Of Human Bondage Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Of Human Bondage" by Kino offers significant improvements over previous home video releases, featuring a 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer that demonstrates enhanced clarity and a tighter, more refined high-definition image. However, it's evident that the transfer was sourced from a print several generations removed from the original negative, resulting in pronounced grain, limited dynamic range, and fluctuating contrast. The image is marred by an array of age and source-related damage, including pervasive specks, scratches, and baked-in hairs—an issue exacerbated by the heavy grain pattern. Despite these imperfections, the transfer is vastly superior to previous releases, avoiding past pitfalls such as crushed shadows and blown-out highlights.

While Kino markets the Blu-ray with an assurance of a 35mm archival restoration, discerning viewers may find this description somewhat misleading. The term "restoration" suggests a comprehensive effort to re-integrate lost elements or extensively refurbish the image, neither of which has been fully realized here. Though newly mastered in high definition, the film retains many age-related defects typical of its vintage. The clarity and contrast of the image may fluctuate, but overall, it remains sharp with well-modulated grayscale and pleasingly maintained grain levels that preserve the celluloid feel. Close-ups are particularly effective, showcasing detailed facial features and delivering striking visual accents. Nonetheless, the image suffers from an ample amount of print damage, such as white blotches, scratches, and vertical lines, which can detract from the viewing experience.

In summary, despite its numerous flaws and persistent print damage, this Blu-ray transfer is a significant upgrade over previous standard-definition versions and should satisfy fans of classic cinema. However, it's important for buyers to manage their expectations and not anticipate a pristine restoration.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Of Human Bondage" includes an uncompressed Linear PCM 2.0 mono track that, while generally solid, is reflective of its era. Age-related artifacts such as low hisses, splice pops, crackling, and occasional peaking are present but not overly distracting. The audio quality is remarkably good for a film from the 1930s, but the transfer does not entirely mitigate the limitations of the period's recording technology or the effects of time.

Dialogue remains relatively clean and easy to understand—a crucial aspect given the absence of subtitle options by Kino. The fullness of tone is particularly evident in Max Steiner's score, which adapts seamlessly to various scenes, providing a rich and detailed auditory experience. Despite the occasional distortion, most notably during Bette Davis' iconic "You disgust me" speech, conversations are clear, and subtle sonic nuances are effectively conveyed. Overall, while the LPCM mono track could benefit from more restoration work, it satisfactorily captures the vintage essence of this classic film.

The Blu Ray release of "Of Human Bondage" includes a robust selection of extras, anchored by the compelling documentary "Revealing Mr. Maugham." This comprehensive feature-length biography provides deep insights into Somerset Maugham’s life and works, enriched with interviews from scholars and contemporary writers. Through detailed explorations of his childhood, literary influence, tumultuous personal life, and substantial film clips from notable adaptations of his works, this documentary is vital for any Maugham enthusiast. Additionally, the disc includes trailers for other classic films, although a specific preview for "Of Human Bondage" is absent. This selection not only enhances the viewing experience but also offers significant context and depth to the understanding of Maugham's legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Revealing Mr. Maugham: A detailed biography featuring interviews and clips, exploring Maugham’s life and literary contributions.
• Trailers: Includes trailers for "Nothing Sacred," "A Star is Born," and "Pandora and the Flying Dutchman."

The 1934 RKO adaptation of Somerset Maugham's "Of Human Bondage" marks a pivotal moment in cinematic history, primarily due to Bette Davis' trailblazing portrayal of Mildred Rogers. Before this portrayal, Davis was largely relegated to uninspiring roles at various studios, but her audacious performance here as the manipulative and emotionally exploitative waitress remains iconic. Davis' Mildred is characterized by raw sexuality, flirty indifference, and indignant rage, a stark contrast to the damsels typically seen at the time. Despite her fluctuating Cockney accent, Davis' malicious energy propels the film, establishing her as a powerhouse and a Hollywood icon. This role laid the groundwork for her storied career filled with complex, strong-willed female characters.

Opposite Davis, Leslie Howard delivers a nuanced performance as Philip Carrey, an English artist turned medical student plagued by insecurities stemming from his congenital club foot. His infatuation with Mildred, depicted with almost stalker-like obsession, mirrors the self-destructive tendencies described by philosopher Spinoza. This unhealthy fixation leads Philip to make increasingly poor decisions under Mildred’s manipulative influence, underscoring themes of bondage to emotion and self-delusion. While Howard’s portrayal is often criticized for its wimpiness, it effectively contrasts with Davis' ferocity, elevating her performance as the film's focal point.

Director John Cromwell’s restrained handling of the material attenuates some of the novel’s darker themes, such as prostitution and syphilis, transforming them instead into homelessness and tuberculosis. Despite its limitations and sometimes uninspired direction, the film provides a brutal yet captivating depiction of obsession and emotional bondage. Though not without flaws—chiefly in pacing and narrative depth—Davis’ electrifying presence alone makes "Of Human Bondage" a compelling watch and a landmark in film history.

Kino-Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Of Human Bondage" elevates what might otherwise be a routine literary adaptation, showcasing the career-defining performance of Bette Davis as the manipulative Mildred Rogers. The film, directed by John Cromwell, attempts to stay true to W. Somerset Maugham’s acclaimed novel. Despite condensing and skimming over some critical aspects, it still effectively captures the essence of the source material. The interplay between Davis and Leslie Howard succeeds in portraying a forthright narrative of blind obsession and crippling insecurity, themes that remain relatable despite a few dated elements.

Technically, the Blu-ray presentation by Kino-Lorber aims to provide a definitive viewing experience of this classic film, which has suffered from numerous subpar home video releases over the years. While the transfer presents a generally fantastic visual quality, some minor age-related damage is still noticeable. Audio-wise, the track features some noise, but these flaws are forgivable and do not significantly detract from the overall experience. The inclusion of a feature-length documentary on the intriguing life of Maugham adds significant value to the purchase.

In conclusion, what would otherwise be an entertaining yet less intelligent adaptation is markedly enhanced by Davis’s powerful performance. Kino-Lorber's effort to bring this classic film closer to its deserved restoration is commendable, making it highly recommended for fans of both Davis and Maugham, as well as classic movie enthusiasts.