The Black Stallion Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Carroll Ballard's The Black Stallion Blu-ray release by Criterion features a 1080p transfer supervised by director of photography Caleb Deschanel. Utilizing a 4K scan of the 35mm original camera negative and subsequent restoration in 2K, the film's digital transfer meticulously addresses thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, splices, and warps. Advanced tools like MTI's DRS and Digital Vision's Phoenix were employed for grain, noise management, flicker, and jitter reduction.

The visual improvements are evident throughout the film, with edges clearly defined and devoid of previous light halo effects. Shadow definition is more convincing, and contrast levels remain stable. The high-quality scan ensures grain distribution is tight and even across various scenes. Colors are stable and natural, although reds could benefit from slightly better saturation in a few sequences. Image stability is excellent, and no serious encoding anomalies are reported. This restoration is likely to be the definitive presentation of The Black Stallion in the home video market.

The transfer captures a healthy film grain visible against gray skies from the outset, persisting throughout the movie and becoming more prominent in nature scenes on the island. Blacks are notably inky, while colors are vibrant, exemplified by the bright orange fire and multicolored jockey uniforms. During Alec's time on the ship, the focus can be soft; however, the island’s sunlit exteriors provide sharper images and demonstrate effective contrast between dark blue seas and light tan beaches. Shadow delineation is robust, with depth within frames particularly evident in shots like Alec at the end of a walkway on the ship. This Blu-ray release showcases a comprehensive and high-quality visual restoration of the classic film.

The Blu-ray release of "The Black Stallion" features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, meticulously remastered to deliver an exceptionally immersive auditory experience. The remastering has greatly enhanced the depth and clarity, making it feel as though you are in the midst of the action. Dialogues are crystal clear, crisp, and stable, without any pops, cracks, distracting background hiss, or digital distortions. Notably, subtle sounds such as Black's breathing during the race and individual instrument solos in Carmine Coppola's exotic soundtrack are remarkably distinguished, showcasing the excellence in audio mixing.

Remastered at 24-bit from the original 35 mm Dolby A magnetic tracks, the audio quality is notably superior, free from defects such as clicks, thumps, hiss, hum, and crackle—thanks to meticulous post-processing using Pro Tools HD, AudioCube's integrated workstation, and iZotope RX 4. The dynamic range is impressively wide and immersive. During quieter scenes, nuanced sounds such as sand blowing, a snake slithering, and a fire crackling are clearly audible. The bass is effectively utilized, especially noticeable with the rumbling ship’s engine. The Black’s movements, from the loud pinging of hooves on metal to the soft smacking of lips while eating a sugar cube, display an expansive dynamic range.

One of the standout aspects of this audio track is its ability to open up the soundfield successfully for a 2.0 track. Transitions are smoothly executed; the distance effect as Black races away with softer hoof beats and the dynamic volume adjustments during horse race scenes add a realistic touch. The track adeptly manages directional sound effects with trains and passing horses moving across channels, all contributing to a highly engaging and rich audio experience that elevates "The Black Stallion" well beyond typical stereo soundtracks.

The Blu-ray release of "The Black Stallion" features an impressive collection of extras, which provide deep insights into the making and impact of the film. Highlights include a series of engrossing conversations featuring director Carroll Ballard and other key contributors, shedding light on the film's challenging production process, unique cinematic techniques, and the profound relationship between the young protagonist and the eponymous horse. These interviews are complemented by a selection of Ballard's earlier short films, offering a broader perspective on his creative evolution. Additionally, still photographer Mary Ellen Mark delivers a rare and evocative narrative from behind the scenes.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original trailer for "The Black Stallion."
• Carroll Ballard and Scott Foundas: In-depth conversation on the film's production and legacy.
• Caleb Deschanel: Cinematographer's reflections on filming and collaboration.
• Mary Ellen Mark: Insights from the still photographer on her work.
• Short Films: Five of Carroll Ballard’s earlier short films with introductions.
• Leaflet: Illustrated leaflet featuring an essay by Michael Sragow.

Carroll Ballard's "The Black Stallion" (1979) is a captivating adaptation of Walter Farley's 1941 novel, lauded for its remarkable cinematography and immersive storytelling. The film evokes an almost dreamlike atmosphere, expertly crafted by director Ballard and cinematographer Caleb Deschanel. The first half of the movie unfolds with minimal dialogue, emphasizing the visual and auditory elements to create an enchanting experience. Young Alec Ramsey (Kelly Reno), stranded on a deserted island with the majestic black stallion, develops an unspoken bond with the horse, which is portrayed through sequences that are poetically stunning. This is complemented by sound editor Alan Splet's ingenious use of strategically positioned microphones to capture the horse's breathing, further enhancing the depth of each scene.

Transitioning from the mystical solitude of the island to the bustling reality of suburban America, the second half of "The Black Stallion" shifts focus but maintains its intensity. Alec reunites with his mother and navigates the challenges of integrating the untamed stallion into their lives. As the story progresses, the narrative introduces retired jockey Henry Dailey (Mickey Rooney), who recognizes the stallion's potential for racing despite its lack of pedigree. This culmination leads to an exhilarating race that is as thrilling as it is predictable, with meticulous camera work and a tactile aural landscape immersing the viewer in the excitement.

Shot across diverse locations in Italy, Canada, and America, including the visually arresting beaches of Sardinia, "The Black Stallion" is a visual triumph. The Blu-ray edition by Criterion Collection preserves these stunning visuals and offers insightful supplements such as interviews with key crew members and short films by Ballard, enriching the understanding of this cinematic masterpiece. The film's high technical standards, notably Deschanel’s exquisite photography and Splet’s Oscar-winning sound editing, reinforce its status as a paragon of children's filmmaking, transcending the genre with its artistry and emotional depth.

Criterion's release of Carroll Ballard's "The Black Stallion" is a masterful restoration that showcases the film in its definitive form. The 4K restoration is visually impeccable, enhancing the stunning cinematography that has captivated audiences since the film's original release. The transfer exhibits exceptional clarity and depth, with colors that are vibrant without appearing overly saturated. This meticulous remastering allows viewers to truly appreciate the artistry involved in the film’s production, highlighting both the striking natural landscapes and the intricate details of the period settings.

For those who have not seen the film previously, this Blu-ray introduction is an all-encompassing experience. The image quality is matched by an equally impressive audio track that immerses the audience in the atmospheric soundscape, from the subtle rustle of leaves to the thunderous hooves of the titular stallion. Additionally, the supplementary features provided delve into the film’s creation and production, offering a rich context that enhances the viewing experience. Interviews with key contributors and behind-the-scenes content offer valuable insights into the creative process, making this edition not only a treat for fans but also an informative resource for scholars and enthusiasts.

Carroll Ballard's "The Black Stallion" will be admired and revisited for as long as films are made. People frequently exaggerate when they describe films they like, but I assure you that those who have praised this film during the years have not -- it truly is stunningly beautiful. Criterion's new 4K restoration is wonderful and most likely will remain the definitive presentation of the film on the home video market. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.