It Happened on Fifth Avenue Blu-ray Review

Warner Archive's Blu-ray presentation of "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" benefits from a meticulous 4K restoration that capitalizes on the best surviving nitrate elements, delivering a stunning 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer. The video quality is notably exceptional, achieving a high bit rate throughout the film. The image detail frequently stands out with rich textures and a pure, film-like appearance that's both clean and stable with excellent density. This rendition maintains a glorious film-like presentation due to a subtle grain structure, rich blacks, bright whites, and gracefully varying gray scales. Most scenes showcase fantastic detail with pleasingly silver gray scales and natural film grain that significantly enhance the visual appeal.

A handful of scenes exhibit slightly lesser quality, occasionally presenting harsher contrast levels, less pronounced shadow detail, and sometimes softer edges. Brief instances of inconsistent gamma levels lead to higher brightness in some shots, which can be slightly distracting but are fleeting. Despite these minor issues, the majority of the transfer remains consistent and fluid, with shadow delineation showing impressive depth and patterns appearing solid. Close-ups particularly shine, emphasizing the facial attributes and textures of the actors with remarkable clarity.

This restoration also makes it apparent that "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" wasn't shot on location in New York City, as the enhanced clarity reveals rear projection work that can seem somewhat dated. However, this minor shortcoming is a small price to pay given the overall excellence of the image quality. Background details are easily discernible, and the impeccable source material exhibits no nicks, marks, or scratches. In summary, this Blu-ray version of "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" looks significantly better than its original 1947 release, making it a true visual treat for fans of this under-the-radar holiday classic.

The DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio on the Blu Ray of "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" provides a crisp and clear presentation that belies the film’s age. Dialogue is meticulously articulated, with overlapping voices seamlessly managed and well-placed spatially, particularly as scenes transition from the sparsely populated mansion to its more crowded, later stages. Outdoor scenes, whether genuine or fabricated, maintain a notably open ambiance, enhancing the narrative's setting, while large indoor areas are given a suitably spacious audio feel.

Edward Ward’s original score is rendered with an impressive robustness, seamlessly filling the sound space without vying for dominance. The two-channel audio, despite lacking discrete effects, creates a perceptible sense of depth absent from standard mono tracks. A touch of surface noise is occasionally present during quieter passages, but any disruptive pops and crackles have been skillfully eliminated. Songs, notably featuring Storm's rich vocals, add texture and depth to the track, with sonic detail and subtleties crisply defined.

Optional English (SDH) subtitles are perfectly formatted and synchronized, ensuring a comprehensive and accessible viewing experience. This Blu Ray audio track stands as a commendable representation of the film’s sound design, striking an admirable balance between historical authenticity and modern clarity.

The Blu-ray release of "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" comes in a standard keepcase featuring attractive poster-themed cover artwork. Despite the absence of inserts and trailers, which are typically expected on Warner Archive Collection (WAC) discs, the single extra offered is a noteworthy inclusion: a vintage radio adaptation of the film. Originally broadcast on May 19, 1947, this Lux Radio Theater episode features four of the film's original stars—Victor Moore, Charlie Ruggles, Gale Storm, and Don DeFore—reprising their roles. Produced and directed by Vic Knight, this 50-minute rendition superbly condenses the charming story of the film, offering a nostalgic audio experience for aficionados of classic cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

• Lux Radio Theater Broadcast: A vintage radio adaptation originally aired on May 19, 1947. Features performances by Victor Moore, Charlie Ruggles, Gale Storm, and Don DeFore.

"It Happened on 5th Avenue," directed by Roy Del Ruth, offers a delightful holiday escapade that blends screwball comedy with profound social commentary. Originally optioned by Liberty Films and nearly directed by Frank Capra, this film shares thematic similarities with Capra's more renowned "It's a Wonderful Life," such as focusing on community and goodwill, but takes a distinctly madcap approach. The story centers on hobo Aloysius T. McKeever (Victor Moore), who annually occupies the vacant Manhattan mansion of the wealthy Michael J. O'Connor (Charles Ruggles). The plot thickens as ex-GI Jim Bullock (Don DeFore) and O'Connor's runaway daughter Trudy (Gale Storm) join McKeever, setting up a heartwarming tale of romantic mix-ups and mistaken identities.

Despite its light-hearted veneer, the film tackles corporate greed, personal transformations, and the importance of communal support, making it a substantial piece underneath its comedy. While the narrative is rich in character-driven atmosphere, the extensive cast—particularly Jim’s war buddies Whitey (Alan Hale, Jr.) and Hank (Edward Ryan)—sometimes detracts from the core storyline involving O'Connor’s familial relationships. At 116 minutes, the film feels overly extended; some tightening, especially cutting superfluous songs, could have improved pacing without sacrificing substance.

Victor Moore's portrayal of McKeever stands out with his raspy voice and priceless expressions, enhanced by the commanding presence of Charles Ruggles. Their performances compensate for any narrative meandering, making "It Happened on 5th Avenue" a charming companion piece to "It's a Wonderful Life." It’s a film that may not provoke tears but will undoubtedly leave viewers with a warm holiday glow. Its focus on human connections and goodwill offers a timeless reminder of the season’s true spirit.

Roy Del Ruth’s "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" delivers an engaging blend of comedy, romance, and social commentary. While it might not sit amongst the highest echelon of holiday classics, the film captures seasonal cheer through its unique storyline, where a hobo impersonates a millionaire and vice versa. This inventive but slightly implausible premise is enriched by memorable performances and a narrative that feels comfortable as it progresses. Though the supporting cast can seem a bit crowded, the film’s core charm shines through—a timeless message paired with delightful time-capsule footage of NYC.

Warner Archive Collection’s Blu-ray release of "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" is technically impressive. The 4K-sourced restoration brings crisp visuals to the screen, highlighting the film’s historical New York City backdrop. The audio quality also stands out, offering great lossless sound that complements the visual upgrade. However, the bonus features fall short of expectations, with limited additions beyond the standard offering.

Overall, "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" is a heartwarming if not entirely essential addition to holiday collections. Long-time fans will appreciate the stellar A/V restoration, while new viewers might find it best to sample before committing to purchase. The film spreads an inclusive message that transcends its era, captured beautifully in this high-quality Blu-ray edition. Recommended for those who enjoy classic cinema with a dash of nostalgia.