Yankee Doodle Dandy Blu-ray Review

Warner Archive Collection has once again delivered a stellar release with their 1080p, AVC-encoded Blu-ray of Yankee Doodle Dandy. Shot by legendary cinematographer James Wong Howe, the crisp and intricate details of this transfer beautifully highlight his expressive use of light and shadow. The black-and-white image showcases excellent contrast, offering meticulously detailed backgrounds and sets that bring Cagney's dynamic dance moves to life with an almost gravity-defying clarity. The film's original integrity is preserved with a natural grain structure, lending it a tactile, film-like quality that further enhances the visual storytelling.

This Blu-ray transfer surpasses its 2003 DVD predecessor in virtually every aspect. Blacks are deeper and more robust, while the grayscale gradations offer fine delineations that enrich the overall depth of the image. This transfer is impressively clear, with background details and fine facial features presented in remarkable sharpness. Importantly, the average bitrate of 27.99 Mbps ensures that even the most elaborate Broadway production numbers retain their complexity without any noticeable artifacts or digital enhancements such as edge sharpening or noise reduction. The minimal yet occasional video noise resembling aliasing is fleeting and unlikely to distract viewers from the overall high-quality visual presentation.

In summary, Warner Archive Collection’s Blu-ray release of Yankee Doodle Dandy not only celebrates but elevates James Wong Howe's exceptional cinematography. The superior contrast, stunning clarity, and adherence to a natural grain structure make this transfer a highly recommended upgrade for fans and collectors of vintage cinema.

The audio presentation of "Yankee Doodle Dandy" on Blu-ray is encoded in lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono, featuring identical left and right front channels. Warner Archive Collection has wisely opted not to remix into a 5.1 track, preserving the original robust mono sound that effectively reproduces the Oscar-winning scoring by Ray Heindorf and Heinz Roemheld. The music, delivered against a backdrop of various pianos, bands, and Broadway orchestras, and the vocal performances by James Cagney and others, are balanced meticulously. Though the mono track highlights some limitations in dynamic range, especially during high operatic notes like those in Irene Manning's performance of "Mary's a Grand Old Name," these instances are few and far between.

The track provides robust sound tempered by the recording technology constraints of the early 1940s. Warner technicians have successfully scrubbed away age-related imperfections such as hiss, pops, and crackles, resulting in a clean audio presentation that underscores the film's Oscars for Best Musical Score and Best Sound Recording. Despite slight fidelity and tonal depth limitations compared to contemporaneous MGM musicals, the dialogue remains consistently clear, distortion-free, and accompanied by crisp tap sounds during Cagney's dance routines. While the audio may not reach modern standards of dazzling sound quality, it offers a commendable performance for a 72-year-old film and stays true to its historical roots.

Overall, "Yankee Doodle Dandy" delivers a solid audio experience that honors its original production while meeting contemporary restoration standards. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track retains the vibrancy and clarity needed to appreciate the film’s storied musicality and sound recording achievements.

The Blu-ray release of Yankee Doodle Dandy offers an impressive array of extras, all ported over from the 2003 DVD. Film historian Rudy Behlmer's exhaustive commentary stands out, with his encyclopedic knowledge, dating scenes, identifying soundstages, and discussing production nuances. The “Warner Night at the Movies 1942” segment recreates a historic cinema experience with trailers, newsreels, and shorts, highlighted by Maltin’s introduction and the narrated short by Reagan. The documentary Let Freedom Sing! provides a thorough examination of the film’s creation and impact. Furthermore, John Travolta’s heartfelt tribute to Cagney adds a personal touch. The inclusion of two vintage short films starring Cagney and two iconic Looney Tunes cartoons in HD, along with an audio vault of outtakes and rehearsals, cement this disc as a must-own for film enthusiasts and historians.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Film Historian Rudy Behlmer: Detailed and encyclopedic.
• Warner Night at the Movies 1942: Recreations of vintage theater experiences.
  • Introduction by Leonard Maltin: Historical context.
  • Casablanca Trailer: Prominent film trailer.
  • Newsreel: Compilation of wartime events.
  • Patriotic Short Subject Beyond the Line of Duty: War hero narrative.
  • Merrie Melodies Cartoon Bugs Bunny Gets the Boid: Animated short.
• Let Freedom Sing!: The Story of Yankee Doodle Dandy: Comprehensive documentary.
• John Travolta Remembers James Cagney: Personal recollections.
• You, John Jones: Wartime short starring Cagney.
• Looney Tunes Short Yankee Doodle Daffy: HD animated short.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original movie preview.
• Audio Vault: Outtakes, rehearsals, and radio show adaptations.

