The Manchurian Candidate 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's release of "The Manchurian Candidate" on 4K UHD Blu-ray represents a significant upgrade in visual quality from previous versions, showcasing the film with enhanced clarity and depth that was once unattainable. Striking a new HDR/Dolby Vision master from a 4K scan of the original camera negative, this release maintains the film's original cinematic essence while elevating its presentation in key aspects. Though framed in a slightly different 1.85:1 aspect ratio compared to Criterion's 1.75:1, this alteration doesn't detract from the filmic experience. The image is darker, yielding pronounced contrast, richer blacks, and a more nuanced grayscale that adds a palpable layer of intensity to the narrative's unfolding drama.

Details in the 2160p/HEVC H.265 transfer are remarkably defined, enhancing not just the visual engagement but also enriching the thematic undercurrents. The detailed clarity allows for a better appreciation of background elements and textures, contributing to an immersive viewing experience. Grain preservation ensures that the film's original 'feel' remains intact, with minor fluctuations that are characteristic rather than distracting. The Dolby Vision enhancement is subtle yet impactful, providing a visual depth and fluidity that makes even the smallest details, like sweat on the actors' skins or the textures of worn-out walls, strikingly vivid. Despite these improvements, it's noted that the jump from the excellent dynamic range of the 1080p visuals to 4K is relatively modest, yet appreciable for enthusiasts and purists.

The clean-up efforts by KLSC are commendable, softening a faint vertical line and erasing minor nicks without over-sanitizing the film's gritty aesthetic. While there aren't groundbreaking differences between this 4K UHD transfer and Criterion's 1080p version, the enhancements in clarity, contrast, black levels, and shadow detail substantiate this release as a worthy investment for aficionados of this iconic film. It's a testament to how modern technology can breathe new life into classic cinema, presenting "The Manchurian Candidate" in a light that honors its legacy while offering an enriched visual experience.

The audio presentation of "The Manchurian Candidate" on 4K UHD Blu Ray offers viewers two distinct listening experiences through its English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and 5.1 tracks, supplementing these with optional English SDH subtitles for accessibility. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 option stands out for its faithful enhancement of the film's original mono soundtrack, albeit not matching the Criterion release's LPCM 1.0 track in terms of historical authenticity. This stereo track shines with a serviceable clarity, free from age-related audio anomalies, providing a balanced mix that superbly prioritizes dialogue even amid bustling scenes. Notably, David Amram's score thrives across this 2.0 mix, achieving an expansive ambiance that gently bleeds into the rear channels during the film's more surreal sequences, without any distortions, hiss, or crackles to mar the experience.

Conversely, the English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, while aiming to offer a more immersive atmosphere, falls short of expectations. It struggles with prioritizing clarity for dialogue in scenes with dense activity, inadvertently drowning out critical conversations with overpowering background effects. Such imbalance underscores a missed opportunity to enhance the film's intricate sound design effectively. The 5.1 mix does extend the soundscape across a broader range, incorporating some rear speaker activity in key scenes such as the opening battle and final moments, albeit sparingly. Unfortunately, this ambitious track fails to consistently apply a nuanced surround presence through much of the film, the attempt to recreate a surround experience from a mono source resulting in a jumbled auditory presentation that occasionally undermines the narrative's focus and intensity.

In summary, while the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track provides a notably improved listening experience that respects and elevates the film's original sonic landscape, the 5.1 surround sound option does not deliver the expected auditory depth and clarity, especially in dialogue-heavy scenes. Those seeking an audio experience that enhances without overwhelming will find the stereo track preferable for its dynamic range, fidelity, and meticulous balance of elements, enhancing "The Manchurian Candidate's" compelling atmosphere without distorting its essence.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "The Manchurian Candidate" is lauded not only for its stellar remaster but also for its comprehensive and insightful collection of extras that greatly enhance the viewing experience. Director John Frankenheimer's commentary is a treasure trove for cinephiles, offering deep dives into the film's production challenges, casting insights, and a candid recounting of the journey to adapt Richard Condon's novel. Archival interviews mesh seamlessly, presenting a time capsule where Frankenheimer, Sinatra, and Axelrod reminisce about their on-set experiences, notably Sinatra's revealing discussion about his infamous karate fight scene. Angela Lansbury's contributions are equally enlightening; her reflections provide a nuanced understanding of her character's depth and the complexity of working with Frankenheimer. William Friedkin's homage further elevates the disc's value, bridging contemporary perspective with historic significance. Although certain Criterion-exclusive materials are missing, this release remains indispensable for both scholars and enthusiasts, packed with archival gems that demystify the film's enigmatic aura.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: An audio commentary with director John Frankenheimer discussing intricate details of the film’s production.
• The Manchurian Candidate Interviews: Archival footage of interviews with Frankenheimer, Sinatra, and Axelrod.
• Queen of Diamonds: Angela Lansbury discusses her role and experiences on set.
• How to Get Shot: Angela Lansbury talks about a challenging scene.
• A Little Solitaire: William Friedkin reflects on Frankenheimer’s influence and discusses the film.
• Phone Call: A humorous archival segment featuring William Friedkin.
• Trailer: The original U.S. trailer for the film.

