Wagon Master Blu-ray Review
Warner Archive Collection
Score: 74
from 2 reviewers
Review Date:
Wagon Master, a visually striking gem from John Ford's filmography, is superbly presented by Warner Archive Collection's Blu-ray, making it highly recommended for both fans and newcomers.
Disc Release Date
DTS-HD MA
Video: 81
Warner Archive's 1080p Blu-ray transfer of 'Wagon Master' offers a stunning visual experience, with a high level of fine detail, natural grain, and precise contrast in black-and-white cinematography, thanks to a recent 2K scan and meticulous digital cleanup.
Audio: 76
The DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio mix excellently replicates Wagon Master's one-channel roots, boasting impressive fidelity, dynamic range, and balanced dialogue, effects, and Richard Hageman's score. Despite the absence of the Spanish dub from the 2009 DVD, this release is a very solid effort overall.
Extra: 51
The Blu-ray extras for 'Wagon Master' notably include an engaging commentary by Peter Bogdanovich and Harry Carey Jr., interspersed with a John Ford interview from 1966. Despite some lapses in dialogue and Bogdanovich's restrained guiding, Carey's heartfelt stories offer rich insights, making the commentary a must-listen.
Movie: 86
Wagon Master, though initially underappreciated, is now heralded as one of John Ford's masterpieces, with its stunning visuals by Bert Glennon, a compelling story of commitment and maturation, and a captivating mixture of warmth, brutality, and irony, beautifully captured in Warner Archive Collection's Blu-ray edition.
Video: 81
Warner Archive's 1080p transfer of "Wagon Master" provides an exemplary visual presentation that significantly enhances the film's sun-drenched cinematography. Utilizing a recent 2K scan of the master positive, the extensive digital cleanup reveals an impressive level of fine detail while maintaining the film's natural grain. Cinematographer Bert Glennon's work is highlighted beautifully, maintaining richness in textures and strength in shadow detail, even making viewers forget about the 1.37:1 aspect ratio and black-and-white film stock. There are no noticeable compression artifacts or noise reduction issues, thanks to the dual-layered Blu-ray's extremely high bit rate.
This transfer stands out for its precision in showcasing Glennon's meticulous black-and-white imagery, featuring a wide range of shades and high contrast. Compared to previous formats such as film projection, laser disc, and DVD, the Blu-ray version sets a new standard in visual quality, presenting a clean and nearly pristine image with minimal nicks and scratches. Warner Archive’s attention to preserving these characteristics ensures "Wagon Master" retains its cinematic authenticity while offering a near-flawless viewing experience for contemporary audiences.
Audio: 76
The DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio mix on the Blu-ray of "Wagon Master" does an outstanding job of preserving the film's original mono roots while providing surprisingly excellent fidelity and dynamic range. Dialogue is consistently clear and well-balanced against Richard Hageman's robust score and background effects, thus enhancing the atmospheric quality that director John Ford is known for. There is minimal high-end clipping, indicating a high level of mastering proficiency. This audio presentation maintains its integrity throughout the film and leaves little room for technical improvement.
Moreover, the audio mix's ability to replicate the period-specific sound adds an invaluable layer of authenticity. Ford’s nuanced use of sound effects, a technique he perfected under the influence of Fox mogul Darryl F. Zanuck, is effectively highlighted here. Optional English (SDH) subtitles are available, though they are formatted in ALL CAPS and appear in an unattractive yellow color. Notably, the previously included Spanish dub and matching subtitles from Warner Bros.' 2009 DVD release are absent in this edition, marking a missed opportunity for a more comprehensive offering.
Extras: 51
Warner Archive Collection's Blu-ray of "Wagon Master" features an engaging and illuminating audio commentary as its sole extra. Filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich hosts the commentary, enriched by the late actor Harry Carey Jr.'s reminiscences. The blend of Bogdanovich's critical insights and Carey's personal anecdotes offers an informative experience, despite occasional directorial lapses from Bogdanovich. A highlight includes audio segments of a 1966 interview with director John Ford, providing valuable perspectives on his life and career. Although the disc lacks the theatrical trailer, this commentary compensates with its treasure trove of stories and information, making it an essential listen for both die-hard and casual John Ford fans.
Extras included in this disc:
- Audio Commentary: Hosted by Peter Bogdanovich, featuring Harry Carey Jr. and audio segments of John Ford.
Movie: 86
John Ford's 'Wagon Master' stands as a now-appreciated masterpiece, often described alongside his most iconic works like 'The Searchers' and 'How Green Was My Valley.' Renowned for its proficient visual storytelling, this film exhibits Ford’s skill honed through the direction of over 60 silent films. The movie leverages its simplistic narrative to deliver beautifully framed compositions that guide the viewer seamlessly through each scene. Expertly shot by Bert Glennon, the film captures expansive landscapes within a 1.37:1 aspect ratio, showcasing an unspoken depth and beauty that underscores Ford's direction without drawing attention to itself.
The narrative follows horse traders Travis Blue (Ben Johnson) and Sandy Owens (Harry Carey, Jr.) as they lead a Mormon wagon train, headed by Elder Wiggs (Ward Bond), to Utah's San Juan River country. The plot, while straightforward, is punctuated by several key encounters that test the resolve and unity of this pioneer community, including conflicts with the sadistic Clegg family and a tribe of Native Americans. Despite Ben Johnson’s relatively subdued performance as Travis, the supporting cast delivers vivid portrayals, enriching the tension and drama against the rugged backdrop.
