My Darling Clementine Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of John Ford's "My Darling Clementine" presents the film in a 1.33:1 aspect ratio, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and a 1080p transfer. This new digital transfer was meticulously created in 4K resolution from a 35mm nitrate composite fine-grain, held by the Museum of Modern Art, and underwent extensive restoration at Cineric in New York. Utilizing advanced tools such as DaVinci Revival, Cinnafilm's Dark Energy, and Pixel Farm's PFClean, thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, and other imperfections were manually removed to enhance visual clarity.

For the Theatrical Version, depth and definition are impressive, especially in daylight close-ups which showcase remarkable clarity. However, some nighttime footage reveals minor inconsistencies due to inherent source limitations. A light layer of grain is visible throughout, with occasional grain management becoming noticeable predominantly during darker scenes. Although these scenes may appear somewhat flat at times, overall color saturation and stability remain commendable. The restoration also achieves significant improvements in image stability by removing substantial debris, damage marks, and other defects, lending the film a pleasingly organic appearance.

In contrast, the Prerelease Version is presented in 1080p but lacks the same level of meticulous restoration. Consequently, viewers can expect to see numerous scratches and debris alongside sporadic halo effects. Fluctuations in detail and clarity mark this version, attributed to its origin from a 1946 nitrate preview print. Despite these limitations, image stability is maintained reasonably well.

This Region-A locked Blu-ray release reflects Criterion's commitment to preserving cinematic history while balancing a raw yet refined visual presentation that will be appreciated by film enthusiasts and purists alike.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "My Darling Clementine" offers two distinct versions, each with commendable quality. The Theatrical Version features an English LPCM 1.0 track accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. Viewers will appreciate the outstanding depth and clarity, particularly noticeable in Cyril J. Mockridge's engaging soundtrack, which breathes naturally throughout the film. An impressive technical accomplishment is the successful elimination of background hiss, a common issue in previous releases, such as the old R1 DVD. Additionally, this version is free from pops, cracks, audio dropouts, and any digital distortions, ensuring an uninterrupted auditory experience.

The Prerelease Version of the film includes a Dolby Digital 1.0 track, offering a different yet equally compelling audio experience. Despite the single-channel format, this track maintains excellent depth and clarity, with a well-balanced musical score that enhances the viewing experience. Although there is occasional light hiss, it is subtle and not at all distracting. This version also boasts an absence of audio dropouts and digital distortions, providing a consistent and high-quality auditory presentation. However, viewers should note that optional English SDH subtitles are not available for this version.

The Blu-ray release of "My Darling Clementine" comes packed with a rich array of extras that offer in-depth insights into both the film itself and its historical context. The inclusion of the Prerelease Version, complemented by a detailed comparison piece by preservationist Robert Gitt, is particularly enlightening, shedding light on significant changes made before the final October 1946 release. The original trailer and a fascinating Lux Radio Theatre adaptation enrich the understanding of the film's reception and legacy. Additional highlights include a 1916 short directed by John Ford's brother, an exclusive video essay by Tad Gallagher, and historical features on Monument Valley and Tombstone. Interviews with experts like Andrew C. Isenberg and an audio commentary by Joseph McBride provide valuable scholarly perspectives. Each extra is preserved in excellent audiovisual quality, with comprehensive contextual background.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Prerelease Version: Text description of the earlier version.
• Version Comparison: Analysis of differences between Prerelease and Theatrical versions.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer.
• Lux Radio Theatre: 1947 radio adaptation featuring the original cast.
• Bandit's Wager (1916): A western short directed by John Ford's brother.
• Lost and Gone Forever: Video essay on film themes by Tad Gallagher.
• Today: Report on Monument Valley: Excerpt focusing on the film location.
• David Brinkley Journal: Tombstone: Historical focus on the town of Tombstone.
• Print the Legend: Interview with western scholar Andrew C. Isenberg.
• Commentary: Audio commentary by film scholar Joseph McBride.
• Leaflet: Essay by David Jenkins and technical credits.

John Ford's "My Darling Clementine" (1946) stands as a quintessential Western, celebrating the high art of the genre. Anchored by Ford's masterful direction and Darryl F. Zanuck’s editorial touch, the film explores the legacy of Wyatt Earp with captivating nuance. The narrative follows Earp (Henry Fonda) and his brothers' quest for justice after a tragic cattle theft and murder. Ford’s portrayal of Earp's complex relationship with Doc Holliday (Victor Mature) and intersecting lives in Tombstone introduces layers of emotional depth and tension. Despite its historical liberties, the film’s core remains compelling through its character dynamics and atmospheric storytelling.

For cinephiles and historians alike, Criterion’s Blu-ray release enriches the experience by offering both the Prerelease and Theatrical Versions of the film, each running approximately 103 and 97 minutes respectively. The Theatrical Version, re-edited by Zanuck, brings a different interplay of visual sequences and soundtrack, deviating from Ford’s initial vision. The inclusion of features such as a video essay by Tad Gallagher and an audio commentary by cinema professor Joseph McBride provides further insight into Ford's artistic choices. Evolving from MacDonald's eloquent cinematography to Mockridge's evocative score, "My Darling Clementine" transcends its era, proving its status as a timeless masterpiece of American filmography.

While it takes creative liberties with historical events like the O.K. Corral shootout and character backgrounds, "My Darling Clementine" excels in portraying the essence of frontier life. The chemistry between an extraordinary cast drives the narrative forward, with Henry Fonda’s stoic Wyatt Earp and Victor Mature’s haunting Doc Holliday at its heart. This Criterion release not only immortalizes Ford’s vision but also caters to a deeper appreciation of one of cinema's most storied Westerns through its meticulously curated supplementary content.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of "My Darling Clementine" continues to uphold the highest standards of film restoration and archival presentation. This release features both the recently restored 4K Theatrical Version and the longer Prerelease Version, giving viewers insight into different cuts of this classic western. The package includes a wealth of supplemental features that will excite any film scholar or enthusiast. Noteworthy is the new video interview with western scholar Andrew C. Isenberg, which offers a deep dive into the historical context of the film and its surrounding legend. The technical quality of the restoration is superb, offering a level of clarity and detail that brings John Ford's vision to life like never before.

In terms of extra content, Criterion has truly outdone themselves. The Blu-ray features an audio commentary by renowned film scholar Joseph McBride and an insightful Version Comparison analysis by preservationist Robert Gitt. Additional highlights include the Print the Legend interview with Andrew C. Isenberg, excerpts from the David Brinkley Journal and the Today show, and Tag Gallagher's video essay Lost and Gone Forever. These elements not only enhance the viewing experience but also provide invaluable educational resources. Also included is Bandit’s Wager, a short western film by Francis Ford, as well as the 1947 Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of My Darling Clementine, further enriching this comprehensive collection.

Though not historically accurate, John Ford's "My Darling Clementine" remains the best film about Wyatt Earp's legacy. Criterion's upcoming Blu-ray release features two versions of the film: the Theatrical Version, which has been recently restored in 4K, and the longer Prerelease Version. As usual, Criterion have also provided an impressive selection of supplemental features, including a truly fantastic new video interview with western scholar Andrew C. Isenberg. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.