shadow delineation and perfectly defined silhouettes complement the meticulously remastered monaural soundtrack, ensuring that clicks, thumps, hiss, hum, and crackle have been manually removed for an immersive audio experience. Stability is top-notch, devoid of large blemishes, cuts, stains, debris, or damage marks that could detract from the viewing experience. Indeed, the restoration breathes new life into this 75-year-old classic, honoring cinematographer Joseph Ruttenberg's work with a vibrant and beautifully balanced visual that preserves its historical significance while providing a refreshed cinematic experience for modern audiences.

(Note: As a Region-A locked Blu-ray release, access to its content requires a native Region-A or Region-Free player.)

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Woman of the Year" features a carefully remastered LPCM 1.0 track, pulled from the original 35 mm soundtrack negative. Criterion has meticulously balanced the mix, resulting in a clean and well-modulated soundscape. Dialogue is notably sharp, with indoor conversations reproduced clearly and accurately. The track handles dynamics quite well, allowing Franz Waxman's occasional musical score to breathe without overpowering the subtle ambient noises that define the film’s quiet scenes.

Despite these strengths, reviewers have noted that there are isolated moments where the upper register audio seems slightly compressed, potentially due to efforts to minimize background imperfections. This 'thinning' effect might be noticeable at elevated volumes but does not undermine the overall high quality of the audio. There are no detectable audio dropouts, pops, or cracks, and instances of surface noise during silent segments are minimal. The track excellently conveys ambient sounds, such as crowd noise and footsteps, integrating seamlessly with the on-screen action. Criterion's restoration work ensures that "Woman of the Year" maintains its classic auditory appeal while offering an enhanced listening experience for contemporary audiences.

The Blu-ray of "Woman of the Year" from Criterion features a comprehensive package of extras that deepen the viewer's understanding of this classic film and its creators. Notable is the combination of archival interviews with director George Stevens and contemporary perspectives from his son, George Stevens Jr. These pieces offer insights into his directorial approach and personal recollections, providing a rich historical background. Marilyn Ann Moss and Claudia Roth Pierpoint's interviews further illuminate George Stevens' career and Katharine Hepburn's influential persona. The inclusion of feature-length documentaries on George Stevens and Spencer Tracy adds depth and context, showcasing their substantial contributions to American cinema. Although the lack of an audio commentary is a minor drawback, the wealth of high-definition extras ensures a well-rounded and engaging viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original trailer for "Woman of the Year."
• George Stevens: Archival interview from 1967 on working with Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy.
• George Stevens Jr.: New interview discussing his father's creative process.
• Marilyn Ann Moss: Interview on George Stevens’ career and style.
• Katharine Hepburn: Woman of the Century: Discussion on Hepburn’s career and feminist influence.
• George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey: Comprehensive documentary on Stevens’ life and films.
• The Spencer Tracy Legacy: Documentary celebrating Spencer Tracy's career.
• Leaflet: Featuring an essay by critic Stephanie Zacharek.

George Stevens' "Woman of the Year" (1942), now refreshed on Blu-ray thanks to Criterion, remains a definitive classic attributed overwhelmingly to the electrifying chemistry between Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy. Hepburn plays Tess Harding, a fiercely independent and career-driven newspaper columnist, while Tracy embodies Sam Craig, a methodical, traditional sportswriter. Their characters' dynamic is framed through Tess’s high-octane, driven perspective juxtaposed against Sam’s straightforward charm. The film traverses their romance from spirited rival reporters to an intricate marriage, revealing fundamentally different understandings about domestic life versus career ambitions. Stevens harnesses their nuanced performances, emphasizing subtle gestures and conversational interplay that reveal deeper emotional layers. Hepburn’s and Tracy’s ability to seamlessly adapt their body language and tones across the arc of the relationship demonstrates why their on-screen partnership is often considered unparalleled.

While "Woman of the Year" contains a rich undercurrent of social context—exploring gender roles and professional versus personal fulfillment—it's levied with humor through timeless set pieces like Tess's obliviousness in a baseball press box and her disastrous attempt at cooking breakfast. These scenes showcase Stevens' elevated approach to comedy, which relies on reaction shots and meticulously choreographed sequences to craft genuinely memorable moments. Notably, the film's critical take on Hepburn’s supposed 'transformation' sparks varied interpretations; some see it as a critique of women's roles, while others view it as providing Tess with agency and choice. Despite differing opinions, the movie’s enduring appeal lies in the impeccable performances of its leads. Hepburn was rightly nominated for an Oscar for her role, while Tracy’s understated excellence underscores his critical contribution to the film’s success. Overall, "Woman of the Year" is lauded for its adept handling of thematic complexity wrapped in an engaging romantic comedy framework.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of "Woman of the Year" celebrates the debut pairing of legendary stars Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. This 1942 classic, directed by George Stevens, brings to life the Oscar-winning script in a charming and witty battle-of-the-sexes narrative. Hepburn enthralls as a sophisticated and assertive columnist, while Tracy complements her as an unpretentious sportswriter. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, creating an iconic duo whose dynamic continues to resonate profoundly. With the superb restoration from a recent 2K scan, both video and audio elements are rendered with immaculate clarity, preserving the film’s enduring appeal.

The blu-ray disc is unequivocally top-tier, boasting remarkable video and sound quality that showcases the meticulous restoration process. Hepburn and Tracy's performances are sharply brought into focus, allowing viewers to appreciate their craft in pristine detail. Criterion's package is substantial, featuring two excellent feature-length documentaries that provide enriching insights into the film's production, its cultural impact, and the legendary careers of its stars and director. These supplements significantly enhance the overall viewing experience, cementing the release's stature as a comprehensive tribute to this cinematic masterpiece.

In conclusion, there are diverse opinions about "Woman of the Year," primarily due to the urge to politicize its portrayal of relationships. While the film does touch upon some delicate truths, their importance may be overstated. What truly stands out is the magnetic performance of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, whose chemistry is the core delight of the film. Criterion’s Blu-ray release, with an outstanding new 2K restoration and extensive supplemental features, is a celebration of classic cinema. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.