The Collector Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "The Collector" is presented in 1080p with the AVC MPEG-4 encoder at a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, showcasing a detailed and film-like image. The colors are generally saturated, offering good black levels and a natural-looking grain structure that reinforces its authenticity without the intrusive modern visual enhancements. This Blu-ray disc is a marked improvement over its 2002 DVD predecessor, featuring a restored transfer that eliminates the print damage previously visible, particularly in the title sequences. Besides a minor flaw at the 1:48:40 mark, likely originating from the original cut negative, the source material is in exceptional condition, presenting a viewing experience closer to what audiences would have seen in cinemas during the film's release in 1965.

The image quality, while generally impressive, does exhibit some inconsistencies. The opening shots lack sharpness and vivid color, but the film later blossoms with bold and vibrant visuals. There are moments of random softness and fluctuations in grain consistency, though these do not seem artificially tampered with. Facial features vary in clarity, sometimes appearing diffused, affecting skin tones that occasionally drift across the color scale. Contrast remains solid but occasionally leans towards exaggerated and unnatural edges. Scene transitions can be jarring, with noticeable shifts in detail that stabilize momentarily before returning to high clarity. Specific moments, such as at the 1:12:09 mark and the jump cut at 1:48:47, present noticeable stutters and editing cuts, respectively.

Despite these intermittent issues, "The Collector" on Blu-ray shines with long periods of exceptional picture quality that will satisfy fans of the film. Some anomalies hold it back from perfection, yet considering its age and the less-than-prominent status of its release, the overall quality of this disc is commendable and elevates this classic to new visual heights.

The audio presentation of "The Collector" Blu-ray is offered in uncompressed Linear PCM 2.0, effectively capturing the original mono soundtrack of this nearly fifty-year-old film. The score by Maurice Jarre, rich with a haunting harpsichord motif, is particularly notable for its sparse but impactful use. Dialogue and essential sound effects are rendered clearly, maintaining the film's atmosphere and ensuring intelligibility throughout.

Evaluating the technical aspects, the dynamic range aligns with expectations for a film from this era, delivering a sufficient auditory experience. Though the soundtrack includes instances of increased volume that showcase the score's potency, it occasionally suffers from a lack of depth and sharp highs. Additionally, some gravelly, static moments and sporadic tinniness can be discerned, which may detract slightly from the overall listening experience.

Overall, the audio track is functional and serves its purpose well given the age and restoration limitations of the film. While not extraordinary, it provides a clear and faithful representation of the original audio, making the Blu-ray a suitable choice for fans and new viewers alike.

The Blu-Ray release of "The Collector" offers a notable improvement over the 2002 DVD, which had no additional material besides the film's trailer and two bonus trailers ("Panic Room" and "Enough"). The main extra on this release is the theatrical trailer presented in high definition at an aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and running for 2:50. This trailer effectively emphasizes Freddie's menacing character, albeit slightly exaggerated due to typical marketing strategies. Despite being the lone extra, its high-definition quality and engaging portrayal make it worthwhile for viewers.

Extras included in this disc:

Theatrical Trailer (HD): Engages viewers with a high-definition portrayal of Freddie’s menacing qualities.

William Wyler's rendition of John Fowles's novel "The Collector" stands as a harrowing yet meticulously crafted thriller that delves deep into the disquieting psychology of its characters. Unlike contemporary interpretations of abduction narratives which often emphasize lurid fetishes and gore, Wyler opts for a more restrained, cerebral approach. The narrative revolves around the tension-filled dynamic between Terence Stamp's Freddie Clegg, a reclusive bank clerk with a penchant for butterfly collecting, and Samantha Eggar’s Miranda Grey, a young art student he kidnaps. Through prolonged, dialogue-light encounters, the film gradually unpeels layers of their personalities, making their unsettling relationship even more haunting for the audience.

Wyler’s meticulous direction is complemented by stellar performances from the lead actors. Stamp embodies the disturbingly prim Clegg with unnerving finesse, capturing the character's unsettling oscillation between vulnerability and menace. Meanwhile, Eggar's portrayal of Miranda conveys a palpable sense of distress and resilience, meriting her an Oscar nomination and top acting honors at the Cannes Film Festival. Their interactions are charged with psychological complexity, and Wyler heightens the tension with his adept use of visual storytelling. The film's predominantly single location—a secluded stone house with cleverly designed interiors—keeps viewers engrossed with its intricate play of angles and spaces.

Though the film contains minimal violence, it excels in maintaining an atmosphere of creeping dread and emotional volatility. Wyler's skill in character placement and scene composition ensures that even confined spaces never feel visually monotonous. A particularly notable sequence involves an unannounced visit from a neighbor, which ramps up the tension without relying on overt threats, showcasing Wyler’s capability to craft suspense through subtlety rather than sensationalism. This adaptation maintains a disturbing charm and narrative elegance that elevates it from being merely a tale of abduction to an in-depth psychological exploration of power dynamics and fractured human desires.

"The Collector" (1965), directed by William Wyler, remains a distinguished example of classic suspense thrillers. Unlike modern films that often prioritize excess and simplification, "The Collector" offers a gripping and sophisticated narrative. The film skillfully develops its lead characters through a series of subtle flashbacks, gradually revealing their complexities as the plot progresses. This methodical pacing and layered storytelling are testaments to Wyler's directorial prowess, ensuring that the film remains engaging throughout its runtime.

The Blu-ray release of "The Collector" by Image Entertainment is marked by its high-quality presentation. The video transfer is commendable, delivering a clean and sharp picture, particularly impressive for a film of this age. While the audio remains what one would expect from a 1965 release—serviceable but not groundbreaking—it does not detract from the overall experience. The inclusion of the original trailer adds a nostalgic touch and offers a glimpse into the film's marketing during its initial release.

In summary, "The Collector" is a must-see for fans of classic cinema and suspense thrillers. This Blu-ray edition does justice to William Wyler's craft, preserving the film's integrity and making it accessible to a new generation of viewers. While it may not be considered a masterpiece or a pivotal genre-defining film, its skillful execution and engaging narrative ensure it remains a highly recommended addition to any film collection.