Two Mules for Sister Sara Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release of "Two Mules for Sister Sara" presents the film in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, and features a 1080p transfer. This release offers two versions of the film: the US theatrical version and the international cut, both restored in 4K from what is assumed to be the original camera negatives. The resulting video quality is impressive, showcasing healthy and refined film grain that maintains an organic look, with excellent fine detail visible on costumes, objects, and skin textures.

The color palette exhibits a wide range of hues, from the rich reds, greens, and blues of clothing and skies to the browns and tans of landscapes and structures. However, the color grading reveals some issues, notably an unnatural suppression of blue nuances by pervasive yellowish hues. Black levels generally appear deep and well-contrasted, though they occasionally suffer from crushing due to the source element's condition. Despite these minor flaws, overall delineation and depth remain very good to excellent.

This release outperforms the previous 2014 version, especially concerning film grain preservation and fine detail integrity. The source material for the restoration is exceptionally clean and stable, free from noticeable debris, cuts, or frame damage. Although some viewers note a persistent visibility of grain during darker scenes and occasional focus issues, the majority consensus indicates this Blu-ray release as the best video presentation of the film to date. While it leaves room for a potential Ultra HD upgrade, this disc serves as a substantial improvement for fans of the movie.

The Blu-ray release of "Two Mules for Sister Sara" features a single English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, with optional English SDH subtitles. The sound design, while not cutting edge, is free from technical anomalies such as hiss, crackle, distortion, or dropouts. Dialogue throughout the film remains clean and intelligible, even during more intense sequences. There is a particular emphasis on Ennio Morricone’s evocative score, which breathes life into the film despite the modest dynamic intensity.

Notably, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix appears to have been slightly enhanced from previous iterations, giving more impact to key moments such as gunshots, explosions, and the climactic final action sequence. However, there are instances where the audio feels flat, especially in action scenes where dynamite is involved. While revolver shootouts retain some impact, there is an evident lack of bass presence. Despite these shortcomings, Morricone's iconic score, particularly "The Braying Mule," is given prominence and delivers a considerable auditory highlight through its multiple uses and thematic significance.

Overall, this audio presentation carries forward the classic feel of the film. While certain aspects of the sound mix could be improved—especially in terms of bass response and dynamic excitement—the clear dialogue and standout musical score strike a resonant chord with viewers. This release may not be a game-changer in terms of audio innovation, but it successfully encapsulates the auditory essence of this classic western.

The Blu-ray extras for "Two Mules for Sister Sara" provide a compelling array of supplemental content, enriching the viewing experience. Notably, the set includes both the international and domestic cuts, each housed on separate discs to maintain optimal quality. Highlights include a new audio commentary by filmmaker Alex Cox that, despite occasional pauses, offers valuable insights into the movie’s production and historical context. The “At Home with Clint” vintage interview delivers an engaging look at Eastwood around the time of the film's release. Additionally, a poster and image gallery features 41 stills encompassing posters, lobby cards, and behind-the-scenes photos. Classic promotional materials such as TV spots, radio spots, and trailers provide a nostalgic touch.

Extras included in this disc:

• Poster and Image Gallery: Collection of vintage promotional and production materials.
• At Home with Clint: Vintage video interview with Clint Eastwood.
• Commentary: Exclusive new audio commentary by filmmaker Alex Cox.
• Radio Spots: Vintage radio spots for the film.
• TV Spots: Vintage TV spots for the film.
• Trailer: Vintage trailer for the film.
• Cover: Reversible cover with vintage poster art.

Don Siegel's Two Mules for Sister Sara (1970) brings Clint Eastwood and Shirley MacLaine embroiled in an offbeat yet engaging western that defies genre conventions. Anchored by a screenplay from Budd Boetticher, the film diverges from classic spaghetti westerns by integrating a blend of period action, comedy, and a political layer, producing a dynamic that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique. Clint Eastwood reprises his role as a stoical mercenary, Hogan, whose journey through the Mexican desert becomes complicated after he rescues a nun, Sister Sara (MacLaine), from assailants only to discover her hidden depths and questionable authenticity. The chemistry between Eastwood and MacLaine injects an unexpected spark, resulting in an intellectual rivalry and burgeoning romance that sets the stage distinctively apart from traditional western tropes.

Siegel's direction complements this narrative 'softening,' contrasting the crisp action choreography typical of Leone's works. The film hinges fundamentally on the interplay between Hogan and Sara, establishing their relationship through comedic banter and gradual emotional closeness rather than relentless action sequences. While the pacing may initially appear languid, it effectively builds toward an explosive climax involving a daring assault on a French garrison. Ennio Morricone's iconic score underpins the proceedings, adding a melodious layer that amplifies the film's whimsical tone.

Its identity as a western is nuanced by its "road movie" structure, where Hogan's trail leads to comedic and dramatic encounters rather than typical frontier battles. This texture, intertwined with Morricone’s celebrated music and Siegel's adept handling of suspense, makes Two Mules for Sister Sara an underestimated gem in Eastwood’s oeuvre. Although peppered with light-hearted jabs and occasional anachronisms, such as the incorrectly timed dynamite scene, the film remains entertainingly self-aware, preserving its charm while challenging its genre's conventions.

Kino Lorber's new Blu-ray release of "Two Mules for Sister Sara" is a substantial upgrade over previous editions, featuring a pristine 4K restoration that elevates both visual and audio quality. The film provides a unique take on the Western genre by blending action, comedy, and romance in ways that set it apart from Clint Eastwood's other works. Don Siegel’s direction ensures a steady tension, while Shirley MacLaine's spirited performance plays off Eastwood's stoic persona fluidly. This release also includes valuable bonus materials, though they are not extensive, with an insightful audio commentary that stands out.

Presentation-wise, Kino Lorber's rendition includes a clean and effective audio mix, making the viewing experience more immersive. The new video transfer boasts significant improvements over the older Universal release, correcting many of the previous version's flaws. The inclusion of both versions of the film and additional elements make it a must-have for fans of the genre. It's clear that considerable care has gone into this edition, which keeps the integrity of the original production intact while enhancing its qualities for modern audiences.

In conclusion, while "Two Mules for Sister Sara" may not rank among Clint Eastwood’s most iconic Westerns, the film remains an intriguing experiment that blends genre conventions with comedic and romantic undertones. The character interactions, though sometimes forced, do offer a refreshing departure from typical Western archetypes. Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release, with its stunning 4K restoration and satisfactory supplements, makes this edition highly recommended for collectors and enthusiasts of both Eastwood's oeuvre and Western cinema as a whole.