Raging Bull Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Raging Bull" showcases an exceptional video quality that underscores Martin Scorsese's decision to shoot this cinematic masterpiece in black and white, a choice detailed within the release's bonus content. The AVC encoding, rolling at 28 mbps, not only brings out the most film-like experience among similar black-and-white classics like "Casablanca" and "Persepolis" but also stands out due to its meticulous removal of larger bits of noise such as dust specs. While maintaining a visible sheen of film grain, especially notable in lighter areas, the digital cleanup efforts are subtly executed, enhancing rather than detracting from the viewing experience. This results in a visually powerful rendition of "Raging Bull," arguably the finest it has ever appeared on home video.

The visual definition, though not overwhelmingly striking, provides a wealth of details previously unseen. The image's organic quality, with its vibrant spectrum from light to dark, adds a lush analog texture that rivals any harsh digital counterparts. Particular attention to how light is manipulated - for instance, in La Motta's Florida fight scene - showcases an almost supernatural, impressionistic quality that truly shines in 1080p resolution. This attention to visual texture is consistent throughout, exemplified in scenes with soft yet well-defined details in facial expressions, upholstery, and clothing patterns. Such nuanced visual storytelling pays homage to the noir influences of an earlier cinematic era.

In comparison with other classics like "Gandhi" and "The Pink Panther," which exhibit gentle strobing, "Raging Bull" demonstrates a superior cleanup job, presenting no signs of flickering or unevenness. Scorsese's use of low lighting and dark backdrops, particularly in scenes such as the arena hallway after a victory, conveys mood effectively while maintaining visual clarity and depth. The overall video presentation on this Blu-ray not only enhances the viewing experience but also pays fitting tribute to Scorsese's and director of photography Michael Chapman's original vision, making it an essential edition for collectors and cinephiles alike.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix on the Blu-ray release of "Raging Bull" is an initially understated affair that, with some adjustments, reveals a masterfully balanced and immersive soundstage. Initially, viewers may find the overall audio level to be quite low, particularly the center channel which carries the bulk of the dialogue and needs a boost for optimal clarity. Once these adjustments are made, the mix vividly brings to life the orchestral score, the gritty dialogue, and the impactful sound effects with a precision that matches the visual excellence of the film. Scorsese's auditory trademarks, like the piercing flashbulb pops at higher frequencies than the punches themselves, add an immersive layer to the viewing experience, making each photo flash feel as impactful as a physical blow to La Motta.

The auditory experience of "Raging Bull" on Blu-ray is notably front-heavy, adhering to a design that sees little engagement from the surround channels but excels in delivering crisp, well-defined dialogue and a substantial atmospheric presence. The true auditory spectacle, however, lies in the film's musical score. From the dramatic use of Gene Krupa's "Drum Boogie" in the pivotal Copacabana scene to Mascagni’s moving Intermezzos that bookend the film, music is employed not just as a backdrop but as a character that enriches every scene. The mix prioritizes a liquid midrange, allowing each note and beat to resonate clearly, albeit with slightly subdued treble and bass, ensuring that each musical piece delivers its emotional and narrative weight as intended.

In summary, "Raging Bull’s" audio presentation on Blu-ray is a testament to the careful consideration given to its sound design. Once properly calibrated, it offers an enriching auditory experience where every dialogue nuance, sound effect, and musical score is presented with clarity and depth. The subtle dominance of the front channels and the meticulous attention to musical detail pays off, creating an audio landscape that perfectly complements the film’s stark visual storytelling.

