Gold Diggers of 1933 Blu-ray Review

Warner Archive’s Blu-ray transfer of "Gold Diggers of 1933" is a technical marvel that breathes new life into this classic. Derived from a new scan of best-available preservation elements, the transfer showcases a near-miraculous visual overhaul compared to previous releases. The original 35 mm film, captured by cinematographer Sol Polito, has been meticulously restored, maintaining its inherent fine grain and achieving a lustrous level of detail. This 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer, framed at the authentic 1.37:1 aspect ratio, delivers stunningly resolved textures and contrast across the board. Even optical transition dupe footage, typically softer and coarser, integrates seamlessly without disrupting the overall presentation.

Grayscale, contrast, and black levels are nearly flawless, providing rich, precise delineation in both shadow-heavy sequences like "The Shadow Waltz" and brilliantly lit scenes. The remaster perfectly retains the grain's natural quality, enhancing clarity without resorting to excessive noise reduction or sharpening artifacts. The depth and texture highlighted in Busby Berkeley's lavish dance numbers enhance the viewing experience, rendering them with superior sharpness that is particularly evident in close-ups and complex choreographies.

Though some minor issues persist, such as rare soft sequences and minor transition artifacts, they do not detract from the overall visual fidelity and cinematic magic of this release. Warner Archive's impeccable encoding ensures a consistently high bit rate, reflecting a dedication to quality that will satisfy enthusiasts of musicals, pre-Code cinema, and Golden Age Hollywood. This sparkling presentation reaffirms "Gold Diggers of 1933" as one of the stars in Warner Archive’s catalog, offering an ageless cinematic gem for modern audiences to appreciate anew.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track on the Blu-ray of "Gold Diggers of 1933" is an exemplary restoration of vintage audio, skillfully accommodating the limitations of early 1930s sound recording technology. While fidelity remains characteristically constrained by the original equipment, the restoration achieves significant clarity and depth. Dialogue, including Aline MacMahon’s quips and the ensemble's lively exchanges, is rendered with clarity, albeit occasionally thin due to source limitations. Musically, Busby Berkeley's dynamic numbers benefit from the wide dynamic range offered by this mix, delivering crisp orchestrations and distinct tap sequences, such as Keeler's.

Background noise is managed meticulously, with occasional hissing surfacing but rarely distracting from the overall listening experience. The restoration nearly eradicates the era’s inherent audio flaws like pops, crackle, and flutter, ensuring that both spoken and sung content—including live-recorded solo performances—merge seamlessly with the soundtrack. The sonic delivery remains faithful to the film’s original charm while surpassing previous home video efforts in providing a clear and engaging aural presentation.

Despite these achievements, there is a notable absence of optional English (SDH) subtitles for the supplemental features, though they are available for the main feature. This omission may be a point of contention for some viewers, particularly given the precedent set by prior DVD releases which included these subtitling options. Nevertheless, the DTS-HD Master Audio track’s deft handling of both dialogue and musical elements justifies its acclaim and underscores why the film garnered an Oscar nomination for Best Sound Recording.

The Blu-ray release of "Gold Diggers of 1933" offers a compelling assortment of extras, boasting both historical significance and entertainment value. The featurette "FDR's New Deal...Broadway Bound" is an insightful piece that examines Busby Berkeley's contributions amidst the backdrop of Depression-era culture and early Production Code challenges, with commentary from directors and historians such as John Landis and John Waters. The release also includes rare Merrie Melodies cartoons, which showcase early Warner Bros. animation creativity, albeit with period-specific sensitivities. Additionally, several vintage live action shorts provide a glimpse into the promotional efforts and talent displays of the time, featuring notable figures like a young Sammy Davis Jr. The release ensures a nostalgic journey with its presentation of these well-preserved bonus materials, capturing the essence of 1930s cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

• FDR's New Deal...Broadway Bound: Featurette discussing the film's cultural impact and Berkeley's work.
• Merrie Melodies Cartoons: We’re in the Money, Pettin’ in the Park, I’ve Got to Sing a Torch Song.
• Vintage Live Action Shorts: Rambling 'Round Radio Row #2, The 42nd Street Special, Seasoned Greetings.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional piece.
• Song Selection Menu: Access to ten musical numbers from the film.

Mervyn LeRoy’s "Gold Diggers of 1933" stands as a remarkable fusion of Depression-era realism and exhilarating musical escapism, featuring captivating performances across the board. The film, elevated by Busby Berkeley's innovative choreography, not only entertains but delves into the era's harsh realities, exemplifying the perfect balance between fantasy and socio-political commentary. Ruby Keeler, Joan Blondell, Aline MacMahon, and Ginger Rogers deliver spirited performances as down-on-their-luck showgirls, while Berkeley’s sequences unfold with dazzling kaleidoscopic creativity, turning static scenes into visionary spectacles that challenged the norms of the genre.

The narrative intricately weaves themes of economic struggle with comedic romance, powered by an engaging script that mirrors the socio-economic backdrop of the time. While the story follows the charming Brad Roberts (Dick Powell) funding a new show amidst personal and familial conflicts, Berkeley's sequences like "We’re in the Money" and the striking "Remember My Forgotten Man" lend a complex texture to the film. The latter delivers a sobering critique of governmental neglect towards WWI veterans, a bold move that gives this glittering musical depth and relevance. Although Powell excels vocally, Keeler’s stiffness is offset by her undeniable charisma, complemented by Blondell's heartfelt portrayal that anchors the finale beautifully.

Technically adept, "Gold Diggers of 1933" showcases Warner Bros.' adeptness at producing high-caliber entertainment with impactful messaging. The Blu-ray release, meticulously restored, effectively preserves the film’s visual flair and resonant audio, ensuring that Berkeley's choreographic brilliance and the showmanship of its stars remain vivid. From Ginger Rogers' cheeky opening to its poignant finale, this film remains a towering achievement in the canon of American musicals and a testament to the resilience and artistry of early cinema.

"Gold Diggers of 1933," directed by Mervyn LeRoy, is a masterclass in pre-Code film entertainment, exemplifying the golden age of Busby Berkeley's musical brilliance. This 89-year-old classic elegantly combines sharp dialogue, solid humor, and show-stopping dance numbers, delivering an experience that remains universally entertaining. Despite its Depression-era setting, the film's socially conscious messaging and infectious escapism hold a timeless appeal. Warner Archive's Blu-ray edition enhances this classic with an impressive audio-visual presentation that preserves the film's original charm and detail.

Warner Archive has once again excelled by providing a high-quality transfer that remains true to the source material, coupled with a variety of engaging DVD-era bonus features. Their attention to detail elevates this release, making it a must-have for collectors and a testament to the ongoing relevance of Berkeley's imaginative musical staging. The film’s collection of iconic songs have stood the test of time, cementing their place as standards within musical cinema. Furthermore, the Blu-ray offers a rich assortment of vintage supplements that enrich the viewing experience.

In conclusion, "Gold Diggers of 1933" is an essential addition to any film enthusiast's collection. Its joyous escapism and delightful pretensions transform even the uninitiated into avid fans of classic cinema. Whether for its historical significance or unparalleled entertainment value, this Warner Archive release is highly recommended and deserves a spot on any top list of notable film releases. This Blu-ray impeccably encapsulates the enduring allure and cinematic gold standard set by Busby Berkeley and his contemporaries.