The Duellists Blu-ray Review

Shout Factory's Blu-ray release of Ridley Scott's "The Duellists" presents the film in two different aspect ratios, 1.78:1 and 2.35:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and featuring a 1080p transfer. Sourced from an older master, the high-definition transfer boasts a pleasingly organic look with no excessive degraining or problematic sharpening corrections. Detail preservation across close-ups and panoramic shots is commendable, and the unique use of light—ranging from natural outdoor scenes to candle-lit interiors—offers a variety of contrast and color tonality. This authenticity aligns with Scott's meticulous period recreation, reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's "Barry Lyndon".

Despite the natural amount of grain and occasional faint marks, black lines, or white specks, the video quality remains solid. The countryside exteriors showcase vibrant hues of greens and browns, while interiors leverage daylight from windows or candlelight, maintaining Scott’s preference for the natural lighting’s immersive effect. However, this approach leads to poor shadow delineation and brief discoloration when direct sunlight enters the frame. Additionally, objects may get obscured by darkness or overblown light, though this doesn’t detract significantly from the overall visual experience.

Object detail is impressive, clearly depicting the textures of buildings, uniforms, and even artificial snowflakes. While atmospheric elements like smoke, fog, and haze enhance the period ambiance, they can occasionally diminish clarity, sharpness, and depth. Overall, compression quality is stable with no major digital artifacts present. While there is room for improvement potentially achievable through a new scan and updated transfer, this Blu-ray release of "The Duellists" signifies a substantial upgrade over previous DVD offerings both in terms of visual fidelity and viewing pleasure.

The Blu-ray edition of "The Duellists" features two standard audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Both tracks offer distinct audio experiences, with each having unique strengths. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track provides a marginally broader palette of nuanced dynamics, engaging surround activity, and an immersive auditory experience. Composer Howard Blake's score fills the surrounds, offering a resonant bottom end for the LFE to deliver. Each instrument in the score is rendered with clarity, thereby enhancing the overall ambiance. However, it's worth noting that the music's modern sound quality slightly contrasts with the vintage dialogue and effects, which retain their authentic 1977 character.

On the other hand, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track excels in balance and consistency, particularly noticeable during dynamic sequences such as sudden audio spikes and drops. While lacking the surround depth of the 5.1 track, it maintains a crisp and stable dialogue quality devoid of distortions or problematic background hiss. This track avoids the abrupt dynamic movements found in its 5.1 counterpart, making it preferable for viewers seeking a more coherent audio experience.

Both tracks present sharp audio elements, from the clanging of swords in duels to the powerful roar of Feraud's pistol during the Russia sequences. Ambient sounds like carriages moving through streets transition smoothly across channels in the 5.1 track, adding to the immersive cityscape. Additionally, intentional audio choices, such as loud tavern music drowning out dialogue or roaring winds overshadowing D'Hubert's weakened voice, are effectively rendered. These deliberate audio dynamics enhance the storytelling, maintaining viewer engagement throughout the film's varied auditory landscape.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Duellists" offer a comprehensive and engaging look into the production and legacy of Ridley Scott's debut film. The highlights include insightful interviews and audio commentaries, providing rich context for both fans and film scholars. Keith Carradine's interview delves deeply into the film's production history and its journey to cult status, while "Dueling Directors" features a robust exchange between Ridley Scott and Kevin Reynolds, enriched with archival footage. Two audio commentaries allow for an immersive experience: Ridley Scott offers detailed reflections on the film’s creation from both artistic and business perspectives, and Howard Blake's isolated score commentary provides an in-depth look at the musical composition process. Additionally, a reversible cover with original poster art enhances the physical appeal of the disc.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interview with Keith Carradine: Discusses the production history, reception at Cannes, and cult status.
• Dueling Directors: Ridley Scott and Kevin Reynolds: Discusses the film’s unique qualities, production history, includes archival/interview footage.
• Commentary One: Ridley Scott discusses the film in detail.
• Commentary Two: Audio commentary and isolated score by Howard Blake.
• Reversible Cover: Features original poster art.

Ridley Scott’s directorial debut, "The Duellists" (1977), set during the Napoleonic Wars, emerges as a visual and narrative triumph. Based on Joseph Conrad's short story, it chronicles the intense rivalry between officers Gabriel Feraud (Harvey Keitel) and Armand d'Hubert (Keith Carradine). After an initial duel sparked by a perceived dishonor, the two become entangled in a series of confrontations over years, reflecting a continuous power struggle underscored by shifting notions of honor and societal norms. With each duel, highlighted by Frank Tidy's elegant cinematography, Scott delineates a compelling narrative of obsession and honor.

The performances are exceptional. Keitel’s portrayal of the relentless Feraud, who is haunted by his own obsession, contrasts starkly with Carradine’s nuanced representation of the principled yet increasingly tormented d'Hubert. The dynamic interplay between their characters culminates in scenes rife with emotional and physical intensity, particularly within the film’s numerous dueling sequences. Production elements such as Peter J. Hamton’s designs and Tom Rand's period-accurate costumes further enrich the historical authenticity and visual splendor, making it a film worth revisiting for its aesthetic alone.

The film not only offers a historical glimpse but also poses philosophical questions through its rich character study and thematic exploration. Scott’s direction is meticulous, albeit with minor caveats regarding occasional jarring handheld shots during duels. Nevertheless, the striking visual style harkens the influence of Stanley Kubrick’s "Barry Lyndon," yet firmly establishes its own identity. The harmonious blend of captivating performances, evocative cinematography, and intricate design demonstrates Scott’s emergent vision as a filmmaker, making "The Duellists" a distinguished entry in historical drama cinema.

Shout Factory's Blu-ray release of Ridley Scott's directorial debut, 'The Duellists,' provides an eminently gratifying visual and auditory experience. The film, celebrated for winning Best Debut Film at the 1977 Cannes Film Festival, showcases Scott's early mastery of cinematic elements that he would later refine in his illustrious career. This Blu-ray release highlights the film's organic and authentic aesthetic, with impressive detail and texture preservation, ensuring some natural film grain which longtime fans of the film will appreciate.

The transfer on this Blu-ray is robust, with accurate color rendering and well-balanced contrast that respects the historical tone of the film. The audio track is equally impressive, offering a clear and immersive soundscape that complements the period's visuals. Notably, all critical supplemental features from Paramount's out-of-print R1 DVD release have been preserved, making this edition a comprehensive package for both new viewers and collectors.

Shout Factory's Blu-ray release of Ridley Scott's 'The Duellists' is highly recommended. Despite minor room for technical advancements, the release is a vital acquisition for aficionados of Scott's work and fans of historical drama. The engaging visual fidelity and thorough inclusion of supplemental materials make it an essential addition to any serious film collection. Highly recommended.