The "Raging Bull" Blu-ray extra presentation solidifies its status as a seminal piece for cinephiles and aficionados of Martin Scorsese’s oeuvre. While the additional content predominantly hails from the DVD edition, presented in MPEG-2 with Dolby Digital audio, the comprehensive assembly of featurettes, documentaries, and commentaries provides an in-depth exploration of the film's creation, from its inception to its lasting impact. The three-part audio commentary incorporates insights from a broad spectrum of the film's contributors including Scorsese, Thelma Schoonmaker, and Jake La Motta, offering a multifaceted perspective on the cinematic masterpiece. Other highlights include a meticulous look into the film's iconic fight choreography, the pre-and post-production processes, and poignant anecdotes from behind the scenes, featuring key figures like De Niro and Pesci. Despite the absence of new production extras, the array and depth of previously produced material make this a compelling collection for enthusiasts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Before the Fight: A detailed discussion on writing, casting, and preproduction with key interviews and behind-the-scenes content.
• Inside the Ring: Focuses on the choreography of fight scenes with insights from Joe Pesci among others.
• Outside the Ring: Offers behind-the-scenes anecdotes through various interviews and footage.
• After the Fight: Explores music, sound effects, and the film's legacy through engaging discussions.
• The Bronx Bull: A detailed behind-the-scenes look including insights from La Motta and discussions with editor Schoonmaker.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Raging Bull" elevates Martin Scorsese's black-and-white masterpiece to a stunning 1080p visual experience, drawing the viewer deeper into the tumultuous life of Jake La Motta (Robert De Niro). The clarity and sound quality enhance the immersive experience of La Motta's harrowing journey, both in and out of the boxing ring. De Niro's transformation, following a year of intense training and a physical metamorphosis that saw him gain 70 pounds, is brought to life with breathtaking detail, accentuating his performance of a man tormented by his demons. Coupled with Joe Pesci's portrayal of La Motta's brother, the film's portrayal of complex family and professional relationships is underscored by exceptional acting and the gritty realism of 1940s and '50s New York.

Scorsese's direction takes center stage in this release, showcasing his ability to blend stark storytelling with groundbreaking cinematography. The fight scenes are not mere depictions of physical battles but are artistically choreographed to convey the emotional and psychological struggles of La Motta. The increased ring size and meticulous attention to makeup and effects contribute to an expressionist visual style that captures the essence of boxing in a way that transcends mere sport. This edition highlights Scorsese's choice to deviate from conventional narratives, focusing on an impressionist representation that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer.

The movie section of this Blu-ray not only celebrates the legendary collaboration between De Niro and Scorsese but also pays homage to the deep psychological exploration of its protagonist. "Raging Bull" is not just about boxing; it’s an introspective look at a flawed man's quest for redemption and personal victory, rendered in exquisite detail in this high-definition release. Every nuance of La Motta's character, from his rise to fall, magnifies the brilliance of Scorsese’s direction and De Niro’s performance, making this edition a must-have for cinephiles seeking to experience a riveting piece of cinematic history in unparalleled quality.

"Raging Bull" on Blu-ray stands out as a must-have for any serious collector, underscoring its significance with impeccable technical quality and emotional depth. The BD-50 disc showcases an outstanding 1.85:1 picture quality that brings a new level of clarity and immersion to this classic film. Renowned for its profoundly engaging character study, the movie transcends the boxing genre to explore themes of sacrifice, integrity, and the human condition. Robert De Niro delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Jake La Motta, bringing to life the boxer's tumultuous career and personal life with unparalleled intensity. Despite the controversial depiction of La Motta, the film's raw and unflinching portrayal adds to its power and relevance, making it an essential piece in the canon of cinematic masterpieces.

The uncompromising vision of director Martin Scorsese and De Niro's transformative role combine to craft a narrative that is both harrowing and deeply relatable. Viewers are invited to reflect on their own experiences of struggle and redemption through the lens of La Motta's life, albeit his character's complexities might not evoke traditional sympathy. This Blu-ray edition not only preserves but enhances the film's gritty aesthetics and compelling storytelling, offering audiences a richer viewing experience. The attention to technical detail in this release ensures that "Raging Bull" continues to leave a lasting impact on viewers, cementing its status as a timeless masterpiece.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray edition of "Raging Bull" is an exemplary addition to any collection, boasting superior picture quality and emotionally resonant performances. The film's exploration of complex themes, coupled with its cinematic excellence, makes it a profoundly impactful viewing experience. For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this release offers a comprehensive look at one of the most significant works in film history, making it highly recommended for those looking to dive into a pivotal piece of cinematic artistry.