Girl Crazy Blu-ray Review

Warner Archive delivers a stellar 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer for "Girl Crazy," sourced from a new 4K restoration of the best surviving film elements, as the original negative no longer exists. The resulting image is remarkably stable and clean, free from significant contrast boosting or noise reduction. As a significant upgrade over the previous DVD release, this Blu-ray presentation maintains the film's natural grain structure, offering deep blacks, crisp whites, and well-varied grays. Cinematography by William Daniels and Robert Planck shines through with excellent clarity and contrast; shadow delineation is precise with no evidence of crush. Close-ups reveal sharp and lush facial features, contributing to the old-fashioned Hollywood glamour inherent in the film.

Visually speaking, "Girl Crazy" benefits immensely from the new 4K scan, rendering a picture rich in fine details and textures, akin to a Western rather than a conventional musical. While some softness emerges sporadically due to varying source materials, the clarity remains consistent overall. The corrections made to the previously dark nightclub sequence exhibit how vibrant and consistent this new transfer is, stripping the picture of the nicks, marks, and scratches that plagued its DVD counterpart. The film is presented in its original theatrical ratio of 1:37:1, and the transfer's high bit rate ensures no compression artifacts or banding are present. Fans of Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland will be particularly pleased with these night-and-day improvements, making this Blu-ray release a highly recommended upgrade.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track on the Blu-ray release of "Girl Crazy" delivers an exceptional listening experience, transcending expectations set by previous DVD editions. The dialogue is consistently clear and prominent, ensuring all lines are comprehensible without strain. Equally impressive are the pronounced music cues, including the outstanding George & Ira Gershwin score and the performances by Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, and Tommy Dorsey’s orchestra. The sound stage is remarkably well-balanced, presenting more fullness and dynamic range than one might anticipate from its one-channel source.

Particularly notable is the sonic fidelity and tonal depth during musical numbers. Tracks like "Treat Me Rough," the "I Got Rhythm" finale, and the orchestra's stunning arrangement of "Fascinatin’ Rhythm" showcase crystal-clear tones, individual instrument definition, and an appreciation for the virtuosity of the performers. Garland’s vocals are rich and full-bodied, maintaining clarity even during powerful crescendos alongside the robust brass without approaching distortion. Even background atmospherics, such as chirping birds and galloping horse hooves, are articulated vividly.

There are virtually no signs of wear or damage, with minimal to nonexistent issues like crackling or hissing, making it likely the best audio presentation this film has seen in a home video format. Additionally, optional English (SDH) subtitles are available, though some might find them garishly colored yellow; they are otherwise perfectly formatted and synced. Overall, this DTS-HD Master Audio track not only preserves but elevates the auditory elements of "Girl Crazy," providing a compelling reason to upgrade to this Blu-ray release.

The Blu-Ray release of "Girl Crazy" carries forward a collection of carefully curated extras from the 2007 Mickey Rooney & Judy Garland Collection. Retaining the professional tone fundamental for such classic films, each feature enriches the viewer's experience, giving vital insights into both the movie and its era. The commentary by John Fricke remains a highlight, providing deep dives into the production and personal anecdotes about the legendary duo, Rooney and Garland. The additional features, including vintage shorts and remixed performances, are preserved in original or enhanced formats where applicable, ensuring historical value and enhanced engagement for enthusiasts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Introduction by Mickey Rooney: An endearing recollection of "Girl Crazy" by Mickey Rooney made in 2007.
• Audio Commentary: Detailed insights from film historian John Fricke.
• Hollywood Daredevils: A 1943 short honoring film stuntmen.
• The Early Bird Dood It!: A classic Tex Avery cartoon.
• I Got Rhythm Stereo Remix Version: Enhanced audio experience of this musical number.
• Bronco Busters Outtake: Deleted song featuring Rooney, Garland, and Walker.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original preview of the film.

"Girl Crazy" (1943), directed by Norman Taurog and Busby Berkeley, is the final collaborative effort of the legendary duo Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland. The film crafts a delightful blend of Gershwin tunes and a light-hearted plot, making it a remarkable piece in their string of successful musicals. Rooney plays Danny Churchill Jr., a vivacious New York playboy sent to Cody College, an all-male agricultural institution in Wyoming, to curb his flirty ways. Almost immediately, Danny becomes smitten with Ginger Gray (Garland), leading to a series of comedic and romantic escapades as they try to save the financially struggling college through a grand musical performance featuring Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra.

Despite the film's somewhat thin storyline, "Girl Crazy" excels due to the exuberant performances of its leads and the memorable musical numbers. Judy Garland's impeccable vocals shine in renditions of Gershwin's classics like "Bidin' My Time," "Embraceable You," and "But Not for Me." The standout is undoubtedly the eight-minute finale "I Got Rhythm," a high-energy spectacle orchestrated by Berkeley's iconic choreography. Rooney's character, more subdued than typical, complements Garland's maturing presence, signaling a shift toward her later, more sophisticated roles. Supporting cast members such as Rags Ragland, Gil Stratton, and Nancy Walker provide additional humor and heart, enriching the film's overall appeal.

While not the most plot-intensive, "Girl Crazy" captures the essence of MGM’s musical heyday with its infectious energy and star power. The Blu-ray release showcases this gem with excellent audiovisual quality, ensuring that Golden Age enthusiasts and contemporary viewers alike can appreciate the undeniable charm and talent of Rooney and Garland in one of their most endearing pairings.

Norman Taurog and Busby Berkeley's "Girl Crazy" is the final cinematic collaboration between Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland, delivering a paper-thin narrative primarily crafted to showcase the duo's legendary performances. The film’s excellence lies in its dynamic choreography, engaging arrangements of Gershwin’s score, and notable numbers like "I Got Rhythm," "Embraceable You," and "But Not for Me." While the storyline—a privileged playboy sent to a western mining college falling for the dean’s charming granddaughter—offers lightweight amusement, it’s the musical elements that anchor the film.

The Blu-ray release by Warner Archive stands out with an impressive 1080p transfer, drawing from the finest surviving elements. Viewers can expect upgraded audio quality alongside a rich array of DVD-era bonus features, staying faithful to the 2007 DVD edition while enhancing the visual and auditory experience. This high-definition presentation amplifies the infectious energy and charismatic chemistry between Rooney and Garland, making it a definitive version for fans and collectors alike.

In conclusion, "Girl Crazy" is recommended particularly for established enthusiasts of Rooney and Garland's collaborations. The Blu-ray version is commendable for its technical prowess and preservation of classic musical cinema; it vividly revitalizes one of MGM's memorable 1940s musicals. This meticulously crafted release is both a heartfelt homage to its stars and a treat for musical aficionados seeking an upgrade from previous formats.