Last Embrace 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Jonathan Demme's "Last Embrace" is presented in 2160p with HDR10, sourced from a meticulous 4K restoration of the 35mm original camera negative. Shot on Panavision cameras using spherical lenses, the film maintains its 1.85:1 aspect ratio and aims to capture the original cinematic experience accurately. While the opening sequence, created via optical printer dissolves, exhibits coarse and harsh grain derived from dupe elements, this minor setback is quickly overcome. Post-title sequences show significantly improved image quality with minimal damage, enhanced textures, and well-resolved grain that, although not reaching true 4K detail due to the cinematography's inherent limitations, still provides a faithful reproduction of the film's initial look.

With Ryan Emerson overseeing the digital restoration and high dynamic range grading at Vinegar Syndrome, and David Mackenzie handling encoding at Fidelity in Motion, the disc reflects a high standard of technical expertise. The contrast and colors align closely with Tak Fujimoto’s original intent. Skin tones are accurate, with minor variations such as Roy Scheider’s slightly reddish-bronze complexion being consistent with his usual on-screen appearance. The HDR10 implementation boosts both black levels and contrast, giving late-70s color palettes an impressive depth while maintaining well-balanced flesh tones throughout various scenes.

Comparatively, this release vastly outshines the previous 2014 Blu-ray from Kino Lorber. Despite some caveats regarding grain management in the opening sequence, the overall presentation underscores the format's proficiency in delivering a filmic experience true to its origins. The enhancements in black levels, contrast, and color accuracy affirm this as the best home video iteration of "Last Embrace" to date, marking another triumph for Cinématographe in their commitment to high-quality restorations.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Last Embrace" features an English 2.0 mono DTS-HD Master Audio track, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. This track provides a clean and clear listening experience, free from any significant noise or distortion. The mastering ensures that dialogues are easily discernible and environmental effects are well-balanced. The audio source appears to be in very good condition, showing little-to-no damage.

Despite the limitations inherent in the original mix and recordings, Miklós Rózsa's evocative score is presented well within the film's soundscape. While it may lack some depth and heft—an issue noted even in previous soundtrack releases—it still complements the film beautifully and is resolved effectively amidst the dialogue and ambient sounds. Those familiar with Demme’s work will find this audio presentation more than satisfactory.

The extras in the 4K UHD Blu Ray of "Last Embrace" are meticulously crafted, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of this underrated Jonathan Demme film. The new audio commentary by film historians Steve Mitchell and Howard S. Berger stands out, delving into the movie's intricate details, from its thematic elements to its distinctive New York settings. They discuss the origins of the project, Roy Scheider’s involvement, and Janet Margolin’s casting, while highlighting Demme's stylistic trademarks and collaborations with Tak Fujimoto, Miklós Rózsa, and Barry Malkin. Supplementary materials include an astute video essay by Samm Deighan, alongside insightful written pieces by critics Jim Hemphill, Jeva Lange, and Justin LaLiberty, each offering unique perspectives on the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Film historians Steve Mitchell and Howard S. Berger.
• The Labyrinth of Last Embrace: A video essay by Samm Deighan.
• Archival Interview with Producer Michael Taylor: Insightful historical context.
• Theatrical Trailer
• Written Essays: Contributions by Jim Hemphill, Jeva Lange, and Justin LaLiberty.

Jonathan Demme's "Last Embrace" showcases his eclectic filmmaking prowess, transforming David Shaber's screenplay into a vivid tapestry of mystery and intrigue. Despite initial criticisms regarding its flamboyant style, Demme's direction shines through, making what could have been a mundane thriller into an exhilarating journey. Roy Scheider stars as Harry Hannan, a U.S. Government agent whose life spirals into chaos following the death of his wife and a stay at an asylum. As Harry navigates mysterious threats written in Hebrew, he partners with Princeton doctoral student Ellie Fabian, played by Janet Margolin. Together they traverse from New York City to Niagara Falls, evading enigmatic pursuers and seeking answers.

"Last Embrace" is notable not merely for its plot but for Demme’s distinct flair and visual eccentricity. The opening sequence’s optically diffused slow motion encapsulates the audience in immediate disorientation, setting the tone for a film that thrives on unsettling its viewers. This is further exemplified in the climactic shootout in a bell tower, where Scheider confronts a shadowy assassin portrayed by Charles Napier. Demme’s method strips away conventional narrative coherence by the film’s end, opting instead for profound emotional revelations rooted in genre cinema.

Technically, "Last Embrace" retains a robust connection to thriller emotions, offering a unique experience compared to modern genre interpretations. Demme's expertise, honed since his Roger Corman days, elevates this film to surpass standard exploitation tropes. "Last Embrace" balances its stylish execution with substantive emotional depth, reinforcing Demme's reputation as a filmmaker capable of blending disparate elements into a compelling whole.

Vinegar Syndrome’s release of "Last Embrace" on 4K UHD Blu-ray revitalizes Jonathan Demme's suspenseful thriller with impressive technical prowess. This dual-disc edition (4K Blu-ray and Blu-ray) features a meticulously restored 2160p presentation enhanced by HDR10, resulting in significantly improved visuals that capture the film's moody atmospherics and intricate details. The video quality showcases a notable leap in sharpness, color accuracy, and contrast, offering a viewing experience that closely adheres to the director's original vision.

Accompanying the high-quality visual presentation is a robust selection of supplemental material. Though it excludes the commentary track with David Thompson found on the 2015 Region B Blu-ray, this release compensates with an equally insightful commentary and additional extras that provide valuable context and in-depth exploration of "Last Embrace." These enhancements contribute to a comprehensive package that both newcomers and long-time fans will find enriching.

In conclusion, Vinegar Syndrome via its Cinématographe label has crafted a definitive edition of "Last Embrace," making it an essential acquisition for enthusiasts of classic thrillers and film restorations. The commitment to high-quality audiovisual presentation and well-rounded supplements confirms this as the ultimate home viewing experience for the film. Highly Recommended.