Smiles of a Summer Night Blu-ray Review

Presented in a 1.33:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray presentation of Ingmar Bergman's "Smiles of a Summer Night" is visually compelling and richly detailed. The high-definition digital transfer, derived from a new 35mm print made from the original camera negative, employs rigorous cleanup processes using MTI's DRS system and Pixel Farm's PFClean system to eliminate dirt, debris, scratches, splices, flicker, and warps. The Digital Vision's DVNR system ensures reduction of small dirt, grain, and noise while preserving the film's authentic aesthetics. The telecine work overseen by Maria Palazzola and color corrections by Greg Garvin contribute to a transfer that stands out for its clarity and color balance.

The video quality of this Criterion release excels in presenting fine object details, particularly in close-up shots where facial complexions and texture in clothing are rendered with precision. Victorian architectural elements and various household items are distinct and clear, giving a textured depth to the visual experience. Black levels are lush and profound, offering appealing image depth, though occasionally shadow details can be slightly overwhelming. Contrast levels are generally well-balanced, though minor clipping and posterization can be observed if scrutinized closely. Despite these negligible issues, the overall organic look of this high-definition transfer remains pleasing.

Although there are sporadic moments where grain appears slightly too prominent, these do not detract significantly from the visual enjoyment. Edge-enhancement is minimal and not distracting, preserving the film's integrity while enhancing its visual appeal. Criterion has successfully eradicated numerous visual imperfections like scratches and specks, resulting in a transfer that is both faithful to the original material and enjoyable for contemporary audiences. Note that this is a Region-A locked Blu-ray disc, necessitating a Region-A or Region-Free player for playback.

The lone audio track on the Blu-ray of "Smiles of a Summer Night" is a Swedish LPCM 1.0 track, meticulously restored. Criterion includes optional English subtitles. This monaural soundtrack, remastered at 24-bit from a 35mm optical soundtrack print, underwent manual noise reduction using Pro Tools HD, with crackle attenuation courtesy of AudioCube's integrated workstation. Despite its inherent dynamic limitations, the track excels in delivering crisp, clean, and stable dialogue without any perceptible distortions, pops, cracks, hiss, or audio dropouts.

This PCM monaural presentation impresses with substantial acoustical presence and commendable fidelity. Nevertheless, the nature of the original mix doesn’t offer much dynamism. The primary focus is on the dialogue, which is exceptionally clear and easy to follow, maintaining lucidity from start to finish. Given that the humor of the film relies heavily on verbal exchanges, this clarity is crucial. The background remains mostly silent, exhibiting little activity, and the dynamic range is notably narrow—the few musical and action sequences are confined. However, this track does an admirable job reflecting these characteristics faithfully, ensuring a pleasant and authentic auditory experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Smiles of a Summer Night" showcases a commendable collection of extras that provide an in-depth look into the film's historical and cultural context. The supplements, initially seen in the 2004 DVD release, are meticulously transferred in high-definition. Bergman’s 2003 introduction offers a concise, insightful prelude in his theater on Faro Island. An engaging discussion featuring film historian Peter Cowie and writer/producer Jorn Donner delves into Bergman's career and the film's production nuances, captured in a richly informative 17-minute segment. The original Swedish trailer is a nostalgic trip, complemented by optional English subtitles ensuring accessibility. Additionally, a 24-page illustrated booklet enriches the offering with essays and technical notes from John Simon and Pauline Kael, enhancing the scholarly value of this release.

Extras included in this disc:

• Swedish Trailer: Theatrical trailer with optional English subtitles.
• Ingmar Bergman Introduction: Director's 2003 introduction in Swedish.
• Peter Cowie and Jorn Donner Discussion: Comprehensive conversation from 2003.
• Booklet: Illustrated notes and essays by John Simon and Pauline Kael.

Ingmar Bergman's 1955 film, "Smiles of a Summer Night", hailed as his true directorial breakthrough, offers a charming and witty exploration of romantic entanglements in turn-of-the-century Sweden. The film features middle-aged lawyer Fredrik Egerman (Gunnar Bjornstrand) and his seventeen-year-old wife Anne (Ulla Jacobsson), who find themselves amid a complex web of relationships involving Fredrik’s former lover, actress Desiree Armfeldt (Eva Dahlbeck), and the Count Carl Magnus Malcolm (Jarl Kulle). The Count’s wife, Countess Charlotte Malcolm (Margit Carlqvist), suspects her husband’s infidelity, setting the stage for a series of confrontations and machinations among the characters.

Bergman’s narrative is structured like a stage play, with scenes dominated by intimate dialogues between two or three characters. This episodic presentation enhances the film's theatricality, embodying the artificiality and performative aspects of love and relationships. Crucial moments include a weekend gathering at the countryside estate of Desiree’s mother, Mrs. Armfeldt (Naima Wifstrand), where pivotal discoveries unfold. The interplay between the calculating women and the often bumbling men is both comedic and tragic, reflecting Bergman’s merciless dissection of both sexes’ vulnerabilities and manipulations.

"Smiles of a Summer Night" stands out for its sharp dialogue and keen observations on human behavior. The film's humor is rooted in wit and character interactions rather than overt comedy, bringing depth to its portrayal of romantic follies. This Blu-ray release from Criterion includes insightful supplements like an introduction by Bergman, an interview with film historian Peter Cowie, and a richly illustrated booklet. The film’s pristine transfer, aided by Criterion's meticulous restoration, ensures that Bergman’s visually expressive style is preserved in high definition, making this release an essential addition to any classic film aficionado’s collection.

"Smiles of a Summer Night," Ingmar Bergman's delightful foray into light romantic comedy, is a pivotal film that solidified his status as a major European director. As a charming and intelligent exploration of fickle love, the film brilliantly foreshadows Bergman's later, more somber works. The Blu-ray release from The Criterion Collection does justice to this cinematic gem with commendable picture quality and reliable audio presentation. However, it should be noted that the complimentary content, including a video introduction by Bergman and a conversation between Bergman scholar Peter Cowie and writer Jorn Donner, feels slightly modest for such an essential piece of cinema history.

In addition to the aforementioned features, Criterion has included a theatrical trailer and a well-curated booklet filled with insightful essays and reviews. While the supplementary materials are ported over from Criterion's previous DVD release, they remain valuable for both aficionados and newcomers to Bergman's oeuvre. For those unacquainted with Bergman's work, it may be wise to rent this Blu-ray initially to gauge appreciation before adding it to one's collection.

In conclusion, "Smiles of a Summer Night" stands as one of Ingmar Bergman's most influential films, marking his ascension in the international cinematic community. Criterion's Blu-ray presentation is commendable despite minor shortcomings in additional content. Overall, it's a high-quality release deserving of a place in any serious film enthusiast's library. Highly recommended.