"Yankee Doodle Dandy" is a compelling biographical film that highlights the illustrious career of George M. Cohan, widely known as "The Man Who Owned Broadway." James Cagney’s portrayal of Cohan is nothing short of extraordinary, earning him his only Academy Award for Best Actor. Despite his reputation as a hard-nosed gangster in previous roles, Cagney's background as a vaudeville performer lends authenticity and vibrancy to his role. The movie delves into Cohan’s rise to stardom, from his early days in vaudeville with his family to his monumental contributions to Broadway. The film successfully blends historical events with spirited performances, such as the heartfelt scene between Cagney and Walter Huston, playing Cohan's father, a scene so moving that it brought director Michael Curtiz to tears.

The film opens with Cohan being summoned to the White House, where he recounts his life to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This narrative approach sets the stage for an engaging journey through his career highs and a few personal lows. Cohan’s personality—a mix of arrogance and cocksure ambition—is well-depicted, contributing to a storyline that remains intriguing despite some historical liberties and emotional restraint. Joan Leslie's portrayal of Mary, a composite of Cohan’s two wives, harmonizes well with Cagney, despite their notable age difference, offering a believable partnership amid the professional backdrop.

"Yankee Doodle Dandy" seamlessly intertwines grand musical numbers with succinct montages illustrating Cohan's dominance on Broadway. It is both a celebration of American patriotism and a testament to the unyielding spirit of one of showbiz's most influential figures. Through its dynamic dance sequences and heartfelt performances, the film still resonates today, maintaining its place in American cinematic history. Despite its age, "Yankee Doodle Dandy" offers valuable insights into Cohan’s indelible impact on Broadway and his enduring legacy as the quintessential song-and-dance man.

"Yankee Doodle Dandy" is a standout piece of American cinema, ingeniously directed by Michael Curtiz. Even though it takes some creative liberties with the life story of George M. Cohan, it is a stirring tribute to one of America's entertainment icons. James Cagney’s Oscar-winning portrayal is a testament to his talent, effortlessly energizing the film with his dynamic and unique dancing. The movie’s soundtrack, filled with over a dozen iconic Cohan tunes, is quintessentially American, adding layers of charm and historical texture. While the plot may seem conventional, the combination of engaging performances, high production values, and nostalgia ensures the film’s enduring appeal.

Warner Archive Collection’s Blu-ray presentation of "Yankee Doodle Dandy" is exemplary. The video transfer significantly enhances the visual quality from previous DVD releases, presenting crystal-clear images that revive the film’s original glory. High-quality mono audio ensures that Cohan's music remains impactful and resonant. Additionally, the Blu-ray offers a wealth of supplemental material that deepens appreciation for the film and its historical context. Although it might not match the grandeur of MGM’s musicals from the same era, "Yankee Doodle Dandy" remains a compelling and vigorous piece of entertainment.

In conclusion, "Yankee Doodle Dandy" might seem dated to modern sensibilities due to its overt patriotism and portrayal of a bygone era of vaudeville and stage performances. Nonetheless, it showcases one of America's finest movie stars at his best. Cagney’s infectious joy in the role lifts the film above its temporal constraints, making it a timeless work. Warner Archive has done this classic justice with their top-tier restoration efforts. Highly recommended for both history buffs and classic film enthusiasts alike.