Moonfleet Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Moonfleet" is delivered in its original ultra-wide 2.55:1 CinemaScope aspect ratio, marking a significant improvement from Warner Archive's previous 2010 DVD release. The Blu-ray features a more natural and refined palette compared to the overly saturated colors of the DVD. Skin tones appear more realistic, while costumes and lighting benefit from enhanced contrast, particularly against darker backgrounds. This updated transfer handles shadows better, faithfully preserving the underlit ambiance of many scenes, from the opening night sequence to dimly-lit interiors and the secret cave discovery. The earth tones remain drab, sometimes blending together, but the brighter costumes and exterior shots exhibit a noticeable robustness, reflecting the challenging nature of the source material. High bit rate and excellent compression ensure a clean image free from artifacts.

Warner Archives has truly excelled with this transfer, bringing "Moonfleet" to life like never before on Blu-ray. Having experienced the film multiple times theatrically and through various previous editions, this Blu-ray stands unparalleled. The colors are vibrant and beautiful, comparable to Warner's work on classics like "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" and "Brigadoon." This release corrects the brownish, unattractive hues that plagued earlier versions. The high-definition image maintains an impressive level of detail, making the viewing experience both film-like and visually stunning. This meticulous treatment solidifies Warner Archive's reputation for delivering high-quality releases even with challenging source material.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix of "Moonfleet" leverages the original four-track stereo source to deliver an impressively wide and balanced soundstage. The placement of dialogue and sound effects significantly enhances the realism, supported by precise panning effects and formidable separation. Miklós Rózsa's original score is given ample attention, blending seamlessly with the primary elements to deliver a rich auditory experience. Although the source audio could have supported a more modern 4.0 or even 5.1 remix, Warner Archive's decision to retain the original format maintains authenticity and respects the film’s historical context. It's noteworthy that this is among the better-sounding MGM films from its era, maintaining audio integrity even after nearly 65 years.

The audio presentation is further complemented by optional English (SDH) subtitles, which are impeccably formatted, avoiding the common practice of using all caps. This level of attention to detail in subtitling ensures a more pleasant viewing experience and highlights a positive deviation in Warner Archive’s standard Blu-ray offerings. Overall, the DTS-HD Master 2.0 audio track elevates "Moonfleet" to an exceptional auditory standard, with Miklós Rózsa’s score sounding more resonant and engaging than ever before.

Warner Archive’s Blu-ray release of "Moonfleet" is professionally packaged in a standard keepcase, offering a marked improvement over the 2010 DVD by including the original theatrical trailer. While the trailer is in rough shape, darker and with muddy, unnatural colors, it does maintain the film's original 2.55:1 aspect ratio. The inclusion of this trailer adds historical value to the disc, even though it is also available on WAC’s YouTube channel. It is worth noting that subtitles are available, enhancing accessibility.

Extras included in this disc:

Theatrical Trailer: Historical piece, darker with unnaturally colored footage, maintaining a 2.55:1 aspect ratio.

Fritz Lang's "Moonfleet," based on J. Meade Falkner's 1898 novel, marks a significant departure from the filmmaker's typical oeuvre. It is an atmospheric melodrama set in 1757, exploring the relationship between young orphan John Mohune (Jon Whiteley) and the rogue smuggler Jeremy Fox (Stewart Granger). This CinemaScope adventure, Lang's first and only, is notable for its visually striking sets designed by Cedric Gibbons and Hans Peters, captured through the adept cinematography of Robert H. Planck. The film’s moody and colorful aesthetic is accentuated by Walter Plunkett's vibrant costumes and dramatically lit interior sequences.

Despite its visual splendor and promise, "Moonfleet" struggles with narrative cohesiveness. Significant deviations from the novel and an underdeveloped script by Jan Lustig and Margaret Fitts impede its pacing and depth. The film shifts from whimsical adventure to brooding mystery but often feels unfinished, with numerous subplots and secondary characters lacking sufficient development. The central emotional arc—Fox’s internal struggle and his evolving bond with young John—adds a touch of depth but ultimately feels insufficient as the sole driving conflict.

While "Moonfleet" boasts a talented ensemble cast including Viveca Lindfors, George Sanders, Joan Greenwood, and an array of notable character actors from the 1950s, their performances are often hampered by the script’s limitations. Moments of brilliance do shine through, particularly in the spooky nighttime wanderings of John and the dynamic reveal of historical secrets hidden in moonlit tombs. However, the film's exploration of moral corruption among its characters remains somewhat shallow. Enthusiasts and loyal fans of Lang and classic cinema will appreciate Warner Archive Collection's Blu-ray edition, which meticulously highlights the movie's vivid color design and meticulous camera work—details that occasionally elevate the viewing experience despite the film’s broader narrative shortcomings.

Fritz Lang's Moonfleet stands as a notable entry in the legendary director's filmography, marking his singular foray into CinemaScope and a rare expedition beyond his familiar film noir territory. Set against an 18th-century backdrop, the film weaves elements of melodrama with genre-borrowed tension, creating a complex narrative that, unfortunately, becomes encumbered by its myriad of subplots. This is not to say the film lacks adventure—several moments deliver expected thrills. However, at a concise 86 minutes, the plot often feels cluttered and disjointed, with epic aspirations rarely fully realized. Warner Archive's Blu-ray release of Moonfleet excels in presenting the film with top-tier audiovisual quality, catering to both dedicated fans and cautious newcomers.

The tone of Moonfleet differs from the energetic swashbuckler films popularized by stars like Errol Flynn and Tyrone Power, reaching instead for a more subdued and somber atmosphere. The film cannot be accused of avoiding effort; it is intricately crafted, reflecting a certain post-war film noir sensibility. While reminiscent of the vibrant craft seen in Anthony Mann or Budd Boetticher westerns, Moonfleet ultimately occupies a unique niche in the fading swashbuckler genre. Despite the evident skills of the cast and crew, it's palpable that Moonfleet signaled an end of an era rather than a segue into a period of genre revision.

In conclusion, Moonfleet, despite its shortcomings, remains an engaging piece of cinematic history. Lang's adept direction and Warner Archive's superior Blu-ray release make this a worthwhile watch for aficionados of classic cinema and those intrigued by genre evolution. Existing fans will appreciate this pristine presentation, while new viewers would do well to sample it before committing fully.