The Big Gundown Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "The Big Gundown" showcases an AVC encoded image with a 2.34:1 aspect ratio, capturing the original theatrical experience vividly. Key features include a well-managed layer of grain, preserving a filmic appearance while maintaining fine details such as facial particulars, fabric, and natural textures. Colors are beautifully rendered with authentic western hues, big blue skies, and accurate skin tones contributing to a hearty viewing experience. Shadow detail is expressive and supportive, preserving depth and clarity during nighttime scenes without turning murky. The disc proudly features both the Expanded U.S. Version (94:56) and the Italian Director's Cut (110:18).

However, the release does exhibit a few inconsistencies compared to prior high-definition versions. This 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode, originating from a 2K digital restoration, presents a color timing that leans more towards reds and oranges, causing these colors to pop at the expense of primaries like blues. Flesh tones occasionally appear unnaturally sun-tanned. Contrast adjustments result in some highlights blooming and clipping, despite the overall brightened image offering excellent visibility in most scenes. While black levels are robust and deep, revealing ample background information without overshadowing it, certain sequences suffer from a softer focus which can most likely be attributed to the condition of the source material rather than an imperfection in the restoration process.

Grindhouse Releasing's meticulous frame-by-frame cleaning of the negative ensures minimal digital noise reduction, aiming to stay as true as possible to the movie's original visual quality. Despite some criticisms regarding the slightly inconsistent grain and color representation, this high-resolution transfer maintains strong clarity and resolution, particularly noticeable in the definition of hacienda-style houses, costumes, and surrounding foliage. Fans of the film will find this Blu-ray video presentation a rewarding addition to their collection.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "The Big Gundown" brings a robust 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio sound mix that instantly captivates with a burst of energy, particularly evident in Christy's title tune, which showcases the track's upper reaches with remarkable frontal power. The mix then smoothly transitions to quieter moments, achieving an impressive balance that enhances the film's atmosphere. The expressive scoring from Morricone adds depth and support without overwhelming dialogue, maintaining clarity and allowing emotional nuances to be easily detected. The audio does an excellent job preserving the movement and dynamic shifts of the original mix, and the inclusion of a Music & Effects track further enriches the experience.

Unlike previous releases, which only offered legacy Dolby Digital and limited remastering efforts, this Grindhouse Releasing Blu-ray provides a lively and full-bodied DTS-HD Master Audio mono track that delivers a commanding presence in the center channel. The audio quality is notably free of background noise such as hissing and popping, and it features crisp dialogue reproduction along with bass that is appropriately aged. The action sequences and musical score generate a broad, immersive soundstage with a well-balanced mid-range, though there are minor issues in the upper ranges, displaying slight hints of distortion and clipping. Overall, this remastered sound design preserves the integrity of the original while offering an engaging auditory experience that greatly enhances the film.

The Extras for "The Big Gundown" Blu-ray release present a comprehensive and invaluable collection that combines insightful commentary and rare behind-the-scenes content. There's an academic yet engaging commentary from western enthusiasts/writers C. Courtney Joyner and Henry C. Parke, delivering intricate details about the Italian moviemaking industry. Several interviews with cast and crew members, including Sergio Sollima and Tomas Milian, provide deep dives into the production's history, creative struggles, and personal anecdotes, offering a nuanced view of the film's legacy. The included CD soundtrack by Ennio Morricone, a 22-page booklet filled with essays, and an exhaustive gallery of promotional materials further enrich this exquisite package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Sergio Sollima Remembers 'The Big Gundown': 2005 chat with the director on his work.
• Tomas Milian: Acting on Instinct: 2013 conversation with the co-star.
• Tagliatelle in Los Angeles: Sergio Donati Interview: 2013 interview with the screenwriter.
• Sergio Sollima: Struggles Against Genre: Political discussion from 2005.
• Sergio Donati Bonus Interview: Additional insights from the screenwriter.
• Production Stills: 20 images.
• Promotional Material: U.S., Italian, French, and various materials.
• U.S. Theatrical Trailer A, B: Promos for the film.
• Italian Theatrical Trailer: Additional promo.
• TV Spots: Five televised promos.
• CD Soundtrack: Ennio Morricone's score.
• Booklet: 22 pages of essays.

"The Big Gundown" directed by Sergio Sollima emerges as a standout within the Italian Western genre that boomed in the mid-1960s. Crafted with an incisive political undertone, the film explores the evolving dynamics of American and Mexican relations through a thrilling manhunt narrative. Jonathan Corbett, portrayed by Lee Van Cleef, is an experienced bounty hunter tempted by railroad baron Brokston to transition into a political role. However, Corbett’s mission to capture Cuchillo, a trickster accused of heinous crimes, delays his decision. The film masterfully balances tension, humor, and intricate character developments, with Cuchillo and Corbett’s cat-and-mouse interactions driving the story forward. Morricone’s score significantly enhances the film’s atmosphere, introducing leitmotifs that amplify scenes of suspense and travel.

Sollima’s direction subverts genre conventions, presenting not merely a chase but a complex psychological drama. The film frequently disrupts the typical linearity of pursuit, instead delving into Corbett and Cuchillo’s intertwined fates. Key scenes such as Corbett’s frustration in facing systemic barriers while closing in on his prey, and Cuchillo’s cunning escapes, highlight crucial thematic shifts. Through clever cinematography and lighting contrasts – portraying Corbett in stark, grimy environments versus Cuchillo in comparatively cleaner settings – Sollima questions archetypal judgments. This duality is punctuated by intense moments like when Cuchillo challenges Corbett’s moral grounds, effectively humanizing both characters in surprising ways.

Van Cleef’s portrayal of Corbett is complemented by Tomas Milian’s charismatic Cuchillo, whose mischievous antics contrast Corbett’s steadfastness. Sollima emphasizes this chemistry through close-ups capturing their nuanced interactions, maintaining a delicate balance between tension and reluctant camaraderie. The film’s narrative structure, highlighted by meticulous screenwriting from Sollima and Sergio Donati, further enriches its critique of standard Western tropes. "The Big Gundown" achieves an engrossing blend of action and introspection, set against a lush, widescreen backdrop that solidifies its place as a seminal work in the genre.

Sergio Sollima's "The Big Gundown" stands as a quintessential entry in the Italian Western canon, showcasing intricate narratives, intense action, and rich stylistic elements. Featuring standout performances by Lee Van Cleef and Tomas Milian, the film deftly navigates themes of justice and morality, positioning it as more than just a visual feast. The home video release by Grindhouse Releasing presents a solid picture quality that, while not surpassing the benchmark set by the 2012 German digibook, still offers a commendable viewing experience. The lossless audio presentation notably enhances the film's immersive quality, elevating the experience significantly.

This Blu-ray edition also comes packed with a plethora of supplementary materials, providing deeper insights into the film's production and legacy. These extras add substantial value to the package, making it an indispensable pick for genre aficionados and cinephiles alike. The transfer captures the film's brutal yet beautiful aesthetics, while accentuating its underlying narrative complexities. Despite slight imperfections in the visual quality compared to alternative releases, this edition remains impressive and gratifying.

In conclusion, "The Big Gundown" Blu-ray is an essential acquisition for any Western enthusiast. Tending to the traditions of Italian Westerns, the film doesn't disappoint in its array of climactic confrontations and eloquent storytelling. It integrates social tensions into a gripping narrative, providing depth alongside its visceral appeal. It's a wonderful film that balances style with substance, reaffirming that there’s more to this genre than surface-level spectacle. This release is indeed a must-have for anyone who holds Sergio Leone's works in high regard or seeks to explore the richness of Italian Westerns further.