Grand Slam Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Grand Slam" introduces the film with significant visual enhancements compared to prior DVD editions, presenting the movie in its original Techniscope aspect ratio of 2.35:1. Utilized with a 1080p transfer encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, this edition offers an excellent, albeit not immaculate, upgrade in video quality. The sourced master from Unidis Jolly Film maintains an impressive clarity and depth that comfortably ranges from very good to near excellent, although minor density fluctuations inherent to Techniscope cinematography persist. Overall, the film's video presentation serves as a clear reflection of its original artistic intent without noticeable stability issues.

Despite these advancements, a few minor imperfections are present. Particularly, black levels appear a shade darker than necessary in select scenes, and there exists a brief instance early in the film suggestive of a frozen frame—likely originating from the source material. White specks make a fleeting appearance during the prologue, but these blemishes are overwhelmingly absent from the rest of the film.

The color balance is notable, delivering a well-maintained palette that enriches the cinematic experience with its authentic film grain and fine details; the presentation showcases minimal scratches or tears. While by no means a meticulously restored edition, this Blu-ray represents one of the best-quality home video visuals available for "Grand Slam," allowing audiences to appreciate both its technical intricacies and the creative capabilities of its era. The Blu-ray is Region-A locked, necessitating compatible playback equipment.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Grand Slam" comes with a singular English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles displayed within the image frame. The audio, rooted in its original mono format, displays noteworthy fidelity, as it articulately presents dialogue and Ennio Morricone’s iconic mod-style music score, retaining authenticity throughout. Although the soundtrack is occasionally marred by the characteristic thinness and unevenness typical of overdubbed tracks, it largely avoids major auditory disruptions like crackling, popping, distortion, or hissing.

Despite its reliance on the source material's inherent limitations, this iteration likely embodies the apex of audio quality achievable for this film in home video format. A proper remastering could potentially enhance the overall audio richness; nonetheless, the consistency with previous releases indicates a faithful replication of the original sound mix. This Blu-ray release truly offers listeners the best available representation of "Grand Slam’s" original soundscape, presenting a robust auditory experience enriched by Morricone's distinctive score and carefully preserved dialogue integrity.

The Blu-ray extras for "Grand Slam" offer a comprehensive dive into the film’s production and historical context, with new and detailed commentary from renowned film historians. This exclusive audio commentary, presented by Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell, and Nathaniel Thompson, delivers an in-depth analysis of Giuliano Montaldo’s directorial prowess and the film’s production nuances. The inclusion of a vintage international trailer provides a nostalgic glimpse into the film’s original promotional strategies. These supplements collectively enrich the viewer's understanding and appreciation of "Grand Slam," adding layers to its cinematic experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Exclusive audio commentary by critics Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell, and Nathaniel Thompson.
• Trailer: Vintage international trailer for "Grand Slam."
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Trailers for "Bob le flambeur," "Topkapi," "Un flic," "Max and the Junkmen," "Loophole," "Touch of Evil," and "The Woman in the Window."

Released on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber, Giuliano Montaldo's 1967 heist film, "Grand Slam," stands as a classic yet underappreciated entry in the genre. Blending vibrant visuals with skillful storytelling, the film captures the adventurous essence of its time. Set amidst Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival, Professor James Anders, portrayed by Edward G. Robinson, orchestrates a daring plan to steal $10 million in diamonds from a state-of-the-art vault, enlisting a diverse team of international criminals. The narrative builds tension through a meticulously crafted setup followed by a climactic heist sequence lasting 25 intense minutes. The Rio locations provide an intoxicating backdrop, enhancing the plot's allure. The film's execution avoids predictability, especially with its unexpected twist ending, while Ennio Morricone’s swinging score perfectly complements its lively and atmospheric setting.

The cast delivers memorable performances that bolster the narrative. Edward G. Robinson embodies the mild-mannered professor with a composed presence. Janet Leigh shines as Mary Ann, the key-holding secretary pivotal to the heist plan, demonstrating her versatility during a significant period in her career. Cult icon Klaus Kinski commands attention as the menacing former military officer with a complex role in the plan. Supporting actors like Adolfo Celi, Robert Hoffmann, Riccardo Cucciolla, and George Rigaud each bring unique elements to their criminal archetypes, adding layers to the film's nuanced character dynamics.

Overall, "Grand Slam" effectively encapsulates the vibrant spirit and creative storytelling common in 1960s heist films. Through sharp direction by Montaldo, combined with a skilled cast and captivating score, the film remains a compelling watch that celebrates its era's cinematic style while offering gripping suspense and engaging plot twists.

"Grand Slam" is an exemplary heist caper film from the 1960s that has garnered praise for its captivating storyline and nostalgic depiction of old Rio de Janeiro. It offers viewers a unique glimpse into the genre's golden era. With a standout performance from the ensemble cast, including notable names like Janet Leigh, the film expertly balances tension and entertainment, ensuring its place as a classic. The film's distinct ambiance and meticulous execution are complemented by its engaging plot, making it an enjoyable watch for anyone fond of crime dramas.

The Kino Lorber Blu-ray release of "Grand Slam" stands out with its commendable HD transfer, derived from a robust organic master provided by Unidis Jolly Film. This edition enhances the visual experience with clear, crisp footage that brings to life the vibrancy of its filming locations. The Blu-ray is enriched by an insightful commentary track, adding depth and context to the viewing experience. It offers a substantial upgrade over previous home video releases, making it an essential addition for collectors and cinema enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, whether there is a concrete connection between "Grand Slam" and “The Caper of the Golden Bulls” is irrelevant when the film so effortlessly asserts its individuality. The visual splendor of Rio in this release alone is compelling enough for enthusiasts to consider a blind buy. "Grand Slam" is a delightful throwback to old-fashioned heist films that audiences will likely revisit for years to come. Highly recommended for those who appreciate quality capers, with a gentle nudge towards titles like "Deadfall" and "Loophole" for further exploration in the genre.