Murder in the First Blu-ray Review

The 1080p, 1.85:1 framed Blu-ray presentation of "Murder in the First" excels in delivering a solid and film-like image that will appeal to purists. The encoding is sharp and stable, with well-balanced contrast levels, bright and detailed whites, and finely enhanced grays. Shadows are deep yet sufficiently delineated, offering impressive depth to both illuminated and darker scenes. The video presents a crisp and definitively resolved picture, accommodating wide-angle shots that provide appreciable dimension and foreground-background clarity. Close-up shots reveal intricate textures in facial features, clothing, and various objects with subtle refinement.

The film's color scheme primarily leans towards a de-saturated palette, catering to the director’s somber vision. However, deep shades of blues and greens stand out effectively against these muted tones. The courtroom scenes are characterized by a warm golden tinge, accentuated by wooden elements, while prison scenes embrace a bleak black, blue, and gray aesthetic. This contrast reinforces the film’s thematic tones of despair versus hope. Natural grain is maintained throughout, lending authenticity to the image without being distracting. Skin tones appear natural within the material's scope but sometimes exhibit slightly bronze coloring.

Though the film contains occasional soft shots and minor backlight bleeding that creates a hazy appearance around edges, these do not significantly detract from the overall visual quality. A few darker scenes feature slight blocking and black speckles but are otherwise minimal. Despite these issues, this Blu-ray transfer from Warner Brothers is commendable for a mid-90s catalog title. The subtle detailing, robust shadow delineation, and selective use of vibrant colors outside the prison settings make "Murder in the First" a visually competent Blu-ray offering.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 lossless soundtrack for "Murder in the First" on Blu-ray delivers a serviceable audio presentation, though it lacks immersive qualities. Predominantly limited to the front channels, the soundstage is relatively flat and one-dimensional. Despite this, dialogue remains clear and intelligible throughout the film, even in the more dynamic courtroom scenes. The front-centric mix does not leverage the potential for surround sound, missing opportunities to create an enveloping atmosphere, especially in environments like the echoing prison or bustling courthouse.

Ambience is present but understated; for example, the dripping water in The Dungeon subtlety saturates the front listening area without achieving full immersion. Dialogue tends to reverberate effectively during loud courtroom exchanges, yet general sounds like crowd ambience in the press pool or prison cafeteria lack depth and fail to draw the audience into the scene. Some issues arise with dialogue occasionally seeping away from the center and presenting off-balance.

Low-end frequencies are notably absent, diminishing the impact of sound effects. The track handles more dynamic elements, such as fireworks, with adequate authority, but overall, it lacks the energy and punch that could enrich the viewing experience. While functional and free from significant technical flaws, this mix doesn't offer anything particularly engaging or remarkable. It suffices to carry the narrative but doesn’t elevate the film’s auditory dimension.

The Blu Ray release of "Murder in the First" offers a concise selection of high-quality extras that provide valuable insights into both the production and the movie's thematic elements. Foremost is "Kevin Bacon: Back to Alcatraz," an insightful and new 12-minute featurette in HD which revisits Kevin Bacon’s experience during the making of the film. Bacon emphasizes his diverse acting roles, preparations for this particular part, and his collaboration with Director Marc Rocco as well as cast members. The extras are rounded out by the inclusion of the film’s original theatrical trailer in full 1080p resolution.

Extras included in this disc:

Kevin Bacon: Back to Alcatraz: A retrospective feature with Kevin Bacon discussing his role and the film's production.

Theatrical Trailer: The original theater preview of "Murder in the First."

"Murder in the First" stands as a compelling addition to the genre of Courtroom Dramas, anchored by powerful performances and meticulous direction. The film delves deeply into the tragic life of Henri Young, played brilliantly by Kevin Bacon, whose petty crime of stealing $5 leads to his transfer to Alcatraz. The narrative crux unfolds with Young's solitary confinement in the prison's dungeons for a mind-shattering three years, transforming him from a petty thief into a savage murderer. The film navigates through his harrowing ordeal, culminating in his act of killing an informant, which sets the stage for a riveting courtroom battle.

Director Marc Rocco ensures that "Murder in the First" is more than just a legal showdown; it's a meticulously crafted tale balancing background, narrative drama, and intense courtroom confrontations. The pacing is sharp and consistent, avoiding any dull moments. The film's directional style employs long pans and unique perspectives without overshadowing the core story, capturing the physical and emotional realities faced by its characters.

The performances are standout, particularly Bacon's transformation into the tortured Henri Young, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a man broken by inhumane conditions. Christian Slater, as the novice attorney James Stamphill, and Gary Oldman, as the sadistic assistant warden, add substantial depth to the film. The heartfelt camaraderie between Bacon's and Slater's characters becomes the emotional cornerstone of the movie. Despite some creative liberties taken with historical accuracy, the film successfully immerses viewers into its dramatic narrative. This Blu-ray edition from Warner Bros. ensures a captivating viewing experience, emphasizing the high-quality cinematography that complements its storytelling.

"Murder in the First" is a compelling film that stands out as a fine representation of the courtroom drama genre. The movie is skillfully directed, well-paced, and benefits from a tight script and superb acting. Kevin Bacon delivers a detailed and convincing performance that could be considered award-worthy. While not the pinnacle of its genre, the film successfully captures the essential elements of good storytelling, making it worthwhile for both fans of courtroom dramas and newcomers.

The Blu-ray release by Warner Brothers features a solid video presentation and includes a noteworthy new extra featuring Kevin Bacon. However, the audio quality lacks a sense of immersion, which might be disappointing for audiophiles seeking a more enveloping surround sound experience. Despite some minor shortcomings, the overall quality of the video ensures a visually engaging viewing experience.

In conclusion, "Murder in the First" offers an entertaining blend of drama and legal intrigue, with strong performances that elevate the material. Although it takes creative liberties with historical accuracy, it remains an engaging piece worthy of recommendation. Fans of the genre as well as casual viewers will find it to be a valuable addition to their collection.