The Front Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Front" delivers a solid video transfer that maintains the film's original aesthetic while presenting it with remarkable clarity. The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encoded transfer, framed in a 1.84:1 aspect ratio, showcases a natural grain structure which enhances its film-like quality. The transfer, coded with AVC, brings out notable detail in textures such as wool and silk, although fine details do not consistently pop due to the director Martin Ritt and cinematographer Michael Chapman's preference for fewer extreme close-ups. Patterns in backgrounds, such as flowery upholstery, and the intricate designs on clothing appear clearly defined.

The version avoids any digital manipulation, retaining an organic and natural look. Colors are vivid and engaging, with deep black levels and natural flesh tones contributing to the overall pleasing palette. Specific hues like Mostel's red bandana and Marcovicci's orange coat provide eye-catching detail, despite some colors looking slightly faded in softer scenes. Shadow delineation is fairly strong, although occasional low contrast in dimly lit interiors may cause visuals to flatten marginally, notably in scenes like the diner sequence. Despite minor imperfections such as faint marks, the print remains pristine without digital mishandling.

Overall, the meticulous reproduction of Michael Chapman’s lush cinematography ensures that both interior and exterior scenes glow richly. Superior contrast enhances picture depth, making distant elements sharply focused. The film's age is gracefully preserved while offering a near-new viewing experience optimally suited for fans of this period piece. This Twilight Time release exudes a nicely-balanced blend of the film's original feel with modern high-definition clarity.

The audio presentation of "The Front" on Blu-Ray is delivered through a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track that matches the film's dialogue-driven nature very effectively. While the film is largely quiet and intimate without demanding much from the soundscape, there are sequences where the sonic environment comes to life, such as the bustling sounds of a busy Manhattan cityscape or the intricate details of a live television studio in action. The fidelity remains consistently excellent, with no damage or distortion present, ensuring a clear listening experience.

Despite being a mono track, the DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 offers a solid sound performance devoid of age-related imperfections like hiss, pops, and crackles. The dynamic range handles both highs and lows smoothly, without distortion. The soundtrack shines particularly with Frank Sinatra’s "Young at Heart," imbuing the vocals with warmth and presence, while Dave Grusin’s jazzy score benefits from excellent fidelity. The all-important dialogue, whether whispered or shouted, is always clear and understandable. Although ambient effects are minimal, the subtle intricacies that are included enhance the experience. Overall, this mono mix may not be attention-grabbing, but its seamless integration complements the narrative and visuals, allowing viewers to focus entirely on the film.

The Blu-ray release of "The Front" delivers an array of engaging extras that provide significant insights into the film's production and historical context. The auditory commentary track stands out, blending anecdotes, historical details, and personal recollections. Andrea Marcovicci's participation offers a firsthand perspective that bolsters the authenticity of the discussions, effectively complemented by Julie Kirgo and Nick Redman's historical observations. The isolated score track allows a richer appreciation of Dave Grusin's nuanced compositions, presented in pristine DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Additionally, the theatrical trailer is a nostalgic look at how the film was marketed, though it somewhat blurs the line between its dramatic and comedic elements.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: With Andrea Marcovicci, Julie Kirgo, and Nick Redman. Covers anecdotes and historical context.
• Isolated Score Track: Features Dave Grusin's score in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 without source cues.
• Theatrical Trailer: An original preview balancing dramatic and comedic elements.

"The Front," directed by Martin Ritt and written by Walter Bernstein, is a darkly comedic yet gravely serious examination of the Communist witch hunt and blacklist that plagued the film and television industry in the 1950s. Starring Woody Allen as Howard Prince, a small-time gambler who becomes a television script front for his blacklisted friend Alfred Miller (Michael Murphy), the film deftly balances humor and solemn reflection on this dismal period. Allen’s portrayal of Howard evolves from a neurotic, self-serving individual to one possessing a moral conscience as he confronts the grave injustices faced by many artists during this time. The film’s impactful blend of comedy and drama offers an incisive critique of the absurdity and paranoia incited by the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC).

The supporting cast, notably Zero Mostel as Hecky Brown, brings an additional layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative. Mostel’s performance, steeped in tragicomedy, highlights the severe repercussions of the blacklist on individuals’ careers and lives. Andrea Marcovicci, as Florence Barrett, lends a refined yet somewhat understated presence opposite Allen. Bernstein's script, lauded for its originality, skillfully interlaces actual historical events with fictional elements, producing a narrative that is both entertaining and sobering. The film opens with evocative black-and-white newsreel footage that sets a haunting tone, contrasting with the jocular sequences that follow, allowing the absurdity of the era to resonate poignantly.

Overall, "The Front" achieves a delicate balance, traversing the realms of satire and tragedy to provide a profound commentary on one of America's most shameful historical episodes. Through its engaging narrative and powerful performances, especially Allen’s uniquely subdued role and Mostel’s memorable depiction of Hecky Brown, the film serves as a poignant tribute to those who suffered during the blacklist era while maintaining an undercurrent of hope and resilience.

Martin Ritt’s “The Front” offers a compelling examination of the Hollywood blacklist era through a deft blend of comedy and drama. The film successfully navigates the severe repercussions of the 1950s blacklist, integrating humor without undermining the gravity of its subject matter. Woody Allen, in a change-of-pace role, delivers a commendable performance alongside an able cast including Zero Mostel, Andrea Marcovicci, and Michael Murphy. The screenplay, despite occasional tonal inconsistencies especially in its more melancholic subplot involving Hecky Brown, maintains a generally engaging and poignant narrative.

Twilight Time’s Blu-ray release of “The Front” is impressive, featuring a top-notch video transfer that preserves the film’s period-specific aesthetic with clarity and vibrancy. The audio is robust, delivering clear dialogue and an immersive soundscape. However, the supplemental features are somewhat sparse, though they offer more content than typically found in Woody Allen-related productions.

In conclusion, while “The Front” might not be one of Woody Allen’s hallmark films, it stands as an important cultural piece, commendable for tackling the sensitive topic of blacklisting. The Blu-ray presentation enhances the film’s viewing experience despite limited extras. This release is highly recommended for both Allen aficionados and those interested in historical cinema.