Band of Outsiders Blu-ray Review

Jean-Luc Godard's iconic "Band of Outsiders" is graced with a meticulous 1080p transfer on Blu-ray, framed in the classic 1.33:1 aspect ratio, thanks to the efforts of French distributors Gaumont and the foundational work derived from their 2010 restoration. The digital master for this release was generated from a high-definition transfer made on a Spirit Datacine from a 35mm composite fine grain, grounded in work done at Eclair Laboratories in Epinay-sur-Seine, France. Accompanied by a faithfully restored original monaural soundtrack from a 35mm optical soundtrack positive, this release showcases a technical dedication to preserving the film's auditory essence as much as its visual splendor.

Technically speaking, the Blu-ray exhibits a deliberate application of light denoising and sharpening corrections. While these digital interventions have indeed enhanced clarity, especially notable in close-ups and panoramic shots, they also introduce some distractions noticeable against the film's otherwise natural grain structure and cinematic texture. For instance, in comparisons drawn between this release and its French counterpart, the latter's handling of denoising and sharpening corrections appears more conspicuous and sometimes detriments such as smearing are completely avoided in the Criterion version. Despite these minor issues, the grayscale presentation is commendable, with balanced blacks and whites contributing to a visually appealing image. Minute compression artifacts and occasional light banding are present but do not significantly detract from the overall viewing experience.

In terms of video quality, "Band of Outsiders" stands out in this Blu-ray incarnation. The print condition is largely pristine with negligible imperfections and maintains a pleasing level of grain that enhances its cinematic texture while maintaining fidelity to its source. Although some scenes may exhibit a slight softness and variations in grain intensity, these do not mar the film's visual integrity. Night scenes demonstrate good black levels despite minor inconsistencies. Overall, this Blu-ray presentation respects and revitalizes Godard's work with an authentic and carefully restored visual scope, making it one of the better English-friendly releases available to connoisseurs and new viewers alike.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray of "Band of Outsiders" is delivered via a French LPCM mono track, accompanied by optional English subtitles, ensuring accessibility for non-French speakers. The track stands out for its clarity and fidelity, particularly when it comes to handling dialogue, narration, and Michel Legrand's iconic score. Though the audio benefits from its lossless format, offering crisp sound reproduction without any noticeable dropouts or distortions, it's worth noting that its mono nature and the limitations of the original recording material mean that the dynamic range is somewhat constrained. The English subtitles are accurately translated, enhancing the viewing experience for an international audience.

Listeners will find that speech and narration maintain relative clarity, albeit with occasional moments where dialogue seems slightly muted or muffled. Legrand's jazzy compositions are well-represented despite a tendency for high frequencies to flirt with minor peaking, which might affect both music and spoken words. The track does a commendable job of balancing single-channel audio, incorporating ambient sounds that contribute to the film's authenticity. Despite the vintage of the source material, these sounds—ranging from urban traffic to background media—add layers without overwhelming the main audio components.

The overall sound design cleverly navigates the limitations of its era and technology, resulting in a solid if modest mix. Imperfections such as faint peaking or the thin quality of some dialogue sections do little to detract from a track that, fundamentally, respects and enhances the original auditory experience. No significant signs of audio degradation like crackles, pops, or hissing were detected, speaking to the care taken in transferring this classic film onto Blu-ray.

The Blu Ray extra presentation for "Band of Outsiders" provides an enriching blend of historical context, behind-the-scenes insights, and meaningful connections to other works, all adeptly curated by Criterion. It delivers a mix of interviews with key figures such as Anna Karina and cinematographer Raoul Coutard, offering personal anecdotes and professional reflections on the making of this French New Wave gem. The inclusion of Agnès Varda's silent short, "Les fiancés du pont MacDonald," adds a touch of nostalgia, connecting the film to a broader cinematic universe. Notably, the visual glossary stands out as an essential resource for enthusiasts and scholars alike, delving deep into the film’s myriad references. This collection, though modest, is meticulously presented in upscale 1080i with the option for English subtitles, enriching the viewing experience by providing both a backdrop and a deeper understanding of Godard's iconic film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailers: Original and rerelease trailers.
• Visual Glossary: Narrated exploration of movie references and quotes.
• Godard, 1964: Clips discussing French New Wave taboos and creative ideas.
• Anna Karina: Interview reflecting on Karina's acting career and work with Godard.
• Raoul Coutard: Insights from the legendary cinematographer on the film's visual style.
• Les fiancés du pont MacDonald: A silent short directed by Agnès Varda featuring key New Wave figures.
• Booklet: Featuring Joshua Clover's essay, Godard's character descriptions, and a 1964 interview with Godard.

