Things to Come Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray presentation of "Things to Come," directed by William Cameron Menzies, benefits from a new high-definition digital transfer created on a Spirit 4K from a 35mm fine-grain composite print held by the British Film Institute. The film is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, delivering a solid 1080p transfer. The meticulous restoration process, utilizing MTI's DRS and Pixel Farm's PFClean for dirt and debris removal and Image Systems' Phoenix for minor grain and noise reduction, showcases the commitment to preserving the film's integrity. The contrast and brightness levels have been carefully calibrated, though it is worth noting that there are marginal differences when compared to the Network release, such as enhanced grain resolution in some nighttime sequences.

Despite the restoration efforts, "Things to Come" still displays some age-related artifacts inherent to its 1936 origin. Vertical lines and scratches remain present, although they are comparable to those found on the Network release. These artifacts do not significantly detract from the viewing experience. The transfer maintains a film-like appearance, with a healthy but controlled amount of grain evident throughout. While there is occasional jitter, particularly during scene transitions and camera angle changes, it does not overshadow the overall impression of the visual quality. Although a softer image quality is observable, this is not uncommon for films of this vintage and adds a layer of authenticity to the presentation. A featurette to compare the old and new versions would have enhanced understanding, but the current video quality remains respectable within the context of the film's historical significance.

The audio presentation of "Things to Come" on Blu-ray is rendered through a singular English LPCM 1.0 track. Noteworthy is the fact that Criterion provides optional English SDH subtitles for the main feature, which enhances accessibility. The primary characteristic of this LPCM 1.0 track is its front-focused delivery of the soundtrack, which is a common attribute for films of this era. While fluctuations in clarity can occur sporadically, these do not significantly detract from the overall experience as depth and crispness remain largely intact. It’s important to mention that background hiss is notably absent, which is remarkable for a film of this age.

Some limitations in dynamic movement are apparent, and the dialogue occasionally comes across as muted or somewhat muddy. This is likely due to the inherent characteristics of the source material rather than any deficiencies in the updated track. Despite minor issues, there’s an absence of popping, hissing, and audio dropouts, indicating a careful restoration process. Overall, while the audio presentation may not showcase modern-day surround sound dynamics, it retains a level of authenticity and clarity fitting for its time, providing an experience that remains faithful to the original release while mitigating common audio problems associated with older films.

The Blu-ray release of "Things to Come" boasts a robust array of extras that illuminate various facets of this classic film. David Kalat's commentary delves deeply into H.G. Wells' production history and political influences, though it feels more like an engaging audio essay than a traditional screen-specific commentary. Christopher Frayling offers a compelling exploration of the film’s ambitious set designs, highlighting Wells' significant control over the production. Bruce Eder provides a concise yet insightful visual essay on Arthur Bliss' influential score, enhancing the viewing experience through scene-specific analyses. Additional highlights include rare, unused special effects footage by Bauhaus artist Laszlo Moholy-Nagy and an innovative three-channel video installation by Jan Tichy. The collection is rounded out by an interesting gramophone audio recording on "The Wandering Sickness," and an informative, illustrated booklet by critic Geoffrey O'Brien.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by David Kalat: An informative audio essay on H.G. Wells and the film's history.
• Christopher Frayling on the Design: A captivating discussion on the film's set designs.
• Bruce Eder on the Score: Insightful visual essay on Arthur Bliss' score.
• Laszlo Moholy-Nagy: Rare unused effects footage by the Bauhaus artist.
• Things to Come, 1936-2012: A three-channel video installation by Jan Tichy.
• The Wandering Sickness: Audio recording from a 78 r.p.m. record in John Huntley's collection.
• Booklet: Illustrated booklet featuring an essay by Geoffrey O'Brien.

William Cameron Menzies' Things to Come (1936) arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Criterion and stands as one of Britain's finest science fiction films. Based on H.G. Wells' novel, the movie offers a speculative vision of a world devastated by war and reborn through scientific progress. Wells' direct involvement in the film's production ensured that his script was followed verbatim, marking the closest cinematic representation of his vision. Even though certain portions of the film come off as preachy due to Wells' socialist views, they never seriously disrupt its rhythm. The acting and dialogue sometimes lack dramatic impact, yet the film is bolstered by its innovative visual design.

The narrative traverses several decades beginning on Christmas Eve, 1940, with Everytown (a stand-in for London) celebrating despite impending war. The story fast-forwards to a future ravaged by conflict and disease within thirty years. John Cabal (Raymond Massey), representing the scientific group Wings Over the World, aims to unify mankind against tyrannical warlords. This vision evolves further by 2036, wherein technological advancements lead to constructing a Super Gun poised to send humans to the Moon, though it faces internal resistance spearheaded by dissident sculptor Theotocopulos (Cedric Hardwicke).

Visually, Things to Come remains an extraordinary achievement. Its sets and decors rival those of Fritz Lang's Metropolis, accompanied by impressive otherworldly aircraft designs. The film employs models and rear-projection to striking effect—a testament to its high production values as England's most expensive film at the time. Highlights include expansive shots where the camera dynamically zooms over crowd scenes within gargantuan structures. Arthur Bliss' orchestral score, integral to the film's atmosphere, received critical acclaim and was later performed as a concert suite.

In conclusion, Things to Come is not just a pioneering sci-fi film; it is an intricate canvas that paints Wells’ dense ideological beliefs against a backdrop of breathtaking visual splendor. The synthesis of creative minds such as Menzies, Moholy-Nagy, and Périnal ensures its enduring impact on cinema and cultural discourse.

The Blu-ray release of "Things to Come" by Criterion is a noteworthy addition for any serious film collector. The film, directed by William Cameron Menzies and based on H.G. Wells' work, stands as a keystone in political and cinematic history. Though it may not hold universal appeal purely as an entertainment piece due to its wordy and somewhat unengaging script, its visual aesthetics for the time period are undeniably striking. What makes this release indispensable are the historical and cultural connotations it conveys, offering the best cinematic rendition of Wells’ vision and philosophies.

This Blu-ray edition boasts a robust assortment of supplements. Among them are an audio commentary by David Kalat, which offers insightful perspectives on the film, and an interview with Christopher Frayling discussing the film’s design. Bruce Eder’s visual essay sheds light on Arthur Bliss' musical score, while unused special effects shots and a video installation piece by Jan Tichy provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look. Furthermore, an audio recording from 1936 presents a reading from Wells’ writings about the plague Wandering Sickness, adding depth to the viewing experience. A 20-page booklet featuring an essay by critic Geoffrey O’Brien rounds out the impressive extras. Though the UK Blu-ray release includes more content, this edition remains strong in its own right.

I think that fans of William Cameron Menzies' "Things to Come" will have to consider getting the Network Blu-ray release of the film in addition to Criterion's upcoming release. The new audio commentary by David Kalat makes this release an essential one to own, while the Network release also boasts a terrific commentary by Nick Cooper. I feel that with the two releases, one could have a very impressive Ultimate Edition of this spectacular classic film. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED