The Boy with Green Hair Blu-ray Review

The Boy with Green Hair receives an exceptional Blu-ray video presentation, courtesy of Warner Archive's expertise with Technicolor negatives. This new HD master, derived from a meticulous 4K scan of the original Technicolor camera negatives, delivers an eye-catching 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer that surpasses any previous home video release. The vibrant green hue, central to the film, is not the only standout; other colors, like Peter’s luxuriant hair and Gramp's houseplant, burst forth with captivating intensity. The transfer retains a distinct filmic quality, underscored by a consistent grain structure, impeccable clarity, and deep contrast that honors George Barnes' renowned cinematography.

The film is presented in its original 1.37:1 theatrical aspect ratio, and Warner Archive excels in preserving the Technicolor palette with both vivacious and natural tones. The release showcases an astounding array of colors—from the lush greens of nature to the strikingly bold visuals such as O'Brien’s powder blue jacket and Hale’s vivid red lipstick. Sharpness and contrast are exquisitely balanced, maintaining lifelike skin tones without sacrificing any color intensity. The print is remarkably pristine, free from any nicks or scratches, although occasional softness is noted. Still, these minor deviations are insignificant against the striking overall quality of this transfer.

Warner Archive's subtle cleaning process proficiently eliminates dirt and debris while maintaining the film's original grain and density. The integrity of the movie's presentation is preserved across 30 well-defined chapters, underscoring Warner's reliable track record in delivering such high-caliber outputs. This release is a testament to their status as a leading boutique label in home video restoration, promising an exhilarating visual experience for fans and new viewers alike.

The Blu-ray release of "The Boy with Green Hair" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track that remarkably enhances this dialogue-centered drama. Sourced from the original nitrate optical soundtrack, the audio mix delivers a sharp, clear sound with a presence and dynamic range that impressively surpasses expectations for a film of its vintage. Each dialogue exchange is impeccably clear, which is vital for maintaining the narrative’s immersive quality. Complemented by the original score from Leigh Harline and Constantin Bakaleinikoff, the soundtrack elegantly integrates variations of "Nature Boy," bringing vibrant life to each scene it accompanies. The mix is polished, with no discernible hisses, pops, or crackling detracting from the experience.

The audio presentation effectively balances the tranquil and more dynamic parts of the film, facilitating an engaging auditory experience even during its quieter moments. The wide dynamic scale accommodates both the highs and lows beautifully, particularly evident in the harmonious choir rendition of "Nature Boy" during the main titles. This delicate balance underscores the film's emotional core, ensuring that the poignant score by Harline—an Oscar-winning composer renowned for his work on Disney's "Pinocchio"—stands out.

Overall, Warner Archive has succeeded in producing an audio experience that meets modern standards while preserving the integrity of the original sound. This Blu-ray ensures that viewers can appreciate the film’s sound with all its historical and artistic nuances intact. Optional English (SDH) subtitles are available but are limited to the main feature only.

The Blu-ray release of "The Boy with Green Hair" offers a sparse yet notable extras section, focusing primarily on a charming vintage piece. While no trailers or additional promotional content from the original era are present—likely due to rarity issues—the disc does feature a significant short that complements the main feature effectively. Notably, the extra provided is "A Really Important Person," a 1947 Passing Parade installment starring Dean Stockwell. This black-and-white short, running approximately ten minutes, showcases Stockwell's engaging performance as a young boy entering an essay contest about important figures in his life. It also highlights character actress Connie Gilchrist and marks the debut of screenwriter Harriet Frank Jr., later recognized for Oscar-nominated works. This extra is warmly recommended for admirers of cinematic history and Stockwell’s early career.

Extras included in this disc:

• A Really Important Person: A 1947 short film featuring Dean Stockwell about a boy entering an essay contest.

Joseph Losey's "The Boy with Green Hair" is a thought-provoking wartime drama cloaked in the guise of a children's fantasy. Featuring the versatile young actor Dean Stockwell, the film presents a poignant anti-war message through the experiences of a young orphan named Peter. After learning about the tragedy of war orphans and the fate of his own parents during World War II, Peter awakes to find his hair has inexplicably turned green. This transformation becomes a catalyst for exploring deeper themes of intolerance and identity in a conformist society, making Peter both a literal and symbolic beacon in his small town. Stockwell carries the narrative on his young shoulders, deftly managing the emotional complexity required to portray Peter's internal conflict.

Despite the preachiness embedded in its script and the occasional heavy-handed direction by Losey, the film skillfully utilizes its 82-minute runtime to deliver a meaningful commentary on prejudice and the devastating impacts of war. The screenplay by Ben Barzman and Alfred Lewis Levitt attempts to weave themes of societal intolerance and anti-war sentiment through the allegorical device of Peter's green hair, which unfortunately sits uneasily within the narrative at times. The workmanlike cinematography by George Barnes ensures clarity throughout these explorations, supported by impressive performances from Pat O'Brien as Gramp and Barbara Hale as the empathetic Miss Brand.

This Blu-ray release showcases a stunning 4K-sourced restoration that highlights the film's original Technicolor allure, further contributing to its emotional impact. While "The Boy with Green Hair" may lack the enduring cultural status of other family classics, its resonant messages and historical significance render it worthy of rediscovery. Despite its narrative imperfections, it remains a charming yet formidable exploration of social issues relevant both during its original release in 1948 and today's continually evolving societal landscape.

Joseph Losey's "The Boy with Green Hair" is a distinctive entry in post-war cinema, standing out for its bold anti-war message in an era when such themes were often overshadowed by more escapist fare. The film is anchored by a standout performance from young Dean Stockwell, whose portrayal of the endearing protagonist imbues the narrative with genuine warmth and charm. Although the film occasionally detours into preachy territory, Losey's steady direction and the film's solid cinematography ensure a visually engaging experience. This combination of thoughtful direction and strong performances constructs a compelling narrative that's as relevant today as it was in 1948.

The Warner Archive Blu-ray release elevates "The Boy with Green Hair" to new heights, courtesy of an impressive 4K restoration derived from the original Technicolor camera negatives. This meticulous remastering effort revitalizes both the visual and auditory aspects of the film. The vibrant Technicolor imagery comes alive with renewed clarity, while the audio restoration amplifies the film's atmospheric qualities, providing an immersive viewing experience for contemporary audiences. This release is a testament to the archival commitment toward preserving cinematic history with authenticity and precision.

In conclusion, while "The Boy with Green Hair" may exhibit moments of tonal unevenness, its core message and historical significance remain impactful. The exemplary restoration by Warner Archive further enhances its appeal, making it a worthy addition for collectors and an essential viewing experience for those interested in explorations of post-war American cinema. Recommended to both nostalgic viewers and new audiences seeking insight into mid-20th century filmmaking.