Christmas in July Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Christmas in July" boasts a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition presentation, meticulously restored from a new 4K master. Presented in its original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.37:1 (full frame), this transfer excels in delivering a stunning visual experience. The black and white photography is striking, with robust black levels and bright whites that never bloom, maintaining a superb contrast throughout. The image clarity and fine detail are consistently remarkable, with sharp close-ups that render fine facial features impressively. The healthy grain structure preserves a distinct film-like feel, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The 4K restoration ensures that the picture is free from distracting blemishes such as dirt, debris, and detrimental scratches, affording an unblemished viewing experience. While there are sporadic nicks and faint vertical lines, these minor imperfections do not detract from the otherwise flawless presentation. Patterns remain distinct and rock solid, allowing background elements to be easily discernible, and the absence of digital artifacts further enhances the visual integrity. The grayscale variance adds depth and dimension, cementing this transfer as an exceptional example of film restoration that will undoubtedly satisfy long-time fans of Preston Sturges' classic comedy.

The Blu-ray edition of "Christmas in July" has been meticulously remastered, featuring a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track or DTS-HD Master Audio mono track, depending on specific reviews. The audio clarity is exceptional, with superb dialogue reproduction that remains consistently clear throughout the film. Disturbances such as crackling, hiss, warp, and static are notably absent, ensuring a pleasant auditory experience. Despite the original elements' age, the presentation maintains good fidelity, particularly noticeable in the robust music score that integrates seamlessly into the overall soundstage.

Listeners will appreciate the track's ability to handle the film's often frenetic scoring and cityscape subtleties with precision. Dialogue delivery is crisp and easy to comprehend, even during rapid exchanges, while the track's wide dynamic range proficiently manages any potential distortion. While not an active mix by modern standards, the track functions effectively without drawing unnecessary attention to its limitations. In essence, the audio performance is consistently satisfying, aligning well with fan expectations and providing a clean, immersive listening experience suitable for the film's atmosphere.

Kino Lorber's Blu Ray release of "Christmas in July" features a well-rounded selection of extras that significantly enhances the viewing experience. The primary highlight is the audio commentary by film historian Samm Deighan, who delivers an insightful analysis of Preston Sturges' work, touching upon his recurring themes and narrative subtext. Deighan also praises "Christmas in July" as Sturges' most underrated film and notes his cameo appearance. This scholarly commentary is complemented by a vintage theatrical trailer and a selection of promotional trailers for other Kino Lorber titles, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the era's filmmaking.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Samm Deighan: In-depth analysis of Preston Sturges' work.
• Christmas in July Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer.
• Pocketful of Miracles Trailer: Promotional trailer.
• I'll Be Seeing You Trailer: Promotional trailer.
• The Great McGinty Trailer: Promotional trailer.
• The Good Fairy Trailer: Promotional trailer.

"Christmas in July," masterfully written and directed by Preston Sturges, is a timeless gem that remains an essential addition to any classic film collection. Often mistakenly classified as a Christmas film, this 1940 comedy explores the complexities of the human condition through its wry examination of societal, corporate, and economic influences on our fragile psyches. Dick Powell's portrayal of Jimmy MacDonald, an office clerk with dreams of success, is both charming and earnest. Envisioning a better future, Jimmy enters the Maxford House Coffee Slogan competition with aspirations of winning the $25,000 grand prize. A mischievous prank by coworkers, however, sets off an unforeseen chain of events when Jimmy is falsely declared the winner, leading to a whirlwind of changes in his life.

Sturges' direction ensures every scene is meticulously crafted, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish without any narrative lulls. The film's stunning black-and-white cinematography by Victor Milner adds a layer of visual sophistication, capturing the essence of the era and enhancing the storytelling with remarkable production design. The set pieces, from rooftop scenes to bustling urban streets, evoke a magical atmosphere that's both nostalgic and heartwarming. Complemented by the delightful musical score from John Leipold and Leo Shuken, the film's whimsical charm is accentuated, making for an enchanting viewing experience.

Supporting actors like Raymond Walburn and William Demarest inject vibrant energy into the narrative with their quirky performances, enlivening Sturges' already zippy script. "Christmas in July" may appear modest in its 67-minute runtime, but it cleverly addresses universal themes of confidence and aspiration through its screwball antics and heartfelt moments. Ultimately, the film offers a poignant reminder of the value of dreams and perseverance, making it a joy to revisit each year.

Christmas in July is a delightful blend of satire and screwball comedy penned by the legendary Preston Sturges. It tells the story of an everyman office clerk whose life is upended by a practical joke, allowing him to bring joy and hope to the underprivileged. The film showcases Sturges' signature wit and keen observations on the unpredictability of corporate life, making it both an entertaining and thought-provoking experience. The brisk pacing, clever script, and engaging performances contribute to its status as a noteworthy classic from the golden age of Hollywood.

The Blu-ray presentation is exceptional, benefiting from a new 4K master that provides crisp and vibrant video quality. The clean lossless audio track further enhances the viewing experience, ensuring that the sharp dialogue and lively musical score resonate perfectly. While it may not reach the iconic status of other Sturges masterpieces like 'The Lady Eve' or 'Sullivan's Travels,' 'Christmas in July' stands out as a well-crafted social comedy that remains relevant and appealing to modern audiences.

In conclusion, Christmas in July is a charming, heartfelt, and inspired Christmas film to cherish each and every year. The message of pursuing one's dreams is inspiring. The romance is emotional and riveting. The great performances are breathtaking. The entire experience is perfect from start to finish. What a film. A classic in every sense of the word, Christmas in July deserves my highest accolades. Don't miss it. Highly recommended.