Pale Flower Blu-ray Review

Criterion has delivered a commendable high-definition transfer for Masahiro Shinoda's "Pale Flower," presented in its original 2.35:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC in 1080p. The black-and-white visuals are impressively served by this transfer, providing a robust and healthy representation of the film, despite its predominantly nocturnal and dimly lit settings. Fine object detail retains a notable clarity, and the deep blacks, lush grays, and gentle whites are well rendered. Contrast levels remain consistent, successfully avoiding edge-enhancement and macroblocking issues. It is also important to note that the film's grain structure remains intact, maintaining the film’s classic texture and feel. However, there are minor inherited frame skips, but no serious stability issues or damage like large cuts, stains, or debris are present.

While the source appears to be in excellent condition without signs of damage or age, certain elements do underscore some limitations. There is an occasional inconsistency in black levels—sometimes tending towards a milky gray rather than a deep, inky black, possibly inherent to the source material. This can occasionally lead to a slightly washed-out appearance in darker scenes. Despite this, in lighter scenes or moments when the blacks are deeper, the contrast is strong, allowing whites to appear bright and intense, adding a substantial depth to the image. Though the transfer isn't flawless due to these minor inconsistencies, it does feature moments of greatness and remains a solid representation of the film.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Pale Flower" features a single audio track, provided in Japanese LPCM 1.0, with optional English subtitles that appear inside the image frame when activated. Composed by the legendary Toru Takemitsu, the film's soundtrack expertly merges traditional Japanese folk music with diverse atonal themes. The loseless audio track does justice to the unique score, delivering depth and nuanced dynamics. Dialog is consistently clean, crisp, and stable without any detectable pops, cracks, hissing, or audio dropouts.

While the dialogue remains clear, it occasionally exhibits a thin and sharp quality. Dynamic range is rather flat, with minimal bass presence. However, the balance within the single channel is well-maintained, allowing the film’s impressive sound design and inventive score to resonate authentically. Though not groundbreaking by contemporary standards, the mono audio track succeeds in faithfully representing the film's original sound mixing and respects its stylistic intentions.

Criterion's Blu-Ray release of "Pale Flower" includes a well-curated selection of extras, all presented in 1080p with Dolby Digital Mono sound. The centerpiece is an insightful interview with director Masahiro Shinoda, who covers the film's production history, the socio-cultural context of Cold War era Japan, the distinctive sound design, and the development of the storyline. Accompanying this is a selected-scene audio commentary by film scholar Peter Grilli, which focuses on Toru Takemitsu’s innovative score and its integration into the film. The inclusion of the original theatrical trailer provides a nostalgic glimpse into the film's original marketing. Also included is an illustrated booklet featuring an essay by Chuck Stephens, offering additional critical perspectives.

Extras included in this disc:

Masahiro Shinoda Interview: An in-depth discussion with the director on various aspects of the film.

Selected-Scene Audio Commentary: Peter Grilli discusses the unique score by Toru Takemitsu.

Trailer: The original theatrical trailer.

Booklet: An illustrated booklet with a new essay by film critic Chuck Stephens.

Masahiro Shinoda's 1964 film Pale Flower arrives in a stunning Blu-ray transfer courtesy of Criterion, showcasing the director's intricate blend of yakuza noir and socio-political commentary. The narrative centers on Muraki (played by Ryo Ikebe), a yakuza returning to a now-unfamiliar underworld after a prison stint. His encounter with the enigmatic Saeko (Mariko Kaga) at a gambling parlor sets off a series of events highlighting post-war Japan's moral vacuum and the characters' search for meaning amidst societal chaos.

Cinematographer Masao Kosugi's visual craftsmanship is matched by Toru Takemitsu's distinct industrial score, which enriches the tense atmosphere of the film. The gambling scenes stand out, not only for their meticulous close-ups and strategic editing but also for their innovative use of sound. Every sharp card shuffle and reaction shot contributes to a rhythmic montage of tension, with the score lending an uneasy yet compelling layer to these sequences.

However, while Pale Flower impresses with its stylistic elements, the narrative doesn’t fully achieve the depth it aims for. Muraki's detached demeanor creates an intentional emotional distance that might alienate some viewers. Despite potent performances from Ikebe and Kaga, who juxtapose doomed malaise and playful recklessness, the emotional resonance sometimes falls short. Nonetheless, the film remains an intriguing exploration of existential themes set against a backdrop of Japan’s societal transitions, meriting attention for its artistic merit.

Masahiro Shinoda's "Pale Flower" emerges as an exceptional film that skillfully blends noir conventions with a stylistic exploration of post-war Japan. Its visual composition captivates the audience with striking, often haunting, imagery, while its unique sound design adds layers of depth to the narrative. While the story might not reach the emotional impact it aims for, the craftsmanship behind the direction, cinematography, and audio presentation makes it a compelling watch.

In terms of technical execution, the Criterion Collection has delivered a predictably outstanding Blu-ray release. The film’s video presentation is highly commendable, featuring a clean and sharp transfer that highlights the rich visual stylistics of Shinoda's work. The audio track, equally impressive, ensures that the unique sound design is delivered with clarity and precision. The extras, albeit limited, provide valuable insights into the film’s production and thematic context.

In conclusion, Masahiro Shinoda's "Pale Flower" is a very unusual, very stylish, and thought-provoking film that offers a fascinating look at post-war Japan. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope that Criterion finds a way to release more of Shinoda's films on Blu-ray. The technical presentation is excellent. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.