John Frankenheimer's adaptation of "The Manchurian Candidate" stands as a monumental feat in cinema, particularly within the Cold War genre, earning its place among other paranoia-fueled classics of the early '60s. This 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation by Kino Lorber has breathed new life into the film, allowing both its technical brilliance and stark narrative to shine through. The film is presented in 2160p/HEVC H.265 video codec with HDR/Dolby Vision, enhancing its visual gravitas, accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 sound mix that faithfully reproduces the atmospheric soundtrack crafted by David Amram. The inclusion of archival materials such as interviews and a commentary track by Frankenheimer himself provides invaluable insight, making this Region-Free release a treasure trove for cinephiles.

At the heart of "The Manchurian Candidate" is a story that intertwines mind control, political intrigue, and personal turmoil within a tapestry of meticulously crafted scenes that are both visually striking and emotionally charged. The film's portrayal of paranoia and moral ambiguity, rooted in the socio-political landscape of the late '50s, remains alarmingly relevant today. The performances are another cornerstone of the film's success; Laurence Harvey's portrayal of Raymond Shaw captures the essence of an emotionally unstable hero with chilling perfection, while Frank Sinatra, Angela Lansbury, and James Gregory deliver compelling performances that amplify the film's psychological depth. Lansbury's portrayal of the menacing matriarch is particularly noteworthy, offering a performance that is both commanding and intricate.

From a technical perspective, Frankenheimer's direction is a lesson in cinematic mastery. The use of unconventional camera angles, sharp editing, and a pseudo-documentary style gives the film a contemporary feel while maintaining its classic noir aesthetic. The film's innovative techniques, such as 360-degree shots and creative use of TV monitors, keep viewers engaged and contribute to an atmosphere of suspense and unease. This 4K UHD rendition respects and amplifies these elements, presenting "The Manchurian Candidate" in a manner that accentuates its status as not only a product of its time but also as a timeless piece of filmmaking.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Manchurian Candidate" by KLSC offers an intriguing yet somewhat divisive viewing experience for cinephiles and fans of classic Cold War thrillers. The film's transition to 4K is undoubtedly striking, boasting a remarkable HDR/Dolby Vision transfer that breathes new life into its visual presentation, elevating it far above previous editions in terms of clarity and contrast. This enhancement is evident in the film's dark, moody cinematography, which gains a newfound depth and realism. However, the absence of the restored Mono track, particularly the one from Criterion's 2016 release, may leave purists wanting. The decision to include aspect ratios of 1.85:1 and 1.75:1 is a nod towards versatility, yet it may not satisfy all viewers’ preferences, highlighting the release's complex appeal.

Further enriching this edition is the robust supplemental package that KLSC has included, aligning with the film’s historic and cinematic significance. Such additions, alongside the upgraded audio options, contribute to an immersive viewing experience that not only honors the film’s legacy but also its thematic resonance with contemporary audiences. The technical prowess demonstrated in the film's restoration is commendable, providing a palpable enhancement to its atmospheric tension and psychological intrigue—key aspects that solidify its status among the most impactful Cold War narratives.

In conclusion, while this 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Manchurian Candidate" presents a few compromises, notably the omission of the preferred Mono track, its strengths significantly outweigh its shortcomings. The impeccable visual upgrade, coupled with meaningful supplements and improved audio quality, justify considering this edition as the definitive version of the film for collectors and new viewers alike. Its relevance and impact remain undiminished, making it a must-own for those who value cinematic history through the lens of superior technical quality. Whether it's a replacement for the Criterion edition or an addition to a growing 4K library, this release warrants serious consideration.