Jean-Luc Godard's "Band of Outsiders" (Bande à part), a seminal piece from the French New Wave era, lands on Blu-ray with a robust presentation from Criterion. This 1964 cinematic gem, helmed by Godard and illuminated by legendary cinematographer Raoul Coutard, narrates an atypically playful caper heavily influenced by American gangster films. Its protagonists, Franz and Arthur, portrayed with a delicate balance of impulsiveness and introspection by Sami Frey and Claude Brasseur, respectively, are drawn into a somewhat harebrained heist by the naïve charm of Odile, played by Godard's muse, Anna Karina. The movie traverses their misadventures with a lyrical fluidity, punctuated by scenes that defy traditional narrative structures in favor of a free-flowing, jazz-like composition.

Godard's film is marked by its distinct style and narrative experimentation, blending elements of romance, crime, and an almost existential pondering over the characters’ place in the world. These thematic undercurrents are rendered with a unique blend of ludic irreverence and stylistic precision. The cinematography favors natural lighting and real locations, creating a canvas that oscillates between stark realism and whimsical formalism, enveloped in the graceful movements of handheld camera work. The dialogues, almost entirely improvised, further infuse the film with authenticity and spontaneity—though it's in the meticulous planning and execution of the Madison Dance sequence where Godard's directorial prowess truly dazzles, offering a scene that epitomizes the film's playful yet contemplative spirit.

While not as overtly political or intellectually demanding as some of Godard's other works, "Band of Outsiders" stands out for its emotional resonance and cinematic innovation. It deconstructs familiar tropes and reconstructs them in a manner that actively engages with the medium of cinema itself. Through this process, Godard invites viewers to experience a narrative that is as much about the characters' internal landscapes as it is about their external misadventures. This film not only serves as an accessible entry point to Godard's oeuvre but also as a lasting influence on filmmakers who dare to bend genres and challenge cinematic conventions.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Band of Outsiders" (Jean-Luc Godard’s emblematic French New Wave film) stands out for its significant contribution to preserving cinematic history through a meticulous restoration. Anchored in Gaumont's recent restoration project, the Criterion edition not only mirrors but elevates the original's technical presentation. The high-definition transfer breathes new life into Godard's spirited exploration of youth and freedom, ensuring that the film’s potent stylistic flourishes and experimental cinematography are rendered with utmost fidelity. Despite some unavoidable constraints tied to the original recordings, the audio component delivers a solid performance, enhancing the viewing experience with a clear and balanced soundstage.

The Criterion collection distinguishes itself by compiling an assortment of carefully curated supplements that augment the understanding and appreciation of "Band of Outsiders." Among these, the inclusion of exclusive video interviews provides invaluable insights into the filmmaking process, Godard’s artistic intentions, and the cultural impact of the movie. While these features solidify the Blu-ray release as the definitive version for international audiences, French-speaking fans with region-free capabilities might find Gaumont's edition an essential companion piece due to its unique extras.

In conclusion, Criterion’s release of "Band of Outsiders" is an indispensable treasure for cinephiles and enthusiasts of French cinema. It adeptly combines a technically superior restoration with a rich compilation of supplementary materials that celebrate the film's legacy. Whether one is a longstanding admirer of Godard or a newcomer to his oeuvre, this Blu-ray edition promises an unparalleled viewing experience that pays homage to the film's enduring influence and charm. Highly recommended for those seeking to immerse themselves in the history and vitality of French New Wave cinema.