Distinctly Fordian touches permeate 'Wagon Master,' from poetic interactions with horses to poignant scenes conveying moral dilemmas, notably the internal conflict between duty and desire experienced by Travis and Sandy. While the scenes avoid flashy theatrics, they emphasize strong themes of commitment and responsibility. The soundtrack by Richard Hageman and songs by Stan Jones interweave with the narrative, almost transforming it into a musical with their evocative, lingering presence. With nuanced performances by key actors and Ford regulars like Jane Darwell and Francis Ford, 'Wagon Master' showcases a synergy of compelling visuals, understated yet rich thematics, and spontaneous moments that resonate profoundly long after the credits roll.
Total: 74
"Wagon Master" showcases John Ford's unparalleled ability to blend simplicity with profound thematic depth. Often overshadowed by his more prominent works, this film remains a testament to Ford's subtle mastery. The narrative focuses on the journey of a group of Mormons across the Utah desert, reflecting Ford's themes of community, morality, and perseverance. Despite its seemingly modest approach and the absence of his usual A-list actors, the film thrives on its meticulously crafted visual compositions and memorable supporting characters. Each frame is a painterly testament to Ford’s genius.
Warner Archive Collection’s Blu-ray edition does commendable justice to this underappreciated classic. The A/V presentation is impeccable, with crisp resolution and pristine image quality that highlights the Western landscapes' expansive beauty. The audio commentary included from the 2009 DVD adds invaluable insight, making this release not just a visual treat, but an educational experience as well. These elements combined make the Blu-ray an essential addition for both die-hard Ford enthusiasts and newcomers eager to delve into his nuanced storytelling.
In conclusion, "Wagon Master" is a lesser-seen gem from the late, great director John Ford. Although it might seem slight at first glance and lacks A-list stars, its exceptional visual composition and unforgettable supporting characters set it apart. Warner Archive Collection's Blu-ray presents this film in the best possible light with great picture quality and a rich audio commentary. This edition is highly recommended for both dedicated fans and curious newcomers, affirming Ford's status as the Shakespeare of American cinema and showcasing his enduring legacy.
Blu-ray.com review by Randy Miller IIIRead review here
Video: 90
Textures look excellent with strong shadow detail and precise contrast, while the dual-layered Blu-ray maintains an extremely high bit rate and displays absolutely no flagrant compression artifacts, noise...
Audio: 80
Fidelity and dynamic range are surprisingly excellent from start to finish, with very little clipping at the high end and a good balance between dialogue, background effects, and the fully-loaded score...
Extras: 50
Overall, it's a very illuminating commentary track and, though not without a few extended lapses into silence, is essential listening for die-hard and casual Ford fans alike....
Movie: 80
Case in point: Wagon Master is now regularly claimed as one of the director's greatest works, a masterpiece aside well-known classics like The Searchers or How Green Was My Valley ...and it that weren't...
Total: 80
Wagon Master is a lesser-seen gem from late, great director John Ford; though slight on the surface and without a lot of A-list actors, the film's visual compositions are excellent and its supporting characters...
Home Theater Forum review by Timothy BodzioneyRead review here
Video: 90
This is no exception and it shows Bert Glennon’s beautiful carefully crafted black and white (and many shades in between) images....
Audio: 90
Ford isn’t always given credit for his use of sound, but there are added sound effects that add immeasurably to help create atmosphere – an element that Ford in late-life interviews credited Fox mogul...
Extras: 60
I admire Bogdanovich as a director but even more as a critic, his collection of director interviews, Who the Devil Made It? is essential....
Movie: 100
By showing the conflict within the Mormon community, Ford shows that even those misjudged such as the Mormons are capable of prejudice and that it takes a person who has sinned like Wiggs to really understand...
Total: 100
Ford made great individual movies but when one looks at the complete filmography it becomes staggering at how the films, great and minor, add up to a total that I think is unmatched in American film....
Director: John Ford
Actors: Ben Johnson, Joanne Dru, Harry Carey Jr.
PlotIn the rugged landscape of the American West, two wandering horse traders, Travis and Sandy, are approached by a group of fervent Mormons led by Elder Wiggs. The Mormons, seeking sanctuary and a new beginning in the untamed land of Utah, need guidance through perilous territory. Travis and Sandy reluctantly agree to lead their wagon train, sharing the burdens and dangers of the journey. As the band of travelers navigates harsh terrains and hostile environments, they bond over mutual respect and shared hardships. Encounters with wild rivers, arduous mountain passes, and shadowy threats test their resolve and fortitude.
Amidst these trials, the wagon train faces entanglements with outlaws and clashes with Native American tribes. Each challenge brings the travelers closer together, fostering a sense of community and solidarity. Along the way, personal stories unfold, revealing hidden strengths and vulnerabilities among the group. Moments of humor and warmth punctuate the arduous trek, balanced by the ever-present danger that lurks at every turn. The journey's trials gradually unveil the true character of each person, setting the stage for transformative experiences as they press forward towards their hopeful new beginning in Utah.
Writers: Frank S. Nugent, Patrick Ford, John Ford
Release Date: 22 Apr 1950
Runtime: 86 min
Rating: Approved
Country: United States
Language: English, Navajo, Spanish