The Lady Eve Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "The Lady Eve" showcases a meticulous 1080p transfer, presented in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio and encoded with the MPEG-4 AVC codec. Derived from a 35mm fine-grain master positive found at Universal Studios and scanned in 16-bit 4K resolution, this transfer represents the zenith of the film's visual presentation to date. The transfer benefits from extensive manual restoration processes, including MTI Film's DRS and Digital Vision's Phoenix for managing dirt, debris, scratches, and grain.

While certain limitations, such as minor density fluctuations, occasional fading, and scattered blemishes, remain due to the aged condition of the source materials, the restored image offers notable improvements in depth and clarity compared to previous DVD releases. The grayscale is commendable with excellent black levels and rich whites, though there are moments when white levels run slightly hot. Grain levels are well-preserved, providing a filmic texture without overwhelming the image. Additionally, contrast and clarity enhancements noticeably elevate the visual depth, with well-delineated shadows preventing crush in darker scenes.

The Blu-ray faithfully honors the cinematography of Oscar-winner Victor Milner, capturing intricate costume textures and vividly showcasing character close-ups, particularly of Stanwyck and Fonda. Although minor restoration artifacts, such as light spotting and fine white scratches, can be observed, these do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. Overall, this Criterion release is an impressive, faithful rendering of "The Lady Eve," balancing technical excellence with respect for the film's historical visual integrity and yielding a presentation that will delight both purists and new viewers alike.

The Blu-ray release of "The Lady Eve" features a single audio option: English LPCM 1.0, with optional English SDH subtitles for the main feature. Remastered from the 35 mm fine-grain master positive, the audio track presents remarkable clarity and stability, allowing viewers to easily follow along with the film's brilliant exchanges. Despite the effective minimization of age-related anomalies like hiss, crackle, flutter, and hum, the high register occasionally reveals the track's temporal origins, sounding a bit weak or brittle at elevated volumes. Notably, there are no distortions or disruptive anomalies present in this release.

The sonic landscape includes sharp and distinct accents such as chugging train engines and Eugene Pallette's metallic clattering, effectively preserving the original sound effects with professional finesse. Dialogue remains particularly well-recorded and coherent throughout most scenes, although in segments featuring heated dialogue competing with background music and effects, the soundscape can become somewhat muddled. The eclectic score—featuring pieces like "Isn't It Romantic?"—while occasionally thin, adds a layer of charming period authenticity without overshadowing other elements.

Though "The Lady Eve" was never renowned for its audio quality, this release does a commendable job given the source material's limitations. The atmospheric elements are somewhat muted, yet quiet moments and dramatic silences maintain a pristine quality devoid of age-related noise. While the overall audio fidelity is emblematic of its era, it offers an immersive auditory experience that enhances the film's comedic and dramatic beats seamlessly.

The Blu-ray of "The Lady Eve" features an exceptional array of extras, providing a comprehensive look at the film and its broader context within Preston Sturges' oeuvre. The inclusions range from critical analyses and interviews with notable filmmakers and historians to vintage performances and original designs, offering both depth and variety for enthusiasts and scholars alike. Marian Keane's insightful audio commentary stands out for delving into the film's thematic complexity, while archival and contemporary perspectives enrich viewers' understanding. This well-rounded collection highlights the timelessness and craftsmanship of Sturges' work, making it a must-watch for any fan of classic cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

• Introduction: Archival filmed introduction by Peter Bogdanovich.
• Tom Sturges and Friends: Online video conference discussing Preston Sturges' legacy.
• The Lady Deceives: Video essay by critic and filmmaker David Cairns.
• Costume Designs by Edith Head: Video piece about the costume designer's contributions.
• Lux Radio Theatre: Vintage radio adaptation hosted by Cecil B. DeMille.
• Up the Amazon: Performance of an opening number from a theatrical musical.
• Trailer: Vintage trailer for "The Lady Eve".
• Commentary: Archival audio commentary by film scholar Marian Keane.
• Leaflet: Illustrated leaflet featuring an essay by critic Geoffrey O’Brien and a 1946 profile of Preston Sturges from LIFE magazine.

Preston Sturges' "The Lady Eve" (1941) offers an exceptional blend of romantic comedy and slapstick that underscores the film's enduring appeal. The film features Barbara Stanwyck as Jean Harrington, a con artist who, along with her father Colonel Harrington (Charles Coburn), targets the naive and wealthy Charles Pike (Henry Fonda). The on-screen chemistry between Stanwyck and Fonda is electrifying, with Stanwyck deftly switching between love-struck con artist and vengeful aristocrat, while Fonda's portrayal of the bumbling Charles remains both heartfelt and amusing. Sturges' screenplay is witty and incisive, peppered with sophisticated banter and clever subtexts that elevate the genre.

The film’s technical prowess is equally noteworthy. Cinematographer Victor Milner's work enhances the visual narrative with stunning set pieces, such as the slapstick dinner party and the refined poker game scenes. These sequences are amplified by Sturges' innovative directorial techniques, including quick-cut montages and silent visual gags that provide both comedic and emotional depth. The supporting cast, including Eugene Palette, Eric Blore, and William Demarest, deliver memorable performances that add richness to the story's dynamic landscape. Each character's dimensionality contributes to the film's authenticity, making it a nuanced screwball comedy.

In terms of thematic content, "The Lady Eve" explores the complexities of male-female relationships with astute observations that remain relevant today. The script is filled with veiled references to power dynamics and romantic deceit, akin to the Garden of Eden allegory subtly woven throughout the film. Sturges masterfully balances moments of slapstick humor with lyrical speeches that capture the intricacies of love and revenge. This interplay of comedy and drama not only showcases Sturges' brilliance as a writer-director but also solidifies "The Lady Eve" as an exemplary classic in Hollywood’s romantic comedy genre.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "The Lady Eve" expertly frames one of Hollywood's quintessential romantic comedies by capturing the unique alchemy of Preston Sturges' innovative script and the electric performances of Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda. Fresh off a meticulous new 4K restoration, the film’s visual and audio clarity is extraordinary, breathing vibrant life into Sturges’ witty dialogues and comedic nuance. The narrative, which juxtaposes the dynamism of a cunning cardsharp with the naivety of an erudite naturalist, is not only humorously incisive but remains resonant more than eight decades later. Criterion's unmatched attention to detail ensures that this release stands as a definitive version, complete with an impressive array of supplements.

The film itself remains a high watermark for the screwball comedy genre, characterized by its sharp observations on gender dynamics and relationships. "The Lady Eve" boasts career-defining roles for both Stanwyck and Fonda, with their chemistry elevating Sturges' incisive screenplay to stratospheric heights. This Criterion release accentuates those performances, presenting the film in a pristine format that showcases every nuanced glance and laugh-inducing gag. Included extras provide ample context and enrich the viewing experience, making it even more indispensable for devoted cinephiles.

All of the magic that makes The Lady Eve such a special film begins and ends with Preston Sturges' script. Yes, its two leads, Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda, are sensational, plus there are some tremendous contributions from the supporting actors, but the script is simply astonishing. It is why the comedy and romance come together so well and the entire film feels way, way ahead of its time. Do the small experiment that is mentioned at the very top of this article while keeping in mind that Sturges completed the film in the early '40s, and I guarantee you will come to the exact same conclusion. Criterion's upcoming release is sourced from a good new 4K restoration of the film, and I have already reserved a spot for it on my Top Ten list. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.