The Shakedown Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 1.35:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, The Shakedown arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber with a 1080p transfer sourced from a recent 4K restoration completed by Universal Pictures from a 35mm dupe negative. Despite some unavoidable limitations due to the age and condition of the surviving elements, including noticeable density drops and minor surface damage, the overall image maintains a solid, organic appearance true to its original essence. The grading is convincingly executed, reinforcing the artistic vision intended by the filmmaker.

Though vertical lines of varying density and some speckling are present, and occasional jump cuts due to missing frames do disrupt the visual flow slightly, these issues are consistent with the film's 91-year-old heritage. There’s a consistent layer of grain that preserves the celluloid feel without overwhelming the image. The picture is characterized by rich black levels, white diffusion, and blooming, with nicely varied grays adding depth. Several close-ups stand out as particularly lovely, though they lack the crispness expected from modern high-definition transfers due to inherent age-induced softness.

In sum, this restoration is a testament to the significance of film preservation. While it’s clear that the years have left their mark on The Shakedown, the 4K restoration brings substantial improvements, making it possible for modern audiences to appreciate both the film’s historical value and its visual craftsmanship.

The audio presentation of "The Shakedown" on Blu-ray is delivered through a single, but highly effective, DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo track. This format fluidly integrates Michael Gatt's modern jazzy score with the film's original 1929 context. The lossless audio reproduces the native qualities of the studio-recorded music, ensuring excellent fidelity and tonal depth. Notably, the piano and bass elements are highlighted with superb clarity, while maintaining faithful dynamic contrasts and subtle chamber nuances.

Despite the limited dynamic intensity inherent to the recording, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track exhibits a commendable dynamic scale, adeptly capturing the highs and lows of Gatt's composition without encountering any distortion. The track also features palpable stereo separation, expanding the soundscape to effectively fill the room. While there are no additional audio effects on this track, the vivid reproduction of the musical score ensures an immersive auditory experience that complements the film's vintage charm.

The extras on the Blu Ray release of "The Shakedown" provide substantial value for fans and scholars of classic cinema. The audio commentary by critic Nick Pinkerton is particularly noteworthy, offering an in-depth exploration of the film's historical context within Universal Studios, its stylistic elements, and the career trajectories of its principal actors. Pinkerton also provides insightful analysis on William Wyler’s directorial approach and the film's dual nature as a boxing and grifter story with labor/industrial overtones. Additional details include discussion on Universal's transition to sound, cameos by Wyler and John Huston, and the tragic rise and fall of star James Murray. The package is rounded off by a well-crafted 10-page illustrated booklet by Nora Fiore, featuring an essay delving into the film's significance.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Critic Nick Pinkerton discusses the film's historical context, style, and key actors.
• Booklet: A 10-page illustrated essay by Nora Fiore.
• Cover: Reversible cover with vintage poster art.

Review of the Movie on Kino Lorber's Blu-Ray Release of "The Shakedown"

William Wyler's 1929 film "The Shakedown," presented in a newly restored 4K edition by Kino Lorber, stands as a testament to early filmmaking, blending elements of silent cinema with newly added part-talkie segments. The plot pivots around professional boxer Dave Roberts (James Murray), who is part of an elaborate scam team fixing matches across small-town America. His encounter with Clem, a spirited orphan (Jack Hanlon), and Marjorie, a genuine love interest (Barbara Kent), propels Dave towards redemption. As tensions rise with the syndicate, Dave faces a pivotal match against fellow conman Battling Roff (George Kotsonaros), determining his moral and literal fate.

The narrative is anchored by exceptional character transformations, particularly highlighting the 1920s American social landscape. Wyler's adept direction ensures that dramatic shifts and crucial decisions are seamlessly integrated without forced emphasis, although some scenes' brevity suggests potential for further depth. While the film retains whiffs of melodrama, Wyler's execution maintains an authentic tone, underpinned by Michael Gatt’s new stylish musical score blending jazz and classical harmonies.

Despite the film’s truncated 65-minute runtime due to lost scenes, "The Shakedown" exudes energy and displays Wyler's early directorial flair. The interaction between Murray and Hanlon showcases heartfelt dynamics, while the visually striking scenes—such as Murray being hoisted on an oil rig or the ferris wheel shot—underscore Wyler's ingenuity. This release includes only a booklet by critic Nora Fiore and an insightful commentary by Nick Pinkerton, yet it shines with historical worth and offers a glimpse into the early cinematic evolution just as talkies began dominating the industry.

The Blu-ray release of "The Shakedown" from Kino Lorber stands as a remarkable and thoroughly enjoyable presentation of William Wyler's early work. The film, centered around a scam artist's redemption driven by love and newfound respect, is underscored with stellar performances, most notably by James Murray. Despite its simple narrative structure which melds comedy, drama, and action, Wyler’s direction is inventive and adept at drawing emotional depth from the basic plot. The restored 4K transfer from Universal Pictures, accompanied by a contemporary and stylish score from Michael Gatt, rejuvenates this silent film with modern appeal while respecting its vintage charm.

The technical aspects of this release are particularly noteworthy. The 4K restoration delivers a pristine visual experience that highlights the film's cinematographic details, elevating its historical value. Additionally, the new jazzy soundtrack enhances the viewing experience by adding a contemporary layer to Murray's touching performance. Fans of silent films will appreciate the careful restoration efforts that honor the original while making it accessible and enjoyable for modern audiences.

In conclusion, "The Shakedown" is a delightful surprise and a commendable effort in preserving and celebrating cinema history. This Blu-ray release is a must-have for serious collectors and silent film enthusiasts alike. The commendable restoration, paired with an engaging new score, transforms this modest yet wonderful film into a genuine gem. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.