Abe Lincoln in Illinois Blu-ray Review

The Warner Archive Blu-ray release of "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" showcases a commendable video transfer, although it doesn't reach the pinnacle of the archive’s collection. The film, shot on 35 mm black-and-white by James Wong Howe and rendered in its original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.37:1, presents a tasteful grayscale with substantial blacks and impressive detail. Scenes highlight crisp textures such as Mary Todd’s dresses and Lincoln’s hair, displaying Howe's expertise in leveraging spherical lenses for depth. Despite lacking explicit details on the restoration process, one can infer a 2K or 4K scan of mixed source materials—this is evident in the varying presentation quality across different reels.

The 1080p resolution using the AVC codec serves the film well, maintaining fidelity to Howe's cinematography. Yet, the image exhibits inconsistencies—certain frames are missing, resulting in abrupt jumps, while some scenes are visibly softer due to generational distance from the original negative. The opening reels are notably soft with excessive contrasts, though the film gains stability and sharpness as it progresses. Thankfully, noise reduction has been applied sparingly, retaining a filmic texture without undue smoothness.

In essence, while there are minor setbacks such as frame loss and occasional softness, this Blu-ray edition stands as a marked improvement over previous versions. Notably, the release excels in capturing fine details during brighter scenes and maintains high fidelity against Warner Archive's esteemed track record. The overall presentation effectively honors the original cinematographic intent within the constraints of available source materials.

The audio presentation for "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" on Blu-ray is anchored by the DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio mono mix, which delivers a commendable balance and fidelity given the film's vintage. Dialogues are crisp, with Raymond Massey's portrayal of Lincoln characterized by a deliberate pacing, contrasting with Gene Lockhart's more assertive speech tones during key debates. Atmospheric effects, such as audience reactions and the sounds of physical confrontation, are well-integrated, enhancing the period authenticity and dramatic impact of these sequences.

Despite its age, the soundtrack strikes a fine balance, especially in harmonizing dialogue with Roy Webb's evocative score. The inclusion of patriotic compositions such as "The Battle Cry of Freedom" and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" enhances the historical ambiance, though some historical wear in the audio is noticeable; listeners might detect mild hiss and upper register distortion. However, these issues do not detract significantly from the overall listening experience.

Overall, this presentation is likely the best auditory rendition available for home media, providing a respectful preservation of its historical essence. The optional English SDH subtitles facilitate accessibility and comprehension, particularly during complex dialogue exchanges. This edition remains faithful to the original cinematic intent while offering an enhanced audio experience for modern audiences.

The Blu-ray release of "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" includes a noteworthy audio extra that adds significant historical context to the film experience, though it lacks any video-based bonus features. The primary supplementary content is the Lux Radio Theater Broadcast, an almost hour-long audio-only feature presented in DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio mono. Originally aired on April 22, 1940, and directed by Ted Bliss with production from Cecil B. DeMille, who also offers a brief introduction, this broadcast captures a period-accurate portrayal featuring Raymond Massey reprising his role as Abe Lincoln with the support of actors such as Fay Bainter and Otto Kruger. While the theatrical trailer is absent, this exclusive audio extra enriches the disc by transporting listeners back to the golden age of radio, making it an engaging addition to the collection.

Extras included in this disc:

• Lux Radio Theater Broadcast: A 1940 radio adaptation of the film with Raymond Massey and Fay Bainter. Hosted by Cecil B. DeMille.

John Cromwell's "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" is a steadfast adaptation of Robert E. Sherwood's 1938 Pulitzer Prize-winning play, depicted with remarkable fidelity and poignancy. Starring Raymond Massey in a defining role, this film traces the journey of Abraham Lincoln from a humble farm boy in Kentucky to the President-elect of the United States. Despite its straightforward narrative and inherent predictability, the film maintains an engaging pace throughout its 110-minute runtime, benefiting from Sherwood's robust source material and the collaborative writing efforts of Grover Jones. Although some historical facts are romanticized for the sake of drama, the film remains a classic in terms of its cinematic portrayal of early American history.

The film opens with Lincoln's venture to New Orleans with a boatload of pigs—a scene that both grounds Lincoln as a relatable figure and sets the tone for his enduring humility. His love interest, Ann Rutledge, played by Mary Howard, introduces a poignant yet tragically terminated romantic subplot that propels Lincoln into deeper personal and political responsibilities. Raymond Massey’s portrayal of Lincoln is particularly noteworthy; his restrained yet impactful delivery transforms speeches into intimate moments rather than grand orations, earning him a well-deserved Oscar nomination. The relationship dynamics with Mary Todd (Ruth Gordon) offer crucial insight into Lincoln's personal life and political ambitions.

Overall, "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" excels by capturing the essence of its celebrated stage play and translating it masterfully to screen, despite certain portions of Lincoln’s life being either omitted or condensed. The film distinguishes itself through enriched performances by Massey and a diverse supporting cast, which includes Gene Lockhart and Mary Howard. Its historical authenticity, combined with dramatic flair, ensures that the narrative resonates with audiences across generations. Warner Archive’s Blu-ray release enhances visual fidelity, although some limitations persist due to original source constraints.

John Cromwell’s "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" is a historical drama that, while somewhat formulaic, captivates audiences with its robust narrative and commanding performances. Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Robert E. Sherwood, the film stands as a testament to enduring cinema. Raymond Massey delivers a memorable performance, seemingly destined for the role of Lincoln, drawing viewers into the narrative crafted around this American icon. The adaptation from stage to screen is competent, with additional outdoor scenes enhancing the visual scope, though not fully leveraging cinematic techniques for heightened excitement or tension.

Despite its predictable pacing and the familiar rendition of historical elements, this film holds its own with its respectful homage to Lincoln's early years. While it may lean on folkloric storytelling, it serves as a compelling showcase for Massey’s Academy Award-nominated portrayal. The narrative might lack dramatic tension in some segments, yet it maintains a steady engagement through its character-driven approach. Warner Archive's Blu-ray release significantly enhances visual and audio quality over previous editions, offering an appreciated upgrade for both devoted fans and new viewers.

In conclusion, "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" serves as more than a simple recount of historical events; it is an evocative depiction of Lincoln’s formative years and aspirations, anchored by Massey’s outstanding performance. While it doesn’t revolutionize its genre, it holds significance in its portrayal and technical fidelity brought forth by the Blu-ray edition. The film is recommended for those interested in historical dramas and is a valuable addition for enthusiasts of classic cinema looking to explore Lincoln’s nuanced early journey.