She Done Him Wrong Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release of "She Done Him Wrong" delivers a compelling visual experience with its 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high-definition transfer. The integrity of the film’s original theatrical aspect ratio, presented in 1.33:1 full frame, is commendably preserved, showcasing the black-and-white cinematography with remarkable clarity. Throughout the transfer, the encode remains robust, exhibiting minimal issues with print wear or damage that could detract from the viewing experience. Black levels are satisfactorily deep, contributing to the film’s striking grayscale that highlights rich blacks and pristine whites.

While the occasional black and white scratch is visible, these do not significantly impact the overall clarity and cleanliness of the presentation. The 1.37:1 aspect ratio is faithfully rendered, offering a crisp image quality that, aside from sporadic instances of softness, maintains impressive sharpness. The grayscale performance is notably strong, enhancing the visual dynamics of the film. Divided into eight chapters, this release allows for straightforward navigation while appreciating the restored visual aesthetics.

The Blu-ray release of "She Done Him Wrong" is presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono, delivering an impressively clear and refined audio experience that complements this early sound-era film. The dialogue, crucial due to the film's dialogue-driven nature, is crisp and distinct, allowing Mae West's iconic quips and double entendres to resonate effectively. The sound mix successfully balances ambient saloon chatter with the main dialogue, enhancing the film's setting without overshadowing the spoken word. Notably, Fred Santley's performance of "Darling, I Am Growing Old" is supported by a male chorus, capturing the elocutionary style of the period with remarkable fidelity.

Technically, the audio track exhibits a high-quality execution seldom marred by minor scratching typical of earlier sound recording techniques. The lossless DTS-HD Master Audio ensures an engaging listening experience without any significant hiss, crackle, pops, or clicks that could detract from the authenticity of the film's auditory presentation. The occasional touches of scratchiness do little to detract from the overall clarity and professional mixing of dialogue with music and sound effects.

Optional English SDH subtitles are included, ensuring accessibility while maintaining the integrity of the original soundscape. The combination of technical competence and the attention to preserving the film's tone ensures that "She Done Him Wrong" remains an appealing audio experience for both historical film enthusiasts and new audiences.

The Blu-ray extras for "She Done Him Wrong" offer a blend of insightful and nostalgic elements. Two audio commentaries by film historians David Del Valle and Kat Ellinger provide varied insights—Del Valle shares personal anecdotes about Mae West, showcasing his deep respect for her career, while Ellinger’s commentary highlights West’s independence but lacks coherence. An exclusive introduction by the late Robert Osborne from Turner Classic Movies provides valuable context, enriching viewers' understanding of the production’s historical significance. Additionally, the inclusion of a 1933 animated short, "She Does Him Right," offers an entertaining vintage touch. The Kino Lorber release is complemented by a selection of trailers that enhance the nostalgic feel, featuring titles like "Night After Night" and "I'm No Angel," further showcasing the era’s cinematic richness.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Film Historian David Del Valle: Personal anecdotes and admiration for Mae West.
• Audio Commentary by Film Historian Kat Ellinger: Celebrates Mae West's independence.
• Exclusive Introduction by Turner Classic Movies Host Robert Osborne: Background on movie production.
• She Does Him Right Cartoon: A 1933 Pooch the Pup short.
• Kino Trailers: Previews of various classic films.

"She Done Him Wrong" on Blu-ray is an essential glimpse into the Golden Age of Hollywood, showcasing the undeniable charisma of Mae West and Cary Grant. Set against the bawdy backdrop of the 1890s Bowery, Mae West shines as Lady Lou, a saloon singer with a penchant for diamonds and men alike. The film’s narrative is adorned with humor, reflecting West's sharp wit through a script that preserves her legendary dialogue. Despite the film’s brisk 66-minute runtime, it manages to weave an intricate web of rivalry and romance, juxtaposed alongside a vibrant portrait of New York's underbelly.

The craftsmanship behind the movie is meticulously orchestrated, with art direction by Robert Usher and costume design by Edith Head vividly rendering the era. The black-and-white cinematography by Charles Lang accents the noir aesthetic, enhancing the film’s energy. These elements meld seamlessly with John Leipold’s music, which imbues scenes with light-hearted charm while complementing the visual narrative skillfully orchestrated by director Lowell Sherman.

The storyline, derived from Mae West's stage success "Diamond Lil" and adapted for the screen by Mae West, Harvey F. Thew, and John Bright, is filled with cleverly constructed characters that grant the plot both depth and comedy. Despite minor subplots occasionally receiving less emphasis amid a focus on Mae West's riveting performances, the screenplay delivers ample charm and humor. Cary Grant's appearances, although brief, introduce another layer of suave wit that foreshadows his later iconic roles. This timeless comedy-drama remains a testament to Mae West's star power and has justifiably earned its place as a classic. It remains a showcase of enduring film art grounded in brilliant performances and a lively, unforgettable narrative.

"She Done Him Wrong" is an iconic comedy-drama from 1933 that captures the charisma and wit of Mae West, alongside a young Cary Grant. This film, directed by Lowell Sherman, serves as a platform for West’s vivacious persona, elevating her to stardom. As a slightly altered adaptation of her stage play, "Diamond Lil," the film presents West at her boldest, epitomizing liberated attitudes that challenged cinematic norms of the era. The resulting controversy sparked by West's portrayal marked a significant cultural moment, leading to stricter censorship in American cinema.

The Blu-ray release of "She Done Him Wrong" offers an impressive presentation that does justice to this classic film. The restoration captures the vintage charm and intricate production details with remarkable clarity, enhancing the cinematic experience for modern audiences. The sound quality complements the visual restoration, making West and Grant’s performances all the more compelling and enjoyable. This meticulously crafted release is an essential addition to any cinephile’s collection, thanks to its historical significance and high-quality preservation.

In conclusion, "She Done Him Wrong" remains an entertaining and influential piece of cinema history. Its combination of sharp performances and strategic humor solidified its status as a timeless classic. The Blu-ray version elevates the viewing experience with its stellar technical presentation, reinforcing the film's revered position in Hollywood's golden age. Highly recommended for fans of classic cinema and those interested in the sociocultural evolution of filmmaking.