Cry, the Beloved Country Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1 and utilizing an MPEG-4 AVC encoding, the Blu-ray edition of "Cry, the Beloved Country" delivers a remarkable 1080p transfer. The version under review derives from a 4K restoration initiated by the British Film Institute, now available in the U.S. via Kino Lorber. This restoration significantly enhances visual clarity and detail, making it a visually captivating experience.

The transfer exhibits a stellar range of visual quality, with only minor density fluctuations that are a result of the original cinematography, not digital interference. These fluctuations are subtle, appearing briefly during some transitions, though they do little to detract from the film's overall aesthetic. Black levels are notably deep and not overly enhanced, while grays and whites exhibit an impressive balance throughout. The grayscale presentation is particularly exemplary, offering a visually striking contrast that enhances the storytelling.

Grain structure is preserved effectively, offering a pleasing texture and avoiding any loss in image quality. The visual clarity ensures that no mushy spots or anomalies are evident, maintaining a consistent, clean presentation from start to finish. It is important to note that this Blu-ray is Region-A locked, necessitating a compatible player for access. Overall, Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release exemplifies both technical precision and a dedication to cinematic preservation.

The Blu-ray release of "Cry, the Beloved Country" features a singular DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track that delivers a clear and well-restored audio experience, despite some inherent limitations from the film's original production era. The restoration process has maintained the clarity of dialog significantly, though minor inconsistencies such as light hiss can be detected, particularly during scenes shot outdoors. These challenges are likely attributed to the film's historical production context rather than any deficiencies in the restoration process itself.

Given the film's age and the characteristics of its original monaural track, the lossless audio format faithfully reproduces the authenticity of the original soundtrack. While dynamic intensity may not meet contemporary expectations, it is a faithful reflection of the 1951 production techniques used at the time.

Overall, while the DTS-HD Master Audio track retains strong fidelity and effectively complements the visual restoration of this classic film, viewers may find English SDH subtitles beneficial during certain sequences where dialogue may be less discernible due to extraneous ambient noise. Despite these minor imperfections, the audio track stands as a testament to the efforts undertaken to preserve this nearly 75-year-old classic for modern audiences.

The Blu-ray extras for "Cry, the Beloved Country" offer a compelling exploration of the film and key figures associated with it. The interview with Mona Z. Smith provides an enlightening narrative about Canada Lee's influential career, offering viewers a deep dive into his personal and professional journey. Meanwhile, the audio commentary by critic Daniel Kremer serves as a valuable addition, enriching the viewing experience with insightful critiques and contextual analysis. Both features enhance the understanding of the film’s thematic depth and historical importance.

Extras included in this disc:

• Canada Lee: An Interview with Mona Z. Smith: An insightful discussion about the life and career of Canada Lee, hosted by author Mona Z. Smith.

• Commentary: A new audio commentary recorded by critic Daniel Kremer, providing thoughtful critique and analysis of the film.

"Cry, the Beloved Country" (1951), directed by Zoltan Korda, emerges as a seminal work, capturing Alan Paton's 1948 novel with cautious yet impactful storytelling. Released on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber, the film is complemented by additional features such as an insightful audio commentary by critic Daniel Kremer. The film, region-A locked, is presented in English with SDH subtitles, offering practical accessibility to its audience. Shot on location in South Africa during a tumultuous era, the film navigates the complexities of apartheid not overtly, but with a subtlety that infuses its narrative and setting with authenticity and implicit societal critique. While its quasidocumentary style aims to present a genuine visual representation, the film is somewhat constrained by its deliberate staging and cautious movement through its dramatic arcs, leaving certain visual explorations of Johannesburg untapped.

The storyline follows an aging preacher, Stephen Kumalo (Canada Lee), who ventures into Johannesburg to locate his missing son, encountering an emotionally nuanced journey amplified by racial tensions. Supported by reverend Msimangu, played by Sidney Poitier, Kumalo uncovers harsh truths about his family and community. Lee's portrayal stands out with commanding gravitas and depth, overshadowing Poitier despite his pivotal supporting role. The chemistry between Lee and co-stars such as Charles Carson, who embodies the anguish of bereaved parenthood, intensifies the film’s emotional core. Including scenes such as the church-building offer illustrates the interplay of forgiveness and reconciliation. The cinematography by Robert Krasker, noted for works like "The Third Man," adds a layer of visual distinction, albeit without achieving a comprehensive archival quality.

Despite its historical importance and restrained execution in depicting apartheid's undercurrents, Korda's film remains a crucial examination of human suffering and resilience—a beacon of artistic courage in times when openly challenging established systems was rare in cinema.

The Blu-ray release of "Cry, the Beloved Country," presented by Kino Lorber, showcases a meticulous 4K restoration, largely derived from the original nitrate camera negative, supplemented with internegative and 35mm reversal material. Measuring at 95 minutes, this version is consistent with its theatrical release in 1952. The film's black-and-white imagery, preserved in a 1.37:1 format, emerges with remarkable clarity for a work of its era, belying its nearly three-quarters of a century age. The DTS-HD Master Audio (2.0 mono) soundtrack maintains strength, though the location scenes might prompt listeners to occasionally use the provided English subtitles for complete comprehension.

As a significant cinematic artifact emerging amidst South Africa's apartheid, "Cry, the Beloved Country" carries substantial historical weight. The Blu-ray edition successfully continues this legacy by offering a visual and auditory experience befitting modern viewing standards. Technical precision is evident, right from picture restoration to audio engineering, ensuring a preservation that honors the film's original impact. Despite notable absences such as the credit for blacklisted co-writer John Howard Lawson, the release stands as a testament to the filmmaking prowess of its time.

In conclusion, while navigating the tightrope of creative expression under oppressive regimes, "Cry, the Beloved Country" stands both as an important historical record and as cinematic art. Kino Lorber's Blu-ray enhances its value by providing access to a superior restoration that allows contemporary audiences to appreciate its visual and narrative complexities. Recommended for those interested in film history and classic cinema restoration.