A Farewell to Arms Blu-ray Review

Kino’s Blu-ray release of "A Farewell to Arms" signifies a significant leap into the 1930s talkies, presenting a 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer that is deemed superior to previous formats. The print is notably clean, with only minor flecks and specks interrupting an otherwise clear presentation. The image benefits from commendable clarity, reflecting Charles Lang's cinematographic artistry with deep blacks and precise whites, though some residual imperfections such as hairs in the gate and occasional speckling are present. This single-layer Blu-ray disc shows no apparent compression issues, ensuring the overall visual quality is well-maintained.

The transfer, sourced from an original nitrate 35mm print preserved by the George Eastman House Motion Picture Department, still manifests wear and tear accumulated over years of public domain circulation. Despite a persistent smattering of white vertical lines, marks, and some missing frames, these flaws become less distracting over time. The image's dark tendency limits gray scale variance, yet certain scenes present solid contrast enhancing visual appeal. Black levels are robust but sometimes result in shadow detail crush. Grain is consistently pronounced but never overwhelming, preserving the film's intrinsic cinematic texture.

Although this edition didn’t receive comprehensive restoration, it offers a faithful reproduction of Lang's lush, Oscar-winning cinematography. Close-ups maintain the era's characteristic glamour with soft yet sharp detailing. While the restoration falls short of studio-grade refurbishment standards, "A Farewell to Arms" remains an impressive visual experience. Despite observable imperfections, the Blu-ray still provides a meaningful enhancement over previous releases, marking it as a definitive version for now.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "A Farewell to Arms" offers a Linear PCM 2.0 track sourced from the original mono mix. Given the film's age, the sound design is understandably primitive by contemporary standards, but it retains elements that showcase why it won the Oscar for Best Sound Recording in 1933. War sequences featuring planes roaring overhead and bomb blasts demonstrate the era's attempts at immersive effects. Milan Roder’s score effectively complements the film’s emotional spectrum. Notably, light crackles, pops, and hiss are present in the mix but these are not overly distracting and are fairly typical for a film of this vintage. Despite the dated sound design, dialogue clarity is impressive, ensuring all spoken lines are easily comprehensible, which is crucial for maintaining narrative coherence.

While the LPCM 2.0 mono track delivers decent sound quality for an almost 80-year-old film, the lack of substantial restoration results in a fair amount of surface noise and hiss throughout. Dialogue remains intelligible and clear, even in scenes with hushed tones, thanks to the actors' skilled vocal deliveries. However, the audio track falters significantly during on-screen explosions, where distortion is severe enough to be discomforting. More subtle sound effects, such as rain, are handled better, adding a layer of realism to the atmosphere. The incidental music, while clear, lacks depth and feels somewhat thin.

Given the vintage nature of this soundtrack, expecting high fidelity would be unrealistic, but it is regrettable that more attention wasn't given to restoring and cleaning up this antique audio presentation. It’s also worth noting that there are no subtitle options available on this disc, which could be a drawback for some viewers.

The supplemental features of the Blu-ray release of "A Farewell to Arms" are limited but noteworthy for classic film enthusiasts. The extras comprise a selection of original theatrical trailers and a concise yet charming gallery of promotional and behind-the-scenes images. While minimal, these additions provide a nostalgic glimpse into the era and context of the film's release, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The image gallery includes 16 beautifully curated shots, capturing both iconic scenes and behind-the-scenes moments, while the trailers offer a fascinating look at contemporary marketing practices for other classics.

Extras included in this disc:

• Gallery of Images: A collection of 16 images featuring promotional art, scene stills, and behind-the-scenes shots.
• Theatrical Trailers: Original trailers for "Nothing Sacred," "A Star is Born," and a preview for "Pandora and the Flying Dutchman."

Frank Borzage’s 1932 adaptation of Ernest Hemingway’s "A Farewell to Arms" is a compelling early talkie that stands out due to its evocative cinematography and the emotive performances of its leads, Gary Cooper and Helen Hayes. Although Hemingway himself detested this Hollywood rendition for its deviations from his novel, including a softened ending and accentuated romantic elements over wartime cynicism, the film nonetheless succeeds on its own terms. The narrative, largely driven by the tumultuous love affair between the American ambulance driver Frederic Henry (Cooper) and the British nurse Catherine Barkley (Hayes), is marked by dramatic separations and passionate reunions amidst the backdrop of World War I.

The film’s pre-Code production allows it to explore themes of sexual desire with refreshing frankness. Cooper's portrayal of the independent and heroic Frederic, despite occasional lapses into melodrama, remains convincing, while Hayes brings a tender warmth to the role of Catherine. Their chemistry is palpable, underpinned by Hayes’s real-life admiration for Cooper, which translates effectively on screen. Borzage’s direction, characterized by his adept use of light and shadow, results in visually striking scenes that heighten the film's romanticism without entirely abandoning Hemingway’s themes of disillusionment and the harsh realities of war.

Technically, "A Farewell to Arms" excels with Oscar-winning sound recording and cinematography, particularly notable in the war sequences that blend expressionistic shadows with vivid bursts of light, effectively conveying the chaos of battle. While it may not capture the full scope or thematic depth of Hemingway's novel, Borzage's adaptation remains a masterful piece of early cinema, celebrated for its artistic achievements and poignant portrayal of love amidst conflict. Fans and critics alike may find it a worthwhile exploration of timeless themes through a classic Hollywood lens.

Frank Borzage’s 1932 adaptation of Ernest Hemingway’s "A Farewell to Arms" remains a standout interpretation of the iconic wartime romance. Gary Cooper and Helen Hayes deliver compelling performances, bringing the emotional gravity of Hemingway’s characters to life. Borzage's direction amplifies the human element, making for an engaging narrative infused with poetic visuals that remain poignant even decades after the film's original release.

Kino's Blu-ray edition, while falling short of the deluxe treatments from major studios, succeeds in presenting the film with a beautiful picture quality and sound that captures its historical essence. The transfer shows some marked-up video and noisy audio, reflecting its age and the constraints of available source material.

Ultimately, despite its lack of extensive supplements and some technical drawbacks, this Blu-ray edition is a valuable addition for both classic film enthusiasts and Hemingway admirers. The rich performances and Borzage’s sensitive direction ensure its enduring appeal. Recommended for those seeking a heartfelt cinematic experience from the golden age of Hollywood, and a lasting tribute to the legends behind it.