Continental Divide Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Continental Divide" presents the film in its original 1.85:1 theatrical aspect ratio, encoded in 1080p high definition using the MPEG-4 AVC codec. While this release does not benefit from a new 4K scan, restoration, or significant enhancements, it maintains an acceptable level of quality. The image is generally clean, free from prominent print damage, dirt, or debris. However, the presentation does show some artifacts and noise, especially noticeable at the beginning of the film. Grain levels are high initially but stabilize as the film progresses.

The color palette is moderately muted and lacks the pop that could be provided by more extensive restoration efforts. Despite this, certain elements still stand out. Primaries like the red on Souchak’s backpack and the lush green of the Rockies appear strong. Fine details manifest clearly in well-lit scenes, such as the intricate features of Nell’s tan coat highlighted by a flickering fireplace. However, some scenes appear soft, and there is noticeable loss of detail in these instances. The black levels are stable, although there is some noise in shadows and lower light areas, particularly within cabin interiors. Outdoor scenes are well-lit and picturesque, enhancing the film's visual appeal during these moments.

No extensive restoration work is noted in this Blu-ray edition, so older DVD owners contemplating an upgrade should consider this release as likely the best available version of "Continental Divide." Overall, while not extraordinary, this Blu-ray offers a faithful and largely clean viewing experience that remains true to the film's original look.

"Continental Divide" is presented on Blu-ray with a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track that effectively accommodates the film's audio needs. This lossless track provides a straightforward sound design with a clear emphasis on dialogue, capturing the essence of an older comedy-drama. While lacking in surround sound capabilities, the audio remains consistently clear and intelligible, with dialogue perfectly balanced against Michael Small’s background score and the natural sounds of both urban and rural settings.

The DTS-HD MA 2.0 mono sound mix is executed faithfully, preserving the era's monaural sound reproduction quality. The track reproduces the ambient noises of Chicago and the wildlife of Wyoming effortlessly, featuring high fidelity without any intrusive hiss, pop, or distortion. All sound elements, including dialogue and environmental effects such as believable animal growls and roars, blend seamlessly without any age-related defects like crackles or warps. Optional English subtitles can be enabled for added clarity.

The extras on the Blu-ray of "Continental Divide" offer valuable insights and supplementary content that enhance the viewing experience. The audio commentary by film historian/filmmaker Daniel Kremer and film historian/biographer Nat Segaloff is lively and engaging, albeit somewhat disorganized. It covers the film's story, cast, director, and writer, making it a recommended listen for fans and film enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the disc includes the theatrical trailer and several promotional trailers from Kino Lorber. While the selection is limited, the quality of content provided certainly adds depth to the main feature.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Film Historian/Filmmaker Daniel Kremer and Film Historian/Biographer Nat Segaloff: Engaging discussion covering various aspects of the film.
• Continental Divide Theatrical Trailer: Original theatrical preview.
• D.C. Cab Trailer: Promotional trailer from distributor.
• Bustin' Loose Trailer: Promotional trailer from distributor.
• Amazon Women on the Moon Trailer: Promotional trailer from distributor.
• Mumford Trailer: Promotional trailer from distributor.
• Gorky Park Trailer: Promotional trailer from distributor.

"Continental Divide," directed by Michael Apted and boasting a screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan, is a charming and engaging romantic comedy-drama that showcases an unexpectedly restrained and controlled performance by John Belushi. The film, executive produced by Steven Spielberg, places Belushi in the role of Ernie Souchak, a hard-hitting Chicago Sun-Times reporter who is temporarily relocated to the Rocky Mountains following a politically charged altercation. In this new environment, he encounters ornithologist Dr. Nell Porter (Blair Brown), a dedicated eagle researcher. The chemistry between Belushi and Brown is palpable; their performances imbue the film with a unique charm that maintains viewer interest through both comedic and heartwarming moments.

Kasdan’s screenplay balances clever, wry humor with character-driven dynamics, providing a solid foundation for the film's narrative arc. The romantic subplot never feels forced, benefitting from the genuine connection between the leads, while the fish-out-of-water setup allows for numerous humorous scenarios as Souchak stumbles through wilderness life. Apted's direction complements Kasdan’s writing, maintaining a steady pace that explores the complexity of the characters without losing sight of the film's comedic elements. The strong supporting cast, including Allen Goorwitz as Souchak’s concerned editor and Val Avery as the corrupt politician, further enriches the storyline.

The cinematography by John Bailey captures the majestic Rocky Mountains effectively, highlighting the stark contrast between Souchak's urban background and his wild, new setting. Michael Small’s subtle score accentuates the film's emotions without overshadowing its lighter moments. Despite minor technical imperfections, such as occasionally abrupt plot transitions and a somewhat fantastical ending, "Continental Divide" succeeds as both a romantic and comedic venture. Belushi’s nuanced performance offers a glimpse into what might have been a promising dramatic trajectory for the actor, making this film a valuable addition to his legacy.

"Continental Divide," directed by Michael Apted, remains an engaging romantic comedy that showcases a refreshingly multifaceted performance by John Belushi. The film tells the story of mismatched lovers navigating their way into each other’s lives, combining heartfelt moments with clever wit. Both Belushi and Blair Brown bring depth to their characters, creating an emotional connection that resonates with viewers. The narrative’s blend of romance and drama is enhanced by a solid screenplay and competent direction, ensuring the film's appeal to fans of the genre and admirers of Belushi's work.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Continental Divide" is noteworthy for its solid video and audio presentation. The transfer manages to capture the film's charm while respecting its original aesthetic. The colors are vibrant, and the image quality strikes a fine balance between clarity and authenticity. Additionally, the audio presentation delivers clear dialogue and an immersive soundtrack, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those familiar with previous home video versions. This Blu-ray version also includes a commentary track that adds valuable insights into the film’s production and legacy.

Overall, "Continental Divide" is a remarkable film that blends romance and comedy with emotional depth. John Belushi's standout performance and the thoughtful execution by director Michael Apted make this a hidden gem worth exploring. Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray ensures that this endearing story reaches a wider audience through a satisfying audio-visual experience. Recommended for fans of the cast, the genre, or anyone seeking a delightful cinematic escape.